It is a tranquil, cloudless bright blue sky day and we are on the way to the Balearic Islands, an archipelago (an extensive group of islands) off Spain. Our trip will be roughly 32 hours long, traveling 160 nautical miles with, unfortunately, light winds. Nonetheless, both Rich and I are excited to explore a new area of Spain.

As we leave Italy, I thought it would be interesting to give a recap of what we have experienced thus far.

For example, in France the fashionable people are on the thinner side, everyone smokes, and they favor dogs over cats. Fresh morning baguettes with a cappuccino is a must, lunch time calls for a sparkling rose wine, and the favored dessert is creme brulee. Another favored and “staple” dish are mussels served with french fries.

In Greece, cats have the run of the land. Outdoor cafes serve souvlaki, saganaki, and tzatziki all day accompanied with a beer or a regional wine. (We really didn’t care for Greek wines, learning the house wines were usually the better choice.) Baklava and grappa are the favorite desserts. Traditional Greek music was played instead of American music which was heard all through France. Greeks like to sing. Finally, they are proud of their country; Greek flags are seen everywhere.

The Italians are the loudest, they talk constantly using their hands, and will even stop traffic to have a conversation or an argument. And they sing loudly, too. Espresso, cannolis, gelato, and cheesecake are the loved desserts, of course after a pasta dinner accompanied by a delicious, savory red wine. Like in the rest of Europe, everyone walks and like in France, everyone has a dog. The Italian Roman Catholic churches are breathtaking, their bells ringing every hour.

When dining in France and Greece, the waiter will ask “are you ready” in which you place your entire dinner order. In Italy, they say “prego” or please, again prompting you to order everything at once. Throughout Europe, the restaurants all use tablecloths and the waiters change from tee shirts to collared shirts for the dinner hour. Waiters are often offended if they see you pouring your own wine.

It is common for shops and cafes to close daily for several hours after lunch until dinner time. Cobblestone or rock streets are everywhere and marble is used in stairwells or on porches. Popular sports throughout the Med include wind and kite surfing, swimming, rowing, biking, kayaking, and sailing. We have yet to see anyone water ski and jet skis are limited.

As we get later into the season, our days are shorter and the air a bit cooler. The crowds have thinned enabling us to spend more time admiring at the amazing sights as well as visit with the locals.

Did I tell you this is my last overnight passage!?