1. Taking ferries in Newport, Rhode Island. This is a must do. Newport is grand, full of iconic mansions with lots of history. It's known for it's food, festivals, and luxury lifestyle and in the summer months you'll find some yacht's parked in their harbor that you can't believe even exist. It's Newport, and that's life in the summer. What you may not know about this city is that the roads are extremely narrow, mostly one way, and that parking is ridiculous most of the time. I'm a veteran, so I navigate it with the ease that I navigate the subway in NYC. But, one thing that I always love about Newport is the boats. I don't mean super yachts. I mean boats that the rest of us can ride. Newport has ferries to Block Island, Martha's Vineyard, Providence, Bristol, Jamestown and across the harbor to Fort Adams. There are also harbor tours, scenic tours, and dinner tours. You can take a trip on a masted schooner if you'd like. Newport is also a cruise ship port. Boats are life in this city, so take advantage of the area transport, which is mostly boats.
2. The doors of Malta. This is something that just goes along with a trip to a fascinating and beautiful Island Nation such as Malta. The island has fended off countless invaders over the centuries and is an independent nation with its own separate culture. Part of that culture throughout history has been to display your status. There are doors of the traditional dwellings all over Malta which are works of art. The colors, the shapes, the carving, and by all means the door knockers. They were and somewhat still are all status symbols in the country. Nevertheless, while visiting, don't miss them. Take notice of the beauty the people of Malta show us every day just with their doors.
3. Gozo Island, Malta. Like many countries we know that are islands, there are several islands that make up what's known as the Maltese Archipelago. Gozo is the second biggest island in the group. It's a great way to get away from the more touristy sites in Malta and see how more of the locals live. It's a cultural experience with historic sites, ruins, all kinds of history. Great local food, fabulous beaches, and a ferry that takes you back and forth. You can get around the island in a number of ways, including scooters; the most reasonable option. Gozo is beautiful, and not nearly as hectic as the big island of Malta, so it's easy to relax. The food is local and good. The crowds are limited. It's a great getaway while in Malta.
So, there you have it. This week's somewhat quirky recommendations when traveling abroad. I say check out those travel vloggers. Those guys are interesting. I do most of my travel research that way. As usual, always check the State Department site before going abroad. You never know where the next war may have broken out. Keep reading as I continue to find five things a week to suggest as you travel around the world. It's not about the main thing, it's about the little things that enhance that trip. So, make sure you take time to notice the little things and enjoy!
