Day 0: AMA Waterways’ Jordan Land Trip, Cairo and Nile Cruise

Flight from Rome to Amman, Jordan

By Paul Bryers

I am thrilled to embark on this journey, as I have never flown Royal Jordanian before, nor have I visited Jordan. I thoroughly enjoy exploring new destinations, especially countries I have not previously visited.

Jordan is a low-middle income country, lacking the oil-rich resources of its Arab neighbors.

The flight was operated on an Embraer E190-E2, which seemed relatively small for a four-hour flight to the Middle East. The Business Class configuration was intriguing, featuring a 2-2 layout with each side staggered to provide additional legroom and recline.

There were numerous solo male passengers on the flight, many of whom had distinctive long eyelashes. Based on their passports, they appeared to be Jordanian. This was advantageous, as I received several compliments aniyt my eyelashes in Italy but it was getting a bit tired. I must correct a misconception – I am not a cow.

Dinner on board was exquisite, consisting of spicy fish with rice and other accompaniments.

For entertainment, there was a diverse selection of movies, and the e-Quran was also available.

As we departed Italy, I caught glimpses of familiar locations, including Terracina, the coastal town we visited during our stay at Casa Gregoria, Naples, Sorrento, and the Amalfi Coast.

Our flight path took us over Greece’s mainland and numerous unidentified islands, as well as Crete, Rhodes, and Cyprus.

Upon reaching the Israeli coast, we flew over Tel Aviv and the West Bank. The latter stood out due to its relatively limited street and house lighting.

As we began our final descent in the fading light of day, we crossed the Jordan River, which forms the border with Israel, and flew over Amman before landing.

Nice hotel and room – Signia. They take security seriously. Searched car inside and underneath before entry to hotel entrance.

As a point of note, it is not necessary to obtain an e-Visa for tourism purposes beforehand, as visitors are still required to proceed to the Visa-on-Entry line to receive a stamp.

Day 5: Roma

By Paul Bryers

Thus concludes my Italian sojourn.

What a delightful experience! But it was ery busy in Roma so if yiu go definitely avoid early April through to end September. Ive noticed this in previous years too.

Particularly with my friend Lisa Warren DeMars – we have rekindled our friendship after a separation of a few years and I foresee cooking classes on the horizon!

I highly recommend Casa Gregoria https://italyculinaryholiday.com/

If anyone is interested in joining me for Italian cooking classes in the mountains or coastal regions near Rome or Venice, please let me know.

NEXT ON MY TRAVEL BLOG:

October 8 – 24: Jordan and Egypt

Days 2-4: Roma

After 2 days laid up in bed I managed to go to Villa Borghese today to see incredible sculptures and paintings.

Villa Borghese

Mr Borghese – Politician and Religious Leader – he looked to find good reasons to display nude men and women in sculptures and paintings that would placate the more pious Christians….

The ceilings are spectacular, challenging those in the Vatican Museums and St Peter’s Basilica.

Most of the sculptures are by Gian Lorenzo Bernini …..look at the exquisite and realistic body details….anatomically perfect? Yes! Erotic? I leave that up to you….

The Rape of Persephone…

Apollo and Dafne – he is consumed by her but she can’t stand him so she turns into a tree…and begins to envelop him in the process…

David getting ready to slay Goliath…

Lad with a thorn in his foot…

Napoleon’s Sister…

Most of the paintings are by Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, that infamous gay guy who murdered at least one person.

Madonna with Child and St Anne. Madonna looks a bit in the worldly side, St Anne is well worn and as for Jesus…..very Caravaggio.

Bad boy….

David again, this time with Goliath’s severed head….

Another bad boy…

Titian…the lude girl and the good girl….which is which?

Day 1: Rome

By Paul Bryers

I have returned to Rome for a four-night stay, following my cooking classes at Casa Gregoria.

My plan is to take it easy, recharge, enjoy coffees, visit the occasional ruin, and engage with the local canine population, many of whom seem to comprehend English, while I possess a basic understanding of Italian. Ciao Cucciolo!

A large Pro-Palestine march and rally is currently underway near the Coliseum, which is conveniently located near my hotel.

Although the atmosphere appears peaceful, the noise level is notably high, even by Italian standards.

I suspect that Prime Minister Meloni may be displeased with these developments. I can see her rolling her eyes from my Palazzo.

I have enjoyed the Palazzo Manfredi’s complimentary nuts, fruit, and chamers, but I intend to venture out for dinner later. It would be a shame to be in Rome and not indulge in the local cuisine.

I’ve also just discovered that the Palazzo’s restaurant, Aroma, overlooks the Coliseum and is Michelin Star-rated; I have requested a table for one night I’m here and, although it is fully booked until November, they are going to try. We shall see if my charm is effective.

Day 9 (#3): Rome and a Week of Cooking Classes in Castro Dei Volsci, Italy, September/October 2025

Casa Gregoria – Pizza Party

By Paul Bryers

Our week at Casa Gregoria concludes with the World Famous Pizza Party, expertly hosted by Greg, Pasquale, and Chef Luca.

The entire Casa Gregoria team has demonstrated exceptional hospitality and professionalism, making this a truly unforgettable experience.

I highly recommend this culinary experience.

I look forward to visiting the soon-to-be-opened cooking experience at the group’s new venture, the Venetian Palace.

Next, I will spend four nights in Rome at Palazzo Montefredine; a brief respite before departing for ….

Day 9 (#2): Rome and a Week of Cooking Classes in Castro Dei Volsci, Italy, September/October 2025

Espressioni d’Arte – Watercolors

By Paul Bryers

Intense 1 hr 45 mins!

Quite pleased with the outcome.

My painting is reminiscent of Canaletto on a good day, Sergio Cerchi on a bad day.

In either case, my mother will undoubtedly be delighted with this original, which is what matters.

Day 9 (#1): Rome and a Week of Cooking Classes in Castro Dei Volsci, Italy, September/October 2025

Arte Orafa – Jewelry Making

By Paul Bryers

What a great experience! Making our own jewelry from scratch.

It works up a bit of sweat but very worthwhile as the metal turns from brass to a shining band of memories wrapped around my slender finger.

Day 8 (#3): Rome and a Week of Cooking Classes in Castro Dei Volsci, Italy, September/October 2025

Casa Gregoria – Full Menu

A simpler but full menu tonight after our full day at the Abbey and Wine Tasting.

Day 8 (#2): Rome and a Week of Cooking Classes in Castro Dei Volsci, Italy, September/October 2025

Nuns

By Paul Bryers

There are Nuns, and then there is the Flying Nun….Lisa la suora volante…

Day 8 (#1): Rome and a Week of Cooking Classes in Castro Dei Volsci, Italy, September/October 2025

Visit to Montecassino Abbey

By Paul Bryers

It was an arduous, winding journey up the mountain on treacherous roads to the abbey.

The drive was particularly daunting due to the narrow, serpentine roads and steep inclines, which were further complicated by the presence of occasional reckless bus drivers. The Grim Repear backoned a few times. As someone who is not fond of heights, I found the experience particularly unnerving and I may not recover.

However, the Abbey of Montecassino provided a tranquil respite for our pilgrimage. It is exceptionally beautiful, boasting a splendor that is impressive yet restrained. No

No wonder the Popes visit frequently.