It's a great part of the world, and you're seeing a lot more of it than we did in a single summer across the Med and back in 2003.

Just curious, how are you dealing with Schengen? Here in the UK we don't have to worry about it, but we're considering wintering in the Netherlands next year. Allegedly they're pretty relaxed about it, and we can probably plan enough trips out of the Schengen zone to compensate. But it's an issue that we worry about a bit. If easier please email juanona40 (at) hotmail.com

Thanks, and I hope your wife's knee operation goes smoothly. We'll be back in Maine in November, but head back here right after Thanksgivng.

Max