Italy…. Tuscany.... Florence…. Pisa...

 

Our journey from Rome brought us to the heart of Tuscany—Florence, a city that feels like stepping into a Renaissance painting. The iconic bridges over the Arno River and the lively central city square, bustling with locals and travelers alike, painted the perfect welcome.

We made our way to the Galleria dell ‘Accademia, home to Michelangelo’s masterpiece—David. Standing before the marble statue, it’s hard not to be awestruck by the sheer artistry and detail. It’s one of those moments where time pauses and history feels incredibly alive. 

Florence’s soul can truly be felt in Piazza della Signoria, the city’s grand central square. Surrounded by architectural marvels and steeped in centuries of history, it’s more than just a gathering place—it’s a living museum under the open sky. As we stepped into the square, we were instantly swept up in the energy. Musicians played softly on the cobblestones, people lounged on benches with gelato in hand, and the sound of bells echoed gently from nearby towers.

The Palazzo Vecchio, Florence’s historic town hall, dominates the square with its impressive fortress-like presence and soaring clock tower. Right outside the palace, a replica of Michelangelo’s David stands tall, marking the original spot where the real David once stood before being moved to the Accademia.

What truly makes this plaza magical is the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery on one side of the square. Here, masterpieces like Perseus with the Head of Medusa and The Rape of the Sabine Women seem to come alive in dramatic marble and bronze, capturing stories and emotions from the Renaissance in stunning form.

Cafés line the square, offering the perfect place to sit and soak in the surroundings. We paused here to have lunch, a very nice vegetarian linguine pasta with pesto sauce, cappucini and the  famous gelato.

Piazza della Signoria isn’t just a tourist spot; it’s a place where Florence breathes. Whether you’re admiring the art, listening to live music, or simply enjoying the view, it’s a must-see experience that leaves you feeling connected to the city’s rich and vibrant past.

No trip to Florence is complete without a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio—perhaps the city’s most iconic and romantic landmark. This medieval stone bridge, whose name literally means “Old Bridge,” arches gracefully over the Arno River and has stood the test of time since the 14th century. The tradition of jewelry shops on the bridge dates back to the 1500s, when the Medici family ordered butchers and tanners off the bridge to improve its image (and smell!).

As we walked across, we found ourselves mesmerized by the glimmering displays in the shop windows, the soft music played by street performers, and the stunning views of the river on either side. The atmosphere is both lively and timeless—artists sketching, and travelers pausing to take in the beauty.

The view from Ponte Vecchio at sunset is something truly special. The sun sets directly along the river, casting golden reflections on the water and bathing the bridge in warm light. It’s the kind of moment that stays with you—perfect for photos, but even better in memory. If you’re planning to visit, try to go early in the morning or just before sunset when the light is magical and the crowds are a bit thinner.

Time to start our journey to Pisa and the leaning tower!

                                                    PEACE ON EARTH

 All content copyright © by Sobana Iyengar.

Norway....Tromso.... Chasing Northern Lights....

In October 2018, we embarked on a journey we had long dreamed about — traveling to the far north to chase the magical northern lights. Our adventure began in Oslo, Norway’s charming capital, where we spent two wonderful days exploring the city before heading further north to Tromsø, right within the Arctic Circle.

Oslo greeted us with its crisp autumn air and vibrant city life. We wandered through cozy cafes, visited iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace and the Oslo Opera House, and strolled along the waterfront, soaking in the Scandinavian vibe. But as much as we enjoyed Oslo, the real excitement lay ahead.

 After a short flight, we found ourselves in Tromsø, often called the “Gateway to the Arctic.” Here, the landscape changed dramatically — towering mountains, deep fjords, and a city brimming with Arctic charm. One of the first things we noticed was how quickly daylight faded. By early afternoon, the sky would start dimming, painting the horizon in soft pastel hues. It was surreal and beautiful, a constant reminder that we were far from the world we knew.

 Our main mission was clear: to witness the northern lights in all their glory. Night after night, we set out on thrilling excursions, driving far north — almost to the border of Finland — in search of clear skies. The nights were cold and long, but when the sky exploded in dancing waves of green, purple, and pink, every chilly moment was worth it. Watching the aurora borealis shimmer and shift above us felt like stepping into a dream.

 During the day, we embraced the local culture and natural beauty of the region. One highlight was visiting a local tribal village, where we learned about the traditions of the indigenous Sami people. We even had the chance to take a magical reindeer ride through the snowy landscapes — a moment that truly felt like stepping into a fairy tale.

 Our trip to Norway was everything we had hoped for and more. Between the breathtaking northern lights, the serene Arctic landscapes, and the warmth of the people we met, it left a pleasant memory.

                                                               PEACE ON EARTH

   

All content copyright © by Sobana Iyengar.

Stockholm....Uppsala.... Vikings......

Our trip to Sweden was like stepping into the pages of a storybook—ancient ruins, charming, cobbled streets, and stunning waterfronts came together to create an unforgettable journey with my brother Partha and my sister Nimala. From the academic calm of Uppsala to the vibrant hum of Stockholm, every day brought something new and memorable.  

Our adventure began at Stockholm is often called the “Venice of the North,” and it’s easy to see why. The city is built across 14 islands, and the waterways are everywhere.  we stayed at the Hilton Stockholm Slussen. With sweeping views of the water and the charming buildings of Gamla Stan just across the bridge, it was the perfect base for our explorations. 

Wandering through Gamla Stan was like time traveling. Narrow, winding streets led us past colorful buildings, cozy cafés, and quirky shops. We stopped at Stortorget Square, took in the Royal Palace, and even tried some traditional Swedish fika (coffee and pastries) in one of the tucked-away cafés.

Next destination was Uppsala; a city steeped in Viking history and scholarly prestige with its university. We wandered through the quiet pathways of Gamla Uppsala, where ancient burial mounds rise gently from the landscape—each one said to belong to Viking kings and chieftains. Standing beside the runestones etched with mysterious symbols, we could almost hear echoes from a thousand years ago.

The city itself blended the old and new effortlessly. We took our time exploring Uppsala Cathedral and the university area, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere that makes this city so special.

From Uppsala, we made our way to Sigtuna,  a tiny town with massive charm. Dating back to the 10th century, it’s considered Sweden’s oldest town, and it felt like a living museum. Runestones dot the streets like public art, and the ruins of medieval churches lend a haunting beauty to the quiet lanes. We strolled along Lake Mälaren and enjoyed a slow lunch by the water.

Of course, no trip to Sweden would be complete without diving deeper into its Viking past. At the Viking Museum in Stockholm, we got a close-up look at Norse mythology, everyday life in Viking times, and even a ride through a dramatized Viking saga. It was immersive, fun, and surprisingly moving.  Sweden is both cutting-edge and timeless, vibrant yet serene.

 There was always a sense of depth—like we were walking in the footsteps of something ancient, yet still alive in the air.     

                                                      PEACE ON EARTH

All content copyright © by Sobana Iyengar.

Morocco....Casa Blanca....Marrakech......

2018, another out of the blue plan for visiting Morocco.  My little sister Nirmala jumped in joy to join me. We were visiting the cities in Spain - Madrid, Malaga, Granada, Valencia and managed to go to Gibraltar.  Gibraltar is a British territory, and the strait of Gibraltar played a major role during the World War II.  We visited the rock of Gibraltar an iconic landmark from where one could see the coastline of Morocco and the yonder Atlas Mountains.  Morocco is a land where ancient traditions intertwine with breathtaking landscapes. My journey took me through the vibrant streets of Marrakech, the serene avenues of Rabat, the coastal charm of Casablanca, the rugged Atlas Mountains, and the mesmerizing expanse of the Sahara Desert.

We arrived in Marrakesh from Malaga on a cool autumn afternoon and checked into the Renaissance Hotel. The downtown Marrakesh is famous for its spices, small rock or brick paved alleys and a reminiscent of the ancient trading hub.

The heart of the city, Jemaa el-Fnaa square, buzzes with storytellers, musicians, and food vendors. Wandering through the souks, I discovered a maze of colors and scents. The Bahia Palace and Saadian Tombs offered a glimpse into Morocco’s regal past, while the Majorelle Garden provided a tranquil escape amidst exotic plants and vibrant blue structures. 

 We started early in the morning and breezed thru the city into the northern most Sahara Desert. The winding roads in the mountains have beautiful Berber villages. 

Venturing into the High Atlas Mountains, we were greeted by the breathtaking vistas and Berber villages nestled on hillsides. Hiking near Imlil, the crisp mountain air and panoramic views were rejuvenating. Staying in a traditional riad, we experienced the warmth of Berber hospitality.  The Sahara’s vastness is humbling. Riding camels into the dunes at sunset, the golden sands stretched endlessly. 

Ouarzazate, often dubbed the “Hollywood of Africa,” is home to the famed Atlas Studios. This cinematic hub has been the backdrop for iconic films like Lawrence of Arabia and Gladiator.

Exploring the studio sets and the nearby UNESCO World Heritage site of Ait Ben Haddou, I felt transported into movie scenes, with ancient kasbahs and desert landscapes all around.

Rabat, the capital, exudes a calm elegance. The Kasbah of the Udayas, with its blue-and-white alleys, overlooks the Atlantic, offering stunning views. The Hassan Tower and Mohammed V Mausoleum stand as testaments to Morocco’s rich history and architectural prowess.

Casablanca blends tradition with modernity. No visit to Casablanca is complete without stepping into the world of classic cinema at Rick’s Café. Inspired by the iconic film Casablanca, this establishment brings the silver screen to life.

Opened in 2004 by former U.S. diplomat Kathy Kriger, Rick’s Café meticulously recreates the ambiance of the movie’s famed gin joint. Housed in a restored 1930s mansion, the café features arched doorways, a sculpted bar, and an authentic 1930s Pleyel piano. Live piano performances, including the timeless “As Time Goes By,” enhance the nostalgic atmosphere. The menu is a delightful fusion of Moroccan and international cuisines. We got a good vegetarian lunch with their famous Rick's cheesecake!

Overall, Morocco is a tapestry of experiences. From the bustling medinas to the tranquil deserts, this northernmost country of the continent of Africa remains the center of cultural diversity with different ethnic groups from the Sahara Desert to the high Atlas Mountains. 

                                                                PEACE ON EARTH

All content copyright © by Sobana Iyengar.