A day if rest, relaxation and naps. Lunch inside. Lovely, music, ABC radio and coffee. So needed. No racing, no transport, no tickets and no pronto pronto!!
Now we are off for an afternoon walk, cat pat, then dinner out somewhere nice.
Ahhhhh, relaxation.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Wednesday 28 September
Wednesday 28th September
The amazing race continues, with just as much drama. We wake around 730am, and visit one island we believe is not Lipari. At 8am jen asks a man about Lipari and he replied 'proxima'. So next stop we see many people preparing to get off. We pack and also prepare. The ferry docks, we get off and make out way down the dock. At the end Jen says 'this kinda looks like Lipari'. Now Jen has been here before, so for me, kinda wasn't good enough and rang alarm bells. I went to a tour guide and asked "Lipari?", he replied "no Lipari" and pointed to the next island. Heart racing as I saw the last cars coming off the ferry, I told Jen, carried her back pack and we both ran for the soon departing ferry we had just disembarked. Sweat looting down my face we made it with 20-30 seconds to spare ... once again. The English speakers onboard on the deck thought it was a great spectacle. Back onboard and 45 mins later we were in Lipari for real (10.30am).
We checked into Diana Brown hotel and advised we were here to climb Stromboli tomorrow or the day after. Diana told us it's either today o Saturday, as that's when the tours go. Since we weren't here Saturday, today was the day. Why not? It's no as though we are tired or anything. Pfft. So more rushing and we had booked and made our way, lunch, dinner, hiking supplies and clothes in hand to the Marina by 11.45 for the trip to climb the active Volcano Stromboli. This might be hard. (http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stromboli).
The trip was to be a 2.5 hour boat trip, with a stop for a swim and snorkel at a remote island with crystal clear water. Awesome. Arriving Stromboli we geared up for the 2.5 hour climb, 20 minute viewing which was incredible, and 1.5 hour decent down sand like steep mountain.
The eruptions were amazing. The only mountain you can view from above the eruptions. Six or so while we were there. Lava and rocks flying around. A new life experience.
The decent was tough, in the dark down what were essentially sand dunes of ash. Jen's knee gave her trouble in the last half hour or so but she toughed it out. Tough woman. A quicker 2 hour boat ride back, with one couple making out on the boat almost the whole way home, ewww, and three Swiss codgers getting liquored. Funny ya. Home, totally spent, but a fantastic and memorable day.
The amazing race continues, with just as much drama. We wake around 730am, and visit one island we believe is not Lipari. At 8am jen asks a man about Lipari and he replied 'proxima'. So next stop we see many people preparing to get off. We pack and also prepare. The ferry docks, we get off and make out way down the dock. At the end Jen says 'this kinda looks like Lipari'. Now Jen has been here before, so for me, kinda wasn't good enough and rang alarm bells. I went to a tour guide and asked "Lipari?", he replied "no Lipari" and pointed to the next island. Heart racing as I saw the last cars coming off the ferry, I told Jen, carried her back pack and we both ran for the soon departing ferry we had just disembarked. Sweat looting down my face we made it with 20-30 seconds to spare ... once again. The English speakers onboard on the deck thought it was a great spectacle. Back onboard and 45 mins later we were in Lipari for real (10.30am).
We checked into Diana Brown hotel and advised we were here to climb Stromboli tomorrow or the day after. Diana told us it's either today o Saturday, as that's when the tours go. Since we weren't here Saturday, today was the day. Why not? It's no as though we are tired or anything. Pfft. So more rushing and we had booked and made our way, lunch, dinner, hiking supplies and clothes in hand to the Marina by 11.45 for the trip to climb the active Volcano Stromboli. This might be hard. (http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stromboli).
The trip was to be a 2.5 hour boat trip, with a stop for a swim and snorkel at a remote island with crystal clear water. Awesome. Arriving Stromboli we geared up for the 2.5 hour climb, 20 minute viewing which was incredible, and 1.5 hour decent down sand like steep mountain.
The eruptions were amazing. The only mountain you can view from above the eruptions. Six or so while we were there. Lava and rocks flying around. A new life experience.
The decent was tough, in the dark down what were essentially sand dunes of ash. Jen's knee gave her trouble in the last half hour or so but she toughed it out. Tough woman. A quicker 2 hour boat ride back, with one couple making out on the boat almost the whole way home, ewww, and three Swiss codgers getting liquored. Funny ya. Home, totally spent, but a fantastic and memorable day.
Tuesday 27 September
Tuesday 27 September
Another bus disaster as it just didn't arrive. We had to go ack to the hotel and wait for Stephania to take us to town. Into town for the magnificent views if the coast (http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sorrento) then a boat trip to Capri (http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capri).
A look around Capri, the lovely coastal views, and a funicula ride to the town and a bus ride to Ana Capri. Time was tight and I wa nervous a it was 3.30 and the boat was leaving at 4.20pm with connectors required for train to Sorrento then another train to Naples, then a taxi to the Port Maritima in Naples for a ferry to Lipari. Easy peesy. Oh my lord. Jen loves to live on the edge sometimes. But she calls it 'holiday efficiency'.
So up to Ana Capri we went. Had time for one gelato then waiting for a bus with unknown timetable to Artie to take us back, and a huge line if people. A bus arrived in seconds and we realised people were all in the wrong line (sheep). So we went to the front if the correct line and boarded. Phew. Then the funicula arrived early to get us to he start of the boat ramp at 4.18pm. Legging it as fast as we could we made it with second to spare. Arriving Naples 7.00pm we had no idea how to get to the Port for an 8pm ferry. No phone battery, so no GPS, and no helpful people anywhere, wig the clock ticking. A taxi was the decision, an €15 was negotiated with a little anxiety about whether he would keep his word. Arriving 730pm at the docks we found the boat, to did we had to go back about 700 meters to buy tickets. Doh! Tickets and the quickest trip to a cafe to buy paninis, water and awesome pastries for desert and we were onboard. They tried to give us a cheaper than we paid for cabin, but Jen was in to them and we got a cabin with nice beds, shower and a view. Placing a chair by the door to make midnight robberies difficult we called it a night.
Another bus disaster as it just didn't arrive. We had to go ack to the hotel and wait for Stephania to take us to town. Into town for the magnificent views if the coast (http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sorrento) then a boat trip to Capri (http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capri).
A look around Capri, the lovely coastal views, and a funicula ride to the town and a bus ride to Ana Capri. Time was tight and I wa nervous a it was 3.30 and the boat was leaving at 4.20pm with connectors required for train to Sorrento then another train to Naples, then a taxi to the Port Maritima in Naples for a ferry to Lipari. Easy peesy. Oh my lord. Jen loves to live on the edge sometimes. But she calls it 'holiday efficiency'.
So up to Ana Capri we went. Had time for one gelato then waiting for a bus with unknown timetable to Artie to take us back, and a huge line if people. A bus arrived in seconds and we realised people were all in the wrong line (sheep). So we went to the front if the correct line and boarded. Phew. Then the funicula arrived early to get us to he start of the boat ramp at 4.18pm. Legging it as fast as we could we made it with second to spare. Arriving Naples 7.00pm we had no idea how to get to the Port for an 8pm ferry. No phone battery, so no GPS, and no helpful people anywhere, wig the clock ticking. A taxi was the decision, an €15 was negotiated with a little anxiety about whether he would keep his word. Arriving 730pm at the docks we found the boat, to did we had to go back about 700 meters to buy tickets. Doh! Tickets and the quickest trip to a cafe to buy paninis, water and awesome pastries for desert and we were onboard. They tried to give us a cheaper than we paid for cabin, but Jen was in to them and we got a cabin with nice beds, shower and a view. Placing a chair by the door to make midnight robberies difficult we called it a night.
Monday 26 September
Monday 26 September
So we were to catch a bus from the hotel to the bus station, a 20 min walk away. The bus arrived soon enough and then took the longest route ever invented such that we arrived 15 minutes after Our connecting bus to get us to Orvietto. We WERE to meet a friend from Japan who was catching the train from Rome, two hours away. Luckily we caught her before she left and she stayed in Rome. We eventually caught a train to Rome, had a late 3pm lunch with Mikako and then boarded another train for Sortento. A long day arriving Sorrento 9.30pm. Stefania out host picked us at the train station and took the weary travelers on a hell ride up the mountain to the hotel. My Lord. I never thought I could nearly die so many times in such little time with a driver that looked as calm as a cucumber. It may have just cured my passenger fear forever. A nice room, but smelt of historical smokers. A fan made it better. Some QI on the tablet then bed.
So we were to catch a bus from the hotel to the bus station, a 20 min walk away. The bus arrived soon enough and then took the longest route ever invented such that we arrived 15 minutes after Our connecting bus to get us to Orvietto. We WERE to meet a friend from Japan who was catching the train from Rome, two hours away. Luckily we caught her before she left and she stayed in Rome. We eventually caught a train to Rome, had a late 3pm lunch with Mikako and then boarded another train for Sortento. A long day arriving Sorrento 9.30pm. Stefania out host picked us at the train station and took the weary travelers on a hell ride up the mountain to the hotel. My Lord. I never thought I could nearly die so many times in such little time with a driver that looked as calm as a cucumber. It may have just cured my passenger fear forever. A nice room, but smelt of historical smokers. A fan made it better. Some QI on the tablet then bed.
Sunday 25 September
Sunday 25 September
Wr arrived in Siena and made a quite long walk along the picturesque cobbled streets of Siena. He hotel was closed so we made our way to a restaurant and had the first meat meal in ages and some Chianti. Nice.
Once checked in we undertook a five venue tour of Sienna including the Cathedral, Baptistry, Crypt (dodgy). The Cathedral was amazing. http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siena_Cathedral.
The huge square in Siena also has horse races once year, that would be a site. Gelato, coffee and a withdraw from the oldest bank in the world, probably with the highest fees. :)
Wr arrived in Siena and made a quite long walk along the picturesque cobbled streets of Siena. He hotel was closed so we made our way to a restaurant and had the first meat meal in ages and some Chianti. Nice.
Once checked in we undertook a five venue tour of Sienna including the Cathedral, Baptistry, Crypt (dodgy). The Cathedral was amazing. http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siena_Cathedral.
The huge square in Siena also has horse races once year, that would be a site. Gelato, coffee and a withdraw from the oldest bank in the world, probably with the highest fees. :)
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Saturday 24 September
Went to Ravenna and saw five different sites in the one smallish city. Each had amazing mosaics from around 400AD. Incredible detail. We had lunch at a wine bar restaurant. I had a mystery dish with the only thing I could understand in the dish was porcini mushrooms. It came out and was a thinly sliced almost rare beef forming a three layer sandwich of mushrooms, topped with shavings of black truffles, excellent olive oil and lettuce leaves. It was amazing and the meal of the trip so far. Found out later it was a carpaccio. Oh, for entree we had mixed cheeses that were a selection of about 7 with warmed bread. Worth the hour and a half train trip just for lunch.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Friday 23 September
Friday 23 September
We packed up and said googbye to Venice, catching a train to Bologna. Jen has booked the accommodation, finding a good website that actually had some vacancies (booking.com for future reference). I would hate to travel without pre-aranged accommodation in the high season. I am looking forward to stopping in Sicily for a while, and not travelling every second day. I was exhausted last night, as was Jen and I'm sure Pam and Dad.
Arrived Bologna. Excellent place, great relaxed vibe and lots of mod cons, unlike Venice, which although is lovely, is trapped a bit in the 1800's.
An afternoon of relaxing, sleeping, walking through the University areas, with lots of students and a nice atmosphere. We had dinner, two pasta dishes and made our way through the uncrowded lovely streets of Bologna back to the 'Paradise Hotel, which is no paradise, but nice anyway. The manager wouldn't match the internet price for the second night for some unknown reason, then promptly raised the internet price by 10 euro, oh well, we booked in another up the road for cheaper. Ha ha!
We packed up and said googbye to Venice, catching a train to Bologna. Jen has booked the accommodation, finding a good website that actually had some vacancies (booking.com for future reference). I would hate to travel without pre-aranged accommodation in the high season. I am looking forward to stopping in Sicily for a while, and not travelling every second day. I was exhausted last night, as was Jen and I'm sure Pam and Dad.
Arrived Bologna. Excellent place, great relaxed vibe and lots of mod cons, unlike Venice, which although is lovely, is trapped a bit in the 1800's.
An afternoon of relaxing, sleeping, walking through the University areas, with lots of students and a nice atmosphere. We had dinner, two pasta dishes and made our way through the uncrowded lovely streets of Bologna back to the 'Paradise Hotel, which is no paradise, but nice anyway. The manager wouldn't match the internet price for the second night for some unknown reason, then promptly raised the internet price by 10 euro, oh well, we booked in another up the road for cheaper. Ha ha!
Thursday 22 September
Thursday 22 September
We woke at 7.00am and headed out early to see Venice without all the crowds of people. An excellent idea as it was so easy to get around and just about the only people out were the locals on their way to work or opening up their shops. So we walked the canals to St Mark's square, which was just about empty. Such a contrast from the MCG size crowd of yesterday. We visited St Mark's Basilica, the Academia Museum (Jen was foaming at the mouth with excitement in here) and a couple of other churches. We saw some lovely jewelry shops around St Mark's square, Jen particularly liked a €7,700 tanzanite ring, but she did not say please so I left it in the store for another day. The weather was perfect, much warmer than Wales and Amsterdam.
A visit to the supermarket for dinner, which consisted of prosciutto, ham, cheese, tomato, and peach juice. We are heading off to Bologna tomorrow. Accommodation unknown at this stage.
We woke at 7.00am and headed out early to see Venice without all the crowds of people. An excellent idea as it was so easy to get around and just about the only people out were the locals on their way to work or opening up their shops. So we walked the canals to St Mark's square, which was just about empty. Such a contrast from the MCG size crowd of yesterday. We visited St Mark's Basilica, the Academia Museum (Jen was foaming at the mouth with excitement in here) and a couple of other churches. We saw some lovely jewelry shops around St Mark's square, Jen particularly liked a €7,700 tanzanite ring, but she did not say please so I left it in the store for another day. The weather was perfect, much warmer than Wales and Amsterdam.
A visit to the supermarket for dinner, which consisted of prosciutto, ham, cheese, tomato, and peach juice. We are heading off to Bologna tomorrow. Accommodation unknown at this stage.
Wednesday 21 September
Wednesday 21 September
Waking at 8am or so to a knock on the door, Dad advised that he could not find his bum bag with his wallet in it. He was sure he took it off in the middle of the night and put it on the night stand in the middle of the sleeper. Wee looked high and low to no avail, and came to the conclusion he was robbed in the middle of the night. I am so angry and frustrated, playing the what if game. They can't remember if they locked the door. I know we locked ours, but the doors could be opened from the outside with a tool of some sort. The conductor opened Dad's door at some stage last night and told them to lock it, but they couldn't be sure if they did. Dad had a little too much money on him than I would have suggested, so it was a bit of a blow for him. He had also just withdrawn money to pay for accommodation as well. It was quite uopsetting for Pam and Dad, but we were doing our best to focus on the positives.
No one was hurt, they didn't get Pam's money or credit cards, we can cancel Dad's cards, their insurance will cover a little of it, and most importantly, they didn't steal any passports or tickets. Which means they can still travel and board their 12 night cruise of the Mediterranean. We gave Dad 200 euro so that he didn't feel so empty and powerless and assured him everything will be alright, they have access to money with Pam's cards (which are linked to the same accounts), Passports, cruise and plane tickets and soon will be onboard the ship having a wonderful time.
It could have been us robbed as well, as I put my wallet in exactly the same spot in our cabin. You just assume a locked room where people are sleeping is safe, but obviously not. This was a wake up call for the rest of our trip. Nothing of value in the open, not even if you are in a locked room and it is next to you.
So we arrived in Venice (still quite grumpy), and Dad was visibly down which was upsetting. We caught the Venice ferry boat to the Rialto stop and made our way through the maze of streets to our hotel. Again, at times carrying one backpack, one 'front pack' and Dad and Pam's suit cases. The way we were all feeling, the hotel couldn't come soon enough. For the moment, Venice had no shine.
We dropped off the bags at the hotel and headed out for a coffee, sandwich and a sit down. After a while, Jen whispered that she saw some wallets in a store as we were walking to the hotel, so Pam and Jen sneakily went for a short walk. Jen bought a wallet that was almost a duplicate of Dads wallet and gave it to me to give to him as a belated Father's day present. Jen is so kind and thoughtful, it is astounding. I am such a lucky man to have met her. In her words later, a man is not a man if he is without his wallet, so it was important we got him one quickly. So true. To make sure no more bad luck came his way, Jen put one euro in the wallet as well. She is a treasure.
Dad took the wallet and smiled at us both. Jen said later that he had tears in his eyes. I think this made all the difference as a smile came back to his face for most of the rest if the day and I think they will be able to put it behind them and enjoy the rest of their trip.
We found our way (after many helpful directions) to the docks and the Cunard Queen Victoria. Checked them in, took some goodbye happy snaps and sent them on their way. Dad was disappointed we couldn't visit the ship and have a look, but they would not let visitors on board. If they had, I may have stowed away as I sm sure it will be s wonderful trip. Jen and I are very jealous of the itinerary.
They were to spend one more day in Venice before departing at 8pm on Wednesday night, but I think they may decide to explore the ship tomorrow, and leave Venice behind them. What a shame, it was so close to having them on the ship and all would have been perfect, except for some nasty thief. There is a glimmer of hope they may find it packed away somewhere once they unpack on the ship, but I think I am clutching at straws.
They had trouble working the mobile phone I had given them, and as I couldn't find the charger in a hurry, they have boarded the ship without a mobile, so no contact until they arrive home. I have given them my mobile number while I am in Italy, so they are able to call if needed. Let's hope the cruise, accommodation in Rome and flights home go smoothly.
It's funny, the roles have reversed, as it's like looking after and worrying about your kids.
Waking at 8am or so to a knock on the door, Dad advised that he could not find his bum bag with his wallet in it. He was sure he took it off in the middle of the night and put it on the night stand in the middle of the sleeper. Wee looked high and low to no avail, and came to the conclusion he was robbed in the middle of the night. I am so angry and frustrated, playing the what if game. They can't remember if they locked the door. I know we locked ours, but the doors could be opened from the outside with a tool of some sort. The conductor opened Dad's door at some stage last night and told them to lock it, but they couldn't be sure if they did. Dad had a little too much money on him than I would have suggested, so it was a bit of a blow for him. He had also just withdrawn money to pay for accommodation as well. It was quite uopsetting for Pam and Dad, but we were doing our best to focus on the positives.
No one was hurt, they didn't get Pam's money or credit cards, we can cancel Dad's cards, their insurance will cover a little of it, and most importantly, they didn't steal any passports or tickets. Which means they can still travel and board their 12 night cruise of the Mediterranean. We gave Dad 200 euro so that he didn't feel so empty and powerless and assured him everything will be alright, they have access to money with Pam's cards (which are linked to the same accounts), Passports, cruise and plane tickets and soon will be onboard the ship having a wonderful time.
It could have been us robbed as well, as I put my wallet in exactly the same spot in our cabin. You just assume a locked room where people are sleeping is safe, but obviously not. This was a wake up call for the rest of our trip. Nothing of value in the open, not even if you are in a locked room and it is next to you.
So we arrived in Venice (still quite grumpy), and Dad was visibly down which was upsetting. We caught the Venice ferry boat to the Rialto stop and made our way through the maze of streets to our hotel. Again, at times carrying one backpack, one 'front pack' and Dad and Pam's suit cases. The way we were all feeling, the hotel couldn't come soon enough. For the moment, Venice had no shine.
We dropped off the bags at the hotel and headed out for a coffee, sandwich and a sit down. After a while, Jen whispered that she saw some wallets in a store as we were walking to the hotel, so Pam and Jen sneakily went for a short walk. Jen bought a wallet that was almost a duplicate of Dads wallet and gave it to me to give to him as a belated Father's day present. Jen is so kind and thoughtful, it is astounding. I am such a lucky man to have met her. In her words later, a man is not a man if he is without his wallet, so it was important we got him one quickly. So true. To make sure no more bad luck came his way, Jen put one euro in the wallet as well. She is a treasure.
Dad took the wallet and smiled at us both. Jen said later that he had tears in his eyes. I think this made all the difference as a smile came back to his face for most of the rest if the day and I think they will be able to put it behind them and enjoy the rest of their trip.
We found our way (after many helpful directions) to the docks and the Cunard Queen Victoria. Checked them in, took some goodbye happy snaps and sent them on their way. Dad was disappointed we couldn't visit the ship and have a look, but they would not let visitors on board. If they had, I may have stowed away as I sm sure it will be s wonderful trip. Jen and I are very jealous of the itinerary.
They were to spend one more day in Venice before departing at 8pm on Wednesday night, but I think they may decide to explore the ship tomorrow, and leave Venice behind them. What a shame, it was so close to having them on the ship and all would have been perfect, except for some nasty thief. There is a glimmer of hope they may find it packed away somewhere once they unpack on the ship, but I think I am clutching at straws.
They had trouble working the mobile phone I had given them, and as I couldn't find the charger in a hurry, they have boarded the ship without a mobile, so no contact until they arrive home. I have given them my mobile number while I am in Italy, so they are able to call if needed. Let's hope the cruise, accommodation in Rome and flights home go smoothly.
It's funny, the roles have reversed, as it's like looking after and worrying about your kids.
Tuesday 20 September
Tuesday 20th September
An early start at 6am. We drove to terminal 5 at Heathrow to return the car. We didn't know what terminal but took a guess. A lucky guess and we found the car rental place no worries. They took the car and we rode a shuttle bus to terminal 5 for the underground to St Pancras. Arrived St Pancras about an hour and a half later, and Pam found a mobile phone in the toilets. I rang the "home" in the address book and let them know I had found it and will leave with Lost and Found. My little bit for international relations.
St Pancras leaving 1228 due to arrive Paris Nord 1355 to meet Jen.
It has been nice to see Dad in his home town, with the relatives, and it will be a nice train journey from London to Paris to Venice. It will also be nice to wave goodbye on the ship and spend some time not looking over my shoulder playing the "where have they gone now" game.
:)
Arrived in Paris to a waiting Jen on the platform. I was filled with joy and excitement to see her again. It hand't been long, but it was wonderful to be back together. We stowed our baggage and headed out walking to Sacre Couer church. The view of Paris was excellent from up the hill and the inside of the church was quite amazing. What a massive church. I am sure I will be sick of churches soon, but for now this one is special. Dad and Pam made it up the large hill, but I am sure the last few days has been wearing.
We had a bite to eat and headed back to the station to make our way to Paris Bercy, to catch the train to Venice. Two local trains and a bit of a rush, with the stairs everywhere making carrying our backpacks and Dad and Pam's 20kg each bag luggage a bit of a nuisance. But it is a workout and there will be no gym for a month or so, so it is needed.
We made it with 15 minutes to spare and boarded the overnight train to Venice. Once aboard they advised us there is no Restuarant car and therefore will have to buy dinner from the food cart. That was NOT on the website. Grrr. So we had some overpriced sandwiches and drinks and headed to bed in our separate two bed sleepers.
An early start at 6am. We drove to terminal 5 at Heathrow to return the car. We didn't know what terminal but took a guess. A lucky guess and we found the car rental place no worries. They took the car and we rode a shuttle bus to terminal 5 for the underground to St Pancras. Arrived St Pancras about an hour and a half later, and Pam found a mobile phone in the toilets. I rang the "home" in the address book and let them know I had found it and will leave with Lost and Found. My little bit for international relations.
St Pancras leaving 1228 due to arrive Paris Nord 1355 to meet Jen.
It has been nice to see Dad in his home town, with the relatives, and it will be a nice train journey from London to Paris to Venice. It will also be nice to wave goodbye on the ship and spend some time not looking over my shoulder playing the "where have they gone now" game.
:)
Arrived in Paris to a waiting Jen on the platform. I was filled with joy and excitement to see her again. It hand't been long, but it was wonderful to be back together. We stowed our baggage and headed out walking to Sacre Couer church. The view of Paris was excellent from up the hill and the inside of the church was quite amazing. What a massive church. I am sure I will be sick of churches soon, but for now this one is special. Dad and Pam made it up the large hill, but I am sure the last few days has been wearing.
We had a bite to eat and headed back to the station to make our way to Paris Bercy, to catch the train to Venice. Two local trains and a bit of a rush, with the stairs everywhere making carrying our backpacks and Dad and Pam's 20kg each bag luggage a bit of a nuisance. But it is a workout and there will be no gym for a month or so, so it is needed.
We made it with 15 minutes to spare and boarded the overnight train to Venice. Once aboard they advised us there is no Restuarant car and therefore will have to buy dinner from the food cart. That was NOT on the website. Grrr. So we had some overpriced sandwiches and drinks and headed to bed in our separate two bed sleepers.
Monday, September 19, 2011
Monday 19 September - BLT in Bracen
Monday 19th September 2011
The GPS had lost its voice, which made driving difficult. Silly me had flicked off the sound when I took the iPhone cover off. Took me 24 hours to spot. New app, so I was blaming it, and trying to find the setting that was wrong, once again, the computer was not wrong, and the human was. Once I found it I was really happy, as it will make Italian driving very easy.
A bit of an unplanned sleep in. Woke at 10.00am, and around 11.00am we headed to Bracen, a small country town. It was a really nice town, with less terraced houses than what I have seen so far. Found a nice cafe, although Dad and Pam were pointing out Fish and Chip and Burger shops. I just ignored the suggestions until I found something that would be edible. I walked in, was offered a menu and sat down, with Dad and Pam trailing behind. Dad took a brief look at the menu which was fully of tasty sandwiches, baguettes, cakes, friands, Portuguese tarts and other tasty treats. "Nothing on here that I like" announces Dad. As I cringe a little, I found about four things on the menu he would like and say how about ..... Dad. That sounds nice he says and ends up with the bacon lettuce and tomato baguette with a home made mayonaise. I had the same and it was lovely. Washed down with a great cappucino we were all happy. Pam had a scone and lovely rich jam and cream with her coffee. To avoid any comments about price, which seems the game of choice with Dad about everything these days, it's either cheap, or expensive, but price is always commented on, I paid the reasonable price. I don't think I will implement Dad's suggestion of a "Billy Baxters" in the little country town. OMG, a quaint little cafe with quality home baked products, the owner baked 90% of the products and quality coffee, or a Billy Baxters. My choice is clear.
Six am start tomorrow. Off to Heathrow Terminal 3 to return the car, a nice VW 4WD, the the Picadilly train to Kings Cross St Pancras, then the chunnel train to Paris for a "rendevous" with Jen, then an overnight train to Venice. Life is hard. :)
The GPS had lost its voice, which made driving difficult. Silly me had flicked off the sound when I took the iPhone cover off. Took me 24 hours to spot. New app, so I was blaming it, and trying to find the setting that was wrong, once again, the computer was not wrong, and the human was. Once I found it I was really happy, as it will make Italian driving very easy.
A bit of an unplanned sleep in. Woke at 10.00am, and around 11.00am we headed to Bracen, a small country town. It was a really nice town, with less terraced houses than what I have seen so far. Found a nice cafe, although Dad and Pam were pointing out Fish and Chip and Burger shops. I just ignored the suggestions until I found something that would be edible. I walked in, was offered a menu and sat down, with Dad and Pam trailing behind. Dad took a brief look at the menu which was fully of tasty sandwiches, baguettes, cakes, friands, Portuguese tarts and other tasty treats. "Nothing on here that I like" announces Dad. As I cringe a little, I found about four things on the menu he would like and say how about ..... Dad. That sounds nice he says and ends up with the bacon lettuce and tomato baguette with a home made mayonaise. I had the same and it was lovely. Washed down with a great cappucino we were all happy. Pam had a scone and lovely rich jam and cream with her coffee. To avoid any comments about price, which seems the game of choice with Dad about everything these days, it's either cheap, or expensive, but price is always commented on, I paid the reasonable price. I don't think I will implement Dad's suggestion of a "Billy Baxters" in the little country town. OMG, a quaint little cafe with quality home baked products, the owner baked 90% of the products and quality coffee, or a Billy Baxters. My choice is clear.
Six am start tomorrow. Off to Heathrow Terminal 3 to return the car, a nice VW 4WD, the the Picadilly train to Kings Cross St Pancras, then the chunnel train to Paris for a "rendevous" with Jen, then an overnight train to Venice. Life is hard. :)
Sunday, September 18, 2011
15-18 September - Amsterdam to Wales
Thursday 15 September 2011
Another perfect day in Amsterdam with the temperature around 20C. Another sleep in then more exploring, cafe's and coffee.
We had sandwiches on the canal, walked past Anne Frank's house and toured most of the inner city again the same as yesterday, with a much better idea of where we were and where we were headed.
We visited the Palace, which was amazing, however Jen assures me Paris will blow my mind. Huge paintings, frescos, and simply and incredible building.
In the afternoon we walked some more until the legs could take no more, then stopped for a leisurely coffee and then a cruise on a canal ferry for an hour. The canal boat was really nice, cruising speed and looking up at all the lovely five story or so houses .
The sun was setting so headed back to the hotel for a rest with plans for dinner after a rest. The jet lag is still strong as once we hit the bed that was it for the day, no dinner and call it a day.
Tomorrow I am off to Wales to meet Dad, Pam and the distant relatives while Jen is off to Germany on her "girlie week" with people she met in Switzerland on her last overseas trip. We rendevous in Paris on Tuesday the 20th September for afternoon tea and then take a super fast train to Venice.
Friday 16 September
Waking around 6am, we headed out for a short walk to the ATM and got to see Amsterdam while it is empty, a much better way to see the sites. The building are still amazing at 645am. Another "apple flap", for breakfast, back to the hotel to pack and off to the train station for me. Jen doesn't leave until 1030. Caught the train to Schipol Airport and found the easyjet terminal. Not so easy. I have seen all the TV shoes and the whining tourists missing their flight so go there nice and early, or so I thought. Check in closed at 900am and I arrived at the airport at 820. Plenty of time, or so I thought. The line for the baggage drop was massive, so much so I lined up in the check in lane and got served quicker, go figure. Weight my bag then head for the gate. Another massive line to enter the terminal proper and check passport, then another line to scan bags and bodies, then another and another. Four lines in all and I got to the gate are 904, when it was due to close at 910. Thankfully I gave myself some time, or I could have been on TV arguing with them about a 200 euro cost for the next available flight! Lesson for beginners, Amsterdam Airport is huge, it's no Melbourne.
All on board and off to Bristol to meet Dad and then drive to the Rhondda Valley Wales. I hope Jen takes care in Germany.
Arrived in Bristol to Dad and Pam at the gates. Picked up the car, a nice VW 4WD, and the navfree app sat nav worked s treat. Amazing it is free and there is an Aussie version as well. It guided me perfectly from Bristol airport to the Rhonda, whereas Dad took about half an hour to get out of the airport until a motor cyclist took pity OK him and directed him out like a motorcade.
There are many many roundabouts, like Canberra, and not that well sign posted, so the sat nav has been a God send. Paid the whole $1 to rid ads, and now sweet.
Arrived in the Rhonda, and all I can say is Coronation Street. Terrace houses built in 1840's. Dad's cousin Mary is the same age as Dad and a very funny and nice lady. She has dinner for lunch, and snacks for dinner, and like the Simpsons. Gold.
Saturday 17th September
Went to visit a few of Dad's childhood friends. The Quins and a few other people. They live up the valley a little, and all in the same street. It was very funny, where is such and such? Oh she's up the street two doors down. Billy's over the road, and the Jones's have moved, four doors down. Nothing much changes in the valleys.
We then went to the Big Pit coal mine museum. We went underground 90 meters and through many tunnels that the coal travelled through. Saw the coal face, and places where they kept the horses that dragged the coal out. The horses used to spend their entire lives underground, until much later when they got two weeks a year above the surface. The horses were treated better than the miners. Very funny tour guide talking about leaving partners underground for a cut of the insurance, then offering the other partner the same for a slightly bigger cut. Funny Welshman. Dad's sense of humor and way is starting to make a bit more sense now. They are all very similar. I can understand most, except for the heavy Welsh accents, which are almost impossible. Headed hone for a snack and laughed hard at the X factor UK. Terrible singers.
Sunday 18th September
A lazy start to the day and then headed to another school friend of Dad. Dad started school at age three, amazing. Bill Fletcher is his name and he worked the majority of his life for British Airways. He gets one free international flight per year. Not bad.
Visited St Fagans Welsh Mueseum, where they have imported many examples of Welsh houses over the last 300-400 years. There was also a lovely castle which showed the contrast between the rich and poor. Dad was quite excited seeing all the houses 'the way he used to live'. OOur lovely Sat Nav Woman directed us home, but the voice instructions have gone quiet for unknown reasons, which makes it a little harder to watch road and sat nav.
Down the pub for some free wireless, about the only access in the area as the mobile coverage with vodafine and orange is horendous. Living in a Valley has it's advantages and disadvantages.
Another touring day tomorrow then on Tuesday off to Heathrow and London to catch the Chunnel train to Paris for a 'rendevous' with Jen for afternoon tea, then fast train overnight to Venice. Life is hard.
Called Jen today when she and I finally knew each others phone number and had coverage. She is having a wonderful time in Germany. Her words were mountains, lkes, wine and cakes. Sounds good to me.
Another perfect day in Amsterdam with the temperature around 20C. Another sleep in then more exploring, cafe's and coffee.
We had sandwiches on the canal, walked past Anne Frank's house and toured most of the inner city again the same as yesterday, with a much better idea of where we were and where we were headed.
We visited the Palace, which was amazing, however Jen assures me Paris will blow my mind. Huge paintings, frescos, and simply and incredible building.
In the afternoon we walked some more until the legs could take no more, then stopped for a leisurely coffee and then a cruise on a canal ferry for an hour. The canal boat was really nice, cruising speed and looking up at all the lovely five story or so houses .
The sun was setting so headed back to the hotel for a rest with plans for dinner after a rest. The jet lag is still strong as once we hit the bed that was it for the day, no dinner and call it a day.
Tomorrow I am off to Wales to meet Dad, Pam and the distant relatives while Jen is off to Germany on her "girlie week" with people she met in Switzerland on her last overseas trip. We rendevous in Paris on Tuesday the 20th September for afternoon tea and then take a super fast train to Venice.
Friday 16 September
Waking around 6am, we headed out for a short walk to the ATM and got to see Amsterdam while it is empty, a much better way to see the sites. The building are still amazing at 645am. Another "apple flap", for breakfast, back to the hotel to pack and off to the train station for me. Jen doesn't leave until 1030. Caught the train to Schipol Airport and found the easyjet terminal. Not so easy. I have seen all the TV shoes and the whining tourists missing their flight so go there nice and early, or so I thought. Check in closed at 900am and I arrived at the airport at 820. Plenty of time, or so I thought. The line for the baggage drop was massive, so much so I lined up in the check in lane and got served quicker, go figure. Weight my bag then head for the gate. Another massive line to enter the terminal proper and check passport, then another line to scan bags and bodies, then another and another. Four lines in all and I got to the gate are 904, when it was due to close at 910. Thankfully I gave myself some time, or I could have been on TV arguing with them about a 200 euro cost for the next available flight! Lesson for beginners, Amsterdam Airport is huge, it's no Melbourne.
All on board and off to Bristol to meet Dad and then drive to the Rhondda Valley Wales. I hope Jen takes care in Germany.
Arrived in Bristol to Dad and Pam at the gates. Picked up the car, a nice VW 4WD, and the navfree app sat nav worked s treat. Amazing it is free and there is an Aussie version as well. It guided me perfectly from Bristol airport to the Rhonda, whereas Dad took about half an hour to get out of the airport until a motor cyclist took pity OK him and directed him out like a motorcade.
There are many many roundabouts, like Canberra, and not that well sign posted, so the sat nav has been a God send. Paid the whole $1 to rid ads, and now sweet.
Arrived in the Rhonda, and all I can say is Coronation Street. Terrace houses built in 1840's. Dad's cousin Mary is the same age as Dad and a very funny and nice lady. She has dinner for lunch, and snacks for dinner, and like the Simpsons. Gold.
Saturday 17th September
Went to visit a few of Dad's childhood friends. The Quins and a few other people. They live up the valley a little, and all in the same street. It was very funny, where is such and such? Oh she's up the street two doors down. Billy's over the road, and the Jones's have moved, four doors down. Nothing much changes in the valleys.
We then went to the Big Pit coal mine museum. We went underground 90 meters and through many tunnels that the coal travelled through. Saw the coal face, and places where they kept the horses that dragged the coal out. The horses used to spend their entire lives underground, until much later when they got two weeks a year above the surface. The horses were treated better than the miners. Very funny tour guide talking about leaving partners underground for a cut of the insurance, then offering the other partner the same for a slightly bigger cut. Funny Welshman. Dad's sense of humor and way is starting to make a bit more sense now. They are all very similar. I can understand most, except for the heavy Welsh accents, which are almost impossible. Headed hone for a snack and laughed hard at the X factor UK. Terrible singers.
Sunday 18th September
A lazy start to the day and then headed to another school friend of Dad. Dad started school at age three, amazing. Bill Fletcher is his name and he worked the majority of his life for British Airways. He gets one free international flight per year. Not bad.
Visited St Fagans Welsh Mueseum, where they have imported many examples of Welsh houses over the last 300-400 years. There was also a lovely castle which showed the contrast between the rich and poor. Dad was quite excited seeing all the houses 'the way he used to live'. OOur lovely Sat Nav Woman directed us home, but the voice instructions have gone quiet for unknown reasons, which makes it a little harder to watch road and sat nav.
Down the pub for some free wireless, about the only access in the area as the mobile coverage with vodafine and orange is horendous. Living in a Valley has it's advantages and disadvantages.
Another touring day tomorrow then on Tuesday off to Heathrow and London to catch the Chunnel train to Paris for a 'rendevous' with Jen for afternoon tea, then fast train overnight to Venice. Life is hard.
Called Jen today when she and I finally knew each others phone number and had coverage. She is having a wonderful time in Germany. Her words were mountains, lkes, wine and cakes. Sounds good to me.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
14 September - Tours, temptations and tasty pastry
So we woke at around 8am. Quite rested, no bong hangover .... yet, and headed down for breaky. Nothing flash but reasonable plunger coffee and some interesting conversation with a couple from Boston. It is amazing what strangers will share with you sometimes. Their son recently divorced from a nutbag neurosurgeon who was cheating on him. As I said, 20 minute breaky and we know the family story.
We headed out to the main central square in front of the Crown Palace, to meet up with the 'free walking tour'. You pay what you like at the end, not a bad deal. Our guide was from California, and ex golf professional and groundsman. Seems he liked grass of many forms and therefore moved to Amsterdam. He was a great guide and took us around Amstersam for three hours. We visited the red light district, museum area, the east India building, stories about trade, hookers (more trade I suppose), religion, war, the Nazi's and the strong beliefs and good nature of the people of Amsterdam and Holland as a whole (no it's not "a hole"). Lunch at 3pm at a doner kebab place.
We then caught a train to the Rijksmuseum and saw a lot of Rembrandt paintings and some amazing sketches, especially one of Christ which was done by making one continuous line of circles varying the thickness to give texture to the image of Christ. Hard to describe but even harder to draw.
Coffee at a local cafe (with a black cat that that Jen has adopted as Euro Olive ... two timer!) and home to the hotel for the night. Thinking of Brugge tomorrow but it looks a bit far. Maybe a canal cruise and more pastries. :)
We headed out to the main central square in front of the Crown Palace, to meet up with the 'free walking tour'. You pay what you like at the end, not a bad deal. Our guide was from California, and ex golf professional and groundsman. Seems he liked grass of many forms and therefore moved to Amsterdam. He was a great guide and took us around Amstersam for three hours. We visited the red light district, museum area, the east India building, stories about trade, hookers (more trade I suppose), religion, war, the Nazi's and the strong beliefs and good nature of the people of Amsterdam and Holland as a whole (no it's not "a hole"). Lunch at 3pm at a doner kebab place.
We then caught a train to the Rijksmuseum and saw a lot of Rembrandt paintings and some amazing sketches, especially one of Christ which was done by making one continuous line of circles varying the thickness to give texture to the image of Christ. Hard to describe but even harder to draw.
Coffee at a local cafe (with a black cat that that Jen has adopted as Euro Olive ... two timer!) and home to the hotel for the night. Thinking of Brugge tomorrow but it looks a bit far. Maybe a canal cruise and more pastries. :)
12 September - Go Go Go! John & Jen's Amazing Race begins
The packing was mad and fast as we had just finished all our "things to do" and it was 12.30pm on the day we were leaving and I hadn't packed and Jen was 50% done. The check in for our luggage closed at 200pm and it was a 35~40 minute taxi fare to the airport. To see how deluded we were, that morning we still had ideas of catching a train to the city and a skybus to the airport. Pfft, such plans with the time we had went straight out the window.
So we packed all and everything in 30 mins, packed up the cat to drive to Jen's Mum's to drop off Olive (our apparent boss) and meet the already waiting taxi. Rush rush rush, kisses, hugs, pat the dogs, the boss, a wave goodbye and we were off to the airport. Arriving Melbourne airport, at 147pm, we checked our luggage, walked to gate 24 and boarded the plane pretty much immediately. Cool calm .... nope more like needing a stiff drink and a brown paper bag for the hyperventilation.
We arrived in Kuala Lumpur for our two hour layover, which turned into six. A connecting flight from Perth with 100 passengers had to turn back due to mechanical difficulties. Luckily we found a three seater couch, which meant me sitting up and Jen lying down for the duration. Brownie points for me and a few hours needed sleep for Jen. After the month we had had, a few extra hours sleep anywhere was welcomed.
We then fLew KL to Amsterdam arriving around 830am, which was better than our previous 4am scheduled. A few coffees at the airport, then a train ride to Amsterdam Centraal in a "silent carriage", such a good idea, something for Connex or whoever they are called now to consider. No phone or loud chat carriage, excellent for old grumpy goats like me. :)
So we dropped off our luggage at Hotel Brauwer and went a walking the streets, a common thing in Amsterdam (snigger snigger). We were both like zombies walking around trying to work out what phone plans suited, hilarious, no cognitive function and trying to work out phone and data plans as confusing as Australia, well they seemed confusing at the time anyway. Lyca mobile won and calls home on the mobile for 1 cent a minute. Awesome.
Free wifi in the hotel, excellent. Leaning hotel that rivals the Tower of Pisa, as most places are in Amsterdam apparently, one tower in Pisa is nothing compared to this city. So much so we may have to move the bed tonight as you can seriously roll out without to much trouble. It's like camping and pitching the tent the wrong way on the slope.
Got home from lovely walks, awesome berry and apple pastries and very good coffee. Thank good they do good coffee. The only trouble is that finding a coffee shop is a little difficult, as most of the 'coffee shops' and signs that say coffee shop don't actually sell coffee, just weed. Or if they did you would walk out high from all the passive smoke.
4.00pm and we dropped in the hotel for a nap. Sixteen hours later and it was the next morning. Wow did we need a sleep.
So we packed all and everything in 30 mins, packed up the cat to drive to Jen's Mum's to drop off Olive (our apparent boss) and meet the already waiting taxi. Rush rush rush, kisses, hugs, pat the dogs, the boss, a wave goodbye and we were off to the airport. Arriving Melbourne airport, at 147pm, we checked our luggage, walked to gate 24 and boarded the plane pretty much immediately. Cool calm .... nope more like needing a stiff drink and a brown paper bag for the hyperventilation.
We arrived in Kuala Lumpur for our two hour layover, which turned into six. A connecting flight from Perth with 100 passengers had to turn back due to mechanical difficulties. Luckily we found a three seater couch, which meant me sitting up and Jen lying down for the duration. Brownie points for me and a few hours needed sleep for Jen. After the month we had had, a few extra hours sleep anywhere was welcomed.
We then fLew KL to Amsterdam arriving around 830am, which was better than our previous 4am scheduled. A few coffees at the airport, then a train ride to Amsterdam Centraal in a "silent carriage", such a good idea, something for Connex or whoever they are called now to consider. No phone or loud chat carriage, excellent for old grumpy goats like me. :)
So we dropped off our luggage at Hotel Brauwer and went a walking the streets, a common thing in Amsterdam (snigger snigger). We were both like zombies walking around trying to work out what phone plans suited, hilarious, no cognitive function and trying to work out phone and data plans as confusing as Australia, well they seemed confusing at the time anyway. Lyca mobile won and calls home on the mobile for 1 cent a minute. Awesome.
Free wifi in the hotel, excellent. Leaning hotel that rivals the Tower of Pisa, as most places are in Amsterdam apparently, one tower in Pisa is nothing compared to this city. So much so we may have to move the bed tonight as you can seriously roll out without to much trouble. It's like camping and pitching the tent the wrong way on the slope.
Got home from lovely walks, awesome berry and apple pastries and very good coffee. Thank good they do good coffee. The only trouble is that finding a coffee shop is a little difficult, as most of the 'coffee shops' and signs that say coffee shop don't actually sell coffee, just weed. Or if they did you would walk out high from all the passive smoke.
4.00pm and we dropped in the hotel for a nap. Sixteen hours later and it was the next morning. Wow did we need a sleep.
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