Hiking the Lycian Way Trail beginning in the Ghost Village of Kayakoy

Posted on October 5, 2015 by Travel Spirit

I plan trips and take people around the world through my site at “Travel Spirit Meetup” and for the eight night Turkey trip in mid-September, six people joined me for four nights on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey and four nights in Istanbul. One of the adventures I was really looking forward to was hiking a small portion of the Lycian Way trail along Turkey’s turquoise coast. Everyone arrived from the States and settled into our accommodations at Villa Rhapsody the first day, and after a delicious poolside breakfast the following morning, we walked 10 minutes from our Villa to the ghost village of Kayakoy and began exploring.

The village was deserted by the Greek Orthodox that inhabited the village during the 1923 forced exchange between Turkey and Greece. Our goal was to take the trail head that leads from the village and hike seven kilometers to the town of Oludeniz. During my research at home before the trip I found a great website with information about the hike, and read other information, but we still experienced some difficulty finding the trail head. Another couple armed with a map were also a bit lost. The trail is marked with red and yellow paint stripes on rocks along the way. One of our groups’ members took off ahead of us exploring the ghost village and once we’d found the trail head, we shouted for him to no avail, and another member went off looking for him, which added another 10-15 minutes wait. We weren’t able to find him and with the knowledge that he would be able to make his way back to the Villa if necessary, decided to begin our hike.

There are a number of ways to enter the ghost village, one of which requires a fee of 5 Lira ($1.65) and of course that’s the entrance we found.

The ghost village was amazing! The sunlight illuminated the windows of the decaying buildings.

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In Heaven at Villa Rhapsody

Posted on October 4, 2015 by Travel Spirit

I arrived from Edinburgh, Scotland to the Dalaman Airport near the Mediterranean coast of Turkey at 9pm in mid-September, 2015. The flight was direct and took 4 1/2 hours. After much research, I chose accommodations at Villa Rhapsody in the town of Kayakoy, which is located between the towns of Fethiye and Oludeniz. A private shuttle met me for the hour drive to the Villa, which is owned by a couple named Atilla (from Turkey) and Jeanne (from Holland–I believe). It was after 10pm, and Atilla offered me a drink of my choice on the house, so I chose a glass of white wine. We talked briefly and then hit the hay. The rooms were basic (you typically just sleep and bath in them anyway), but the property and the food were outstanding!

The following morning I woke early and went in search of coffee armed with my camera. The Villa is small with 16 rooms. Six people had signed up to join me for an 8 night trip to the Turkish Mediterranean and Istanbul through my site: “Travel Spirit Meetup” and were due to arrive during the day.

The pool and outdoor dining area were perfect!

The bar to the left of the pool, where many interesting conversations occurred and a few refreshing cocktails (Vodka with cherry juice and fresh lemon) were imbibed …

the peaceful view from my room…

one of their four cats…

the staircase window view…

another kitty…

feeling creative…

reflections…

view from the pool area…

from my balcony of one of their two doggies…

beautiful light fixtures in the bar’s ceiling…

a Turkish breakfast…

I had to pack carefully due to the climate differences between Ireland/Scotland and the Turkish Mediterranean. During our four day stay, in between the sightseeing, I enjoyed a few dips in the pool.

The attention to detail and the simple, yet colorful decor created a tranquil and lush environment!

Things that made me Smile in Dublin and Edinburgh

Posted on October 3, 2015 by Travel Spirit

I was surprised yet delighted to see yarn bombing next to St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Dublin…

Purple doors shout out happy!

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Dancing in Scotland

Posted on October 2, 2015 by Travel Spirit

My friend Teresa and I, having arrived from Dublin, Ireland to Edinburgh, Scotland in the late afternoon, decided to check out a local pub right down the street from our Airbnb, called “The Grapes”. When we first walked in, it was apparent we were outnumbered by the males, only seeing a couple of other females. We bought a glass of beer because that’s what you do in Ireland and proceeded to talk to a few of the friendly looking men standing around also with beer in hand (well not in this photo).

As you can see they were quite friendly, posing with Teresa! The DJ, who looked to be of Latin descent, was playing American 70’s music, so we decided to get the party started by dancing in the small area in front of him. It was so much fun! When the bartender saw me taking photos, she asked me what I was there for and I replied, “To have fun!”

I asked this gentleman to pose for a photo in front of the lady’s room and I swear he looks just like Popeye!

We only stayed an hour or two, but danced most of the time! It was a great way to start our four-day adventure in Scotland!

Edinburgh’s Architecture

Posted on October 1, 2015 by Travel Spirit

One of the best ways to explore any city’s architecture is by walking through its streets and Edinburgh has such a diverse and interesting mix of architecture, you’ll forget your feet are beginning to hurt!

I’m definitely not an expert on architecture, but I know what pleases my eye and camera. The following are some photos from Old and New Town Edinburgh, which were made a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996.

This cute little house is situated in Princes Street Gardens, which lies between the Old and New Towns of Edinburgh. A lovely place to take a stroll!

I encountered this colorful scene while walking downhill from our visit to Edinburgh Castle.

There is nothing particularly “special” about this shot, but the blue definitely pops and I find it visually appealing.

Row of buildings in Old Town Edinburgh as seen from the divide between the Old and New Towns.

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Climbing Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh

Posted on September 30, 2015 by Travel Spirit

Climbing Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh was high on my list of things to do while in Scotland and early in the morning on our last day there, my friend and I walked 10 minutes from our Airbnb to do just that! Located a mile from the Edinburgh Castle and standing 822 feet above the City, the views are breathtaking! This is the highest we got because it had drizzled and was a bit slippery and the route we chose to hike was a bit more like rock climbing. But the view of the city was spectacular!

My friend Teresa took a photo of me with her camera navigating my way up the steep hill and she remarked that she wasn’t as worried about going up as she was with coming back down.

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I saw the Loch Ness Monster

Posted on September 29, 2015 by Travel Spirit

For day three of our four-day stay in Scotland, I scheduled a day trip (12 hours round-trip) from Edinburgh through Rabbie’s Tours for a journey to Loch Ness, Glencoe, and the Highlands in Scotland. They take smaller groups (16 and under) on their tours which provides a more intimate experience. Here I am on the boat ride (an additional cost) on Loch Ness. I purchased a new rain coat that was both functional and stylish for the trip and it came in handy a number of times, although we had wonderful weather for the most part!

Our first stop was at one of the many “lochs” (lakes) along the way before reaching our final destination of Loch Ness.

Traveling North over the flat fertile plains of the lowlands eventually gave way to shimmering lochs, rugged mountain tops and forest-filled glens.

The knobby hills (the Scots call them mountains) rose dramatically over the lush green glens in the most famous of them all, Glencoe. The area is very popular with hikers and rock climbers. Glencoe was the home of Hagrid from Harry Potter and was also the backdrop for a James Bond film.

Upon arrival to Loch Ness we were greeted with beautiful blue skies! The larger boat on the right is the one my friend and I took a ride on for spotting Nessie.

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Edinburgh Castle

Posted on September 28, 2015 by Travel Spirit

Edinburgh Castle is Scotland‘s most visited paid tourist attraction and sits upon an extinct volcano. The castle has undergone so many attacks during it’s 1100 years of history, it is the most besieged place in Great Britain and one of the most attacked in the world!

I captured these photos after touring the Castle and walking down toward Princes Street Gardens.

As you approach the castle to enter, this is your view…

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The Royal Mile

Posted on September 27, 2015 by Travel Spirit

Having researched The Royal Mile in Edinburgh, Scotland before my trip, and checked out some photos of it, I have to say it’s even more beautiful in person! It stretches from the Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, hence the name. A little known fact, at least to those who don’t live in Scotland, it’s actually a bit longer (.12) than a normal mile, because it’s a Scot’s mile. After spending four nights in Dublin, my friend and I flew on Ryan Air to Edinburgh to explore for four days. The architecture can only be described as being Grand and the City is filled with so much history! Compared to Dublin, the City of Edinburgh is much hillier and to me more interesting.

I reserved an Airbnb, located within 15 minutes walking distance from The Royal Mile, and was very pleased with the Apartment. It’s a three-bedroom and we had to share it with other people. The first couple that stayed for one night of our stay weren’t very friendly, but the next couple were very talkative and nice. Cute living/dining/kitchen area…

Breakfast was included with the rental and the owners made sure to keep it stocked with yogurt, cereal, milk, fruit, bread, etc.

Here’s my friend Teresa taking a photo of her bedroom…

which looks just like my bedroom…

The weather was overcast much of the time, and rained for part of one day, and drizzled a bit another day, but nice the remainder. The umbrellas are nice for photographing!

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Ireland’s Medieval City of Kilkenny and its Castle

Posted on September 26, 2015 by Travel Spirit

Kilkenny’s rich medieval heritage is evident in the city’s treasure trove of historical buildings and landmarks, especially the magnificent Kilkenny Castle. Kilkenny is Ireland’s most beautiful medieval city. My day trip from Dublin through Collins Day Tours included this majestic city. I walked around the castle looking for a variety of perspectives.

The back “yard” goes forever, with its lush and green manicured lawn!

Who doesn’t love fountains!

A couple of young lads enjoying the day! Nice to see them phone-less.

The city of Kilkenny through my eyes and lens…

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Dublin in a Day

Posted on September 25, 2015 by Travel Spirit

Arriving to Dublin in late afternoon, I settled into the Airbnb I had reserved, located in the Temple Bar area, within walking distance to all of the major attractions. My friend and I went to a nearby grocery store for some breakfast and snack items (along with some local wine) and went out to dinner. We had Irish excursions planned for the following two days, so we didn’t really explore Dublin until our last day in the City. We had wonderful weather and I was so excited to be in Ireland! Dublin is a very walk-able city. I asked these two beautiful lassies for their photo…

A typical Dublin street…

The famous Ha’ Penny Bridge.

Trinity College’s “Book of Kells” was amazing! The Book of Kells, created in 800 AD, is composed of four gospels of the New Testament. The room itself is magnificent!

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Day trip from Dublin to Glendalough and Wicklow Mountains

Posted on September 23, 2015 by Travel Spirit

Glendalough, or the Glen of two lakes, is one of the most important sites of monastic ruins in Ireland. It is also known as the city of the seven Churches. Fourteen centuries have passed since the death of its founder, St. Kevin, when the valley was part of Ireland’s Golden age. For my second full day in Ireland, I booked another day trip, this time through a company called Collins Day Tours. My friend Teresa was my beautiful model…

These trees were kinda trippy!

I’ve began collecting photographs of people taking selfies!

The moody skies were the perfect backdrop for the 6th Century monastic settlement, providing just the right atmospheric setting!

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Ireland’s Treasure at Cliffs of Moher

Posted on September 23, 2015 by Travel Spirit

The Cliffs of Moher, located 3 hours from Dublin on the West coast of Ireland, rising over 750 feet at their highest point, are one of Ireland’s most spectacular sights! As a day trip from Dublin, it makes for a long day (12 hours round-trip with stops), but an unforgettable one! We were fortunate to have beautiful weather, a bit windy with temperatures near 70 degrees. The rugged and stunning scenery was simply gorgeous!

Walking from one end to the other along the paths was invigorating after the bus ride…

I booked the trip through a company called Irish Day Tours and the guide’s accent was charming! He warned against standing on the edges because tourists have either fallen or the cliff has given way.

My friend Teresa looking lovely as usual!

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The World’s largest recirculating swimming pool located in Cincinnati, Ohio

Posted on September 3, 2015 by Travel Spirit

When Sunlite Pool was constructed in 1925 at Coney Island Amusement Park in Cincinnati, Ohio, it was and still is the largest recirculating swimming pool in the world, holding over 3 million gallons of water, measuring 200 x 401 ft., and ranging in depths from six inches to 10 feet. Although it’s capacity is 10,000 swimmers, luckily when my friends and I visited yesterday, there may have been 100-200 guests enjoying the picture perfect 90 degree weather! After lazing around on our rafts in the pool and sipping on a cold beverage, we were ready for some tubing fun on the Twister!

I don’t remember the first time I visited the pool–some time back in the mid-70’s–and the most recent visit before yesterday was perhaps 7-8 years ago. A lot has changed over the years.

Coney Island’s first name was Parker’s Grove (named after its owner, James Parker), opening in 1870 and consisted of a dining hall, dancing hall and bowling alley. People were transported the 10 miles from Cincinnati by riverboat before the automobile was invented. In addition to Sunlite Pool, Moonlite Gardens, an open-air dance hall was built the same year. Through the years, new rides were constructed and now the Park has 24 fun rides for both young and old to enjoy!

Due to its riverside location, six major floods have damaged the Park: 1913, 1937 (submerging it under 28 feet of water), 1964, 1972, 1991, and 1997.

In the early 1950’s, Walt Disney made a visit to Coney Island to get ideas for Disneyland.

Ownership has changed hands numerous times through the years, and in 1969, Taft Broadcasting purchased the Park and decided to build Kings Island, a new theme park in Northeastern Cincinnati. Coney Island closed in 1971 for three years, but Sunlite Pool continued its operations. Reopened in 1974, the Park began to come to life again and after the Riverbend Music Center opened in 1984, new rides and attractions were constructed.

Taken from Coney Island’s website: “Once given up for dead, a victim of its own success, Coney Island is alive again. While it is no longer the region’s largest amusement facility, it retains many of its beloved traditions-swimming at Sunlite Pool, dancing under the stars in Moonlite Gardens, picnicking and strolling along the Ohio River.”

The people of Southwestern Ohio are indeed fortunate. Their beloved local amusement park refused to die and gave its owners no choice but to rebuild it into what it does best — create memories.”

The Man Who Built a Castle

Posted on August 31, 2015 by Travel Spirit

At the bottom of a steep yet very narrow and winding road in the town of Loveland, Ohio, stands a medieval castle named Chateau Laroche (aka Loveland Castle & Museum). Built by Harry Andrews, a former World War I army veteran, who acquired the land in 1927 and began construction in 1929, it was a labor of love.

Andrews carried tons of stones in an estimated 56,000 five-gallon pails from the Little Miami Riverbed upon which the Castle sits and made bricks by pouring concrete into old milk cartons.

It was during his tour of duty in Europe that Andrews fell in love with castles. Upon his return, he formed the Knights of the Golden Trail (KOGT), a group he said would be dedicated to helping save civilization, which he felt had seriously eroded. Their code of conduct is simply to follow the Ten Commandments.

Working on the castle every weekend until he retired in 1955 at the age of 65, and then full-time, the castle was Andrews’ life work.

The castle boasts a great hall, a banquet hall, an armory, a bedroom for Andrews, a watchtower, and a real dungeon with cells. Some of the rooms are full of memorabilia from the dark ages. Continue reading →