A new Life Planned in Cyprus, Travel show

In 2012, Mandy and I decided to take a trip from Cyprus to Crete, choosing to stay at the Marie Kelley Apartments in Kolymbari. It was a small village by the water, just as we’d imagined—a lovely collection of whitewashed buildings, a cozy little harbor, and fishing boats swaying gently on the waves. Seagulls called overhead, completing the coastal charm we’d both been craving.

On our first full day, we took a drive to the port of Kissamos, where we boarded a boat to explore Crete’s northwest coastline. The day was beautiful, and as we cruised along, we could see rugged cliffs and clear waters. It was a stunning experience, feeling the breeze off the sea and taking in the coastline’s natural beauty from the deck of the boat.

Our next destination was Chania, a place we’d both been excited to see, especially the old Venetian port. I had heard stories about its beauty, and Mandy was eager to explore the town’s layers of history. When we finally arrived, it did not disappoint. The port was picturesque, with colorful boats bobbing by the shore and the iconic lighthouse standing proudly, its stone walls catching the sunlight.

Later, we traveled further along the coast to Maleme, where we visited the German war cemetery. This solemn place on the hillside, with rows of headstones stretching out in neat lines, was a powerful reminder of the Battle of Crete and the fierce resistance the island mounted during World War II. Each headstone seemed to tell its own story of courage and sacrifice, and Mandy and I felt deeply moved as we walked among them.

Join Rob and Mandy as they recount their unforgettable journey from the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur to the vibrant city of Bangkok in 2005. In this episode, they share their excitement as they board their flight, taking in the stunning views of the Malaysian skyline from above.

Once in Bangkok, they dive into the heart of the city, exploring its rich culture and lively atmosphere. From the ornate temples and bustling markets to the delicious street food that tantalized their taste buds, Rob and Mandy describe the sights, sounds, and flavors that made their trip so memorable.

They’ll also share some of their favorite experiences, including a visit to the iconic Grand Palace, a boat ride along the Chao Phraya River, and discovering hidden gems in the city's vibrant neighborhoods.

Tune in for travel tips, anecdotes, and a glimpse into their adventures

In January 2006 Rob and Mandy embarked on an unforgettable trip to Sydney, Australia, filled with vibrant experiences and breathtaking scenery. Their adventure began with Australia Day, a celebration of national pride that brought the city alive with festivities.

They found themselves at Circular Quay, where a colorful flotilla of boats paraded across the sparkling waters, creating a lively backdrop for the celebrations. The atmosphere was electric as locals and tourists alike gathered to enjoy music, dance, and delicious food. Rob couldn’t resist trying a steak pie shaped like Australia’s coastline, savoring the unique blend of flavors while soaking in the joyful spirit around him.

Rob and Mandy set off from Sydney on the Princess Highway, excited for their adventure toward Melbourne. The open road called to them, and their first stop was Ulladulla, where they enjoyed fresh fish and chips by the harbor, soaking in the lively coastal atmosphere.

Next, they arrived at Lakes Entrance, a picturesque town nestled between lakes and the ocean. They took a boat tour through the serene waterways, spotting pelicans and kangaroos, and captured stunning sunset photos reflecting off the water.

Continuing to Bateman's Bay, they walked along the waterfront, indulging in coffee and later visiting the nearby Mogo Wildlife Park, where they encountered friendly kangaroos and koalas.

Narooma was their next destination, where they took a guided tour to Montague Island, marveling at the seal colony and enjoying breathtaking coastal views.

Onward to Cowes on Phillip Island, they explored local shops and relished fresh seafood before watching the iconic Penguin Parade, delighting in the sight of little penguins returning home after a day at sea.

Finally, they arrived in Rhyll, a peaceful fishing village. They biked along the coast, enjoying the tranquil scenery and ending their day with a cozy dinner, reminiscing about their unforgettable journey.

In 2006, our travels took us to the vibrant city of Melbourne, where a mix of culture, history, and music awaited. We kicked off our visit with a leisurely boat trip down the Yarra River. As the boat glided along, we soaked in the city's skyline, a blend of modern architecture and historic landmarks, with the peaceful river offering a perfect contrast to the bustling streets.

Our next stop was the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), where the rich history of Australian sport came alive. Walking through this massive stadium, we could almost hear the echoes of roaring crowds and the thud of cricket balls on bat. It was an unforgettable experience for any sports lover.

Later, we made our way to St Kilda, a lively seaside suburb with a bohemian vibe. The dramatic coastline, vibrant cafes, and pier gave us a perfect spot to relax and people-watch.

That evening, we wrapped up the day by seeing UB40 live in concert. The crowd swayed to the band’s timeless reggae beats, and under the Melbourne night sky, the music filled the air, making it a night to remember. Melbourne’s charm and energy left an indelible mark on us.

In 2006, our Australian adventure took us to the stunning region of Queensland, where we stayed in the picturesque town of Port Douglas. Nestled between the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, it was the perfect base for our explorations.

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the Great Barrier Reef again, where Rob had the thrilling opportunity to go scuba diving. Descending into the vibrant underwater world, he marveled at the colorful fish and intricate coral formations, immersing himself in the beauty of the reef.

We also ventured into the ancient Daintree Rainforest, a magical place where the dense green canopy seemed to stretch forever. A trip to Cape Tribulation brought us face to face with the wild beauty of the rainforest meeting the sea, a sight we’ll never forget.

Our tour of the "Tablelands" took us through rolling hills, waterfalls, and quaint villages, offering a glimpse into the diverse landscapes of Queensland. The area’s natural beauty was truly captivating.

And, as if the trip couldn’t get any more memorable, we even had an unexpected encounter with UB40’s lead singer, Ali Campbell, at the airport! It was a surreal moment, rounding off an unforgettable journey through one of the most beautiful corners of Australia.

In this episode of A New Life Planned in Cyprus, we’re stepping back to 2006, when Rob and Mandy explored the stunning landscapes of Snowdonia National Park in Wales. Their journey took them to the picturesque village of Beddgelert, home to the famous legend of Gelert the faithful hound. They then visited the majestic Caernarfon Castle, where history echoed through its ancient stone walls. Crossing the Menai Bridge into Anglesey, they explored the quaint village of Llanfair PG, whose long, iconic name is always a topic of conversation! Join us as we recount their adventures from that unforgettable trip.

Rob and Mandy embarked on a three-month winter adventure to Cyprus in 2006, eager to experience life on the island during the quieter, cooler months. Having fallen in love with Pissouri years before, they returned to this picturesque village, now familiar yet filled with new possibilities.

Upon arriving in Pissouri, they quickly reconnected with some of the locals. The village’s warm-hearted residents welcomed them as though they were long-time friends, eager to chat over cups of Cypriot coffee.. It was the sort of easy-going atmosphere they had hoped for, and their connection to Pissouri deepened further.

Driving through the countryside became a regular pastime, and one particular trip into the Troodos Mountains stood out.

On a bright but cool day, Rob and Mandy set off for the village of Dora. As their small car wound its way through narrow roads, the landscape around them transformed, with rolling vineyards and olive trees dotting the hillsides. When they arrived in Dora, they were greeted by peaceful streets, stone houses, and the crisp mountain air. The village felt untouched by time, and they spent hours wandering the narrow lanes, stopping to take in the views over the valleys below.

Christmas approached, and Rob and Mandy embraced the festive atmosphere by visiting the Christmas market in Limassol. The market was a delightful mix of local crafts, holiday decorations, and tempting food stalls.

They sipped on warm mulled wine, savoring the blend of spices, and tasted traditional Cypriot treats like loukoumades (sweet honey doughnuts). The twinkling lights and cheerful energy at the market created a festive buzz, bringing the spirit of the season alive.

One evening, they decided to drive to Nicosia to see the Christmas lights in the island’s capital. The streets of Nicosia were adorned with sparkling displays, casting a warm glow over the city’s mix of old and new. The central square was particularly magical, with its towering Christmas tree and illuminated buildings.

Rob and Mandy wandered through the streets, taking in the sights, and enjoyed a quiet dinner in a cozy restaurant nearby.

However, they also came to understand what a Cypriot winter truly felt like. While the sun still shone brightly most days, the temperatures were cooler than they had expected, especially in the evenings.

In today's episode, we’re taking you back to 2005, to one of the most stunning islands in the world—Santorini, Greece. We flew out from Bristol, UK, and landed on this picturesque island, which is everything you imagine when you think of Greece.

In this episode of A New Life Planned Travel show Rob and Mandy take listeners back to 2005 when they visited the sunny shores of Alicante, Spain. Accompanied by Mandy's sons, Robin and Johan.

. They recount strolling along the beautiful Esplanade, savoring local tapas, and basking in the Mediterranean sun. From exploring Alicante’s charming Old Town to enjoying the vibrant beach life, Rob and Mandy reflect on the laughter-filled days spent with family and the relaxed atmosphere that made Alicante so memorable.

Tune in for a nostalgic journey through Spain’s Costa Blanca.