Without much planning I decided to explore the neighbourhood and perhaps I’d find a few gems among the ordinary everyday Athens.

The station at St Ives overlooks Portminster Beach. It’s the perfect backdrop for your arrival although can induce melancholy for your departure.

MSC Virtuosa is one of the most environmentally friendly cruise ships sailing today. It uses advanced technology to reduce emissions and save energy. Southampton’s Horizon cruise terminal is also exceptionally green. The roof is covered with 2000 solar panels, enabling all docked ships to plug into their clean power while in port.

I have an affinity with the Canary Islands, so it seems appropriate that my first ever cruise back in 2012 was TUI’s Canarian Flavours itinerary. Also encompassing Madeira and Morocco, this packed schedule was definitely value for money.

What got me hooked was the journey. Discovering so many new places in just one week. Little tasters of places enabling me to plan future trips. Famous cities and landmarks I can check off my list. All done so easily.

I had a go at dowsing for Earth energy, the dowsing rods did move and I promise their movement was totally independent from my control. Who knows?