Myrtiworld

Aoyama Flower Market Tea House, Tokyo, Japan. I guess I don’t need to say much about the concept of this place. The name says it all, so does their slogan ‘living with flowers every day’.  So this post is about a vibrant place in the heart of Tokyo, where you can enjoy a drink or a bite with a very ‘colourful company’ – and yes by ‘colourful company’ I mean flowers!

I always believed that flowers are captivating! And I always believed that without their patterns, their colours, their shapes or their scent, the planet would definitely be a more boring place! So being surrounded by flowers is great. What is even better than that? Being surrounded by flowers while sipping a super warm cup of tea! That’s why I loved Aoyama Flower Market Tea House.

At Aoyama Flower Market Tea House, no week is ever the same as the decoration changes on a weekly basis according to the ‘flower of the week’. So if you are lucky enough you might be surrounded by your favourite flower!

When it comes to food and drinks, there are some interesting brunch or breakfast dishes. However, I would definitely go back for another hot lemonade or hot ginger! These were truly delicious!

The main shop is located just a few steps away from Omote-Sando station so it is extremely easy to find! What is not too easy to find is a table, so be prepared to spend some time queuing. However, while waiting for your table, grab the opportunity to check out all the different flower varieties, the cute flower accessories or flower cosmetics. It is very likely that you will end up buying something as it is hard to resist to such a colourful selection.  

And remember, ‘living with flowers everyday’ is beautiful indeed!

Caldaro, South Tyrol, Italy. Another year comes to an end and this is when I look back at the most beautiful moments of the year.  So I thought to say goodbye to 2018 with a special blog post. Today’s post is about a beautiful place that I spent most of my last 365 days. Today’s post is about Caldaro.

Caldaro or Kaltern is a tiny village in the north of Italy where I moved a couple of years ago, in an attempt to discover more about my love for wines, my love for nature and about love in general!

Caldaro is a place that combines great Italian wine and risotto with tasty schnitzel and strudel. A place that combines mountain views with lake views, apple fields with vineyards. Caldaro is a place where the Italian present meets the Austrian past.

All these particular combinations make it a beautiful hidden spot throughout the year with every season adding a special touch of charm to Caldaro and its surroundings.

Every spring thousands of apple trees bloom, offering magic views. Every summer, the vineyards get a vivid green colour that you cannot stop looking at. In autumn everything becomes so colourful that only a simple walk in the woods seems like a series of vivid paintings. And in winter, Christmas time is definitely magical in Caldaro – I dare you to try to count the number of Christmas trees that decorate the entire village!

Yakumo Saryo, Tokyo, Japan. This place is one of the top things that come to my mind when I recall my days in Japan. That’s why I decided that my first post on my Japanese trip should be about Yakumo Saryo!

Yakumo Saryo is usually open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You definitely need to book in advance as there are only a few seats available. It is more like someone’s kitchen or home, rather than a restaurant, which is what makes it special. Reserving a place for dinner is a bit trickier since dinner reservations are only accepted by people that have already been there before. However it is easier to book for lunch or breakfast – you still need to book several days or weeks in advance though.

I had decided that its serene atmosphere, but also the calm residential neighbourhood that surrounds it, would make it the best breakfast place to start my first day in Tokyo. I was so right! It is a much appreciated peaceful oasis in a super busy city like Tokyo. The typical Japanese atmosphere, the beautifully designed space, the different varieties of Japanese tea and the traditional Japanese breakfast consisting of steamed rice, miso soup, grilled fish and much more make it an unforgettable breakfast experience.

A last tip from me… make sure you try ‘konbu’, an edible kelp that Japanese have been eating for many centuries now!

Florence, Tuscany, Italy. If you are not a nostalgic traveller, a romantic dreamer or a retro lover you can stop reading now. If on the other hand, you are one of the above, then Florence might be your paradise!

There is an endless list of things to do in Florence depending on who you are; an architecture and art enthusiast, a shopaholic, a street artist, a wine lover or a foodie. I simply love discovering and capturing charming corners of this world, so here it is…my Florence!

My Florence is all about beautiful facades of retro shops and old buildings that you simply can’t miss and that transform the town into a precious treasure from another era. So this post is all about this!

Of course there is the well-known Duomo and Uffizi Galleries which are definitely tourist hot spots. But, as I said, I prefer the other ‘face’ of Florence, the less crowded one which is located just south of the river! So don’t underestimate this part of the town as it could actually be the best!  

Grab a map, and I mean a timeless paper map because it fits in perfectly with Florence’s vibes, and start exploring. Walk around Via dell’Orto and Borgo S. Frediano. Enter secret courtyards, churches, parks and side streets. Look up, down, left and right because all the details that you might come across will surprise you; from unique street art or sculpture pieces, to old decorated ceilings, chandelier stores, jazz shops and super elegant ‘pasticcerie’.  

To all the nostalgic travellers, romantic dreamers or retro lovers out there, I hope you will enjoy Florence as much as I did!

Sfiorandomi, Vicenza, Italy. Flowers; they come in different shapes, colours, sizes. They mostly smell nice and usually when we are surrounded by them we feel a bit happier - or at least this is how it works with me. So can you imagine my huge smile while entering one of the most cosy flower shops that I have ever been?

I am talking about ‘Sfiorandomi’, a place that really makes Vicenza a bit more interesting. The place is tiny but is pure magic for all the big fans of flowers - including me obviously! At ‘Sfiorandomi’ you will not find the usual flowers. You will find more ‘out of the ordinary’ flowers, fresh or dried, and on top of that you will come across beautiful paper flowers or little decorative objects made mostly of natural materials such as coconuts.

The highlight is definitely the old piano standing there waiting for someone to play its keys in order to add an extra touch of magic to this ‘one of its kind’ flower shop. If you do visit ‘Sfiorandomi’ grab this chance and speak to Alessandra, the owner of this place. Apart from creating a special bouquet for you, she might also explain why she chose this special name for her flower shop and other cool stuff.

Horto Convento Hotel, Florence, Italy. Florence is a city that perfectly combines old with new, a great past with today’s modernity, so is Horto Convento Hotel.

I have to admit I was a bit surprised when I first found out that this place used to be a convent and that it has been partially transformed into a hotel. Initially I was hesitating; the idea of staying in an old convent seemed a bit bizarre. Eventually, I am glad I decided to stay there!

This hotel perfectly corresponds to Florence’s atmosphere; old mixes gracefully with new and the result is astonishing!

So if you want to experience Florence’s special vibes to the max, for me, there is no better place to stay than Horto Convento.

Omega3, Sifnos, Greece. Summer is almost over for most of us (sad face). I am not sure about yours but my summer was as Greek as it could get. Yes…I mean endless sunshine, salty moments by the Aegean sea, gorgeous sunsets, untouched beaches, a nice tan, mastiha shots, and of course delicious Greek food!

Greek food is obviously the reason behind this post! And to be more precise, the real reason is one of my favourite summer fish bars, Omega3.

I discovered this place back in 2014 when I first visited Sifnos Island. Located exactly on Platys Gialos beach, it had already drawn my attention back then. I could not stop thinking about all those creative seafood dishes that reminded me of a colourful painting and tasted amazingly well! No matter how many places I visited since then, Omega3 remained at the top of my list. So this summer I decided to go back.

Once again, Omega3 exceeded my expectations. All dishes are still as colourful and tasty as I remembered them – or even more. All the different ceviche dishes are delicious and when you pair them with some Greek wines, they become even tastier. Without doubt, one of the most interesting dishes I have ever tried was the ‘Greek island taco’ – a great way to combine local flavours with something more exotic.

As you might have already guessed…I can’t wait to go back to this place and have another barefoot lunch or dinner on the beach!

Sadly, at the moment Greece is mostly famous for the economic crisis and the well-known ‘debt’ - but better don't get me started! Luckily, Greece is also famous for the beautiful islands or the beaches. And Greece is also famous about democracy, souvlaki, philosophy and so on.

Indeed, Greece is not very famous for the wine. But if you are willing to explore a less famous side of Greek tourism why not trying wine tourism!

This is what brought me to Scallani Hills, one of the few wineries in Greece that can accommodate guests. Hidden among the green hills, this cute little winery is only a short drive away from the busy city of Heraklion, at Crete – and you can easily fly there from Athens. It is hard to spot unless you are specifically looking for it. Highly recommended for couples that are looking for a romantic escape or for individuals that just want to disconnect from reality for a few days!

The top feel-good moment during my stay at Scallani Hills, was for sure the sunny mornings.  Waking up at Scallani Hills is a real treat. All you have to do is open your front door, look at the amazing view of the vineyards, take a deep breath of proper fresh air, and start enjoying a delicious homemade breakfast already served just for you on your private terrace.

Do you want to know the real reason why I would go back to this place?

I would definitely go back for the breakfast as every little dish is locally harvested and you can definitely tell!

I would also go back for the ‘off the beaten path’ strolls at the unknown villages nearby– Archanes is one of them- and the colourful Knossos archaeological site.

And last but not least, I would go back for the loudest singing cicadas ever - a typical sound of Greek summer!

The Margi hotel, Athens, Greece.  I am from Athens. I was born there and I grew up there. So I am a bit picky when it comes to great Athenian spots. However, The Margi definitely deserves a place in my great Athenian spots list! 

The magical spa area truly won me over. It is definitely an ideal place to overcome any stressful thoughts and take a break from your exhausting daily routine. The outdoor pool is equally magical and potentially one of the most attractive swimming pools in Athens. Its location is also unique – literally a few steps from the beach which makes you forget you are in Athens. 

So who would say no to a cold glass of Greek white wine by The Margi’s pool? Definitely not me!!

Coco-mat Eco-Residences, Serifos Island. The structure used to be a residence building for the miners of the island but today it has been transformed to one of the best places to stay in Serifos – for sure my favourite place!

Although, slightly overpriced as some rooms can be considered a bit run down, there is a long list of things that pay back for this! For sure the amazing views all day and night long are on the top of that list. It is also the full of flavour fresh juices and cocktails, as well as the local dishes with a creative touch served on the beach – you can even have your own private dinner served on the beach.

Above all it is that superb feeling you have when you spend all day on the beach. Not any beach, Vagia beach; a truly picturesque beach with perfectly clean waters and potentially one of the best sunset beach views of the island!

Serifos island, Greece. A place with a sprinkle of magic. A place that makes you feel closer to mother earth; a place that makes you converse a bit better with yourself; a place that brings you closer to your other half – if you already found yours.

Why? It might be the island’s beaches that have something primitive. It might be the locals. It could be the lack of trees and skyscrapers that always allows you to have a view of the sea, the sun and the sandy hills. And while looking at the sea or the landscape, you notice the tiny streets or the tiny harbour lights.  And this is when you realise that the biggest things can look so small and the tiny things can actually be the important ones.

I think that’s the magic of this place; stuff that are usually being ignored in everyday life, acquire a deeper meaning and significance on Serifos island.

It can be any kind of stuff…The tiny rooftop terrace that during sunset transforms itself into a paradise. The fresh mint in your cold mojito glass taken from the bar owner’s garden and suddenly seems magically delicious during a hot summer night. The few colourful chairs by the neighbour’s door that break the white monotony and remind you why colours exist. Even the tiles on a random doorstep seem to be a piece of art.

Every corner and every centimetre seems to be a bit more meaningful on this island. This simply refreshes your mind!

Burano, Italy. Blue, pink, green, purple, orange, yellow, red and many more colours, shades and patterns coexist very harmoniously and create…Burano! Indeed, Burano is the land of colours. It could be something like Cuba of Europe when it comes to colours!  It could even be the definition of colourful itself.

It took a few visits to Venice to finally discover Burano. Yes, Venice is without doubt beautiful. It is also romantic, picturesque and much more. But wandering around Venice without visiting Burano is something like eating pizza without any cheese or eating pasta without any sauce (these are all the Italian metaphors I could think of to describe it!). In other words, if you go all the way to Venice, don’t forget spending at least a couple of hours in Burano.

Arriving in Burano is pretty simple; a 40 minute boat ride from central Venice with ‘vaporetto’ number 12! Upon arrival, ignoring the most popular pathway and following a less crowded route is a wise thing to do; after getting off the boat instead of following the main path straight in front of the platform, just go a bit left, pass the petrol station and start walking down the canal. Most probably you will see one of the cutest petrol stations and you will get to walk in a less touristy neighborhood to start with.

Take your time. Absorb, feel and enjoy the different colours around you. Look at the matching walls, brooms, flower pots and curtains. Look and try to capture the colourful reflections in the water. The best time to do so is just before sunset. This is when colours seem to be even more vivid and canals views become even more dramatic and intense. Look at the locals socializing outside their front doors. Smell the fresh fish that some residents have just caught and grilled. Observe the people hanging out their laundry – it is impressive to find out that the colours of the clothes will also match the walls of their house!

Above all, pay attention to the happy and extremely relaxed people! I was pleasantly surprised with the response of a local guy when I apologized for getting in the way and making him wait for some minutes in order to capture a beautiful alley with my camera; ‘Why are you apologizing? There is nothing to apologize for. I am not in a hurry. I am relaxed’. So it seems that adding colours to our life makes a difference and it feels great after all!

Rotentorhof, Caldaro, South Tyrol, Italy. You will not find this place unless you really look for it – it is hidden among fields and apple trees. But once you find it you will be rewarded with some of the best homemade brunch with a relaxing view!

Speck (a local smoked, cured ham similar to prosciutto), cheese, eggs, cakes, tea, prosecco, bread and fresh fruits will arrive at your table by the smiley owner or the rest staff.

On a sunny morning customers enjoy the sun on the little terrace. What is incredibly beautiful and unique about it? You don’t really believe that you are at a coffee shop. It feels more like drinking your coffee at someone’s garden, away from any kind of noise or disturbance. The only pleasant distraction from time to time might be the family’s hen strolling around the garden – which is kind of cute for sure!

As you might have understood by now, Rotentorhof is a family business so customers are not treated only like customers. Customers are more than customers, they are special guests; or at least that’s how everyone at Rotentorhof made me feel! Thank you for one of the best brunches I’ve had so far!

Hydra Island, Greece. There are many islands in Greece. More than 200 inhabited islands to be precise! If someone had to pick the most beautiful ones, I am sure Hydra would be one of them.

The views are spectacular. Whatever the place or corner, wherever you stand you can enjoy a beautiful view. The island is built in the shape of an amphitheatre so it is almost impossible to miss the stunning view.

The best part: no cars are allowed on Hydra Island! It is all about clear blue waters, stone houses, little alleys, tiny churches, yummy food and…donkeys!

You can go anywhere you want on foot (or on a donkey I guess). Or almost anywhere. The most beautiful beaches are accessible mainly by small boats that depart from the main port. In a few minutes you arrive at Saint Nicholas beach. An organised, yet almost untouched beach, where you will find the basic amenities; sun beds and a beach bar with great melon cocktails! But that’s all you need on Hydra Island to truly enjoy a day on the beach.

You cannot leave the island without enjoying a sunset among the fishing boats at the old port. Yes, the new port is indeed the hot spot but the old port has its beauty too. But not everyone sees it. It is undeniably a calm spot. Not much seems to be happening there. But if you take a closer look, you can see the old fishermen tiding up their fishing nets and boats after a long day. These little moments can transport you back in time. But anyway, the entire island itself seems to be a throwback to a different era.

Manincor Wine Estate. It is located just above Caldaro lake and the view from the winery is indisputably beautiful. But of course this is not the only reason why this wine estate is so special.  

Its roots go back to the early 1600s but Manincor is still a magnificent example of mixing old and new, functional and beautiful, natural and industrial. Above all, it is a great place to enjoy a bottle of wine – not just any wine, but biodynamic wine.

Sustainability is such a big topic nowadays. However, I had never really associated sustainability and biodynamics with wine making until the day I visited Manincor.  Having the chance to take a peek at the different parts of the winery including the old and new cellar or the various rooms where the grapes are being processed is at least fascinating or even educating I would say!

Every single element of the winery has been very well thought and designed in a way that respects nature and its ecosystems; from the architecture and the cooling systems -geothermal energy is used to control the temperature in the cellars- to the vineyards that often offer their shade to hens and chickens that actually live there and contribute to the biodynamic farming. Even the newest parts of the winery have been built respecting these values.  The new cellar has been solely built underground avoiding any intervention in the beautiful scenery. I was lucky enough to meet Walter Angonese, one of the two architects, as well as the owner, Count Michael Goëss-Enzenberg, and listen to some interesting insights and stories over a glass of wine!

The excellent attention to detail combined with their love and passion about what they do is evident when it comes to the wines themselves as well. Most of them have their own distinctive bouquet and aromas. My favourite is La Rose de Manincor which is perfect for summer days!

Enjoying an inviting glass of wine being fully aware of its long history, its roots and its quality is indeed great!!

Pienza, Italy. I would say Pienza is the definition of a beautiful Italian little town. Pienza offers all the beautiful things that comes to your head when thinking about an Italian town; local wine, homemade mortadella, little alleys, small courtyards and tiny squares surrounded by cute balconies - if you think of Juliet's balcony in Romeo & Juliet then yes this is exactly what I mean- and many colourful flower pots placed at any possible location; next to windows, doors, stairs, tables, chairs or even at the corner of each street.

It is one of the most beautiful towns in Tuscany and a great place to visit while on your Tuscan adventure - no wonder it represents one of the first urban planning projects! No cars allowed so it is an ideal destination for those who love wandering around and finishing their walk with a glass of wine and some local delicacies for lunch.

 Go for mortadella degustation at Piccolomini Caffe and accompany it with their own house white wine. Don't leave without trying puntarelle alla romana. It might not be a Tuscan regional dish but it is definitely one of the best I have tried. 

 What can make your Italian lunch even more Italian is the right view! Make sure you have a table at the backyard that overlooks a tiny square and offers some calmness and privacy - it will be just you and two or three tables...almost like dining at your own backyard!