In this episode of A New Life Planned in Cyprus, Rob and Mandy take you back to their very first trip to Cyprus in 2002. Starting in the bustling town of Limassol, they soaked in the vibrant atmosphere of the Mediterranean coast. From there, they set off into the Troodos Mountains, exploring the region's breathtaking views and tranquil surroundings. One highlight was their visit to the charming village of Pissouri, where they enjoyed a memorable meal at the Captain’s Table. This trip ignited their love for Cyprus and planted the seeds for the future they would eventually build on this beautiful island.

Welcome back to A New Life Planned in Cyprus, where today we’re taking you on a journey back to 2001 and our unforgettable adventure in the Caribbean. It all started with a flight from Gatwick to Barbados, where we joined the Thomson cruise ship, The Emerald. From the moment we set sail, the Caribbean’s beauty unfolded before us.

Our first stop was St Maarten, a unique island divided between Dutch and French cultures. We wandered through the vibrant streets, soaking up the sun and the laid-back island vibes. Next up was Road Town in Tortola, where the lush green hills and crystal-clear waters were nothing short of spectacular. It was a place that felt untouched by time, with an easygoing charm that drew us in.

Then came Antigua—oh, Antigua! One of our favourite stops, where we found ourselves sailing around its famous harbours and strolling along white sandy beaches. The heat, the vibrant colours, the Caribbean life was in full swing. Our journey also took us to St Lucia, a lush, mountainous island that seemed to rise out of the sea. We explored its dramatic landscapes, lush rainforests, and the iconic Pitons, which are as stunning in real life as they are in pictures.

After our cruise, we returned to Barbados, where we spent a week at the lovely Mango Bay Hotel in Holetown. Our time there was filled with more adventures. We visited Garrison Savannah, a place where history meets the thrill of horse racing. And, as cricket fans, one of the highlights was attending an international cricket match—there’s nothing like watching a game in the Caribbean with the passionate crowd and the sun shining down.

A visit to the Island of Crete staying in Gouves.

In March 2000, Rob and Mandy visited Stockholm for a chilly weekend getaway. The streets were slick with ice, making every step a careful one. They spent their time exploring the city's old harbor, where the sea was frozen in parts, adding to the frosty atmosphere. Wandering through the narrow, cobbled streets of Gamla Stan, the historic old town, they admired the colorful buildings and rich history, despite the biting cold. The icy charm of Stockholm left a lasting impression on their winter adventure.

In 2000, Rob and Mandy embarked on a memorable journey from Stockholm to Helsinki, taking a ferry through the stunning Stockholm Archipelago. As they sailed through, they were captivated by the peaceful beauty of the islands, each dotted with charming cottages and lush greenery.

Arriving in Helsinki, they spent three days immersing themselves in the culture and sights of Finland's vibrant capital. They explored historic landmarks, wandered through bustling markets, and enjoyed the city's unique blend of traditional and modern Scandinavian architecture.

Their time in Helsinki was a perfect extension of their Scandinavian adventure, enriched by the scenic ferry journey and the unforgettable experiences they shared exploring the Finnish capital.

The Introduction Video of the New Life Planned in Cyprus Travel show by Rob and Mandy.

Rob and Mandy’s new podcast, "A New Life Planned Travel Show," is a natural extension of their long-running blog, "A New Life Planned in Cyprus."

This British couple draw on over 20 years of travel experiences, the podcast takes listeners on a journey through the world’s most captivating destinations. Each episode shares personal stories, travel tips, and advice, offering insights into their adventures across Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and beyond. From scuba diving at the Great Barrier Reef to exploring hidden gems in Cyprus, Rob and Mandy bring their passion for travel to life, inspiring others to plan their own unforgettable journeys.