For our anniversary this year, we stayed over at Montecasino’s Piazza Hotel. A little less elaborate than last year’s hot-air ballooning in Cappadocia. Nevertheless, a well-deserved and needed break. Also, a good time to reminisce and reflect on the past six years.




It all starts with a Mimosa breakfast at Doppio Zero after which we do an early check-in and go for a walkabout. At some point, lunch is on the cards. We find our way to PortuGalo. A wonderfully decorated authentic Portuguese restaurant on the Piazza. Live music and a carafe of Casa Portuguesa pairs perfectly with the lunch menu.





Afterwards, we go and watch the new Indiana Jones movie which has us thoroughly entertained. I recount to Amanda various scenes from the originals that I viewed as a child.
A quick freshen up and off we go in search of a fitting place for dinner. There are plenty of options, but they are all too crowded for a romantic affair. Amanda suggests going to Punchinellos which is at the Pivot Hotel. It is a short walk on this crisp evening. But well worth it. The Venice-inspired restaurant is grandiose and eloquent and the perfect place for the occasion.



From the wine list, we select the Nederburg Merlot. And for starters the cheeseboard. A platter from the local Indezi River Creamery. This is perfect, we get to relax with a glass of red and nibble on some cheese. We could sit here all night.



Our waitress comes over occasionally to ask about our mains. Eventually, we relent, and Amanda orders the Chicken Caesar salad. I select the 300g Beef sirloin, medium to rare, with the sautéed spinach.



After a splendid time, we are content and satisfied. We spent the entire day having the most fantastic food and drinks and of course in the best company.





