Sick of tourists? Want do drink with the local Athenians? You’re in luck! Theres a whole other life to Athens once you explore a little further out from the centre of this ancient city. Don’t get my wrong, the centre is great, and you will still get to drink and dine with local greeks in Plaka and Monasteraki. But outside of these Trip Advisor hot spots there is a thriving food and bar scene in Athens neighbouring suburbs. Below is a list of a few favourite places in somewhat unknown suburbs of central Athens.

Its summer and the holidays have hit. Beach, eating and drinking for the next few weeks is all that anyone will be doing. Visit a major city in the Mediterranean and you will be disappointed with the emptiness. Do as the locals do! Head to the coast and to the islands.

For the start of summer I decided to fly over the Med and head to Sicily to get away from the stifling heat in Athens. First stop Catania.

Below is a quick guide around three great spots in Sicily.

If you don’t manage to have a good time in London, you just haven’t done it right!

On arrival, promise me you do one thing. Just let go. Let the city and its people absorb you. Throw out all the judgemental thoughts about the weather and comparisons you make with the coffee the city serves, and just let go. Once you do that, London will be a city you will not want to leave.

The post could go on forever, so I have concentrated mostly on central and northern London. Part 2 will delve further into this great cities food, pub and bar scene focusing on the south and east.

But for now, below is a guide to some of the standout eateries, around north and central London.

If you find yourself in Athens and the temperature is soaring, why not skip the cost of a sun bed at a hotel pool or at the Athenian Rivera (yes that is a thing!) and do what the locals do. Visit one of the many islands close to the Athenian coast.

Agistri is one such island. It is a tiny island that sits within the Saronic Islands. Its a 55 minute hydrofoil from Piraeus and its a great little getaway for a day trip or even a short stay for a night or two.

Melitzanosalata dip has been a staple dish for centuries around the South Mediterranean and the Middle East (known as baba ganoush). From the Greeks to the Turks this easy to prepare dish is not only a tasty dip, but also a healthy. Its a versatile dip that goes well with bread, meat or fish.

See this simple recipe below.