Tasmania...Australia...Mt. Wellington...

A Royal Welcome in Hobart

In 2004, while living in Melbourne on a business assignment, I used every opportunity to explore the vast and beautiful Australian landscape. One of the most unforgettable getaways during that time was my trip to Tasmania—a small island state to the south, rich in wilderness, history, and rugged beauty.

I took a short flight to Hobart, the capital city, and landed right into a celebration. The entire city was festive, buzzing with excitement as Queen Mary of Denmark (then Mary Donaldson, a Tasmanian native) was about to marry the Crown Prince Frederik. The local pride and royal fanfare made the visit feel even more special.

Driving the Great Eastern Drive

Tasmania may be small, but it offers an incredible variety of scenery. We embarked on the Great Eastern Drive, one of the most spectacular coastal journeys in the world. The winding road hugged the shoreline, with endless views of turquoise waters, jagged rocks, and long, empty beaches.

Charming Coastal Stops: Coles Bay, Bicheno, and Swansea

Our first major stop was Coles Bay, a peaceful coastal town at the edge of Freycinet National Park. The bay’s calm waters mirrored the sky, and the view of the Hazards Mountain range in the distance was simply stunning. Further up the road, we visited Bicheno, a charming seaside village known for its blowholes and colony of little penguins. We timed it just right to see a few waddling back to their burrows at dusk.

We continued on to Swansea, a town that took us by surprise with its graceful vineyards, sweeping beaches, and a laid-back vibe. The cool coastal air mixed with the scent of ripening grapes—perfect for a relaxing afternoon. We made a brief but memorable stop at Maria Island National Park, accessible by ferry. The island, free of cars and bustling with wildlife, felt like a sanctuary.

Farm Life and Local Warmth

Throughout the drive, we passed charming farmhouses nestled among rolling hills and green pastures. Each had its own personality—some with weathered fences and fields dotted with sheep, others with roadside stalls selling fresh berries, cheese, and homemade jam. The simplicity of rural life here was refreshing and grounding. Tasmania also delighted my taste buds. As a vegetarian, I was pleasantly surprised by the availability of wholesome, flavorful options. Hearty lentil stews, wood-fired breads, artisan cheeses, and locally grown vegetables filled my plate. The cafés in Hobart were cozy and welcoming, often serving dishes inspired by both European and local traditions. 

Mount Wellington: On Top of the World

Back in Hobart, we visited a local zoo where I saw the famous Tasmanian devils and other uniquely Australian animals. But the highlight of my time in the city was the drive to Mount Wellington, the tallest mountain in the region. Though we didn’t hike the entire way, the winding road led us close to the summit. A short scramble over rocky terrain brought us to the top, where fierce winds and panoramic views made me feel like I was standing at the edge of the world.

Echoes of Ancient Music and Culture

One of the most memorable aspects of the trip was Tasmania’s deep cultural heritage, especially its connection to the island’s Aboriginal roots. I had the chance to witness traditional ceremonial music, where the haunting tones of the didgeridoo, bullroarer, and even the simple gum leaf created an atmosphere that felt timeless and sacred.

The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery

To delve deeper, I visited the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery in Hobart. Its thoughtfully curated exhibits told the story of the island—from its ancient Indigenous cultures to its colonial past and modern-day arts scene. The aboriginals have taken efforts to bring their language back and the constructed language is called Palawa Kani. The museum displays on the colonization of British and original Dutch explorer Abel Tasman who found this island off the coast of Australia. 

The experience left me with a deeper appreciation for Tasmania’s unique identity. 

Final Thoughts

It was a journey through raw natural beauty, warm community, rich history, and soulful culture. Like every colonized country or region, Tasmania also has a poignant past but the aboriginal people with their determination have moved on with the modern trends and make efforts to bring their language, culture and identity to the World. 

To me, even after all these years, the memories remain vivid, etched by the serenity of vineyard-covered hills, the call of wild ocean winds, and the quiet wisdom of an island that feels both untamed and deeply welcoming.

PEACE ON EARTH

All content copyright © by Sobana Iyengar.

Australia....Great Ocean Road....Port Campbell....

During the early 2000s, I had the incredible opportunity to live in Melbourne – Australia on a business assignment. Amid the fast-paced work life, one majestic escape kept calling me back—the Great Ocean Road. Whether it was with visiting family, friends, or simply a solo adventure, this iconic coastal highway always offered something special.

 We would set out from Melbourne early in the morning, heading southwest toward Torquay, the official gateway to the Great Ocean Road. With coffee in hand and the radio playing soft Aussie tunes, the drive itself felt like a ‘yellow brick road” journey full of excitement. The Southern Ocean shimmered alongside us, cliffs plunging dramatically into blue waters, with each curve in the road opening up to new vistas more breathtaking than the last.

 

One of the highlights of the trip was, of course, the famous Twelve Apostles—a group of towering limestone stacks rising out of the ocean like ancient sentinels. Though only eight of them remain standing, they are a surreal sight. I remember taking a helicopter ride over the coast, the wind rustling in my headphones and the pilot pointing out the majestic formations below. From the sky, the rugged coastline seemed like a painting—wild, untamed, and impossibly beautiful. 

Just beyond the Apostles lies a lesser-known but powerful site steeped in Aboriginal legend—the story of the two lovers. According to a local Gunditjmara tale, two star-crossed lovers from rival tribes fled to be together. When their families gave chase, the sea spirits took pity on the lovers and transformed them into stone, so they could remain side by side forever. It’s said that the two rock formations off the coast represent the couple—eternal, unmoving, and embraced by the
ocean’s song. Standing there, with the sea wind whispering past, the legend adds a spiritual depth to the already awe-inspiring landscape.

 Not far from the Twelve Apostles is another dramatic and moving stop: Loch Ard Gorge. This striking inlet is named after the clipper ship Loch Ard, which tragically wrecked here in 1878. Of the 54 passengers and crew, only two teenagers survived—Tom and Eva—who washed ashore and took refuge in the gorge. Their story of survival and loss is etched into the cliffs, adding a human dimension to the grandeur of the setting. Walking along the sand at Loch Ard Gorge, the waves echo the past, and the towering rock walls seem to hold onto the memory.

 

To balance the coastal drama with lush greenery, a detour inland took us into the Great Otway National Park, home to one of the most enchanting rainforests in Australia. The Otway Rainforest is a world of towering tree ferns, ancient myrtle beeches, and waterfalls cascading over mossy boulders. The walk through Maits Rest was magical sunlight filtered through dense canopy, birds called out in the stillness, and every breath felt purer. The contrast between the roaring ocean and this quiet green sanctuary was breathtaking.

We continued our journey toward Port Campbell, a charming town almost nudging the border of South Australia. There, we had the surreal experience of watching whales glide through the waves—gentle giants breaching the surface in slow, elegant arcs. It was humbling, almost spiritual.

No road trip is complete without indulgences, and Timboon’s ice cream was one I still dream about. Creamy, rich, and locally crafted, it was the perfect mid-day treat. And of course, I couldn’t leave without having a generous slice of Pavlova, the iconic Australian dessert crowned with fresh fruits and a crisp meringue shell.

The Great Ocean Road wasn’t just a drive; it was an experience layered with memories—ocean mist in the air, kangaroos hopping across meadows, tiny cafés with the friendliest hosts, and photo stops that turned into quiet meditations. Each visit brought something different, and yet the feeling remained the same—freedom, wonder, and a deep appreciation for nature’s grandeur.

To this day, that stretch of winding road remains one of my favorite places in the world. A road that never gets old, no matter how many times you drive it.

                                                         PEACE ON EARTH

All content copyright © by Sobana Iyengar.

Italy....Naples.... Pompei....

Exploring Ancient Wonders and Coastal Charm: A Journey to Pompeii, Naples, Capri, and Sorrento

 

I have written a blog in 2016 about our trip to Rome, Naples and Pompei.  Here is the blog that was originally written. Sky Warrior's Travels...Thoughts...: Roma....Napoli....Pompei.....  I have decided to elaborate on it with more facts and pictures!

After spending a few unforgettable days in the Eternal City of Rome, we set off on a road trip to Naples. The drive south was scenic and relaxing, taking us through the picturesque countryside of Lazio and Campania. As we neared Naples, the landscape began to transform—rolling hills gave way to glimpses of the glimmering Bay of Naples, with Mount Vesuvius rising in the distance like a silent guardian.

 

Naples: Gritty, Grand, and Full of Flavor

 Naples welcomed us with its unique character—vibrant, loud, and alive with history. We explored the historic center, where every corner seemed to tell a story, from the baroque churches and ancient ruins to the bustling local markets. The seaside promenade Lungomare was a perfect spot for a leisurely walk, offering panoramic views of the sea and Vesuvius in the background.

 And of course, we had to try Naples’ most famous contribution to the culinary world: pizza. The original Margherita, with its thin, wood-fired crust and fresh mozzarella, was divine. The pizza was originally created to honor the queen Margharita in 1889 as a special Napoli Pizza.   The city also surprised us with its array of vegetarian options, many rooted in simple Mediterranean ingredients—zucchini, artichokes, fresh tomatoes, and plenty of olive oil.

 

Pompeii: A City Suspended in Time

Mt. Vesuvius

 From Naples, we took a short drive to Pompeii, the ancient Roman city famously frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Walking through its cobbled streets, we could almost hear the echoes of life from two millennia ago. We marveled at the grand Forum, the intricate mosaics of the House of the Faun, and the haunting casts of victims preserved in volcanic ash.

 Pompeii is not just a set of ruins—it’s a deeply moving experience that invites reflection on the fragility of life and the endurance of history.

 Capri: Glamour and Natural Beauty

 We then took a ferry from Naples to the island of Capri, a journey that offered spectacular views of the coastline and sea. Capri is every bit as enchanting as its reputation suggests—lush gardens, whitewashed buildings, and dramatic cliffs plunging into sapphire waters.

 We visited the famous Blue Grotto, where sunlight creates magical blue hues inside the sea cave. Capri’s charming streets were lined with boutique shops and cafés, and we enjoyed a leisurely walk through the Gardens of Augustus, with their sweeping views over the Faraglioni rocks.

 Sorrento: Cliffs, Citrus, and Coastal Calm

 From Capri, we continued our journey by ferry to Sorrento, a picturesque coastal town perched atop cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples. Sorrento felt like a perfect blend of relaxed elegance and local warmth. The narrow streets were filled with shops selling handmade ceramics and limoncello, and the scent of citrus blossoms lingered in the air.

We enjoyed a delicious vegetarian lunch at a local trattoria, featuring dishes made from fresh local produce. The views from Sorrento’s Marina Grande were unforgettable—colorful fishing boats bobbing in the water and the distant outline of Capri across the sea.

 A Coastal Journey to Remember

 This journey—from the ruins of Pompeii to the glamour of Capri and the charm of Sorrento—offered a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Driving from Rome to Naples, standing in the shadows of ancient volcanoes, sailing across turquoise waters, and tasting the sun-drenched flavors of southern Italy—it was an adventure that touched all the senses.

 Whether you’re drawn by archaeology, coastline views, or simply great food and hospitality, this corner of Italy has a little magic for everyone.

                                             PEACE ON EARTH

All content copyright © by Sobana Iyengar.

Spain....Barcelona.... Gaudi......

I went to Barcelona in the autumn of 1998. Since then, there was a wish that I should go again with my family. Barcelona has long sat near the top of our siblings travel wish list, and after visiting, we can say without hesitation—it exceeded every expectation. The city’s unique mix of architectural wonders, spiritual history, coastal beauty, and warm-hearted locals made our time here unforgettable. It has some of the most ancient, modern, and postmodern buildings. Spain has this Quixotic tempered artists and architects like Picasso and Gaudi! The famous footpath Love lock bridge Pont de Mühlberg is a great tourist attraction.  The breathtaking of the Barcelona City can be viewed from the Bunkers del Carmel.  

Gaudí’s Whimsical World

Back in the heart of Barcelona, we dived deeper into Gaudí’s world with a visit to the Gaudí Museum and a guided tour through his most famous works. From the flowing stonework of Casa Batlló to the mosaic-covered dreamscape of Park Güell, every detail echoed Gaudí’s devotion to nature, color, and creativity. His work doesn’t just decorate Barcelona—it is Barcelona.

Sagrada Família

Our first stop was the iconic Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí’s masterpiece that dominates the skyline. Photos truly don’t do it justice. Stepping inside, we were enveloped in a kaleidoscope of light filtering through stained-glass windows, casting vivid colors onto the intricately carved stone interior. Despite the bustling crowds, the atmosphere felt sacred and peaceful. Watching the interplay of nature-inspired design and spiritual symbolism was one of the highlights of the entire trip.

Serenity at Montserrat Monastery

A short ride outside the city took us to the Montserrat Monastery, nestled among dramatic rock formations high above the Catalonian plains. We came specifically to see the Black Madonna statue, a revered icon believed by many to have miraculous powers. The quiet reverence in the chapel, paired with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, created a sense of awe that lingered with us long after we left. Whether or not you’re religious, the energy of the place is undeniably moving.

Fireworks and the Magic of Downtown Nights

One evening, we wandered downtown to find ourselves in the middle of a local celebration—complete with fireworks lighting up the evening sky. The streets buzzed with energy as music, dancing, and laughter filled the air. It was a beautiful reminder that while Barcelona is steeped in history and art, it’s also a city that knows how to celebrate life.

The best walking area with restaurants are located in the downtown and in El Parc del Guinard'o. Being vegetarians, we were curious (and a bit cautious) about our food options. To our delight, Barcelona’s vegetarian cuisine was both delicious and diverse. From traditional Catalan dishes with a plant-based twist to trendy tapas bars offering everything from grilled artichokes to rich tomato-rubbed bread, every meal was a joy. 

The Mediterranean Coast

Of course, no visit to Barcelona would be complete without time on the Mediterranean coast. We strolled along sun-drenched beaches, watching waves roll in as locals jogged, biked, and played volleyball. The sea breeze carried the scent of salt and paella, and time seemed to slow down. It was the perfect way to reflect on everything we’d experienced.

Barcelona is more than just a destination—it’s an experience that touches all the senses. The blend of old-world charm, artistic genius, natural beauty, and the kindness of its people made our trip truly special. We left with full hearts, inspired minds, and a deep appreciation for the vibrant spirit of this remarkable city.

                        PEACE ON EARTH

All content copyright © by Sobana Iyengar.