Latest news with #HagiaSophia
Daily Record
5 hours ago
- Daily Record
BBC travel expert Simon Reeve says this is the best city in the world blending history and culture
BBC travel presenter Simon Reeve has explored more than 130 countries during his career, and now he has named his favourite city in the world. BBC explorer Simon Reeve has named a city straddling the East and West as his favourite destination worldwide. He expressed his profound connection to a place where, he feels, history and culture can be felt in the air. Having travelled to more than 130 countries, Simon recently wrapped up his latest journey, 'Scandinavia with Simon Reeve' – a breathtaking three-part series for the BBC, reports the Mirror. Now, he has revealed his most cherished city. His selection is based on a sprawling metropolis that bridges the European and Asian continents and is home to what he describes as "one of the most stunning buildings on the planet". Speaking to The Express, he said: "In terms of a city, I think Istanbul is not just spectacular, but you can't go there and not smell the history and the culture there. You know, I love how it's clearly divided. You've got your old bit. You've got your modern bit. You've got your Eastern area, as well - the other side of the Bosphorus, Asia, basically. It is the point where, for a thousand years and more, the East and the West have met." He also shared his "favourite little quirky thing" about the city, which is Hagia Sophia – the ancient basilica turned mosque that stands as a testament to history at 1,600 years old. Simon elaborated on how this emblematic monument continues to captivate visitors as a magnificent structure that remains an active site of worship. He shared: "I'll tell you my favourite little quirky thing actually, in many a way; there's a building in Istanbul called Hagia Sophia, which was a church, then a mosque, is now sort of a museum, just open as an attraction." Simon went on to say: "But it's an incredible building - one of the most stunning buildings on the planet, and up at the top, inside on the upper balcony, there's a bit of graffiti carved into the balcony." He was referring to ancient Viking runes inscribed into the Hagia Sophia during its tenure as a church. The National Museum of Denmark has identified the Viking visitors as Halvdan and Are. According to Atlas Obscura, the inscription likely reads "Halfdan carved these runes" or "Halfdan was here", a detail that Simon found particularly captivating, dubbing it his "favourite little bit". For the presenter, uncovering the story of the rune-carving Vikings was a "chill down the spine moment", underscoring that people have been explorers since the dawn of humanity. He noted that throughout history, humans have always felt compelled to leave their mark and connect with these "incredible sights". He concluded: "It's just a reminder that our ancestors travelled, and they were quite similar to us, actually. They probably wanted a beer, a selfie, and to leave a little bit of a mark behind." All three episodes of Scandinavia with Simon Reeve are available for streaming on BBC iPlayer NOW.
Time Business News
2 days ago
- Time Business News
Unlock the Door to Turkey: A Comprehensive Guide to Turkey
From the historic crossroads of Europe and Asia to the sun-drenched shores of the Aegean, Turkey is a land of layered civilizations, vibrant cultures, and natural splendor. With a history that spans millennia, this nation of contrasts offers something for everyone—whether you're an avid history buff, a food lover, an adventurer, or someone simply seeking relaxation. This comprehensive guide aims to unlock the door to Turkey, introducing its rich past, dynamic present, and the unforgettable experiences that await every traveler. Turkey's unique location—straddling both Europe and Asia—has made it a cultural melting pot. Its rich history includes ancient civilizations such as the Hittites, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans, all of whom left their indelible mark. Istanbul, formerly Byzantium and Constantinople, embodies this history with its stunning architecture and layered stories. Highlights include: Hagia Sophia : A masterpiece that has been a cathedral, a mosque, and now a museum. : A masterpiece that has been a cathedral, a mosque, and now a museum. Topkapi Palace : Once the center of the Ottoman Empire, now a treasure trove of history. : Once the center of the Ottoman Empire, now a treasure trove of history. Ephesus: A sprawling ancient Greek city with remarkably preserved ruins. Turkey's cultural diversity is a testament to its geography and history Turkey Visa for Indian Citizens. From the Kurdish regions in the east to the Greek-influenced Aegean coast, and from the Arab-tinged southeast to the cosmopolitan cities like Istanbul and Ankara, every region brings its own flavor. Turkey's terrain is as diverse as its people. Whether you're trekking in the mountains, lounging on a beach, or exploring otherworldly landscapes, Turkey doesn't disappoint. Cappadocia : Famous for its 'fairy chimneys,' cave dwellings, and magical hot air balloon rides at sunrise. : Famous for its 'fairy chimneys,' cave dwellings, and magical hot air balloon rides at sunrise. Pamukkale : The 'Cotton Castle' with its surreal white travertine terraces and ancient thermal waters. : The 'Cotton Castle' with its surreal white travertine terraces and ancient thermal waters. Mount Ararat : Turkey's highest peak and legendary resting place of Noah's Ark. : Turkey's highest peak and legendary resting place of Noah's Ark. The Turquoise Coast: Pristine beaches, ancient ruins, and crystal-clear waters in places like Antalya, Fethiye, and Bodrum. From birdwatching at Lake Van to paragliding in Ölüdeniz, and from hiking the Lycian Way to skiing in Uludağ, Turkey is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Turkish food is a delightful journey through regional flavors and traditions. It blends Central Asian, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Balkan influences into a unique culinary tradition. Kebabs : From Adana to İskender, there are countless variations. : From Adana to İskender, there are countless variations. Meze : A spread of small dishes perfect for sharing. : A spread of small dishes perfect for sharing. Baklava : Flaky, sweet, and utterly addictive. : Flaky, sweet, and utterly addictive. Simit : Turkey's answer to the bagel, often eaten on the go. : Turkey's answer to the bagel, often eaten on the go. Turkish Tea and Coffee: More than just beverages—they're rituals. Street food lovers will enjoy köfte (meatballs), lahmacun (Turkish pizza), and döner. Each city brings its own signature flavor, and exploring Turkish cuisine is an adventure in itself. Turkey is a secular republic with a predominantly Muslim population, but it's home to many religious traditions. Churches, mosques, and synagogues often sit near each other, especially in older districts of Istanbul and TURKEY VISA FROM VANUATU. Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii): A stunning example of Ottoman architecture. (Sultanahmet Camii): A stunning example of Ottoman architecture. Sumela Monastery : Nestled into the cliffs of the Pontic Mountains. : Nestled into the cliffs of the Pontic Mountains. House of the Virgin Mary near Ephesus: A pilgrimage site for Christians. Visitors are encouraged to dress modestly and show respect when entering places of worship. Turkey is not just about history and nature—it's also a modern, bustling country with vibrant urban life. Cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Izmir offer world-class dining, shopping, and nightlife. Istanbul : A city that never sleeps. It bridges two continents and offers a dynamic blend of ancient and modern. : A city that never sleeps. It bridges two continents and offers a dynamic blend of ancient and modern. Ankara : The capital city, known for its government buildings, museums, and universities. : The capital city, known for its government buildings, museums, and universities. Izmir: A liberal, coastal city with a youthful energy and Mediterranean charm. Turkey has an extensive and reliable transportation network: Airports : Istanbul Airport is one of the busiest and most connected hubs in the world. : Istanbul Airport is one of the busiest and most connected hubs in the world. Railways : High-speed trains connect major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Konya. : High-speed trains connect major cities like Istanbul, Ankara, and Konya. Public Transit: Efficient metro systems, buses, and ferries make getting around easy. Most travelers can enter Turkey with an e-Visa, obtainable online in minutes. Always check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality. The currency is the Turkish Lira (TRY). Turkey offers excellent value for money, with options for both luxury travelers and budget backpackers. The official language is Turkish, though English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Turkish phrases can enrich your experience and endear you to locals. Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November) are ideal for most travel. and are ideal for most travel. Summer is great for beach destinations but can be hot in inland cities. is great for beach destinations but can be hot in inland cities. Winter is best for skiing and visiting less crowded historical sites. Turks are known for their hospitality. Expect to be offered tea, and don't be surprised if locals go out of their way to help you. Modesty and politeness are valued. Remove your shoes when entering someone's home and avoid public displays of affection in conservative areas. Istanbul (3 days): Hagia Sophia, Grand Bazaar, Bosphorus cruise. Cappadocia (2-3 days): Hot air balloon, cave hotels, underground cities. Pamukkale & Hierapolis (1 day): Thermal baths and ancient ruins. Ephesus & Kusadasi (2 days): Explore Roman ruins and relax by the Aegean. Antalya or Fethiye (3-4 days): Sun, sand, and ancient ruins along the Turquoise Coast. Turkey is more than a destination—it's an experience. Whether you're floating above Cappadocia at dawn, savoring baklava in a bustling Istanbul café, or tracing the footsteps of ancient empires in Ephesus, the country has a way of capturing your heart. It's a place where East meets West, tradition meets modernity, and every corner tells a story. So pack your bags and get ready to unlock the door to Turkey—a land where every journey becomes a legend. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
IOL News
02-06-2025
- IOL News
Night at the museum: Turkey extends visiting hours for a summer to remember
A view of Istanbul and its cultural landmarks. Image: Unsplash In a bid to improve visitor experiences and alleviate congestion during the bustling summer tourism months, Turkey's Ministry of Culture and Tourism has officially announced the extension of visiting hours for various museums and archaeological sites. The programme, which follows a successful trial period in summer 2024, seeks to allow tourists to explore the country's rich cultural heritage under cooler evening skies. From June 1 to October 1, an impressive roster of 27 historic and cultural attractions will be at the public's disposal well into the night. While most sites will close by 9pm, some, including the iconic Istanbul Archaeological Museum and the majestic Hagia Sophia, will extend their hours until an enticing 11pm. This initiative not only provides greater accessibility but also enhances the ambience of these spectacular sites, with the backdrop of night lighting adding a magical touch to Turkey's stunning ruins. Among the attractions that will be open late, the ancient city of Ephesus - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - will feature enchanting classical music performances beneath the stars, transforming the visit into a captivating cultural experience. Tourists will be able to wander through the illuminated ruins while enjoying exquisite melodies, a combination that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary. Turkey's commitment to enhancing its tourism offerings is underscored by remarkable statistics. In 2024, the country welcomed a record 62.27 million tourists - a 9.84% increase from 2023. This influx, which includes foreign travellers and returning Turkish citizens from abroad, has contributed to a robust total tourism revenue of $61.1 billion. The staggering figures highlight Turkey's appeal as a preferred destination, driven by its extraordinary amalgamation of history, culture, and natural beauty. The charm of Turkey lies not only in its archaeological treasures like Troy and Ephesus, but also in its iconic architectural marvels such as the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and Topkapi Palace - each a testament to the grandeur of the Ottoman Empire. The country's strategic location at the crossroads of Europe and Asia offers a unique perspective for visitors interested in exploring diverse cultures. The stunning Turquoise Coast, bordered by the Mediterranean and Aegean seas, lures travellers with its pristine beaches, water sports, and enchanting coastal towns. From the breathtaking landscapes of Cappadocia's unique rock formations to the rejuvenating hot springs of Pamukkale, Turkey boasts a plethora of natural wonders that entice nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. For many tourists, Turkey is perceived as a destination that provides excellent value for money, whether in terms of accommodation, delectable cuisine, or engaging activities. Its burgeoning reputation in medical tourism further amplifies its appeal, drawing visitors seeking specialised medical procedures. As Turkey gears up for a vibrant tourism season marked by extended visiting hours and unique experiences, it invites the world to discover its extensive cultural narrative woven through history, art, and nature.
News18
20-05-2025
- General
- News18
Why India Needs A Museum Of Hindu Art
Last Updated: Like the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha, Hinduism's influence also needs to be contextualised and presented to the world—and to Hindus too Qatar is even more in the spotlight because of the ongoing talks there on the Gaza issue, but with the World Museum Day just gone by, it is also worthwhile to see the implications of the spectacular Museum of Islamic Art in Doha. As an exposition of the apparent grandeur and breadth of Islamic endeavour in the arts, the museum offers a very eloquent counter to the impression that the religion and its adherents have scarce respect for or interest in this field. However, visitors cannot help but notice that many of the exhibits are not Islamic at all but pre-Islamic. Once upon a time that chronology would have been enough to deem them un-Islamic in the eyes of the faithful, but there are clearly cleverer minds at work nowadays than the preachers of doctrinaire Islam that led the Taliban to blow up the Bamiyan Buddhas in Afghanistan in 2001 and also loot and destroy around 2,750 antiquities at the Kabul Museum. That led many around the world to fear for the future of all antiquities in museums in Islamic countries as well the safety of pre-Islamic architectural and cultural heritage sites in territories in their control. Something had to be done to reassure the world that all those within the Islamic world were not inevitable 'iconoclasts' when it came to art that did not conform to its strict tenets. Setting up institutions that would help control the narrative became an imperative. Thanks to the deep coffers of the Qatari dynasty, smart money was invested in collecting not only 'Islamic art' but also 'art from the Islamic world' (past and present) for the Museum of Islamic Art—designed by the legendary IM Pei—in 2008. It now contains a magnificent, varied body of work, even from countries like India and Spain that are no longer ruled by Muslim dynasties, thereby making a very persuasive case for the beneficial impact of Islam. Laying claim to the aesthetics and artistic output of all regions that once had Muslim rulers as 'Islamic Art" is a bit of a stretch because it's nearly impossible to assess the influence of the religion specifically. But showing how much Islamic artists were inspired by the regions' pre-Islamic art forms—which necessitated buying up many rare examples of both genres—counters the belief that Islam swamped or suppressed many local traditions as it expanded. The Doha museum's stated aim is 'to celebrate Islamic art and civilisation, fostering cultural understanding and global dialogue" and it indeed offers a very alluring picture. Especially since the 'civilisational' angle has been a prickly issue with Christians propounding a similar narrative. The Hagia Sophia's journey from 6th century church to mosque to museum back to mosque in 2020 in Istanbul, for example, points to their tussle for civilisational superiority. Art's connection to religion, and their role in a civilisation has for long been very successfully expounded by the Christian world, with many of the landmarks of human advancement linked to it. Both the Renaissance and the Reformation—periods that saw great progress in the arts—challenged and renewed interest in the Christian faith and thus cannot be excised from its remarkable cultural legacy. Thus, positing Islam as a similar force is a bold initiative. There is no comparable single museum of Christian art, considering that religion reached all five permanently populated continents (Islam has not yet managed to establish control over the two Americas) and certainly altered and affected the cultures of all those places. Perhaps the current rules of political correctness make exhibiting honestly how Christianity impacted the regions where it holds sway a very tough call. Billionaire financiers would also be chary. A large part of the Israel Museum in Jerusalem is devoted to Jewish art and the Wolfson Museum of Jewish Art focuses on the Jewish Diasporic Heritage, Judaica, and the evolution of art from the Second Temple period to the present, including contemporary art. There is also the Jewish Museum in New York, Musée d'Art et d'Histoire du Judaïsme in Paris, and the Jewish Museum in Berlin. But none have the grand sweep of Doha's Islamic art museum. Buddhism, surprisingly, also does not have a mega museum devoted to how it has impacted art and aesthetics across the world, although such a project would not be constrained by political correctness apprehensions. China has approached it tangentially via its Silk Road initiatives but not an institution like the one in Doha. China, of course, is the only nation with the economic heft to build a Buddhist art museum on that scale—despite its Communist government. The benefit of conflating itself with the enormous reach of Buddhism in what it considers its special sphere of influence—South-East and East Asia—makes a Museum of Buddhist Art by and in China almost inevitable. Although, logically, India should be the venue, not only because Buddhism spread from here to the rest of the world but also because it has a sizable collection of Buddhist art already in museums around the country that can be tapped. But while all these other religions have many nations that can host museums on their impact on the arts, only one country can be the venue for an exposition of the artistic impact of Hinduism: India. As there is now a serious relook at the decades of academic work on the perceptions and earlier misconceptions about Hinduism, this is the perfect time to set up a grand Museum of Hindu Art, not hiding behind the broader word 'Indian" fearing criticism. Using the same principle as the museum in Doha, it would also include regions that were once under Hindu rule as part of its sweep. That would mean going beyond the boundaries of Akhand Bharat to include most of South-East Asia, parts of Central Asia—and even West Asia, including the definite effect of Hindu astronomy and mathematics on the cultures there. There is evidence of past Hindu influence on even Oman, Bahrain, Yemen including temples. Apart from what the world may learn from such a museum, it would also be of immense help to tell Hindus in India—and elsewhere too—about the actual ambit of their religion and the visible (and some now-invisible) impact it has had on the arts, and aesthetics of those areas and vice versa. Right now much of the academic and cultural discourse on art centres on the Buddhist and Islamic influence on 'Indian' aesthetics, thereby constricting the scope of Hindu art. A museum that not only traces its evolution but compares and contrasts the interactions of Hindu art with those of other regions and religions would be an eye-opener. Especially if it could be showcased in an iconic receptacle speaking an international idiom (not colonial or revivalist), encapsulating the links between Hinduism's vast and diverse past history in fine and decorative arts and its current status. India needs a modern temple to Hinduism's art heritage. The author is a freelance writer. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18's views. Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: May 20, 2025, 11:08 IST News opinion Opinion | Why India Needs A Museum Of Hindu Art
The Age
15-05-2025
- The Age
Getting older, but still a backpacker at heart? This is the holiday for you
It's an auspicious start. After the customary meet and greet in the bar of our elegant four-star hotel in Istanbul, tour leader Orcun Korkmaz leads us to the rooftop terrace of an upmarket restaurant with one of the best views in the city. I find myself spinning like a whirling dervish, mesmerised by a sweeping vista of the Bosphorus Strait and the floodlit facades of the Blue Mosque and Hagia Sophia. Dinner is an indulgent spread of traditional Turkish fare – kebabs, mezze and fresh seafood – that's punctuated by the call to prayer, a haunting back and forth between the nearby mosques. It's one of the most atmospheric dinners I've had in years – the kind of experience you'd expect on an exclusive itinerary with a luxury operator. Yet, I'm on a tour with a company that made its name by offering budget trips to cash-strapped backpackers. Started in 1990 by Canadian Bruce Poon Tip, G Adventures is the world's largest small group adventure tour company with trips in more than 100 countries. In 2023, it realised that the travellers who'd booked tours 30 years ago were now looking for an elevated experience. They still craved active trips with like-minded people, but they wanted nicer accommodation, more cultural immersion and less 10-hour bus transfers. Enter Geluxe, a new tour style that purports to tick all these boxes while still giving back to local communities. This two-week itinerary is the concatenation of two shorter Geluxe trips: a seven-day jaunt from Istanbul to Sirince via Cappadocia and Ephesus, then an eight-day journey from Sirince to Gocek via Bodrum and Dalyan. It's an ambitious itinerary that promises big-city buzz, desert escapades, historic ruins and seaside frolics. Having been on several regular G Adventures tours, I'm curious whether the world's best-known budget tour operator can up its game for its increasingly discerning client base. Mosques, mountains and Roman ruins Our one full day in Istanbul is an action-packed romp through the city's old town, a bewildering maze of snaking alleyways choked with people and seemingly suicidal scooters. We tick off many of the city's big-ticket attractions, including the arresting six-minareted Blue Mosque, the subterranean Basilica Cistern (a spectacular Roman reservoir that's now an immersive art installation) and the 4000-plus stores within the cavernous Grand Bazaar. Korkmaz shows us lesser-known gems too, such as the intricate Iznik tiling in the diminutive Rustem Pasha Mosque and a network of elevated 17th-century passages lined with workshops known as a 'han'. Along the way, we sample a variety of authentic street food, including doner kebabs, pistachio-studded Turkish delight and a popular tahini-filled pastry. In an atmospheric shisha cafe, we enjoy Turkish tea with cheese-filled bagels and learn the art of tasseography, where your fortune is told using the coffee grounds left after a syrupy slug of Turkish coffee. From Istanbul, we fly, rather than drive, to Cappadocia and are plunged into its dramatic desert medley of soaring escarpments and basalt hoodoos. Cappadocia is the location of our OMG Stay (an especially memorable hotel) and OMG Day (a choice between two immersive experiences) – two features on every Geluxe tour. Exedra Hotel certainly ticks the OMG box – the palatial property has been carved out of the volcanic terrain, creating an intriguing labyrinth of subterranean rooms linked by terraces and courtyards. The OMG Day options are a guided hike or e-bike tour in the Meskendir Valley, a buckling lunar landscape of striking rock formations called fairy chimneys. Both activities turn out to be more intrepid than most of us are anticipating. Cycling on narrow sandy tracks while dodging horse riders and high-speed ATVs certainly elicits plenty of OMGs, plus several much stronger expletives. Cappadocia's distinctive topography gets all the glory, but the region also has several impressive historic sites. Goreme Open Air Museum is a complex of UNESCO-listed medieval cave churches carved by Byzantine monks. Hidden among a scrum of towering outcrops, many still contain colourful frescoes of prophets and saints. Even more astounding is Kaymakli Underground City, a vast underground network of chambers that once housed 3500 people. First constructed by the Phrygians in the 8th-century BC, it was expanded by Christians seeking shelter during the 400-year-long Arab-Byzantine wars. After descending into the bowels of the eight-level complex via narrow staircases and cramped tunnels, we discover an incredible warren of storerooms, living quarters and churches. Perched on an imposing 60-metre-high rocky outcrop, Uchisar Castle provides a refreshingly lofty contrast. The 200-step climb leaves us gasping but watching the desert landscape burnished in golden hues by the setting sun is a worthy reward. Of course, these are just warm-up acts for the tour's headline performer: Ephesus. Highlights include the Library of Celsus, a soaring marble facade decorated with statues of the four virtues; the Corinthian-style Temple of Hadrian with its impressive self-supporting main arch and the yawning Great Theatre, which could hold 25,000 people. Community interaction is a G Adventures staple, and we enjoy two delightful food-themed encounters – a fun gozleme cooking class with two sisters at a rustic village restaurant and dinner at a family home in the tiny Cappadocian hamlet of Zelve (population 45). After a delicious meal of lentil soup, stuffed eggplants and rice-filled sarma, host Mehmet brings out a five-litre flagon of homemade red wine. The rest is a bit of a blur. Hikes, tombs and the Turquoise Coast Of the 11 guests that started in Istanbul, only six of us are doing the full two-week trip, so we say farewell to the rest on the transition day, which is spent at Nisanyan Hotel, a delightful collection of villas nestled in the forested hills above the village of Sirince near Ephesus. We soon learn that it's practically impossible to go anywhere in Turkey without tripping over a ruin. We literally stumble across one during a coastal hike near the town of Ahmetbeyli, and then there are guided visits to the ancient Greek cities of Priene and Miletus, Bodrum Castle, the Temple of Apollo at Didyma and the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus. While each site is notable in its own right, it's hard for anything to compete with Ephesus, and after several long, hot days of ruin scrambling, we're all a bit templed out. Fortunately, Dalyan provides the perfect antidote. A lively town strung along the banks of the Dalyan River, it's known for its natural mud baths, Lycian rock tombs and sandy Aegean beach. During a relaxing river cruise, we experience all three, starting by slathering ourselves in mineral-rich mud (as Cleopatra did, allegedly), before soaking in a sulphur-infused thermal pool. After a lunch of grilled trout and a rosé in a riverside restaurant, we glide past dramatic escarpments studded with intricately carved 4th-century-BC Lycian tombs. Last stop is Iztuzu Beach, a popular swimming spot that's also an important nesting site for loggerhead turtles. This trip's OMG Stay is the boutique Hotel Arp Dalyan. Its riverfront restaurant provides a captivating view of the tombs, particularly at night when they're illuminated by floodlights. The following day we hike part of the Lycian Way, a 760-kilometre-long trail that skirts the mountainous coastline between Fethiye and Antalya. There's a pitstop at the ruined ancient Lycian city of Pinara, followed by another home-cooked feast – this time a table-crowding platter of soups, dolma and tender baked chicken at the home of Mr and Mrs Hussain in the village of Minare. This is the inaugural departure of this Geluxe tour, so, inevitably, there are teething problems, specifically a long airport transit, one unremarkable hotel and some minor logistical gremlins. But overall, it's still a significant upgrade from a regular G Adventures departure, with characterful accommodation, more inclusions and a good balance of active and cultural experiences. Loading Like all the best trips, it finishes on a high – a private boat trip along Turkey's Turquoise Coast, a superyacht-dotted succession of tranquil bays lapped by teal water. It's a gruelling day of swims and strolls fuelled by barbecued sea bass, fresh salads and a secret chimichurri sauce made by the captain 'with love'. If this is the Geluxe life, sign me up. The details
