Tag Archives: Chaput foot prints

Australia

Sydney Australia Part 2

We decided to spend the day exploring one of Sydney’s most fascinating attractions, the Sydney Sea Life Aquarium.  From the moment we stepped inside, we were surrounded by an incredible underwater world.

There were huge tanks with schools of tropical fish, some were uniquely different and other with bright colours.

We walked along the tanks looking at these fish and then at one point we felt like maybe we were the ones on exhibit because the fish were looking at us.

Of course, the sharks were impressive. Walking through the glass tunnels with these magnificent creatures gliding silently overhead was both thrilling and humbling.

It’s hard not to feel a sense of awe seeing such powerful animals so close.

We spent time in the tunnels watching the different sharks and stingrays swimming calmly all around us.

It was truly impressive and a little humbling watching these amazing creatures.

We even saw some dugongs which was a first for us. They are truly a unique and different looking creature. The dugong is largely dependent on seagrass for subsistence and lives near coastal seagrass areas. The northern waters of Australia between Shark Bay and Moreton Bay are believed to be the dugong’s main area of these amazing mammals. 

A dulong swimming in the aquarium.

We came to the penguin exhibit, which was curious to us. We watched those adorable little creatures waddle about and dive into the water. They looked so happy sliding across the ice and swimming effortlessly. They made us laugh at how clumsy on Land they are but graceful in the water.


We saw different jellyfish, they were on display in long glass tubes filled with different types. It was almost hypnotic watching them with their softly glowing colour and gently pulsing through the water. These creatures that looked like something from another world.

Towards the end of our day we came to an area which permitted us to literally pet some of the sea creatures, such as starfish.

Ray touching a live starfish

This was amazing experience, they are soft and quite smooth feeling. We even got to touch and feel Shark eggs.

Ray holding a shark egg

Spending the day at the Sea Life in Sydney was truly a fantastic day. We saw and experienced some amazing things. What an adventure!

Australia

Sydney Australia Part 1

We knew it would be an adventure visiting Sydney, but we didn’t realize just how much the city would capture our hearts.

We began our first day by  taking a stroll through the lush Botanical Garden of Sydney which is located in the heart of the city. We were surrounded by an array of beautiful unique flowers and vegetation.

The sound of birds singing from the trees was everywhere and as we strolled we came across a few of the local residents of the Gardens.

We walked along the winding paths of the Gardens working our way towards the Opera house. Eventually we could see the iconic white sails of the Sydney Opera House in the distance. 

We continued walking until we turned a corner of the Gardens and found ourselves in the heart of the Sydney Bay. What an amazing sight, there were restaurants and activity everywhere. Our first stop was to check out the Iconic Opera House.

The Sydney Opera House was one of the top things we wanted to see and it did not disappoint.  Seeing it in person was something special and photos just don’t do it justice. We took a guided tour and learned about the building’s fascinating history. We were able to walk through the interior of it and enjoyed seeing the amazing architectural design. 

When we were up close, the tile design is even more incredible. The tiles are made from ceramic created by the Swedish company. They have a self-cleaning glaze, which helps them stay bright despite the weather.  There are two main types of tiles, a glossy white and matte cream which are arranged in a chevron pattern. This gives the shells their shimmering appearance. There are approximately 1,056,006 tiles that cover the roof.

The inside of the Opera house is spectacular with glass walls, pink granite floor tiles, white birch plywood and brush box timber. (an Australian hardwood).

After exploring the Opera House we strolled along the waterfront admiring the views.  

That evening, we dined on a rooftop restaurant overlooking the Opera House, and honestly, it felt like something out of a dream.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, the harbour turned gold and the lights of the city began to twinkle. We enjoyed our meal and celebrated our first day in Sydney. What an adventure it was.

“Cheers Mate”

Spain

Moraira Spain

Sun, Sea, and Spanish Delights with Good Friends

This past weekend, we escaped to the sun-soaked coastal town of Moraira, Spain. It is a true gem on the Costa Blanca.

Tucked between mountains and the sparkling Mediterranean, this charming town welcomed us with its laid-back vibe, friendly locals, and postcard-perfect views.

Fernando, Leti, Shelley and Ray

We went with our friends Leti and Fernando, which made the whole experience even more special. Traveling with good friends always adds that extra layer of laughter, shared moments, and unforgettable memories.

We stayed at a resort-style complex that was perched just above the town, complete with an infinity pool that provided the ultimate view.  Mornings were spent sipping coffee with panoramic views stretching from the hills to the horizon, and in the evenings ended at the poolside, enjoying drinks, laughs and watching the sky melt into brilliant shades of pink, blues and gold. 

Sunset from our resort style apartment

One of the highlights of the trip was a day at the Cala Granadella, just a short drive from Moraira. We started early in order to beat the crowds, knowing how popular this spot is, especially on a sunny weekend.  Even so, we ended up driving partway up the mountain road to find a parking spot, then walking down the winding road to the cove.

Ray, Fernando, Leti and Shelley walking down to the beach

But the effort was more than worth it.

Cars parked along the roadside and heading to the beach
View from our parking spot

Granadella greeted us with crystal-clear turquoise waters, dramatic rocky cliffs, and that tranquil Mediterranean charm.

View from our spot on the beach of Granadella

We found a nice stop on the beach, swam and let time drift by. 

Ray in the water at Granadella Beach

Fernando and Ray found a bar and we enjoyed some refreshments while longing on the beach with the sound of the waves in the background. We relaxed and just took it all in. A great day!

Back in Moraira, we explored the Feria, a lively street fair full of color, music, and the irresistible scent of Spanish street food. We wandered through stalls of handmade crafts and local goods, tried some samples including horse meat, cheeses and a very large donut. 

On one of the afternoons, we took a scenic drive out to Cap de la Nau, one of the easternmost points on Spain’s mainland. The winding road led us through hills and coastal landscapes until we reached the cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Standing at the edge, the cliffside view was absolutely breathtaking—jagged rocks plunging into deep blue water, with nothing but sea and sky stretching endlessly ahead.

view from the top of Nau Cape
View from Nau Cape

We took our time walking along the path, snapping photos and just soaking in the peacefulness of the place. It felt like we were standing on the edge of the world.

Shelley enjoying one of the beautiful views in the area of Moraira, Spain

It was great weekend crammed full of activities, laughter and fun. We returned home tired but feeling relaxed and grateful for the sunshine, the laughter, the peaceful views, and above all, the time shared with friends. Moraira is one of those towns that makes you slow down, breathe deeply, and savor every little moment and that’s exactly what we did.

“vive cada día con alegria”

Spain

A Taste of History at the Botín restaurant

There are meals you enjoy—and then there are meals you remember for a lifetime. Our visit to Sobrino de Botín in Madrid falls firmly into the second category. Tucked away on a cobbled street just a short stroll from Plaza Mayor, Botín isn’t just any restaurant. It’s officially the oldest restaurant in the world, according to the Guinness Book of Records, with its doors having first opened in 1725. But the history of this place goes back even further—far further.

Cave basement of Botín restaurant

We were lucky enough to receive a private tour, and it was like walking through a living museum.

The staff took us below the dining rooms to explore the cellars and wine caves, some of which date back to the early 16th century. 

Dining area of the lower area of Botín Restaurant

You could feel the centuries in the cool stone walls, and imagine the stories the space could tell—from secret meetings during times of conflict to quiet toasts over vintages now long gone.

16th century wine cave under Botín Restaurant

In the cellar’s quiet shadows, surrounded by dusty bottles and timeworn brick, we got a deeper sense of the rich, layered history of the restaurant and Madrid itself.

Shelley and Michelle in the wine cave of Botín Restaurant


Botín has hosted some truly iconic names over the centuries. Ernest Hemingway wrote about it in The Sun Also Rises and was known to frequent the restaurant. Francisco de Goya, before becoming a famed painter, worked there as a dishwasher! Kings, celebrities, writers, and travelers from every corner of the globe have passed through these doors, drawn by the same thing that brought us there: a craving for something truly special.

Area of restaurant where Hemingway usually ate.

Then there was the meal—a decadent, flavourful five-course experience paired with regional Spanish wines that perfectly complemented each dish.

Gerry, Ray, Michelle and Shelley enjoying 5 course meal at Botín

From the moment the first plate arrived, the food was every bit as historic as the setting. The standout? Without question, their signature cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig), cooked in the original wood-fired oven that’s been in use since the restaurant’s founding. Crisp, tender, and rich with flavor, it was unlike anything we’ve had before.

Kitchen wood fired Oven with their roasted suckling pig

It was so much more than a meal, it was about connecting with history in a way few other places allow. You can almost taste the past, feel the stories in the walls, and walk out with a deeper appreciation of the tradition, craftsmanship, and the Spanish culture.

If you ever find yourself in Madrid, do yourself a favor: make a reservation, or if you’re lucky like we were, arrange a tour. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or both, Botín offers an experience that’s truly one of a kind.

“Barriga llena, corazón contento.”

Germany

Christmas markets of Cologne Germany

This December, we spent four magical days exploring the enchanting Christmas markets in Cologne, Germany.

The city was alive with twinkling lights, the scent of roasted chestnuts, and the cheerful buzz of holiday spirit.

Each market we went to had its own unique charm, from the iconic Cathedral Market with its stunning backdrop of the Cologne Cathedral to the quaint charm of the Old Market with its whimsical decorations.


One of the highlights of our trip was indulging in the local food and drink.

We sampled delicious bratwurst, freshly baked pretzels, and a variety of sweet treats.

The mulled wine, or Glühwein, was a particular favorite—it warmed us from the inside out as we strolled through the chilly evening air.

We even took the oportunity to take a photo in the large mulled wine cups for fun.

The crisp cold reminded us of winters back home in Canada, adding a touch of nostalgia to our holiday adventure.

There was even ice skating and curling events. 


We couldn’t resist taking a ride on the Ferris wheel, which offered breathtaking views of the market lights and the Rhine River shimmering below.

Another memorable experience was our dinner at Peter Brauhaus, a traditional brewery-restaurant. 

Inside was an authentic german traditional Kölsch beer culture. It featured some long, shared wooden tables that encourage camaraderie among locals and visitors alike.

We sat along the table and enjoyed the hearty German food and enjoyed the cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

We really enjoyed our trip to Cologne’s Christmas markets. It was a perfect blend of festive cheer, delicious flavours, and cherished memories.

It reminded us of the simple joys of the season and left us with hearts full of gratitude and holiday spirit.

“Wir wünschen Ihnen ein frohes Weihnachtsfest und alles Gute für das neue Jahr.”