Althea Halliday What a triumphant conclusion to your holiday. And yes, you have enjoyed some truly remarkable meals, and as you said, Helsinki's restaurant has come through again. We very much look forward to hearing you stories first hand.

Althea Halliday A return to Helsinki seems fitting in light of its creative edge. And as for its splendid food, it is eminently suited to epicureans such as yourselves!

Althea Halliday What a wonderful visit to this extraordinary city, including refreshments at Laduree, and artefacts that relate to Year 11 Ancient History. And now a quick visit to Helinski. Richness upon richness.

Althea Halliday Thank God you arrived safely in London! Not even a boarding pass! Deary me! It is delightful reading about your wonderful accommodation and your glorious meals. What a truly varied holiday. You will have so much to tell us when you are home.

Althea Halliday What a fascinating account of your day, including the sobering history of Latvia, hot chocolate, outstanding dinners, and further enjoyment of the facilities provided by the hotel. It makes excellent reading.

Althea Halliday What varied experiences are represented in this blog. The story of the 'Baltic Way' is particularly moving, and one can hardly imagine 600 kilometres of people holding hands. What a testament to the indomitability of the human spirit. At a more personal level, your hotel offers a range of pleasures, including shaved ice!

Althea Halliday I realise that I wrote a comment on Messenger about the breakfast in Stockholm and the cafe garden, but I am bringing my blog commentary up to date and making a belated comment on the rest of the day. It is eminently apparent that the city exudes charm, and your dinner was indeed a triumph. What a wide range of cultures and cuisine you are experiencing.

Althea Halliday What a lively beginning to the day! My word! It so good that you can visit two important Baltic cities, and while the history of Latvia is sobering, it is wonderful that you can be among those who celebrate its emancipated state. And fancy being ensconced in such luxurious accommodation. Enjoy every moment.

Althea Halliday I've taken a turn for the better, reading the blog at lunchtime instead of in the somnolent hours. In your description, I immediately sensed the charm of this city, with the cloud-coloured sky providing a striking counterpoint to the turning leaves. It is not surprising that you turned in for waffles. A bit of sugar would have done you good after such a long day!

Althea Halliday I always read your blogs at night but for some reason I missed last night. (No, I didn't fall asleep on the sofa.). Once again, the cultural and historical detail is fascinating, and it's good that occasionally you can dodge the paddle-poppers!

Althea Halliday You would have been in your element in the Archaeological Museum of Ephesus! It's wonderful how your knowledge of ancient history is being augmented so richly. The adventure continues!

Althea Halliday Fancy, all that crystal! Glorious, dazzling, extravagant! I just had to imagine an interior that can barely be imagined. I was moved utterly by the soft beauty of the Blue Mosque. What exquisite craft.

Althea.Halliday Oh my word! I am enamoured with Istanbul! The architecture epitomises sophisticated simplicity (I am drawn inexorably to the iconic 'keyhole' arch), and the mosaics are breathtaking in their colour and design. I could imagine sitting in the library in the sultan's palac, immersed in the beauty and the silence, and writing on and on. I decided tonight that Istanbul is a 'must see' on our next trip!

Althea Halliday You are off to a rich and colourful start. We look forward to your future observations.

Althea Halliday One glorious day after the other! Meandering through old-new beauty, swimming in clear blue water, and enjoying fine food. Your father read your blog aloud this morning and we could see it all. We look forward to your observations on Turkey.