Emperors in the Aegean

[Leaving the shelter of Skopelos Town]

[Hilltop towns on Alonnisos]

Much like a Roman Emperor of old, this ruler has spent some enchanting time floating about the Aegean on a imperial pleasure cruise.

The opportunity to sail around the Sporades islands, off the coasts of Skopelos and Alonnisos has revealed to the Emperor this amazing region of the Western Aegean.

Its a stunning place, where richly shaded pine-tree islands float upon a blue and shimmering sea. The trees come right down to caress the waters edge and it presents a timeless land and sea-scape of elemental simplicity and great natural beauty.

Its more than a tonic and a true antidote to the inevitable stresses that accumulate from running an empire - albeit a modest one.

[Tracing the coast of Alonnisos]

One is reminded that I am not the first of the imperial progeny to have enjoyed the charms of Greece and her islands. Even a casual view of Imperial Trip Advisor yields some impressive 5* reviews.

[Up at the prow]

The surly Tiberius - before he adorned the purple - was no stranger to Hellas and chose to spend much of his time as a retired-citizen on the isle of Rhodes.

While, great, great ...[+] uncle Nero, was positively smitten by Greece and its ancient culture.

Nero also spent a major holiday in the region back in 66/67AD.  By all accounts it was one hell of a tour, taking in city visits, building works, sporting games and even musical and theatrical recitals.  Of course, Nero was the star performer at such recitals and you can guarantee that the audience loved it. "It would be dangerous not to, darling!"

I digress ... but it remains the truth that my tour of these ancient lands has been a revelation and greatly enjoyed by this Emperor.

"Oh Italia, you never mentioned you had such a beautiful sister, Hellas! You kept that quiet"

[Dreamy views from below deck: "Row you dogs!'