How could one sum up the diversity that is Europe – a melting pot of cultures? But also, it boasts a huge variety of spectacular landscapes, as well as so much ancient history.
According to my DNA testing through 23andme, I am over 99% European which includes 4% Scandanavian, which was a surprise. When I was 23 and living in the UK, I went on a 9 week camping trip around Europe and later in the year, a 2 week one around Scandanavia. That was a long time ago but I still have vivid memories. Since then I’ve been back to the UK many times (my daughter and twin sister live there) and have had some wonderful experiences. I’ve also visited Norway (in the summer and a winter cruise – see my post on The Northern Lights), Iceland and Malta. Join me on my adventures in future posts. Here are some photos to whet your appetites.
England
Puffins on Farne islands, Northumberland
Bamburgh Castle, Northumberland
Cows sussing us out on a walk in the Peak District
Ireland
Twins discovering their roots in Belfast , Northern Ireland
Dunluce Castle, Northern Ireland
The ‘wishing chair’ – maybe?, Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland
Tower, Northern Ireland
Wales
Stunning beaches in Pembrokeshire
Waiting to go out to see puffins at Skomer islands
Picturesque villages everywhere
Wonderful walks along the cliffs near St. David’s
Norway – summer
Our chalet on the Lyse Fjord
Pulpit Rock – we made it to the top!
Pulpit Rock – 602 metres high!
Spectacular fjords
A cruise up Lyse Fjord
Nice fat sheep!
Iceland
The start of the climb up to “Hattur”, The Hat
In the valley of Thorsmork
Wild Icelandic horses
Kaftkla Waterfall
The Blue Lagoon – hot springs
Norway – winter cruise
Our Hurtigruten cruise ship, the Nordlys (Northern Lights)
Breathtaking scenery heading north up the Norwegian west coast
Snow Hotel, Kirkenes, at the northern most tip of Norway
Colourful town contrasting with the pristine white landscape
Husky sledge ride, Kirkenes
Torghatten mountain
Malta
Xewkija Church, Goza island
Ta’ Pinu Basilica in Garb
Dome of Carmelite Church, in the medieval Medina
Valetta, on the mainland of Malta, with it’s very steep and narrow streets