Sept 30
We are at the end of our travels. We are in San Fran with Colleen and Kevin. We have not been tourists at all but have enjoyed their company and that of their friends. Kevin turned 60 so we have had 2 birthday celebrations, breakfast with friends, been out to dinner and lunch[twice] at costco. Off course we manged to do some shopping! It has been VERY hot-108F-driving to Vaccuville. This has been their late summer as before this there was really no summer. We have found out we can take 5 pieces of luggage home between us! That is our job for tomorrow before we fly out tomorrow night. We hope that you have enjoyed the blog and shared with us our travels. Bye for now.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Friday, September 24, 2010
Wednesday 22nd September
We were in dread of the US Customs to get of the boat, what with the finger printing and photos for everyone we thought we may be stretching our luck to get checked in on the plane in the time we had. What a joke. We we walked off the boat, found our luggage straight away and got through customs in about 2 minutes, and most of that was walking off the boat. We actually managed to get off the boat at about 8.30 and we caught a cab to the airport – not knowing just how busy the airort would be. The cab ocst us $45US plus $5 for a bridge toll. One cabbie talked to me as we crossed the road from the boat terminal and said that he could get us there for $90 and the extra charge was because of heavy traffic. We declined his invitation as well as another from another driver for a $60 ride.
Anyway,we had checked in and were rid of our bags in record time and had some lunch with some friends we usually had our dinner with. They arrived just after we had managed to check-in.
The plane was delayed arriving from Rome so initially it was delayed 35 minutes.
After boarding, they had a problem with the fuel gauge, then another delay because Obama was flying in for the UN meeting, then the weather in central US was foul and we had to wait on the taxiway for another hour.
We finally departed, 3 hours late and by the time Colleen and Kevin picked us up we were very tired.
Anyway,we had checked in and were rid of our bags in record time and had some lunch with some friends we usually had our dinner with. They arrived just after we had managed to check-in.
The plane was delayed arriving from Rome so initially it was delayed 35 minutes.
After boarding, they had a problem with the fuel gauge, then another delay because Obama was flying in for the UN meeting, then the weather in central US was foul and we had to wait on the taxiway for another hour.
We finally departed, 3 hours late and by the time Colleen and Kevin picked us up we were very tired.
Tuesday 21st September
As we had cleared Immigration in Boston it was a quick escape for a day in New York.
We walked up to Times Square and looked around the place then caught a hop-on-hop-off bus for a tour of up town and down town.
The tour guide was a typical New Yorker and was obviously very proud of the town, as everything was the biggest, largest, most expensive etc.
The second guy was just as good but his jokes were very dry and almost Australian sence of humour even though he came from “Joisey”.We ended up getting back to the ship at 6pm. It was a great day.
We had a couple of thought about our expectations of NewYork.
Firstly, there wasn't as many people walking around the streets as we thought there would be. Secondly, the same could be said of the traffic as it wasn't as bad as we had expected, but then we weren't driving in it either, except for the bus and that was fine.
Lastly the city is not wall to wall skyscrapers as I expected. There were plenty of 5 and 6 storey buildings all over the place and somw even smaller than that.
We walked up to Times Square and looked around the place then caught a hop-on-hop-off bus for a tour of up town and down town.
The tour guide was a typical New Yorker and was obviously very proud of the town, as everything was the biggest, largest, most expensive etc.
The second guy was just as good but his jokes were very dry and almost Australian sence of humour even though he came from “Joisey”.We ended up getting back to the ship at 6pm. It was a great day.
We had a couple of thought about our expectations of NewYork.
Firstly, there wasn't as many people walking around the streets as we thought there would be. Secondly, the same could be said of the traffic as it wasn't as bad as we had expected, but then we weren't driving in it either, except for the bus and that was fine.
Lastly the city is not wall to wall skyscrapers as I expected. There were plenty of 5 and 6 storey buildings all over the place and somw even smaller than that.
Sunday 19th September
We escaped the ship at about 9.15 and declined the cruise ships offer of a shuttle bus (too expensive) and shared a “limo” (a 19 seater “Ozmeister” bus) to Harvard for $7US each. A pretty drive along the water and once again many different styles of building.
Harvard is a beautiful place. The driver tried to drop us on the wrong side of the river which would have meant a very long walk. I [Fay] requested nicely that he drop us at the square! No tip for him. Wonderful buildings and grounds which also had mini religious services taking place on the lawns around one of the squares. One fellow was playing a saxophone which we could have stopped and listened to for hours. The buildings are all quite different in their architecture and very imposing. It is much smaller that what we expected but very lovely. Once again we had fantastic weather. We caught the public bus back to town - $2.50 for two.
We could have caught the subway but we thought we would see more this way. We had a lovely time wandering around. We had lunch in a sports bar at the second attempt. We tried one but they didn’t serve lunch till 2 o’clock, 12.30 at the time. The successful one was quite nice so we had Boston Clam chowder in a bowl with some crackers and some soda (coke and lemonade).
Harvard is a beautiful place. The driver tried to drop us on the wrong side of the river which would have meant a very long walk. I [Fay] requested nicely that he drop us at the square! No tip for him. Wonderful buildings and grounds which also had mini religious services taking place on the lawns around one of the squares. One fellow was playing a saxophone which we could have stopped and listened to for hours. The buildings are all quite different in their architecture and very imposing. It is much smaller that what we expected but very lovely. Once again we had fantastic weather. We caught the public bus back to town - $2.50 for two.
We could have caught the subway but we thought we would see more this way. We had a lovely time wandering around. We had lunch in a sports bar at the second attempt. We tried one but they didn’t serve lunch till 2 o’clock, 12.30 at the time. The successful one was quite nice so we had Boston Clam chowder in a bowl with some crackers and some soda (coke and lemonade).
Monday 20th September
We sailed at 7am and made our way to New York. The last leg was a little rough. We ended up playing cards morning and afternoon and had the last of the gala dinners that night.
Saturday 18th September
We had to clear US customs before we could go ashore in Boston. Strangely it seemed to work well. Our floor was one of the first to be called. No photos or finger prints were taken, which amazed us. We were ashore by 1pm and shared a cab with another couple to Quincy Markets in the old part of Boston town. There were lots of people and activity, stalls and entertainment. Lots of fun to be amongst. I could have bought $ 5 t-shirts. They went up to $10 on Sunday night. We just wandered all through the markets (bought nothing) and eventually found or way to Little Italy.
We discovered Catholic churches in the space of 100 metres, one being the church where JFK’s mother was baptised and was buried from. We also saw the school she attended. The church had had 3 different Christian denominations practicing in it over last couple of hundred years. A “Bulfinch” church, named after the designer, it was VERY plain but beautiful just the same, photos to prove. We eventually went back to the church at 4.30 for vigil mass. After Mass we caught a cab back to the ship. We saw a graveyard in our travels. All the headstones were much the same height and they took on a misty look in certain lights - quite eerie. We saw Paul Revere’s church and followed part of the Freedom Trail which is mostly marked by a red line.
On Boston Common today we missed the pot festival! Apparently thousands of people crowded into the common and puffed away happily. The Common was ringed by police and if you stepped off the common you could be fined. Plenty of ambulances on standby. Apparently pot is decriminalised but you can still be find. We had afternoon tea with Boston Cream pie. Basically sponge cake with cream and Chocolate icing. I don’t think we had the best example as it was a little disappointing.
We discovered Catholic churches in the space of 100 metres, one being the church where JFK’s mother was baptised and was buried from. We also saw the school she attended. The church had had 3 different Christian denominations practicing in it over last couple of hundred years. A “Bulfinch” church, named after the designer, it was VERY plain but beautiful just the same, photos to prove. We eventually went back to the church at 4.30 for vigil mass. After Mass we caught a cab back to the ship. We saw a graveyard in our travels. All the headstones were much the same height and they took on a misty look in certain lights - quite eerie. We saw Paul Revere’s church and followed part of the Freedom Trail which is mostly marked by a red line.
On Boston Common today we missed the pot festival! Apparently thousands of people crowded into the common and puffed away happily. The Common was ringed by police and if you stepped off the common you could be fined. Plenty of ambulances on standby. Apparently pot is decriminalised but you can still be find. We had afternoon tea with Boston Cream pie. Basically sponge cake with cream and Chocolate icing. I don’t think we had the best example as it was a little disappointing.
Friday 17th September
At sea – and it was pretty rough but the stabilizers were working a treat. We have had rougher weather in the South Pacific. We played cards yet again. Not much sunbathing
Looks a like it was a good decision to avoid Bermuda.
Looks a like it was a good decision to avoid Bermuda.
Thursday 16th September
Another day at see and Boston is getting closer. The forecast for Bermuda for Sunday was winds in excess of 100 knots with another hurricane close behind Igor.
The decision appears to have been a prudent one – but who are we to question the captain.
Another day of eating playing cards, sun baking, dress up night for dinner and another late night movie on the deck. I wonder why they can’t show the movie in the theatre so everyone doesn’t have to brave the winds and the mist that rolls in occasionally – yet another little question to ask the cruise director. Adrian has such a limited sense of adventure! A
The cruise people are advertising a shuttle to New York airport for when we get there. They will charge € 35 per person which would be $105 Australian. The cab will charge about $55 Australian. All the cabs have written on the side a flat rate of $45 to JFK airport
Someone said yesterday that the Oz dollar is about 94 cents to the American – a good time as shopping approaches.
We are unsure what we will do in Boston but Harvard is about 15minutes from town and the hop-on- hop-off buses may be running for us. We will wait and see.
The decision appears to have been a prudent one – but who are we to question the captain.
Another day of eating playing cards, sun baking, dress up night for dinner and another late night movie on the deck. I wonder why they can’t show the movie in the theatre so everyone doesn’t have to brave the winds and the mist that rolls in occasionally – yet another little question to ask the cruise director. Adrian has such a limited sense of adventure! A
The cruise people are advertising a shuttle to New York airport for when we get there. They will charge € 35 per person which would be $105 Australian. The cab will charge about $55 Australian. All the cabs have written on the side a flat rate of $45 to JFK airport
Someone said yesterday that the Oz dollar is about 94 cents to the American – a good time as shopping approaches.
We are unsure what we will do in Boston but Harvard is about 15minutes from town and the hop-on- hop-off buses may be running for us. We will wait and see.
Wednesday 15th - At Sea
Another glorious day. Hard to believe it is the North Atlantic and not the South Pacific. Played cards, went in spa, read and sun baked. The library is very short on English books so many people have set up their own swapping system. Adrian was reading the Atlas one day. We met a lovely lady who shares her time between Albany in WA and Hervey Bay in QLD. She told us about a fort in Albany. More places for us to visit!! I have not been using sunscreen but do not get burnt. The sun just does not seem to have the same intensity. The Europeans on board sun bake in any weather even if we think it a bit cool. People are much less inhibited about their body shapes and all shapes, sizes and ages wear bikinis.
I (Fay) have won cards two days in a row!!! I have to record this as I don’t beat Adrian often (is everything a competition - of course). Adrian lost (????) the score sheets. Therefore there is no proof! One of the ladies we play with is battling seasickness so the cards are a distraction for her.
Today is when it was decided to divert to Boston because of the hurricane. We have never been to Boston and look forward to a couple of days there and a tea party
I spoke to a couple in the spa and they were looking forward to scuba diving in Bermuda but it was not meant to be.
We watched a movie outdoors on the big screen at last. It was fun but a little cool. We will take a jacket tonight.
TV is abysmal with limited English stations. They need to put a little more thought in if they want to attract English speaking tourists.
We are glad to heading in the direction of home! We miss you all and can’t wait to see you all. Kath, we have seen so many wedding dresses at great prices. Perhaps a trip to check them out would be in order??????
I (Fay) have won cards two days in a row!!! I have to record this as I don’t beat Adrian often (is everything a competition - of course). Adrian lost (????) the score sheets. Therefore there is no proof! One of the ladies we play with is battling seasickness so the cards are a distraction for her.
Today is when it was decided to divert to Boston because of the hurricane. We have never been to Boston and look forward to a couple of days there and a tea party
I spoke to a couple in the spa and they were looking forward to scuba diving in Bermuda but it was not meant to be.
We watched a movie outdoors on the big screen at last. It was fun but a little cool. We will take a jacket tonight.
TV is abysmal with limited English stations. They need to put a little more thought in if they want to attract English speaking tourists.
We are glad to heading in the direction of home! We miss you all and can’t wait to see you all. Kath, we have seen so many wedding dresses at great prices. Perhaps a trip to check them out would be in order??????
Tuesday 14th September – A Day at Sea.
This is the first of a four day sail from the Azores to Bermuda. We headed almost directly West at 20 knots all day and night.
The days at sea are starting to take a pattern, as we play rickety Kate with Hobbo, Vicky, Sally and Ian, who are workmates and partners from AIS. The rest of the day is spent in the sun or reading, interspersed with tea, coffee and dinner.
The days at sea are starting to take a pattern, as we play rickety Kate with Hobbo, Vicky, Sally and Ian, who are workmates and partners from AIS. The rest of the day is spent in the sun or reading, interspersed with tea, coffee and dinner.
Monday 13th September
The Azores are a beautiful set of islands. We had booked a tour, the first for us on the cruise. The tour didn’t start till 12.15 so we set off to explore the main shopping area to try and find an internet café and get the lay of the land. The internet café was eventually found and we just checked for the important emails if any, and then got out for a walk back to the ship for the tour.
The tour was a 2½ hour bus drive up to the mountains to see the crater lakes. The mountain is 2000 feet (660 metres) high. The views really were magnificent and the picture probably will not do justice. On the way back we managed to stop on a part of the mountain range where you could see both the north and south sides of the island from the same point. The Island is wide but not very deep. The sights from the mountain stop looked just like you were looking down the south coast of Australia near Gerringong.
Beautiful blue sea, rich green verdant mountain sides and narrow roads.
The last stop on the way was a pineapple plantation but the difference being that it was in hot houses. I can’t see how they made too much money as pineapples take three years till you get a single fruit from them then you have to start again. There were about 12 or 15 hothouses with about 900 plants in each. The most pineapples you could sell each year would be about 4000, so there couldn’t be much of a living but it would depend how much you got for each.
We then wandered through the shopping area again and back to the boat in time for afternoon tea.
The food is improving. We are blessed with intelligent and entertaining dinner companions. One lady, who has travelled extensively has a very retentive memory and gives us lots of details of her travels. One of the men used to be a headmaster but dad is coping as he is very funny. Two of the ladies have been involved in the travel industry. One lady worked for Thai airline and still has travel benefits. Most people are lovely and we have seen a minimal of the ugly Australian. We found out that that Germans have a different and much more generous drink package then the Australians. You can imagine how the Australians like this.
One of the couples are ’ten pound poms’ Young people talk to old people for explanation. They are lovely and friends with the headmaster and his wife. He does not eat any vegetables that are green. He comes from Northen Island and loves his taties in any shape or form.
Good news about the Raiders! Hope they can win on Friday. We arrive home on Grand final day. Hope someone can meet us!
The tour was a 2½ hour bus drive up to the mountains to see the crater lakes. The mountain is 2000 feet (660 metres) high. The views really were magnificent and the picture probably will not do justice. On the way back we managed to stop on a part of the mountain range where you could see both the north and south sides of the island from the same point. The Island is wide but not very deep. The sights from the mountain stop looked just like you were looking down the south coast of Australia near Gerringong.
Beautiful blue sea, rich green verdant mountain sides and narrow roads.
The last stop on the way was a pineapple plantation but the difference being that it was in hot houses. I can’t see how they made too much money as pineapples take three years till you get a single fruit from them then you have to start again. There were about 12 or 15 hothouses with about 900 plants in each. The most pineapples you could sell each year would be about 4000, so there couldn’t be much of a living but it would depend how much you got for each.
We then wandered through the shopping area again and back to the boat in time for afternoon tea.
The food is improving. We are blessed with intelligent and entertaining dinner companions. One lady, who has travelled extensively has a very retentive memory and gives us lots of details of her travels. One of the men used to be a headmaster but dad is coping as he is very funny. Two of the ladies have been involved in the travel industry. One lady worked for Thai airline and still has travel benefits. Most people are lovely and we have seen a minimal of the ugly Australian. We found out that that Germans have a different and much more generous drink package then the Australians. You can imagine how the Australians like this.
One of the couples are ’ten pound poms’ Young people talk to old people for explanation. They are lovely and friends with the headmaster and his wife. He does not eat any vegetables that are green. He comes from Northen Island and loves his taties in any shape or form.
Good news about the Raiders! Hope they can win on Friday. We arrive home on Grand final day. Hope someone can meet us!
Sunday 12th September
A day at sea between Lisboa and the Azores. The Azores are about 400 nautical miles west of Lisboa in the Atlantic Ocean.
An 11 o’clock card game for 2 hours filled our morning and a lazy afternoon filled our day. Dinner was a highlight of the day – it’s tough!!!!
An 11 o’clock card game for 2 hours filled our morning and a lazy afternoon filled our day. Dinner was a highlight of the day – it’s tough!!!!
Saturday 11th September
Lisboa or Lisbon to the uninitiated is the capital of Portugal. A bright sunny day greeted us as we disembarked and caught the shuttle bus into town – about a ten minute journey.
We walked through the old town, up and down and across and back for about 3 hours or so with a brief stop for coffee and some lunch.
Shoe shops abound here and the prices are very good and even the clothes shops weren’t bad prices. The old city is a great place to walk around with the old buildings still in use and the restaurants set up on the sides of all the cobbled roads.
We then caught a hop on hop off bus for a guided tour through the city. Unfortunately the commentary gave out after a couple of sightseeing places so we just watched the passing parade of possibly historic buildings and got off when we got back to the ship.
We walked through the old town, up and down and across and back for about 3 hours or so with a brief stop for coffee and some lunch.
Shoe shops abound here and the prices are very good and even the clothes shops weren’t bad prices. The old city is a great place to walk around with the old buildings still in use and the restaurants set up on the sides of all the cobbled roads.
We then caught a hop on hop off bus for a guided tour through the city. Unfortunately the commentary gave out after a couple of sightseeing places so we just watched the passing parade of possibly historic buildings and got off when we got back to the ship.
Friday 10th September
Our first (and last day) in Spain at the port of Vigo. As we have to be back on board by 3.30, we had an early breakfast and on Spanish soil by 9am.
We got directions and a map to the old area of the city. How come the old areas are always up hills and away from the port area?
Either way, it wasn’t too bad a walk and we had to stop for cappuccinos on the way, just to refresh ourselves and confirm with the locals that we were heading in the right direction.
Our navigation was spot on and after the break we headed up hill again and got to the fort at the top of the mountain.
The way back was all down hill, but we went sideways at times to see more of the city.
The streets were narrower than a lot of the streets we have seen. Cars were not banned from any streets and you had to be aware of the traffic everywhere.
A beautiful city! We are back on board now and I type this while Fay catches some “rays” on deck. I will go off the ship to an area in the dock where they have free wifi. Unfortunately the free wifi didn’t work so I will send this when we get a chance, which will probably be the Azores on Monday.
We got directions and a map to the old area of the city. How come the old areas are always up hills and away from the port area?
Either way, it wasn’t too bad a walk and we had to stop for cappuccinos on the way, just to refresh ourselves and confirm with the locals that we were heading in the right direction.
Our navigation was spot on and after the break we headed up hill again and got to the fort at the top of the mountain.
The way back was all down hill, but we went sideways at times to see more of the city.
The streets were narrower than a lot of the streets we have seen. Cars were not banned from any streets and you had to be aware of the traffic everywhere.
A beautiful city! We are back on board now and I type this while Fay catches some “rays” on deck. I will go off the ship to an area in the dock where they have free wifi. Unfortunately the free wifi didn’t work so I will send this when we get a chance, which will probably be the Azores on Monday.
Thursday 9th September
A day at sea. A late wake up and breakfast at 9am. After breakfast we had organized a game of cards with Vicky, Hobbo, Ian and Sally – our friends from work. We discovered a bar at the back of the boat, the disco in fact, but there are plenty of card tables and the music is not overpowering. We played Rickety Kate till 1pm and had a leisurely lunch. A quiet afternoon, then tea and the show which was a ventriloquist act. We have just discovered that the toilet is not functioning – que sera sera.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Wednesday 8th September
Leharve, on the Seine River about 120KM from Paris, was the next stop. We cruised all night and arrived about 8am.
We had a bit of a sleep in, and after breakfast we got off the ship and decided to walk into the city. We found out by accident that there was a shuttle bus, and even though the weather was threatening, we walked about 15 minutes to the city centre. We roamed around for a while and made our way up the church for a visit and a look. The appeared to have lots of plain, clear glass on the outside but on the inside it was all coloured. The spire from the inside looked like a scene from one of the Star Wars films that has Luke and Darth Vader fighting on top of a giant column. These are the things that we notice! A charming town, prettier then Southhampton or Portsmouth. By the time we had finished in the church, the rain had set in, so we donned the wet weather gear and took off to find a café for a coffee. The French allow dogs in their cafes. A lady walked in with a little dog in a special dog bag. He was very cute, a bit like Charlie but when he put his head on the table we decided we wouldn’t eat food there.
By the time the coffee had been consumed, the rain had really set in. As the boat was due to depart at 3.30, we decided that we would either walk back or catch a taxi. Numerous taxis drove past us, either on a break or going to pick someone up. We went into a pharmacy to phone for a cab, unsuccessfully, and the pharmacist offered us a ride to the ship - very kind. We accidentally found the shuttle bus and boarded it for a free return trip to the boat. The bus took us all around Lehavre and we saw The Hanging Gardens of Lehavre. Very pretty. Apparently they represent the FIVE continents. We are not sure where that leaves us.
We had a bit of a sleep in, and after breakfast we got off the ship and decided to walk into the city. We found out by accident that there was a shuttle bus, and even though the weather was threatening, we walked about 15 minutes to the city centre. We roamed around for a while and made our way up the church for a visit and a look. The appeared to have lots of plain, clear glass on the outside but on the inside it was all coloured. The spire from the inside looked like a scene from one of the Star Wars films that has Luke and Darth Vader fighting on top of a giant column. These are the things that we notice! A charming town, prettier then Southhampton or Portsmouth. By the time we had finished in the church, the rain had set in, so we donned the wet weather gear and took off to find a café for a coffee. The French allow dogs in their cafes. A lady walked in with a little dog in a special dog bag. He was very cute, a bit like Charlie but when he put his head on the table we decided we wouldn’t eat food there.
By the time the coffee had been consumed, the rain had really set in. As the boat was due to depart at 3.30, we decided that we would either walk back or catch a taxi. Numerous taxis drove past us, either on a break or going to pick someone up. We went into a pharmacy to phone for a cab, unsuccessfully, and the pharmacist offered us a ride to the ship - very kind. We accidentally found the shuttle bus and boarded it for a free return trip to the boat. The bus took us all around Lehavre and we saw The Hanging Gardens of Lehavre. Very pretty. Apparently they represent the FIVE continents. We are not sure where that leaves us.
Tuesday 7th September
Walked into Southampton and caught a local Greyhound bus to Portsmouth – senior discount for Adrian 2pound fifty return.
We walked through the town for a while then we had to have the usual holiday by the sea lunch of fish and chips. They were enormous servings and very nice fish as well.
After the repast we wandered into the Naval historical area, the home of HMS Victory and the Mary Rose. Victory was the flag ship of Lord Nelson when the English defeated the Spanish Armada around 1802. The ship is still a serving ship of the UK navy and has a Captain and crew assigned to it even though it never leaves the dry dock. The tour of the ship started at 4pm, which was too late for us.
The Mary Rose was built for Henry VIII and sank in the Thames about 30 years after it was commissioned. It has lain at the bottom of the Thames for 450 years and the salvage and restoration was commenced in the late eighties. A new museum is scheduled to open in 2012. Unfortunately, that too was not opened for visitors. The complete tour was 40 pounds, but as we couldn’t see either the Mary Rose or do a tour of Victory, we declined the invitation and just wandered around the area. We did get photos of the Victory and walked around the outside. We couldn’t believe the amount of rope that the ship needed to be operational. The anchor required 250 men to raise from the bottom. One of the men serving on the Victory at Trafalgar (Armada battle) was a Christopher Dixon, a relation perhaps?
After a nice Cappuccino at the local café we caught the bus back to the ship. We had a little time before the bus and we espied a Marks and Spencer’s. It was part of a giant outlet shopping complex! Oh joy! Luckily we only had a little time to do much damage to the VISA.
We walked through the town for a while then we had to have the usual holiday by the sea lunch of fish and chips. They were enormous servings and very nice fish as well.
After the repast we wandered into the Naval historical area, the home of HMS Victory and the Mary Rose. Victory was the flag ship of Lord Nelson when the English defeated the Spanish Armada around 1802. The ship is still a serving ship of the UK navy and has a Captain and crew assigned to it even though it never leaves the dry dock. The tour of the ship started at 4pm, which was too late for us.
The Mary Rose was built for Henry VIII and sank in the Thames about 30 years after it was commissioned. It has lain at the bottom of the Thames for 450 years and the salvage and restoration was commenced in the late eighties. A new museum is scheduled to open in 2012. Unfortunately, that too was not opened for visitors. The complete tour was 40 pounds, but as we couldn’t see either the Mary Rose or do a tour of Victory, we declined the invitation and just wandered around the area. We did get photos of the Victory and walked around the outside. We couldn’t believe the amount of rope that the ship needed to be operational. The anchor required 250 men to raise from the bottom. One of the men serving on the Victory at Trafalgar (Armada battle) was a Christopher Dixon, a relation perhaps?
After a nice Cappuccino at the local café we caught the bus back to the ship. We had a little time before the bus and we espied a Marks and Spencer’s. It was part of a giant outlet shopping complex! Oh joy! Luckily we only had a little time to do much damage to the VISA.
Monday 6th September
A full day at sea. We found the Gym and Fay biked and I walked on the machines. We managed to play a game on bingo (no luck) but @ 20 Euros per game, we are not sure we will be back. The Casino is a full on smoking area, so we may not gamble again on the boat – we’ll save our money for other things. (Duty free smokes $3 Australian a pack … … … I stocked up).
Today was the first day of formal dining at night and after a delayed delivery on my suit which had to be ironed, and a cold shower (hot water problems – since fixed) we wandered down and enjoyed a formal meal. The food was excellent and I may be forced to re think the food situation. I have not been exactly enthusiastic about the food and the service during meals has been abysmally slow. We are starting to wonder whether this is regarded as a training run to get the waiters ready for the USA cruises where the service would have to be a lot better. We are seated with Australians from Sydney for dinner. One is a retired school principal so once again Adrian cannot escape from teachers. There are 1752 Australians on the cruise and that is the market they are targeting. They will need to lift their game for favorable reports. People are allowed to smoke inside parts of the ship which means there are some parts I can’t go too. This alone would stop me from cruising with MSC again.
Today was the first day of formal dining at night and after a delayed delivery on my suit which had to be ironed, and a cold shower (hot water problems – since fixed) we wandered down and enjoyed a formal meal. The food was excellent and I may be forced to re think the food situation. I have not been exactly enthusiastic about the food and the service during meals has been abysmally slow. We are starting to wonder whether this is regarded as a training run to get the waiters ready for the USA cruises where the service would have to be a lot better. We are seated with Australians from Sydney for dinner. One is a retired school principal so once again Adrian cannot escape from teachers. There are 1752 Australians on the cruise and that is the market they are targeting. They will need to lift their game for favorable reports. People are allowed to smoke inside parts of the ship which means there are some parts I can’t go too. This alone would stop me from cruising with MSC again.
Sunday 5th September
Early morning arrival in Copenhagen but we were in no hurry to do tours as we had decide to wander around town on our own.
Got off the boat and we saw a hop on hop off bus so we tried to catch that. They would accept Visa so I went back on the boat to get it. When I got back they decided that they do not accept visa. But I had left 40 Euros in the cabin when I went for the visa an only had 20 in my pocket. Someone told us about the free train to town, so we caught that and wandered through the town. A pretty town with the look of Copenhagen, with lots on bikes on the roads and trains. The military were in town celebrating withdrawing from Afghanistan. At the palace there were army people and bands. No high-rise in the town and nothing over 5 stories. We spoke to a local who said that Sweden has a very high building and Copenhagen is thinking of doing the same. They are very used to cruise ships here as we followed the thin blue line all the way to the train station. Down by the waterfront, we just wandering through the streets enjoying the first hot day with clear skies since forever. Two 5 euro cups of coffee and we were off again and we wandered up to the Kings Gardens. I thought we had been swindled with the coffee but we met someone and they said they had paid 10 for a coffee – Denmark, like Sweden and Finland, are not cheap places to live or visit.
We really enjoyed wandering through the town. We did this a lot in Europe on the bus trip and we still enjoy it.
Got off the boat and we saw a hop on hop off bus so we tried to catch that. They would accept Visa so I went back on the boat to get it. When I got back they decided that they do not accept visa. But I had left 40 Euros in the cabin when I went for the visa an only had 20 in my pocket. Someone told us about the free train to town, so we caught that and wandered through the town. A pretty town with the look of Copenhagen, with lots on bikes on the roads and trains. The military were in town celebrating withdrawing from Afghanistan. At the palace there were army people and bands. No high-rise in the town and nothing over 5 stories. We spoke to a local who said that Sweden has a very high building and Copenhagen is thinking of doing the same. They are very used to cruise ships here as we followed the thin blue line all the way to the train station. Down by the waterfront, we just wandering through the streets enjoying the first hot day with clear skies since forever. Two 5 euro cups of coffee and we were off again and we wandered up to the Kings Gardens. I thought we had been swindled with the coffee but we met someone and they said they had paid 10 for a coffee – Denmark, like Sweden and Finland, are not cheap places to live or visit.
We really enjoyed wandering through the town. We did this a lot in Europe on the bus trip and we still enjoy it.
Saturday 4th September
Had breakfast and decided to try to catch the shuttle bus to the port, but no luck so we got a taxi. We were a little early so we left the luggage at the check in and we were told to come back at 1.30. When we did we got through very quickly and we on the boat by 2pm. No luggage till later but at least we were on the boat.
Our cabin is at the front of the ship and on level 14.
We eventually got the luggage and for the first time in 4 weeks we could unpack the clothes and put the bags under the bed – settled in at last.
Went to tea and after a long delay (more to come) we managed to have tea. The ship cast off and we are on our way to Copenhagen.
Our cabin is at the front of the ship and on level 14.
We eventually got the luggage and for the first time in 4 weeks we could unpack the clothes and put the bags under the bed – settled in at last.
Went to tea and after a long delay (more to come) we managed to have tea. The ship cast off and we are on our way to Copenhagen.
Friday 3rd September
We had a coffee by lake. Got the early “slow” train to Kiel
Taxi to hotel – 200 metres to hotel. Found out we were on 3rd floor - 25 steps per floor and no lift. We managed to change to a first floor room.Wandered around the town and went down to the port to see the boat but not there. Tea at Italian German restaurant – limited English.
Taxi to hotel – 200 metres to hotel. Found out we were on 3rd floor - 25 steps per floor and no lift. We managed to change to a first floor room.Wandered around the town and went down to the port to see the boat but not there. Tea at Italian German restaurant – limited English.
Thursday 2nd Sept.
Found another cheap café for brekky and headed into town on foot armed with our map. We ran into Australians from the bus tour who are also headed for the cruise. Their fast train had reached speeds of 240km/h! Not that it’s a competition! They, like us just want to be on the cruise.
Adrian and I spent about 4 hours wandering around Hamburg. We went down to the docks and kept walking over lots of bridges as there are little islands. Some of it had a bit of a look of Amsterdam about it.
We found The Rathaus [The Townhall] in the middle of the square. Not as pretty as many we have seen but busy. We were near the water and there seemed to be setting up for a festival. Lots of food and drink stalls and stages for entertainment. We continued walking all around the water to make our way back to the hotel we passed some schools. The school day appears to finish at 2.00pm. Not sure what time they start. They even organized a fireworks display for us. Part of a four day festival and we had a good view from our room on the 15th floor.
Adrian and I spent about 4 hours wandering around Hamburg. We went down to the docks and kept walking over lots of bridges as there are little islands. Some of it had a bit of a look of Amsterdam about it.
We found The Rathaus [The Townhall] in the middle of the square. Not as pretty as many we have seen but busy. We were near the water and there seemed to be setting up for a festival. Lots of food and drink stalls and stages for entertainment. We continued walking all around the water to make our way back to the hotel we passed some schools. The school day appears to finish at 2.00pm. Not sure what time they start. They even organized a fireworks display for us. Part of a four day festival and we had a good view from our room on the 15th floor.
Wednesday 1st September
Today we found a Laundromat [washeri]! Very exciting. After our brekky at the café next door, run by the Turkish lady [so much food we had leftovers for lunch] we headed off to the laundromat. A bit further then we originally thought but we arrived. Who should we meet there but fellow Aussies from Forbes and Central coast. People from Forbes know Sharon Dixon’s sister from Forbes. It’s a small world! They were travelling all over Europe by train enjoying themselves very much.
We had just enough time to check out of the hotel and catch a taxi to the train station. Worked out much the same price as two trains.
There were TV cameras and reporters all over the place. When we figured out that they weren’t there for us we caught an earlier train to Hamburg.
Train again was exciting as we were travelling at 230km/h. doesn’t feel like you are going that fast. Only thing you can’t read is station name as you whizz through, very comfortable. No going through airports and security!! The stations show exactly where your carriage will be at the platform, very easy to do. Announcements in many languages.
Arrived at Hamburg at 4.00. Very busy. School appears to have gone back and people everywhere. We walked to our hotel through the red light district. Very unpleasant and dirty. It was as though we had arrived in a different country. People dressed very differently to those in Berlin. Found our hotel about ten minute walk from station. Very comfortable. Walked a different way and found dinner. We appear to be in the university area.
For the first time we are in a high rise on the 15th floor. We have a real bird’s eye view over Hamburg and too much of a view of the hotel next door with people who do not pull their curtains across when they should!
We had just enough time to check out of the hotel and catch a taxi to the train station. Worked out much the same price as two trains.
There were TV cameras and reporters all over the place. When we figured out that they weren’t there for us we caught an earlier train to Hamburg.
Train again was exciting as we were travelling at 230km/h. doesn’t feel like you are going that fast. Only thing you can’t read is station name as you whizz through, very comfortable. No going through airports and security!! The stations show exactly where your carriage will be at the platform, very easy to do. Announcements in many languages.
Arrived at Hamburg at 4.00. Very busy. School appears to have gone back and people everywhere. We walked to our hotel through the red light district. Very unpleasant and dirty. It was as though we had arrived in a different country. People dressed very differently to those in Berlin. Found our hotel about ten minute walk from station. Very comfortable. Walked a different way and found dinner. We appear to be in the university area.
For the first time we are in a high rise on the 15th floor. We have a real bird’s eye view over Hamburg and too much of a view of the hotel next door with people who do not pull their curtains across when they should!
Friday, September 3, 2010
Thursday 2nd Sept.
Found another cheap café for brekky and headed into town on foot armed with our map. We ran into Australians from the bus tour who are also headed for the cruise. Their fast train had reached speeds of 240km/h! Not that it’s a competition! They, like us just want to be on the cruise.
Adrian and I spent about 4 hours wandering around Hamburg. We went down to the docks and kept walking over lots of bridges as there are little islands. Some of it had a bit of a look of Amsterdam about it.
We found The Rathaus [The Townhall ] in the middle of the square. Not as pretty as many we have seen but busy. We were near the water and there seemed to be setting up for a festival. Lots of food and drink stalls and stages for entertainment. We continued walking all around the water to make our way back to the hotel We passed some schools. The school day appears to finish at 2.00pm. Not sure what time they start.
Adrian and I spent about 4 hours wandering around Hamburg. We went down to the docks and kept walking over lots of bridges as there are little islands. Some of it had a bit of a look of Amsterdam about it.
We found The Rathaus [The Townhall ] in the middle of the square. Not as pretty as many we have seen but busy. We were near the water and there seemed to be setting up for a festival. Lots of food and drink stalls and stages for entertainment. We continued walking all around the water to make our way back to the hotel We passed some schools. The school day appears to finish at 2.00pm. Not sure what time they start.
Wednesday 1st September
Today we found a Laundromat [washeri ]! Very exciting. After our brekky at the café next door , run by the Turkish lady [so much food we had leftovers for lunch] we headed off to the laundromat. A bit further then we originally thought but we arrived. Who should we meet there but fellow Aussies from Forbes and Central coast. People from Forbes know Sharron Dixon’s sister from Forbes. It’s a small world! They were travelling all over Europe by train enjoying themselves very much.
We had just enough time to check out of the hotel and catch a taxi to the train station. Worked out much the same price as two trains.
There were tv cameras and reporters all over the place. When we figured out that they weren’t there for us we caught an earlier train to Hamburg.
Train again was exciting as we were travelling at 230km/h. Doesn’t feel like you are going that fast. Only thing you can’t read is station name as you whizz through, very comfortable. No going through airports and security!! The stations show exactly where your carriage will be at the platform, very easy to do. Announcements in many languages.
Arrived at Hamburg at 4.00. Very busy. School appears to have gone back and people everywhere. We walked to our hotel through the red light district. Very unpleasant and dirty. It was as though we had arrived in a different country. People dressed very differently to those in Berlin. Found our hotel about ten minute walk from station. Very comfortable. Walked a different way and found dinner. We appear to be in the university area.
For the first time we are in a high rise on the 15th floor. We have a real bird’s eye view over Hamburg and too much of a view of the hotel next door with people who do not pull their curtains across when they should!
We had just enough time to check out of the hotel and catch a taxi to the train station. Worked out much the same price as two trains.
There were tv cameras and reporters all over the place. When we figured out that they weren’t there for us we caught an earlier train to Hamburg.
Train again was exciting as we were travelling at 230km/h. Doesn’t feel like you are going that fast. Only thing you can’t read is station name as you whizz through, very comfortable. No going through airports and security!! The stations show exactly where your carriage will be at the platform, very easy to do. Announcements in many languages.
Arrived at Hamburg at 4.00. Very busy. School appears to have gone back and people everywhere. We walked to our hotel through the red light district. Very unpleasant and dirty. It was as though we had arrived in a different country. People dressed very differently to those in Berlin. Found our hotel about ten minute walk from station. Very comfortable. Walked a different way and found dinner. We appear to be in the university area.
For the first time we are in a high rise on the 15th floor. We have a real bird’s eye view over Hamburg and too much of a view of the hotel next door with people who do not pull their curtains across when they should!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Tuesday 31st August
We were both wrecked by the past two weeks and we slept in till 7.30. Up the road to a small café for breakfast. There was enough breakfast (rolls, cold meats, boiled egg, and cheese) that we also made a couple of rolls up and we had them for lunch.
We caught the bus into town (10 minutes) and wandered around then took a hop on hop off bus for a 2 hours ride around the city. We had seen all of the places before but it was nice to seen them again.
We have been off the bus trip for a few days now and when we were wandering around Berlin, who should we see driving a tourist bus but Slavik, the driver we had driving our trip bus. Incidentally, 21 years ago, Slavik was Poland’s goalkeeper for the national soccer team.
We caught the bus back to or hotel and explored the area around us. We have dinner planned at a local restaurant. We will catch a cab to the station tomorrow as it will cost about the same as a bus and train ride and we don’t have to worry about making the right connections. Tomorrow is Hamburg.
We caught the bus into town (10 minutes) and wandered around then took a hop on hop off bus for a 2 hours ride around the city. We had seen all of the places before but it was nice to seen them again.
We have been off the bus trip for a few days now and when we were wandering around Berlin, who should we see driving a tourist bus but Slavik, the driver we had driving our trip bus. Incidentally, 21 years ago, Slavik was Poland’s goalkeeper for the national soccer team.
We caught the bus back to or hotel and explored the area around us. We have dinner planned at a local restaurant. We will catch a cab to the station tomorrow as it will cost about the same as a bus and train ride and we don’t have to worry about making the right connections. Tomorrow is Hamburg.
Monday 30th August
We didn’t make the Tiergartens. I (Adrian) have developed a bit of a chest infection so we went to the doctors. All went well and we proceeded to the apothakerie to have the scripts filled. We gave the scripts to the lady at the computer desk and she checked to ensure that they had all the drugs required. When she was sure they did, she hit the return key and they all popped out a chute near the computer. The whole thing – doctors and chemists cost less than it would have cost in Oz. It also poured with rain for most of the day and after the doctors we didn’t leave our room at the hotel till nearly 12. We left our large bags there and wandered through the town in the intermittent rain. We wandered through shops and visited various Koffee places.
We eventually went to the station and caught the correct train (not the train to Castro Valley – see earlier blog entries). This train unfortunately does not have wifi like the last train so will post it tomorrow if I can. We managed to the train up to 199 kph. The birthday girl had a number of calls and text messages and she started celebrating yesterday (as it was her birthday in OZ. She advises that she will continue celebrating tomorrow as it will be her birthday in the USA).Thanks for all the birthday calls. I had a lovely day. We had to have coffees and pastries and other yummy food.
We eventually went to the station and caught the correct train (not the train to Castro Valley – see earlier blog entries). This train unfortunately does not have wifi like the last train so will post it tomorrow if I can. We managed to the train up to 199 kph. The birthday girl had a number of calls and text messages and she started celebrating yesterday (as it was her birthday in OZ. She advises that she will continue celebrating tomorrow as it will be her birthday in the USA).Thanks for all the birthday calls. I had a lovely day. We had to have coffees and pastries and other yummy food.
Sunday 29th August
We were up at 6 o’clock, as usual. We had to be at the local railway station (bad Homburg) to catch the 8.08 am train to the main station in Frankfurt. We had walked the night before so we knew where we were going.
The first train ticket machine was not functioning and we had to go to the other side of the station to get our ticket. This meant going down the steps with our bags which are a bit heavier than when we started out then up the other set of steps. Eventually we got there and we managed to get the tickets and caught the train to Frankfurt main station.
We validated our tickets and, after a coffee, the train arrived on time and we boarded and departed on the ICE (Inter City Express). Very smooth – very fast - up to 187KPH. It may get faster on other trips.
Unlike the bus, we do not have to wait 2 hours for comfort stop. There is a WC on the train! Unfortunately both in our carriage were not working. All over Europe there are signs for the WC and dragon ladies to pay money to for the use of them. One of the girls fro Canada said she had not budgeted for toilets! We are actually on the train typing this. And now we aren’t – it is now 5.30pm.
We arrived at a bout twelve and found our hotel 100metres from the station. We couldn’t check in yet but we left or bags and went for a walk. Adrian could not have booked a better place in the city.
The hotel is in the old part of the city, a part untouched by the war. Heaps and heaps of churches, squares and old and new buildings with a variety of shops. Being Sunday, only the take-aways and restaurants were open.
Being a Catholic country, no shops are open on Sunday. Strangely enough, all the museums are closed on Monday. This being the case, we are not going to be able to see any of the museums, but we will be going to the Tiergartens to walk through the park. Had yummy dinner with veggies! These seem to have been a bit light on. But that is tomorrow.
The first train ticket machine was not functioning and we had to go to the other side of the station to get our ticket. This meant going down the steps with our bags which are a bit heavier than when we started out then up the other set of steps. Eventually we got there and we managed to get the tickets and caught the train to Frankfurt main station.
We validated our tickets and, after a coffee, the train arrived on time and we boarded and departed on the ICE (Inter City Express). Very smooth – very fast - up to 187KPH. It may get faster on other trips.
Unlike the bus, we do not have to wait 2 hours for comfort stop. There is a WC on the train! Unfortunately both in our carriage were not working. All over Europe there are signs for the WC and dragon ladies to pay money to for the use of them. One of the girls fro Canada said she had not budgeted for toilets! We are actually on the train typing this. And now we aren’t – it is now 5.30pm.
We arrived at a bout twelve and found our hotel 100metres from the station. We couldn’t check in yet but we left or bags and went for a walk. Adrian could not have booked a better place in the city.
The hotel is in the old part of the city, a part untouched by the war. Heaps and heaps of churches, squares and old and new buildings with a variety of shops. Being Sunday, only the take-aways and restaurants were open.
Being a Catholic country, no shops are open on Sunday. Strangely enough, all the museums are closed on Monday. This being the case, we are not going to be able to see any of the museums, but we will be going to the Tiergartens to walk through the park. Had yummy dinner with veggies! These seem to have been a bit light on. But that is tomorrow.
Saturday 28th August
Munich to Frankfurt via the romantic road:
Not so romantic but certainly great views. Lots of farming land and beautiful villages (“willages” as Linda our tour guide from Slovakia- would say) all along the way. Linda played lots of romantic songs for us. A 3 and a half hour drive, punctuated by a 45 minute break for morning tea, took us to Rothenberg (would I lie to you about a German town name?)
You can ride your bike along the romantic road as it is not the autobahn, more like a country road but still quite wide and reasonably flat. The scenery was really exceptional and the area is the start of the wine area in the south of Germany
Some of the buildings go back to 1352 – an apothecary building (chemist). The buildings were what you would expect to see in the German country side. The town square was one of the best kept we have seen. The city was not damaged by the war. No graffiti unlike Prague which was plagued by graffiti.
We had a 3hr stay there to lunch up, buy souvenir (which we did. Most other places we have just bought postcards) and take numerous photos. It was a lovely place with lots of woodcarvings, cuckoo clocks and also Birkenstock shops. Also on the hour under the town clock a window would open and two mechanical men would have their beers. It doesn’t take a lot to entertain us!
The last two hours into Frankfurt were a bit of a drag as it meant the end of the bus trip. The final group meal was on at night and we all said our goodbyes (some goodbyes more than once). The group was great and we made particular friends with three different couples from Canada so we have lots of people to visit and places to stay. May be a little while before we do this as we have a wedding to organize and enjoy!
Not so romantic but certainly great views. Lots of farming land and beautiful villages (“willages” as Linda our tour guide from Slovakia- would say) all along the way. Linda played lots of romantic songs for us. A 3 and a half hour drive, punctuated by a 45 minute break for morning tea, took us to Rothenberg (would I lie to you about a German town name?)
You can ride your bike along the romantic road as it is not the autobahn, more like a country road but still quite wide and reasonably flat. The scenery was really exceptional and the area is the start of the wine area in the south of Germany
Some of the buildings go back to 1352 – an apothecary building (chemist). The buildings were what you would expect to see in the German country side. The town square was one of the best kept we have seen. The city was not damaged by the war. No graffiti unlike Prague which was plagued by graffiti.
We had a 3hr stay there to lunch up, buy souvenir (which we did. Most other places we have just bought postcards) and take numerous photos. It was a lovely place with lots of woodcarvings, cuckoo clocks and also Birkenstock shops. Also on the hour under the town clock a window would open and two mechanical men would have their beers. It doesn’t take a lot to entertain us!
The last two hours into Frankfurt were a bit of a drag as it meant the end of the bus trip. The final group meal was on at night and we all said our goodbyes (some goodbyes more than once). The group was great and we made particular friends with three different couples from Canada so we have lots of people to visit and places to stay. May be a little while before we do this as we have a wedding to organize and enjoy!
Friday 27th August
The next day was Prague to Munich via an old town called Nordlingen, a walled city from the 13th century which was untouched during the war. We had a wander through the town, then on to Munich. Munich is town of old and new. Another glockenspiel! Some of the young ones headed to town for a drink and a meal at the Hofhaus. We were boring and went with a group to the local pub. The waiter was lovely and very patient with crazy tourists who have no idea about German menus. We had a great evening once again with our Canadian friends. Most Europeans speak English and put us to shame. We drove past the spot where they are setting up for this year’s Oktoberfest. Lots of beer tents already erected. Some quite old buildings and BMW and Mercedes are trying to outdo each other by constructing amazing buildings.
Thursday 26th August
Prague. We skipped the optional tour of the palace (palaced out) and wandered through the town. We crossed over Charles Bridge which spans the Danube, (lots of bridges here) this bridge is hundreds of years old and has statues all along it. One was of the crucifixion of Christ. Prague seemed poorer then some cities we have visited. There was lots of graffiti and many of the buildings needed cleaning and then a sealant applied but we think lack of money is the reason this has not happened. Once again in Prague we saw brides at the town hall. This was early in the day. They had photos taken under the Astronomical clack. An amazing clock which had a glockenspiel (spelling?) play on the hour. We took photos like all the other mad tourists. I am taking note of all the European wedding fashions Kath so you can be right up there with them. There are a few weirs across the river here and they make for good photos. We also found the church with original statue of the Infant of Prague. As children we only ever saw the statue with red clothing. Like the Black Madonna the statue has many outfits. That night we had a great meal with Czech food and entertainment. Adrian reinjured his knee (first time at the buck’s day cricket match) doing the Mazurka (a dance).
The food and entertainment was great. The red wine was a bit suss. When the waiter poured it from about a metre from the glass, a little bit was spilt and it turned the table cloth blue/grey. The taste was a bit like that also so I stuck to the beer. Speaking of beer, I haven’t found a beer in Europe that I haven’t liked. I stick to pilsner and they have been very good.
The food and entertainment was great. The red wine was a bit suss. When the waiter poured it from about a metre from the glass, a little bit was spilt and it turned the table cloth blue/grey. The taste was a bit like that also so I stuck to the beer. Speaking of beer, I haven’t found a beer in Europe that I haven’t liked. I stick to pilsner and they have been very good.
Wednesday 25th August
An early morning departure for the trip from Vienna to Prague. We arrived after lunch and did a tour through the city. We even found a hundred year old statue of Darth Vader. (See photo). Once again these cities are all beautiful; you just have to wander by yourselves. The town square as always was beautiful. This square did not suffer much damaged in the war but it was the site of battles over the years.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Wednesday 25th August
We managed to have another half day wandering through Vienna, while some of the others visited another palace. A great city to wander. Probably the smallest city of all we have visited on this tour - at least the city centre was almost totally traffic free. We walked back down to the markets and found the flee market section we missed yesterday. A few select purchases saw the morning out and we had a quick lunch and met the bus
The afternoon saw us making a leisurely drive to Prague in the Czech Republic. The others went out to do an orientation drive tonight, but we decided that we needed a bit of rest, so we stayed at the hotel. The exploration continues tomorrow.
The afternoon saw us making a leisurely drive to Prague in the Czech Republic. The others went out to do an orientation drive tonight, but we decided that we needed a bit of rest, so we stayed at the hotel. The exploration continues tomorrow.
Tuesday 25th August
An early departure en route to Vienna. On arriving we had an orientation drive around the city. In the afternoon we had the city to ourselves. Unfortunately we also had rain, but that didn't stop us tramping through the showers down to the markets then back through the centre of town. We managed to have a Vienna Schnitzel - the original article - see the photo for the giant size.
After another walk through the city we went back to the hotel for a quick shower, a bowl of soup and then off to a night of Strauss, Mozart and few other classical composers. We had the concert at the Cuzalon, in old fashioned style. Quite a good night.
After another walk through the city we went back to the hotel for a quick shower, a bowl of soup and then off to a night of Strauss, Mozart and few other classical composers. We had the concert at the Cuzalon, in old fashioned style. Quite a good night.
Monday 24th August
Our second day in Budapest
Orientation day around the Buda side of the river. (Budapest is the combination of 2 cities Buda and Pest).
We ended up in the grounds of the castle overlooking the city. We say a marzipan cake (thinking of wedding cakes) with 1400 eggs, 84 litres of cream and 34 kilos of sugar - see the photo.
We then spent the day wandering through the city. Budapest is an amazing city.
We topped off thr day by going out to a Hungarian meal up in the forrest outside Budapest
Orientation day around the Buda side of the river. (Budapest is the combination of 2 cities Buda and Pest).
We ended up in the grounds of the castle overlooking the city. We say a marzipan cake (thinking of wedding cakes) with 1400 eggs, 84 litres of cream and 34 kilos of sugar - see the photo.
We then spent the day wandering through the city. Budapest is an amazing city.
We topped off thr day by going out to a Hungarian meal up in the forrest outside Budapest
Monday, August 23, 2010
Sunday 22nd August
A long day in the bus for the trip to Budapest. We had our chance to sit at the front seat of the bus. Although we had a great view, the foot space was a trifle reduced and we both ended up with sore knees at the end of the day.
We drove through the Tatra Mountains. There really were not the mountains you think Europe would have, but they were mountains none the less. It was a long day and we were glad to get to Budapest at about 4pm.
We had diner provided at the hotel and when that was finished we were off for a night cruise on the Danube to see the views of Budapest. Truly great scenery and the photos do not tell the story. More tomorrow as we do another city tour. At last the weather is warming up and tomorrow promises to be the hottest day yet.
We drove through the Tatra Mountains. There really were not the mountains you think Europe would have, but they were mountains none the less. It was a long day and we were glad to get to Budapest at about 4pm.
We had diner provided at the hotel and when that was finished we were off for a night cruise on the Danube to see the views of Budapest. Truly great scenery and the photos do not tell the story. More tomorrow as we do another city tour. At last the weather is warming up and tomorrow promises to be the hottest day yet.
Saturday 21st August – Krakow
The obligatory city tour was first up and we visited the Jewish ghetto area. an area where Helena Rubenstein lived prior to moving to Australia. Roman Polanski also lived here and as a child he was sent to Auschwitz with his mother and father. His father managed to push him through a small hole in the fence with a small amount of money. Some Polish people looked after him till his father returned from the camps – his mother died in Auschwitz.
We spent the rest of the morning, after the tour, wandering through the city and its enormous city plaza (about 200 metres by 200 metres).
The afternoon Fay decided to stay around the city with other fellow travelers and I went of the salt mines. There is an 800 year old salt mine out of the city, still being used, and we investigated it.
The night time was a dinner the other side of town and we were forced to participate in various local dancing. It was a good night and a good way to forget the bad parts of the previous day.
We spent the rest of the morning, after the tour, wandering through the city and its enormous city plaza (about 200 metres by 200 metres).
The afternoon Fay decided to stay around the city with other fellow travelers and I went of the salt mines. There is an 800 year old salt mine out of the city, still being used, and we investigated it.
The night time was a dinner the other side of town and we were forced to participate in various local dancing. It was a good night and a good way to forget the bad parts of the previous day.
Friday 20th August
Today was certainly a day of two parts.
We left Warsaw and headed for Krakow. The morning stop was at Czestochowa. One of the highlights of the trip – the home of the Black Madonna. We were organized to have our own guide, Father Simon. He took us all through the Basilica, including through the congregation and walked along the side of the church, up past the altar, behind the altar then down the other side. We were allowed to take photos without flash.
The black Madonna Icon was at the back of the main altar. The icon is covered with only the face of Jesus and Mary showing through. The covers over the icon are changed to suit the occasion and religious seasons.
The areas were indeed beautiful and the church itself was magnificent. Photos were taken but they don’t do justice.
After lunch we visited Auschwitz Concentration camp. We went via BIRKENAU which was an enormous camp about 1km away, which could house over a hundred thousand people. Auschwitz was much smaller and held only about 5,000.
The tour was depressing and while we must remember what happened here, we never wish to return.3 million Jews and other “undesirables” died in the various camps throughout Germany held territory. 430,000 Jews came from Hungary and 300,000 from Poland. They were even sent from as far a way as Finland and Greece - quite some distance for 1930’s trains.
We left Warsaw and headed for Krakow. The morning stop was at Czestochowa. One of the highlights of the trip – the home of the Black Madonna. We were organized to have our own guide, Father Simon. He took us all through the Basilica, including through the congregation and walked along the side of the church, up past the altar, behind the altar then down the other side. We were allowed to take photos without flash.
The black Madonna Icon was at the back of the main altar. The icon is covered with only the face of Jesus and Mary showing through. The covers over the icon are changed to suit the occasion and religious seasons.
The areas were indeed beautiful and the church itself was magnificent. Photos were taken but they don’t do justice.
After lunch we visited Auschwitz Concentration camp. We went via BIRKENAU which was an enormous camp about 1km away, which could house over a hundred thousand people. Auschwitz was much smaller and held only about 5,000.
The tour was depressing and while we must remember what happened here, we never wish to return.3 million Jews and other “undesirables” died in the various camps throughout Germany held territory. 430,000 Jews came from Hungary and 300,000 from Poland. They were even sent from as far a way as Finland and Greece - quite some distance for 1930’s trains.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Thursday 19th August
I never realised how many kings there were of Poland, or how many paintings were made of them. There were quite a few and I think we saw all of them in the space of 90 minutes. All singularly ugly. Even the queens were touch and go on the beauty side, but marriages were made for economic and political reasons and that may be the reason.
Palaces, palaces, paintings, plaques, palaces, pretty plazas, pizzas and piazzas and ... oh did I mention palaces.
It was up and at 'em this morning. We did a three hours drive around the city, with everything being pointed out by the local guide, including picture from a glossy book he kept producing, and, oh, did I mention it was his book and could be purchased.
I must admit he knew his stuff and was very passionate. There were some very beautiful buildings and parks and plazas. Most of the buildings in Warsaw were built since WWII.
85% of Warsaw was flattened by the Germans before they withdrew and most of the rebuilding was undertaken by the Russians. Unfortunately their architectural flare had well and truly burnt out before they started the building.
The original 15% of the city not burnt or blown up was beautiful.
We also saw the railway station where over 1500 Jews were sent to the concentration camps every week. 300,000 Jews were sent to the camps from Warsaw. 6 million people died in Poland during the war. 800,000 were Jews and 2million Polish people were killed by the Russians.
A very thoughtful couple of days in the Polish capital.
The food has been great and the pastries have been beautiful with only a faint taste of sugar. The coffee is strong, the tea is English Breakfast, the cars are European (what a shock), the language is baffling, the spelling even more so.
The people are friendly and the cafes are all full (but they do smoke everywhere, even in the restaurants.)
We are off to meal with most of the fellow travellers at a restaurant around the corner.
Tomorrow we are off to Krakow (pronounced Krakoff) tomorrow with a trip to Auschwitz concentration camp on the way.
The odyssey continues!
Palaces, palaces, paintings, plaques, palaces, pretty plazas, pizzas and piazzas and ... oh did I mention palaces.
It was up and at 'em this morning. We did a three hours drive around the city, with everything being pointed out by the local guide, including picture from a glossy book he kept producing, and, oh, did I mention it was his book and could be purchased.
I must admit he knew his stuff and was very passionate. There were some very beautiful buildings and parks and plazas. Most of the buildings in Warsaw were built since WWII.
85% of Warsaw was flattened by the Germans before they withdrew and most of the rebuilding was undertaken by the Russians. Unfortunately their architectural flare had well and truly burnt out before they started the building.
The original 15% of the city not burnt or blown up was beautiful.
We also saw the railway station where over 1500 Jews were sent to the concentration camps every week. 300,000 Jews were sent to the camps from Warsaw. 6 million people died in Poland during the war. 800,000 were Jews and 2million Polish people were killed by the Russians.
A very thoughtful couple of days in the Polish capital.
The food has been great and the pastries have been beautiful with only a faint taste of sugar. The coffee is strong, the tea is English Breakfast, the cars are European (what a shock), the language is baffling, the spelling even more so.
The people are friendly and the cafes are all full (but they do smoke everywhere, even in the restaurants.)
We are off to meal with most of the fellow travellers at a restaurant around the corner.
Tomorrow we are off to Krakow (pronounced Krakoff) tomorrow with a trip to Auschwitz concentration camp on the way.
The odyssey continues!
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Wednesday August 18th
Well we have finally caught up with the blog after a few nights where wireless was virtually impossible. We have also had a few problems ith the German and Polish script. I think some of these European languages are drastically short of vowels. Perhaps they could do an exchange with some of the {acific Isalnd nations as they appear to have a distinct over suppy of voiwels.
A long day’s drive to Warsaw. It de3sn’t look all that far, but the autobahns of Germany only go to the Polish boarder. The roads from the boarder does nit allow any great speed. The Poles are trying to be incluyde3d in the European Community and to so this they have to have a highway system between the major cities and the boarders. They are in the process of doing this and there are many construction projects under way. Being a cold winter country, all construction has to be done in the Summer time - Now.
We were on the road early (7.30am) and with a few “comfort stops and an hour and a half for lunch we are still an hour out of Warsaw. It is 5.40pm.
Lunch time saw us at Poznam and very old polish town. A typical European town, built around the town square with cobble stones on all the town streets.
We managed to find a Belgian Burger joint, and we had an “Americanski Burger”. Unfortunately the meat started out frozen and was then deep fried. At least the bun, which also started out frozen, wasn’t deep fried. The taste remains. The chips were quite good and the pastry we shared after that was really6 good – not too sweet.
We finally arrived at our hotel in Warsaw at about 6.30pm. We had a prepaid meal at 8pm and it's time for bed.
A long day’s drive to Warsaw. It de3sn’t look all that far, but the autobahns of Germany only go to the Polish boarder. The roads from the boarder does nit allow any great speed. The Poles are trying to be incluyde3d in the European Community and to so this they have to have a highway system between the major cities and the boarders. They are in the process of doing this and there are many construction projects under way. Being a cold winter country, all construction has to be done in the Summer time - Now.
We were on the road early (7.30am) and with a few “comfort stops and an hour and a half for lunch we are still an hour out of Warsaw. It is 5.40pm.
Lunch time saw us at Poznam and very old polish town. A typical European town, built around the town square with cobble stones on all the town streets.
We managed to find a Belgian Burger joint, and we had an “Americanski Burger”. Unfortunately the meat started out frozen and was then deep fried. At least the bun, which also started out frozen, wasn’t deep fried. The taste remains. The chips were quite good and the pastry we shared after that was really6 good – not too sweet.
We finally arrived at our hotel in Warsaw at about 6.30pm. We had a prepaid meal at 8pm and it's time for bed.
Tuesday 17th August
Berlin
In the morning we had an orientation drive around Berlin. Among things other I learnt was that at The Humboldt university The Brothers Grimm were professors and they invented the dictionary. We had a local guide who gave us far more info then we could absorb.
We visited Frederick the Great’s burial spot. He was buried, not with his wife but with his 11 dogs. They all had their own plot with a cement top with their name on it. I’m sure Charlie would appreciate this.
This was a palace in the rococo style with beautiful gardens and some Greek style architecture.
We also went to Potsdam. , about half an hour from Berlin. We visited the place where the Potsdam agreement was made. The place was home to one of the crown princes of Prussia until 1940’s. It was a beautiful place with beautiful gardens, a lake and beautiful furnishings. It is now part museum and part hotel. It is now a UNESCO site. The rooms were beautiful and we were in the rooms that Churchill, Roosevelt and Stalin met and we were in the room that the agreement was signed. During the cold war it was behind the Berlin wall and the lake became part of no man’s land. Even the local people were unaware that the lake even existed.
We lunch in the middle of Berlin at one of the local restaurants and walked the streets see the war ruins of a church in the centre of town. Bombed during war, thee remains have been left in tact and a new church built next to it.
We have heard a lot about the goings on during the war and the cold war. The stories of the times of both were a bit chilling at times.
Berlin is a beautiful city and we look forward to returning at the end of the bus tour. We had dinner at a local Berlin restaurant. Thirteen of us walked a couple of hundred meters down the road to a local German restaurant and managed to make ourselves understood and had a great meal. Off to bed.
In the morning we had an orientation drive around Berlin. Among things other I learnt was that at The Humboldt university The Brothers Grimm were professors and they invented the dictionary. We had a local guide who gave us far more info then we could absorb.
We visited Frederick the Great’s burial spot. He was buried, not with his wife but with his 11 dogs. They all had their own plot with a cement top with their name on it. I’m sure Charlie would appreciate this.
This was a palace in the rococo style with beautiful gardens and some Greek style architecture.
We also went to Potsdam. , about half an hour from Berlin. We visited the place where the Potsdam agreement was made. The place was home to one of the crown princes of Prussia until 1940’s. It was a beautiful place with beautiful gardens, a lake and beautiful furnishings. It is now part museum and part hotel. It is now a UNESCO site. The rooms were beautiful and we were in the rooms that Churchill, Roosevelt and Stalin met and we were in the room that the agreement was signed. During the cold war it was behind the Berlin wall and the lake became part of no man’s land. Even the local people were unaware that the lake even existed.
We lunch in the middle of Berlin at one of the local restaurants and walked the streets see the war ruins of a church in the centre of town. Bombed during war, thee remains have been left in tact and a new church built next to it.
We have heard a lot about the goings on during the war and the cold war. The stories of the times of both were a bit chilling at times.
Berlin is a beautiful city and we look forward to returning at the end of the bus tour. We had dinner at a local Berlin restaurant. Thirteen of us walked a couple of hundred meters down the road to a local German restaurant and managed to make ourselves understood and had a great meal. Off to bed.
Monday August 16th
We left early Monday morning for the drive to Berlin. It was a long day but not the longest of the trip.
We stopped at mid morning, lunch and afternoon tea – about two and half hours between each break. I can’t believe the speed the cars do on the autobahns. I stopped at one of the breaks and looked at the cars speeding past. The buses and trucks are limited to 100kph and cars were barreling past doing at least 160-180. They all have a unique sound as they pass.
Lunch time was a one and half hour break at a pace called Weimar. For those of the historical bent, Germany between the wars was called the Weimar Republic. So after WWI the agreement for the democratic country was negotiated and signed at Weimar. A pretty little town with the menace being Buchenwald concentration camp about 4 KM away. Goethe, Beethoven and Hungarian composer Liszt all lived here at some time. Most of the village has been rebuilt since WWII.
The drive into Berlin was uneventful but the city is very large, being a combination of East and West Berlin. The hotel we are straying at (Ramada) is actually in East Berlin and has all the charm of a communist block of flats, which it was at one time. We have much nicer and better facilities then in communist Germany.
The people are very political and aware of there past. There are different viewpoints about the communist eras. A couple of our guides were children during this era. They can see issues for the older people especially who had no opportunity to plan for their future in the west.
You can certainly notice when you enter the old East Berlin as the buildings are mostly a dull grey concrete structures with no redeeming architectural qualities. One way to decide if you are in east or West Germany is to look at the pedestrian lights. In old East Germany the green light is a fat man and in old West Germany he is a skinny man!
On our way to Potsdam we crossed the bridge that was used for prisoner exchange during the cold war. It was over a beautiful river.
We also saw the Jewish monument. It consists of approx. 2,000 cement blocks on flat ground. They are all different shapes.
Berlin is very flat and has plenty of public transport to get around.
We went out to a Berlin meal last night. The food and drink was very good. Then we did a one and a half hour sight seeing tour (in our bus) and saw the Brandenburg gate, Check point Charlie (the border with East and West Berlin) and Reichstag (Parliament) building, along with many other sights. There will be plenty to see when we come back here at the end of the bus tour.
We stopped at mid morning, lunch and afternoon tea – about two and half hours between each break. I can’t believe the speed the cars do on the autobahns. I stopped at one of the breaks and looked at the cars speeding past. The buses and trucks are limited to 100kph and cars were barreling past doing at least 160-180. They all have a unique sound as they pass.
Lunch time was a one and half hour break at a pace called Weimar. For those of the historical bent, Germany between the wars was called the Weimar Republic. So after WWI the agreement for the democratic country was negotiated and signed at Weimar. A pretty little town with the menace being Buchenwald concentration camp about 4 KM away. Goethe, Beethoven and Hungarian composer Liszt all lived here at some time. Most of the village has been rebuilt since WWII.
The drive into Berlin was uneventful but the city is very large, being a combination of East and West Berlin. The hotel we are straying at (Ramada) is actually in East Berlin and has all the charm of a communist block of flats, which it was at one time. We have much nicer and better facilities then in communist Germany.
The people are very political and aware of there past. There are different viewpoints about the communist eras. A couple of our guides were children during this era. They can see issues for the older people especially who had no opportunity to plan for their future in the west.
You can certainly notice when you enter the old East Berlin as the buildings are mostly a dull grey concrete structures with no redeeming architectural qualities. One way to decide if you are in east or West Germany is to look at the pedestrian lights. In old East Germany the green light is a fat man and in old West Germany he is a skinny man!
On our way to Potsdam we crossed the bridge that was used for prisoner exchange during the cold war. It was over a beautiful river.
We also saw the Jewish monument. It consists of approx. 2,000 cement blocks on flat ground. They are all different shapes.
Berlin is very flat and has plenty of public transport to get around.
We went out to a Berlin meal last night. The food and drink was very good. Then we did a one and a half hour sight seeing tour (in our bus) and saw the Brandenburg gate, Check point Charlie (the border with East and West Berlin) and Reichstag (Parliament) building, along with many other sights. There will be plenty to see when we come back here at the end of the bus tour.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
Saturday 14th August
After a bad nights sleep (time zones were taking their toll) we had a late breakfast and caught then bus into the city. People very helpful. A man showed us a day pass so we have been in and out to the city twice.
Just after arriving in town we had a phone call from Kath and Sam saying that Sam had proposed. What a great way for us to start the day. Very exciting, and no more traveling next year – apart from the trip we have already planned, oh then there’s the trip to Queensland and …. We are very happy and excited for them.
We wandered around the centre of town and through the local Saturday markets. Saw what we thought were the typical European style flats, house and shops. Visited the local cathedral but we couldn’t actually go in as Mass was in progress – we will go back there tonight at 6pm. Went to mass. May have been a high mass as we had lots of incense and singing. The altar servers all wore the red long things with white surplices. The cathedral dates back to 780 and little of it was damaged during the war. Most others buildings were destroyed but have been rebuilt using old postcards. A very pretty city. People live in the city and lots of flower boxes everywhere. We are very close to the city with the bus stop straight out front.
Today the hotel sponsored some sort of sports event and there were people doing a type of absailing down the 24 storeys of the hotel.
Once again we tried to do an email to congratulate Kath and Sam on their engagement but the email here is not working properly.
Just after arriving in town we had a phone call from Kath and Sam saying that Sam had proposed. What a great way for us to start the day. Very exciting, and no more traveling next year – apart from the trip we have already planned, oh then there’s the trip to Queensland and …. We are very happy and excited for them.
We wandered around the centre of town and through the local Saturday markets. Saw what we thought were the typical European style flats, house and shops. Visited the local cathedral but we couldn’t actually go in as Mass was in progress – we will go back there tonight at 6pm. Went to mass. May have been a high mass as we had lots of incense and singing. The altar servers all wore the red long things with white surplices. The cathedral dates back to 780 and little of it was damaged during the war. Most others buildings were destroyed but have been rebuilt using old postcards. A very pretty city. People live in the city and lots of flower boxes everywhere. We are very close to the city with the bus stop straight out front.
Today the hotel sponsored some sort of sports event and there were people doing a type of absailing down the 24 storeys of the hotel.
Once again we tried to do an email to congratulate Kath and Sam on their engagement but the email here is not working properly.
Friday 13th August
The flight was uneventful, even if once again we were to make a delayed departure.
Once again we had tail winds and we landed on time. It was a delight to see us through baggage retrieval, and customs and immigration in about 15 minutes. We did customs and immigration first, then got our baggage and walked out. There were some people that were subject to a baggage search right at the last stage before release. The pigeon gentleman was not seen or heard during the flight. Cooooo …what luck.
Once outside we tried to call the hotel for a shuttle but no luck. We caught a taxi from the airport and went straight to the hotel.
The room was a pleasant surprise being a good size with a great view over the cemetery – more in a minute. The check in man was very helpful with maps, directions (a city bus stop etc and we got a free drink which we will use tonight at tea).
We had a little walk to get some lunch at a local café, which was interesting as everything is in German but the waitress spoke English. She was from Tunisia and beautifully dresses. Many of the women are very well dressed and the man more colourfully dresses then what you would see at home.
We walked back towards the hotel and across the road from the hotel is a cemetery. It is the most beautiful cemetery I have ever seen (and the jokes about everyone dieing to get in it can be true). The cemetery is totally surrounded by high walls, a bit like the secret garden. Apparently there is a cemetery so big in Hamburg that people take bus tours thru it.It was like a walk in the black forest, except there were very orderly rows of headstones. In Nu Yark they have the Yellow Cab Company, but in this city, the Frankfurters are a bit more reserved and not so bright and loud with their colours. They have the beige cabs. Strangely across the road from the hotel, in front of the cemetery, they have a taxi station – one wonders how many of the cemetery inhabitants use the taxis. The photos may tell the story.
The flight was uneventful, even if once again we were to make a delayed departure.
Once again we had tail winds and we landed on time. It was a delight to see us through baggage retrieval, and customs and immigration in about 15 minutes. We did customs and immigration first, then got our baggage and walked out. There were some people that were subject to a baggage search right at the last stage before release. The pigeon gentleman was not seen or heard during the flight. Cooooo …what luck.
Once outside we tried to call the hotel for a shuttle but no luck. We caught a taxi from the airport and went straight to the hotel.
The room was a pleasant surprise being a good size with a great view over the cemetery – more in a minute. The check in man was very helpful with maps, directions (a city bus stop etc and we got a free drink which we will use tonight at tea).
We had a little walk to get some lunch at a local café, which was interesting as everything is in German but the waitress spoke English. She was from Tunisia and beautifully dresses. Many of the women are very well dressed and the man more colourfully dresses then what you would see at home.
We walked back towards the hotel and across the road from the hotel is a cemetery. It is the most beautiful cemetery I have ever seen (and the jokes about everyone dieing to get in it can be true). The cemetery is totally surrounded by high walls, a bit like the secret garden. Apparently there is a cemetery so big in Hamburg that people take bus tours thru it.It was like a walk in the black forest, except there were very orderly rows of headstones. In Nu Yark they have the Yellow Cab Company, but in this city, the Frankfurters are a bit more reserved and not so bright and loud with their colours. They have the beige cabs. Strangely across the road from the hotel, in front of the cemetery, they have a taxi station – one wonders how many of the cemetery inhabitants use the taxis. The photos may tell the story.
Thursday 12th August
Up for breakfast at 9.30 and we then took the luggage to New York airport and booked them into a luggage storage area and caught the subway into “Nu Yark”. We then did Times Square, Broadway, the Jewish garment distract and lunch at a “real” Nu Yark deli – Roxy’s Deli.
Another hour or so wandering around the same area saw us draw the brief NY section to a close’ and we took the subway back to the airport.
There are some interesting things to do on the NY subway. You can do the Soduku book, read the paper or even read a book “The Idiots Guide to Subway Drug Selling”. There was a large gent wandering around with a plastic bag and someone bought a double pack of AA batteries – were they batteries or something more sinister – only the shadow knows. We were also serenaded by a young lady who decided that we would be blessed by her vocals and if we wanted to we could reward her financially. Unfortunately I had run out of the local currency and had no AA batteries to spare. After our carriage she moved forward to press her vocals on the next subway car. Blessings are sometimes missed in the day to day grind.
A great plus for the day was that we didn’t have to wear any warm tops – one of the few days (Since San Diego) that coats were not required.
We are now sitting in the terminal lounge waiting for our plane to board. I am watching a large well built man doing an impersonation of a pigeon complete with head movements. I worry that he bought some AA batteries on the train and got confused which batteries should be in the mp3 player. What worries me even more is that he will be boarding our plane. Stay tuned for the next exciting episode.
Another hour or so wandering around the same area saw us draw the brief NY section to a close’ and we took the subway back to the airport.
There are some interesting things to do on the NY subway. You can do the Soduku book, read the paper or even read a book “The Idiots Guide to Subway Drug Selling”. There was a large gent wandering around with a plastic bag and someone bought a double pack of AA batteries – were they batteries or something more sinister – only the shadow knows. We were also serenaded by a young lady who decided that we would be blessed by her vocals and if we wanted to we could reward her financially. Unfortunately I had run out of the local currency and had no AA batteries to spare. After our carriage she moved forward to press her vocals on the next subway car. Blessings are sometimes missed in the day to day grind.
A great plus for the day was that we didn’t have to wear any warm tops – one of the few days (Since San Diego) that coats were not required.
We are now sitting in the terminal lounge waiting for our plane to board. I am watching a large well built man doing an impersonation of a pigeon complete with head movements. I worry that he bought some AA batteries on the train and got confused which batteries should be in the mp3 player. What worries me even more is that he will be boarding our plane. Stay tuned for the next exciting episode.
Wednesday 11th August
Colleen and Kevin and Anne and Paul joined us for breakfast at our hotel. Colleen was again given some more things to keep at her place till we return, along with some dirty washing, that we hope will be cleanup prior to our return. After saying our goodbyes (no photos) we retired to our room and prepared for the great escape. We caught the correct
Bart train (with Ben’s assistance) and made the airport with 2 hours to spare – just enough time for all the rigmarole you have to go through. True to what has happened so far, the plane was delayed 35 minutes due to an odor in the plane – no it wasn’t me. It turned out to be a smelly case of melons in the cargo area (I think we had some of them this morning.)
Even though we were late getting away, we still only arrived about 10 minutes late – at the airport anyway. Local time 12.20 am. The baggage went missing for twenty minutes or so but we eventually got them and called the hotel to arrange the shuttle – 5 minutes away. After 35 minutes we rang again eventually after 45 minutes it arrived. When we got to the hotel we found that I had made a slight error in the booking and booked the following night. All was fixed and collapsed into bed at about 2am. Quite a day.
Bart train (with Ben’s assistance) and made the airport with 2 hours to spare – just enough time for all the rigmarole you have to go through. True to what has happened so far, the plane was delayed 35 minutes due to an odor in the plane – no it wasn’t me. It turned out to be a smelly case of melons in the cargo area (I think we had some of them this morning.)
Even though we were late getting away, we still only arrived about 10 minutes late – at the airport anyway. Local time 12.20 am. The baggage went missing for twenty minutes or so but we eventually got them and called the hotel to arrange the shuttle – 5 minutes away. After 35 minutes we rang again eventually after 45 minutes it arrived. When we got to the hotel we found that I had made a slight error in the booking and booked the following night. All was fixed and collapsed into bed at about 2am. Quite a day.
Tuesday 10th August
Trial pack day. Fay and I decided that a trial pack was the thing to do. We left lots with the Fehons. We had a quick trip to Costco because we had missed out on Monday!!! Colleen did a lovely surprise afternoon tea for me (Fay) for my birthday. She had little packet of piccolo bottles of Moet. She is minding them until our return Also she gave Adrian and I some of the packing cubes that are very useful when packing. Very spoilt.
Then we went with Ben to the ball game!
I (Fay) have become a big fan of the Giants. We left Concord dressed in fleeces but this was not enough! Adrian who never feels the cold was frozen.
It must have only been about 7 or 8 degrees, with a gale blowing. I bought at the merchandise shop a bright orange fleecy and put it straight over my other one. It was interesting getting it off. Previous to this I had my pashmina wrapped around my head and looked like woman wearing a burqua. We lasted until the seventh innings. We power walked to the station to keep warm.
A famous man once said of baseball; If a woman has to choose between catching a fly ball and saving an infant's life, she will choose to save the infant's life without even considering if there are men on base.
Then we went with Ben to the ball game!
I (Fay) have become a big fan of the Giants. We left Concord dressed in fleeces but this was not enough! Adrian who never feels the cold was frozen.
It must have only been about 7 or 8 degrees, with a gale blowing. I bought at the merchandise shop a bright orange fleecy and put it straight over my other one. It was interesting getting it off. Previous to this I had my pashmina wrapped around my head and looked like woman wearing a burqua. We lasted until the seventh innings. We power walked to the station to keep warm.
A famous man once said of baseball; If a woman has to choose between catching a fly ball and saving an infant's life, she will choose to save the infant's life without even considering if there are men on base.
Monday 9th August
For those in the know – Monday was Vacaville Day. I tried to hire a couple of cars to take all the visitors to Vacaville Outlets.
When I got tom the car rental place, they had no cars, and then I thought of a bus – none, what about some recently returned dirty cars – yes ….. then no, then the bus suddenly materialized. The Ozmeister returns. For those ignorant of the Ozmeister, we rented a 20 seater back in 1999 to take 15 of us to Yosemite.
This version was only a 15 seater but it stood 7 feet tall (sorry can’t do the metric conversion).
Prior to boarding, Ben decided to buy a bottle of water at the local drugstore. It would have cost $2 but he declined and paid $4 for 2 dozen bottles of the same water – such are the vagaries of the American system of food distribution and economies of scale.
We all boarded, with Colleen and the most genteel of the group in their car, we were off and hit the Vacaville outlets.
Once the doors opened, everyone disappeared in a different direction. We had a meeting set for 2 hours later, with much running to and fro across the vast expanse of the parking lot. After the lunch appointment was finalised, another hour was given to those who still hadn’t visited the other outlets across the road. It was a bewildering array of purchases and assorted bags that were placed in the back of the Oz and Colleen’s car.
We returned to Colleen’s and had a cuppa, sorted out which bag was which and we went back to the hotel.
We returned to C and K’s for tea with Kathryn’s relatives and all the Vacaville troops to celebrate Maria and Ray’s birthdays. Dinner for 8 turned into dinner for 22 adults and 5 children – as it does when the Dixons and Fehons gather. It was the full nine yards with birthday cake and the full works.
When I got tom the car rental place, they had no cars, and then I thought of a bus – none, what about some recently returned dirty cars – yes ….. then no, then the bus suddenly materialized. The Ozmeister returns. For those ignorant of the Ozmeister, we rented a 20 seater back in 1999 to take 15 of us to Yosemite.
This version was only a 15 seater but it stood 7 feet tall (sorry can’t do the metric conversion).
Prior to boarding, Ben decided to buy a bottle of water at the local drugstore. It would have cost $2 but he declined and paid $4 for 2 dozen bottles of the same water – such are the vagaries of the American system of food distribution and economies of scale.
We all boarded, with Colleen and the most genteel of the group in their car, we were off and hit the Vacaville outlets.
Once the doors opened, everyone disappeared in a different direction. We had a meeting set for 2 hours later, with much running to and fro across the vast expanse of the parking lot. After the lunch appointment was finalised, another hour was given to those who still hadn’t visited the other outlets across the road. It was a bewildering array of purchases and assorted bags that were placed in the back of the Oz and Colleen’s car.
We returned to Colleen’s and had a cuppa, sorted out which bag was which and we went back to the hotel.
We returned to C and K’s for tea with Kathryn’s relatives and all the Vacaville troops to celebrate Maria and Ray’s birthdays. Dinner for 8 turned into dinner for 22 adults and 5 children – as it does when the Dixons and Fehons gather. It was the full nine yards with birthday cake and the full works.
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Saturday 6th
Fay had a hair dressing appointment with Colleen and the girls so she went missing for a couple of hours in the morning. Ben and I went our separate ways and saw the shops and navigated through the mazes of bargains.
We caught the shuttle bus to the wedding - the bus the Fehon's had organised. The church was a large gothic grey block building run by the Dominicans. The wedding went really well and ll the appropriate people were either beautifl (girls) or handsome (everyone else). Picture will be posted but not today.
It was a small wedding, about 70. After the wedding, there was a walk of about 15-20 minutes to the reception place. Fay and I sat with Gene and Barbara through the wedding and they gave us a lift to the reception.
Beautiful building (a prep school rented out for recpetions on weekends) with great views over the harbour. The ambiance, guests and food and drink were great. We had a great time and got the shuttle bus home to the sf hotel. We went to drinks in the Fehon's and colapsed into bed.
We caught the shuttle bus to the wedding - the bus the Fehon's had organised. The church was a large gothic grey block building run by the Dominicans. The wedding went really well and ll the appropriate people were either beautifl (girls) or handsome (everyone else). Picture will be posted but not today.
It was a small wedding, about 70. After the wedding, there was a walk of about 15-20 minutes to the reception place. Fay and I sat with Gene and Barbara through the wedding and they gave us a lift to the reception.
Beautiful building (a prep school rented out for recpetions on weekends) with great views over the harbour. The ambiance, guests and food and drink were great. We had a great time and got the shuttle bus home to the sf hotel. We went to drinks in the Fehon's and colapsed into bed.
Thursday 5th August
We still had the car so we went to the local Ross and Marshall's an did a bit of shopping. We had to return car by 12.30 and managed to do that about 5 minutes walk from the hotel in Walnut Creek. Fay had the girl's night our in SF so she departed with Colleen and half a dozen others and took the BART into SF. They had the night at a restaurant next to the place the bucks night happened the night before. Ben and I went to happy hour (free drinks and nibbles from 5 till 7.30) then to Italian Restaurant. By the time we got there, we had decided that we would share a pizza. It it was an Italian restaurant that didn't do pizzas. We ended up getting paste dishes that were much too large. Another salutary lesson from the US. At about 11 I had to walk across the road to the Bart station to escort Fay to the hotel.
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Wednesday 4th August
A relaxed departure, 9am, saw us have an easy 1hr20min drive to Colleen and Kevin’s place in Concord. After an obligatory cup of tea (or 2 or three) our cars was used for transportation to transport people to the Buck’s barbecue and cricket game.
Because the young men were organizing the event, it didn’t quite go to plan. They forgot half the food (but not the drinks) and the barbecue utensils. The cricket game was a pleasant affair where everyone had a bat or two and a bowl, but it only last an hour or so as new had to catch the BART into San Francisco.
The place for the Bucks was a restaurant along Embarcadero. Kevin and I lasted till 10.30 and caught the BART home. Ben stayed longer and bunked on Justin’s hotel room.
The girls stayed home at C&K’s place then went shopping in Walnut Creek. The visits to Ross’ Marshall sans Nordstrums were a great success.
Thursday 4th August
Fay and I were up and had breakfast and out the door
After all we had some more shopping to do. Ross’ once again, Fry’s for electrical and we had to return the rental car.
A quick lunch at Quizno’s (Subway American style) and were back in the hotel room in time for Fay to shower and get ready into BART her way into SF for the girl night out.
Because the young men were organizing the event, it didn’t quite go to plan. They forgot half the food (but not the drinks) and the barbecue utensils. The cricket game was a pleasant affair where everyone had a bat or two and a bowl, but it only last an hour or so as new had to catch the BART into San Francisco.
The place for the Bucks was a restaurant along Embarcadero. Kevin and I lasted till 10.30 and caught the BART home. Ben stayed longer and bunked on Justin’s hotel room.
The girls stayed home at C&K’s place then went shopping in Walnut Creek. The visits to Ross’ Marshall sans Nordstrums were a great success.
Thursday 4th August
Fay and I were up and had breakfast and out the door
After all we had some more shopping to do. Ross’ once again, Fry’s for electrical and we had to return the rental car.
A quick lunch at Quizno’s (Subway American style) and were back in the hotel room in time for Fay to shower and get ready into BART her way into SF for the girl night out.
Tuesday August 3rd
Hearst's Castle - Servants' indoor swimming Pool.
Then onto US Highway 1 (The Pacific Highway right up the coast past Big Sur, an absolutely magnificent wild coastal area on the highway. Only pictures can tell the story and even then not completely.
We then continued our drive to Gilroy, the garlic capital of America, which you can verify by the steak Dianne air when you enter the town.
A long but amazing day.
Adrian forgot to mention the dead skunk in the middle of the road stinking to high heaven! Actually more then one. Ben is surviving being with his parents 24 hours a day!
With only 1hr 20minute drive to San Francisco tomorrow, we are almost there
Tuesday August 3
Well today was Camarillo to Gilroy via Hearst’s Castle and Big Sur.
It was a long day as we got to the Hotel at 5pm after leaving at 7.55am.
Hearst’s Castle is absolutely amazing. Owned by 1920’s newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, he bought every bit of art he could find – 2500year old Egyptian statues, 16th century Italian and Spanish art and installing a mosaic with 1.5 million Murrano glass tiles in an indoor swimming pool that no one wanted to use – s0 he said the staff could use it.
Well today was Camarillo to Gilroy via Hearst’s Castle and Big Sur.
It was a long day as we got to the Hotel at 5pm after leaving at 7.55am.
Hearst’s Castle is absolutely amazing. Owned by 1920’s newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, he bought every bit of art he could find – 2500year old Egyptian statues, 16th century Italian and Spanish art and installing a mosaic with 1.5 million Murrano glass tiles in an indoor swimming pool that no one wanted to use – s0 he said the staff could use it.
The buildings and grounds are amazing and from his front door he could see 40 miles into the distance and everything he saw, he owned.
Then onto US Highway 1 (The Pacific Highway right up the coast past Big Sur, an absolutely magnificent wild coastal area on the highway. Only pictures can tell the story and even then not completely.
We then continued our drive to Gilroy, the garlic capital of America, which you can verify by the steak Dianne air when you enter the town.
A long but amazing day.
Adrian forgot to mention the dead skunk in the middle of the road stinking to high heaven! Actually more then one. Ben is surviving being with his parents 24 hours a day!
With only 1hr 20minute drive to San Francisco tomorrow, we are almost there
Wednesday 3 August
The picture is a helicopter sucking up water to fight the bush fire near Big Sur.A relaxed departure, 9am, saw us have an easy 1hr20min drive to Colleen and Kevin’s place in Concord. After an obligatory cup of tea (or 2 or three) our car was used for transportation to transport people to the Buck’s barbecue and cricket game.
Because the young men were organizing the event, it didn’t quite go to plan. They forgot half the food (but not the drinks) and the barbecue utensils. The cricket game was a pleasant affair where everyone had a bat or two and a bowl, but it only last an hour or so as new had to catch the BART into San Francisco.
The place for the Bucks was a restaurant along Embarcadero. Kevin and I lasted till 10.30 and caught the BART home. Ben stayed longer and bunked on Justin’s hotel room.
The girls stayed home at C&K’s place then went shopping in Walnut Creek. The visits to Ross’ Marshall sans Nordstrums were a great success.
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Monday August 2nd
Off early for the drive to Camarillo about 45miles North of LA. It took 3 hours and was quite a drive as we drove through the outskirts of LA with all its associated traffic snarls - but 3 hours isn't too bad.
After checking in, we opted to go to the shopping outlets for a large slice of retail therapy - actually not an overdose.
We are now back in the room and will be heading out to the local shops for a spot of food, then a quick retire to bed.
Tomorrow is a long day in the saddle about 5hrs driving and a trip to Hearst's Castle.
After checking in, we opted to go to the shopping outlets for a large slice of retail therapy - actually not an overdose.
We are now back in the room and will be heading out to the local shops for a spot of food, then a quick retire to bed.
Tomorrow is a long day in the saddle about 5hrs driving and a trip to Hearst's Castle.
Monday, August 2, 2010
Sunday 1 August
Another day, another fun time in San Diego.
After a breakfast (Free) we were off to the San Diego zoo.
We spent nearly six hours roaming the vast expanse of the zoo. Lions and tigers and bears (oh joy! Lions and tigers and bears (oh joy! – See the wizard of oz for details). We did see some amazing things like The polar bear enclosure, hippos sleeping under water and an amazing free flying bird show including one of the birds singing “Old McDonald Had a Farm”.
Flamingos, bears, snakes, zebras, and the list goes on.
We found out today that yesterday was the coldest July day in SD since 1914 (63.3 degrees) but today was we were coming home it was 81, quite a change.
We had a snooze when we got home and while Ben slept on Fay and I went to the cathedral for 5.15 mass. Actually the SATNAV took us to another (incorrect) address but we quickly drove ourselves (without SATNAV) to the cathedral and we were only 15 minutes late. The mass was said by an Australian bishop – the bishop for weewak in New Guinea... He has a sister who lives on Higgins and is good friends with a couple who are from the Kippax parish.
After mass we headed to Little Italy in SD and had a great meal and walked the streets for 30 minutes then made our way home...
It is now time for bed.
Tomorrow we are off the Camarillo, a place about 30 miles North of Santa Barbara – a 3 hour drive.
_________________________________
Todays Funnies
Corduroy pillows are making headlines.
Is a book on voyeurism a peeping tome?
Dancing cheek-to-cheek is really a form of floor play.
Sea captains don't like crew cuts.
Does the name Pavlov ring a bell?
A successful diet is the triumph of mind over platter.
Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.
A gossip is someone with a great sense of rumour.
Without geometry, life is pointless.
When you dream in colour, it's a pigment of your imagination.
After a breakfast (Free) we were off to the San Diego zoo.
We spent nearly six hours roaming the vast expanse of the zoo. Lions and tigers and bears (oh joy! Lions and tigers and bears (oh joy! – See the wizard of oz for details). We did see some amazing things like The polar bear enclosure, hippos sleeping under water and an amazing free flying bird show including one of the birds singing “Old McDonald Had a Farm”.
Flamingos, bears, snakes, zebras, and the list goes on.
We found out today that yesterday was the coldest July day in SD since 1914 (63.3 degrees) but today was we were coming home it was 81, quite a change.
We had a snooze when we got home and while Ben slept on Fay and I went to the cathedral for 5.15 mass. Actually the SATNAV took us to another (incorrect) address but we quickly drove ourselves (without SATNAV) to the cathedral and we were only 15 minutes late. The mass was said by an Australian bishop – the bishop for weewak in New Guinea... He has a sister who lives on Higgins and is good friends with a couple who are from the Kippax parish.
After mass we headed to Little Italy in SD and had a great meal and walked the streets for 30 minutes then made our way home...
It is now time for bed.
Tomorrow we are off the Camarillo, a place about 30 miles North of Santa Barbara – a 3 hour drive.
_________________________________
Todays Funnies
Corduroy pillows are making headlines.
Is a book on voyeurism a peeping tome?
Dancing cheek-to-cheek is really a form of floor play.
Sea captains don't like crew cuts.
Does the name Pavlov ring a bell?
A successful diet is the triumph of mind over platter.
Time flies like an arrow. Fruit flies like a banana.
A gossip is someone with a great sense of rumour.
Without geometry, life is pointless.
When you dream in colour, it's a pigment of your imagination.
Sunday, August 1, 2010
July 31 - San Diego
Up and at 'em.
We were off to USS Midway Museum. It is an aircraft carrier commissioned in 1945 and has been restored and moored in San Diego Harbour.
Quite an impressive museum. We walked the whole ship with the headsets going giving explanations etc. Quite a few aircraft parked on the flight deck as well, all in pretty good condition but none in flying nick. We were there for nearly 2 hours and it was great.
We had a photo taken as we boarded and collected it as we left. The false backgrounds were added later. We also had to buy me a hat as I had left my hat in the hotel. We decided to buy a Tshirt/cap package - great except that when we got home the Tshirt was an XL but it must be a child's size - all very strange.
We then walked along the waters edge (all built up) with plenty of shops and food emporiums. We eventually had some lunch there and went home to crash for an hour or so.
We then drove to San Diego Airport to pick up ben at 3.15. His flight was delayed for 20 minutes or so, so Fay was dropped off at the doors and I did some circuits while he collected his bags. We came back to the room and we hung around for 45 minutes or so.
Off to the baseball - San Diego Padres versus Florida Marlins. A quick ten minute drive to the ballpark and an hours drive around in bumper to bumper traffic looking for parking - we gave up and went back to the waters' edge to grab some tea.
Ben was pretty tired and we weren't far behind him.
And so another day of adventure draws to a close.
We were off to USS Midway Museum. It is an aircraft carrier commissioned in 1945 and has been restored and moored in San Diego Harbour.
Quite an impressive museum. We walked the whole ship with the headsets going giving explanations etc. Quite a few aircraft parked on the flight deck as well, all in pretty good condition but none in flying nick. We were there for nearly 2 hours and it was great.
We had a photo taken as we boarded and collected it as we left. The false backgrounds were added later. We also had to buy me a hat as I had left my hat in the hotel. We decided to buy a Tshirt/cap package - great except that when we got home the Tshirt was an XL but it must be a child's size - all very strange.
We then walked along the waters edge (all built up) with plenty of shops and food emporiums. We eventually had some lunch there and went home to crash for an hour or so.
We then drove to San Diego Airport to pick up ben at 3.15. His flight was delayed for 20 minutes or so, so Fay was dropped off at the doors and I did some circuits while he collected his bags. We came back to the room and we hung around for 45 minutes or so.
Off to the baseball - San Diego Padres versus Florida Marlins. A quick ten minute drive to the ballpark and an hours drive around in bumper to bumper traffic looking for parking - we gave up and went back to the waters' edge to grab some tea.
Ben was pretty tired and we weren't far behind him.
And so another day of adventure draws to a close.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
July 30 (Again) San Diego
July 30 (Again) San Diego
Well we made it.
We were delayed at Sydney due to a late passenger and we got off the ground 45 minutes late.
We arrived at the scheduled time as we had big tail winds all the way.
Yet again, we had slight problems at Los Angeles at Homeland Security. The computers were down! Nothing ever seems to run smoothly for at LA.
Eventually we got through and caught the shuttle bus to the Avis Rental parking lot. They were really busy and there was a 45minute wait to be processed. But we eventually got thru and a gent went off to get our car. It wasn’t there. Back to the check in desk and we had to be assigned another car, complete with all new paperwork.
A 2 o’clock departure from there and we were finally on our way. By this stage we were getting a little hungry so we exited the freeway in Orange County (OC to those in the know) and went to a diner4 for lunch. Half an hour later we were back on the road but 40 miles from San Diego were we bumper to bumper into San Diego – don’t know why.
The motel is quite well equipped with fridge, microwave, iron and ironing board and plenty of towels. We managed to get a few decaf perc coffee sachets from the manager
By this point we are a little tired and we will head off for dinner and probably collapse into bed.
Now we are back after Dinner (Burp).
Apparently Emus are alive and well and have been placed on the menu of the local KFC-like take away in beautiful ndowntown SD (Well we are next to the SD naval base and it is very dodgey.
We ordered some chicken pieces etc and because of this, I may have to visit the local hernia specialists. The chicken pieces are the size of Emu legs. One of the chicken(?) wings would have to be folded to fit on an aircraft carrier. Fortunately (or not) I ordered the spicey version and that killed the taste of the meat. Are well you live and you learn.
And tomorrow is another day - the adventure continues.
Well we made it.
We were delayed at Sydney due to a late passenger and we got off the ground 45 minutes late.
We arrived at the scheduled time as we had big tail winds all the way.
Yet again, we had slight problems at Los Angeles at Homeland Security. The computers were down! Nothing ever seems to run smoothly for at LA.
Eventually we got through and caught the shuttle bus to the Avis Rental parking lot. They were really busy and there was a 45minute wait to be processed. But we eventually got thru and a gent went off to get our car. It wasn’t there. Back to the check in desk and we had to be assigned another car, complete with all new paperwork.
A 2 o’clock departure from there and we were finally on our way. By this stage we were getting a little hungry so we exited the freeway in Orange County (OC to those in the know) and went to a diner4 for lunch. Half an hour later we were back on the road but 40 miles from San Diego were we bumper to bumper into San Diego – don’t know why.
The motel is quite well equipped with fridge, microwave, iron and ironing board and plenty of towels. We managed to get a few decaf perc coffee sachets from the manager
By this point we are a little tired and we will head off for dinner and probably collapse into bed.
Now we are back after Dinner (Burp).
Apparently Emus are alive and well and have been placed on the menu of the local KFC-like take away in beautiful ndowntown SD (Well we are next to the SD naval base and it is very dodgey.
We ordered some chicken pieces etc and because of this, I may have to visit the local hernia specialists. The chicken pieces are the size of Emu legs. One of the chicken(?) wings would have to be folded to fit on an aircraft carrier. Fortunately (or not) I ordered the spicey version and that killed the taste of the meat. Are well you live and you learn.
And tomorrow is another day - the adventure continues.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Sydney 30 JULY
Well, the adventure begins.
After the Grandparents day at Luke’s school we left Canberra at about 1pm and drove to Sydney.
We checked in at our hotel, Formule 1 at Sydney Airport and in the rain we filled the car for the Friday rental return and headed off to get something for tea. We drove towards Redfern and found a great little pizza place, The Red Star.
Looking out our window we have a vista of high cholesterol, high fat take away establishments. Krispy Kreme and McDonalds beckons us to enjoy their ‘healthy” repasts.
We managed to have a coffee and donut at KK prior to heading back to the hotel. Earlier in the day we visited Maccas for a tea. A sign of things to come as we purchased 2 teas and, true to the American versions of tea, the “hot” water wasn’t and the warm mixture was a total failure. We have had this in previous visits to the states, so we will have to be more choosey.
Speaking of Krispy, we had a PA announcement this morning in the hotel that the fire evacuation alarm was a false alarm. This turned out to be quite fortunate as we didn't hear it in the first place - Krispy indeed!
On a positive note we can also see out the window, all the Gulfstream private jets parked across the road. I counted 7 plus other private airworthy gin palaces and a few of Rex’s Saabs and the B200 air ambulance.
We are now checked in and are in the Qantas Club lounge - The adventure continues!!
After the Grandparents day at Luke’s school we left Canberra at about 1pm and drove to Sydney.
We checked in at our hotel, Formule 1 at Sydney Airport and in the rain we filled the car for the Friday rental return and headed off to get something for tea. We drove towards Redfern and found a great little pizza place, The Red Star.
Looking out our window we have a vista of high cholesterol, high fat take away establishments. Krispy Kreme and McDonalds beckons us to enjoy their ‘healthy” repasts.
We managed to have a coffee and donut at KK prior to heading back to the hotel. Earlier in the day we visited Maccas for a tea. A sign of things to come as we purchased 2 teas and, true to the American versions of tea, the “hot” water wasn’t and the warm mixture was a total failure. We have had this in previous visits to the states, so we will have to be more choosey.
Speaking of Krispy, we had a PA announcement this morning in the hotel that the fire evacuation alarm was a false alarm. This turned out to be quite fortunate as we didn't hear it in the first place - Krispy indeed!
On a positive note we can also see out the window, all the Gulfstream private jets parked across the road. I counted 7 plus other private airworthy gin palaces and a few of Rex’s Saabs and the B200 air ambulance.
We are now checked in and are in the Qantas Club lounge - The adventure continues!!
Sunday, July 25, 2010
The Joke of the Day - A Sign of Things to come???
The birth of the internet
In ancient Israel, it came to pass that a trader by the name of Abraham
Com did take unto himself a young wife by the name of Dot. And Dot Com was a comely woman, broad of shoulder and long of leg. Indeed, she had been called Amazon Dot Com.
She said unto Abraham, her husband, "Why doth thou travel far from town to town with thy goods when thou can trade without ever leaving thy tent?" And Abraham did look at her as though she were several saddle bags short of a camel load, but simply said, "How, Dear?"
And Dot replied, "I will place drums in all the towns and drums in between to send messages saying what you have for sale and they will reply telling you which hath the best price. And the sale can be made on the drums and delivery made by Uriah's Pony Stable (UPS)."
Abraham thought long and decided he would let Dot have her way with the drums. The drums rang out and were an immediate success. Abraham sold all the goods he had at the top price, without ever moving from his tent.
But this success did arouse envy. A man named Maccabia did secret himself inside Abraham's drum and was accused of insider trading. And the young men did take to Dot Com's trading as doth the greedy horsefly take to camel dung. They were called Nomadic Ecclesiastical Rich Dominican Siderites, or NERDS for short.
And lo, the land was so feverish with joy at the new riches and the deafening sound of drums that no one noticed that the real riches were going to the drum maker, one Brother William of Gates, who bought up every drum company in the land. And indeed did insist on making drums that would work only with Brother Gates' drumheads and drumsticks.
Dot did say, "Oh, Abraham, what we have started is being taken over by others."
And as Abraham looked out over the Bay of Ezekiel, or as it came to be known "eBay" he said, "We need a name that reflects what we are," and Dot replied, "Young Ambitious Hebrew Owner Operators."
"YAHOO", said Abraham.
And that is how it all began.
In ancient Israel, it came to pass that a trader by the name of Abraham
Com did take unto himself a young wife by the name of Dot. And Dot Com was a comely woman, broad of shoulder and long of leg. Indeed, she had been called Amazon Dot Com.
She said unto Abraham, her husband, "Why doth thou travel far from town to town with thy goods when thou can trade without ever leaving thy tent?" And Abraham did look at her as though she were several saddle bags short of a camel load, but simply said, "How, Dear?"
And Dot replied, "I will place drums in all the towns and drums in between to send messages saying what you have for sale and they will reply telling you which hath the best price. And the sale can be made on the drums and delivery made by Uriah's Pony Stable (UPS)."
Abraham thought long and decided he would let Dot have her way with the drums. The drums rang out and were an immediate success. Abraham sold all the goods he had at the top price, without ever moving from his tent.
But this success did arouse envy. A man named Maccabia did secret himself inside Abraham's drum and was accused of insider trading. And the young men did take to Dot Com's trading as doth the greedy horsefly take to camel dung. They were called Nomadic Ecclesiastical Rich Dominican Siderites, or NERDS for short.
And lo, the land was so feverish with joy at the new riches and the deafening sound of drums that no one noticed that the real riches were going to the drum maker, one Brother William of Gates, who bought up every drum company in the land. And indeed did insist on making drums that would work only with Brother Gates' drumheads and drumsticks.
Dot did say, "Oh, Abraham, what we have started is being taken over by others."
And as Abraham looked out over the Bay of Ezekiel, or as it came to be known "eBay" he said, "We need a name that reflects what we are," and Dot replied, "Young Ambitious Hebrew Owner Operators."
"YAHOO", said Abraham.
And that is how it all began.
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