Our feet hardly touched the ground this week.
Monday off to Sheffield to stay with friends of Keith and Carol-a delightful couple who live in an amazingly gorgeous house.Felt like a princess for the first 24 hours till I got used to the opulance of the furniture etc.
Had a good day in Bakewell with K and C after we walked around Hardwick Hall which was closed-very pleasant heather covered moors and great peak district scenery. More suicidal sheep here too!The cheeky Bakewell ducks are still there in greater numbers than ever.
Next day off to Dale's relatives and older couple who live on the edge of Sheffield- again great outlook over the moors and beautiful scenery. Had a lovely lunch with them and caught up on the last 25 years- very pleasnt. Then we picked up a hire car and drove to Cambridge-did the bus trip -park and ride in on a bus for £2- keeps most traffic out. Most people seem to ride bikes there -medieval cities are not designed for cars. Great place to see-lots of interesting buildings and greens.Found an excellent B and B within walking distance of the centre (Canterbury House)and had a twilght walk to find dinner. Went to pub est 1758- which had good meals- River Cam along with punts and lots of wandering students in happy groups made C a terrific experience. This am went to see Kings College est before Henry VIII came to power but finished by him- amazing building-guess that is what it was meant to do!!
Headed to Ely- another great cathedral- diferent style but intersting to drive over the fens with their flat fields and occasional windmill till remaining. These were only drained 200 yrs ago- everyone punted around that area as it was swampy.Back at Thurston now -packed for Paris and France.
Friday, August 31, 2007
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Everygirls' nightmare
This is specially for the gals- Keith and Dale took me to Bury St Edmunds this am as they had secret mens' business with the car.
Last week I purchased a blouse at Marks and S and it was not good on so I want to change it.Searched the handbag for the card carrying wallet-gasp! Couldn't find it-what a nightmare- no money apart from £3 in change.Needed my card to change the blouse so no go.Shopping without option to buy is very negative.
Wandered around Bury looking at various shops and went to Waitrose where I had to buy Dale a new toothbrush as his had vanished from the side pocket of the case en route from Dublin. Being unfamiliar with the local currency at a crowded checkout to get the toothbrush-counting it out coin by coin to a sweet patient young thing was the second horror-why is a 10p piece larger than a 20p ahrr!
Last week I purchased a blouse at Marks and S and it was not good on so I want to change it.Searched the handbag for the card carrying wallet-gasp! Couldn't find it-what a nightmare- no money apart from £3 in change.Needed my card to change the blouse so no go.Shopping without option to buy is very negative.
Wandered around Bury looking at various shops and went to Waitrose where I had to buy Dale a new toothbrush as his had vanished from the side pocket of the case en route from Dublin. Being unfamiliar with the local currency at a crowded checkout to get the toothbrush-counting it out coin by coin to a sweet patient young thing was the second horror-why is a 10p piece larger than a 20p ahrr!
Saturday, August 25, 2007
Cork and beyond
Cork looks run down and dirty at first impression compared to the loveliness of green farms and vegetation in the west coast.Our journey to Cork from Kinsale following directions of our charming host in Kinsale was nerveracking to find parking- we did find some in the usual multistorey add on to shops.The wide streets and cute bridges seduced us in the end, and having 1/2 a day to fill after going as far as we could genealogy wise, improved our first impressions.
We had lunch in a rugby themed pub frequented by the local legal community- young buttoned up types hoeing their way thru beer and lots of carbohydrate- potatoes of all types. We chose the vege soup which was terific- hearty homemade and tasty.
Lots of signed rugby jumpers,flags and 1991 world cup match on TV completed the scene.
Off to the Cork jail- closed down 1920s but still a forbidding place- Pentridge style architecture and intact cells with life like dummies in and a good audio guide was a worthwhile experience- usual story- born poor you were in dire straits!Daniel o Connor's signature ws on a cell wall along with other recalcitrants who were Irish nationalists
Was a great walk back to town -good views of the whole place.Rendezvoused with Keith and Carol ( we had a seperate day).Headed to Cobh where we were booked in for a night. Missed the turn off and ended up in a town of small houses dominated by a cathedral almost on the water's edge-clean grey granite was a change from the city churches ( all that good fresh sea air?)Cute town where the Titanic last called before hitting the iceberg. Rang the B and B and the husband came to lead us thru the one way maze back to the band b about 3 km out of town in the country.Not a pretty house ( grey) the hostess was kind and chatty and suggested where we could eat. Rolled her eyes when we told her about Kinsale experience- probably unlicensed she thought.Rooms were clean, not glamourous but adequate.Had a bath- leaping around Cork on a warm day needed strong dose of water and bath gel- bliss!
Visited the Cobh heritage centre after a good breakfast- on the old railway station.
The displays of migrants' conditions in 1800's with sound effects , dark and a sloping floor were very well done. Models of sick vomitting people lying around in cabins of actual size gave an appreciation of horrible times they must have had when the sea was rough.Fortunately, smell was not imitated!
There were photos of the luxury ships of the day- first class conditions were amazingly sumptous-banquets, fine furniture, glass roofs and decoration++.
Models showed where the other classes and crew were housed-different story.Later 1950 liners' conditions were shown- similar to those I remember the country rels' cabins I saw as a child. Well worth visiting.
Off to our south coast drive to Wexford. Stopped at Waterford after diversion from highway due to a road accident. Did not bother with the crystal factory- good museum there- Viking remains, combs etc. in a well laid out display. Great audio guide again. Brought home how vulnerable these people were to invaders- Viking or British etc.Depending on religion- who was in power, abbeys,families castles were laid to ruin. Many relics of conflicts litter the coast- towers, churches and walls of now non existent settlements. Coastal scenery pleasant to drive through and roads a bit better than the west coast generally.Reached our destination at Killiane castle- another relic built in 1476 to whch a 1920 extension has been added- 3 storeys and no lift could challenge some case carrying people.Decoration English country house style and a lovely room overlooking sea and fields of green augered well.Recommended pub down the road served great Dublin bay prawns for dinner. Went for the farm walk after dinner- serious mud and midges!Saw the fat chooks and hot house with our breakfast tomatoes growing.Cows and a happy bull completed the livestock.
After a good sleep, packed and went to breakfast. Had excellent pancakes with maple syrup and bacon- not as nasty as you'd expect!The owner John Mertagh is allowed by his family to serve breakfast and is a delightful chap who invited us to climb the old tower before we left. There are plans to restore it and Irish tax Law allows people concessions to restore ancient properties, provided they are open for two hours a day to the public.I am not in love with heights but gave myself a good talking to and climbed the stone stairs about 2 ft wide- winding up it to the top. Rooms came off at intervals- musty and showing signs of years of neglect-on the roof were stone rafters and you could walk around the edge looking over the battlements- really interesting to look at the structure close up.
Called into Wexford for an internet check no flight problems! and wander- nice little place.
Took the scenic route thru the hills of Wicklow-green fields, trees and heather on the hills-lunched at a gourmet deli wine shop Learmonth -best -fresh baguette salad.excellent capuccino. on the miliatary trail put in by the British in 1700s to chase the Irish rebels.
Off we went- a trip to Dublin about 2 hrs away so we had time for a stop. Decided on Powerscourt garden as it was a lovely day and our guide to Ireland suggested it was the best garden to see.Had to agree- stunning layout-visit if you can.Amazing what lots of money and taste can do.Saw a lawn like green velvet-100s of yards wide and long with manicured plants and flower beds. Pet cemetery (horses and dogs)was idiosyncratic touch.After a good wander and lots of photos headed off to get to the airport by 7 for our flight home at 915pm. Roadworks on the freeway that circle Dublin meant we were delayed for an hour- a trip of 20 mins took 80mins. Car had to be returned at 7- no signs- general confusion but somehow ended up there at 615. No problems Still we were there at Ryan air counter first to check in. Flight delayed till 2255!Could've gone to Dublin for a few hours had we known.Had the usual airport boredom alleviated by watching a rugby match of Ireland vs Italy- desperation!
Flight Ok - chatted to a chap who is a BMW mechanic in Ireland ( from Ilford in Essex) which was pleasant.Arrived back in Thurston at 2 instead of midnight as anticipated.
Have done the washing this am in anticipation of a busy week up to Derbyshire, Sheffield and Cambridge before we head to France for 3 weeks next Sat.
We had lunch in a rugby themed pub frequented by the local legal community- young buttoned up types hoeing their way thru beer and lots of carbohydrate- potatoes of all types. We chose the vege soup which was terific- hearty homemade and tasty.
Lots of signed rugby jumpers,flags and 1991 world cup match on TV completed the scene.
Off to the Cork jail- closed down 1920s but still a forbidding place- Pentridge style architecture and intact cells with life like dummies in and a good audio guide was a worthwhile experience- usual story- born poor you were in dire straits!Daniel o Connor's signature ws on a cell wall along with other recalcitrants who were Irish nationalists
Was a great walk back to town -good views of the whole place.Rendezvoused with Keith and Carol ( we had a seperate day).Headed to Cobh where we were booked in for a night. Missed the turn off and ended up in a town of small houses dominated by a cathedral almost on the water's edge-clean grey granite was a change from the city churches ( all that good fresh sea air?)Cute town where the Titanic last called before hitting the iceberg. Rang the B and B and the husband came to lead us thru the one way maze back to the band b about 3 km out of town in the country.Not a pretty house ( grey) the hostess was kind and chatty and suggested where we could eat. Rolled her eyes when we told her about Kinsale experience- probably unlicensed she thought.Rooms were clean, not glamourous but adequate.Had a bath- leaping around Cork on a warm day needed strong dose of water and bath gel- bliss!
Visited the Cobh heritage centre after a good breakfast- on the old railway station.
The displays of migrants' conditions in 1800's with sound effects , dark and a sloping floor were very well done. Models of sick vomitting people lying around in cabins of actual size gave an appreciation of horrible times they must have had when the sea was rough.Fortunately, smell was not imitated!
There were photos of the luxury ships of the day- first class conditions were amazingly sumptous-banquets, fine furniture, glass roofs and decoration++.
Models showed where the other classes and crew were housed-different story.Later 1950 liners' conditions were shown- similar to those I remember the country rels' cabins I saw as a child. Well worth visiting.
Off to our south coast drive to Wexford. Stopped at Waterford after diversion from highway due to a road accident. Did not bother with the crystal factory- good museum there- Viking remains, combs etc. in a well laid out display. Great audio guide again. Brought home how vulnerable these people were to invaders- Viking or British etc.Depending on religion- who was in power, abbeys,families castles were laid to ruin. Many relics of conflicts litter the coast- towers, churches and walls of now non existent settlements. Coastal scenery pleasant to drive through and roads a bit better than the west coast generally.Reached our destination at Killiane castle- another relic built in 1476 to whch a 1920 extension has been added- 3 storeys and no lift could challenge some case carrying people.Decoration English country house style and a lovely room overlooking sea and fields of green augered well.Recommended pub down the road served great Dublin bay prawns for dinner. Went for the farm walk after dinner- serious mud and midges!Saw the fat chooks and hot house with our breakfast tomatoes growing.Cows and a happy bull completed the livestock.
After a good sleep, packed and went to breakfast. Had excellent pancakes with maple syrup and bacon- not as nasty as you'd expect!The owner John Mertagh is allowed by his family to serve breakfast and is a delightful chap who invited us to climb the old tower before we left. There are plans to restore it and Irish tax Law allows people concessions to restore ancient properties, provided they are open for two hours a day to the public.I am not in love with heights but gave myself a good talking to and climbed the stone stairs about 2 ft wide- winding up it to the top. Rooms came off at intervals- musty and showing signs of years of neglect-on the roof were stone rafters and you could walk around the edge looking over the battlements- really interesting to look at the structure close up.
Called into Wexford for an internet check no flight problems! and wander- nice little place.
Took the scenic route thru the hills of Wicklow-green fields, trees and heather on the hills-lunched at a gourmet deli wine shop Learmonth -best -fresh baguette salad.excellent capuccino. on the miliatary trail put in by the British in 1700s to chase the Irish rebels.
Off we went- a trip to Dublin about 2 hrs away so we had time for a stop. Decided on Powerscourt garden as it was a lovely day and our guide to Ireland suggested it was the best garden to see.Had to agree- stunning layout-visit if you can.Amazing what lots of money and taste can do.Saw a lawn like green velvet-100s of yards wide and long with manicured plants and flower beds. Pet cemetery (horses and dogs)was idiosyncratic touch.After a good wander and lots of photos headed off to get to the airport by 7 for our flight home at 915pm. Roadworks on the freeway that circle Dublin meant we were delayed for an hour- a trip of 20 mins took 80mins. Car had to be returned at 7- no signs- general confusion but somehow ended up there at 615. No problems Still we were there at Ryan air counter first to check in. Flight delayed till 2255!Could've gone to Dublin for a few hours had we known.Had the usual airport boredom alleviated by watching a rugby match of Ireland vs Italy- desperation!
Flight Ok - chatted to a chap who is a BMW mechanic in Ireland ( from Ilford in Essex) which was pleasant.Arrived back in Thurston at 2 instead of midnight as anticipated.
Have done the washing this am in anticipation of a busy week up to Derbyshire, Sheffield and Cambridge before we head to France for 3 weeks next Sat.
More B and B entertainment
The good the bad and the ugly-describes the sleep over situation in Ireland.
We had the ugly and bad when we happened upon the Rose of Tralee festival on the night we were staying at the inaptly (?ineptly)named Grand Hotel- a Victorian hotel expanded to the next county via rabbit warren corridors and small poorly finished rooms-locks that didn't work,poor outlook ( garbage bins)and no parking.The ugly was our first b and b where our hostess with a lovely garden and immaculate house looked as though we were a nuisance when we arrived- couldn't wait to get us out for a meal and grab our cash. ( Athulmney Manor nr Navan)
Good were The last Band B Killiane Castle nr Wexford, SeaMount farm nr Bantry and Sheedy's Country house hotel at Lisdoonvarna and Fort View House Kinvara.
We were very happy with Buswells in Dublin- a lovely hotel!
The ambivalent feelings we had were about Glebe House in Kinsale- clean and adequate with a highly entertaining hostess, who could talk under wet cement in a broad accent- calling on the Holy Mother of God with regularity- hard to escape from!
Our host at Kinsale with the Blarney was making a killing from unwary tourists who book on the internet- room clean enough but the house ( his family home ) was barely clean and breakfast slapdash.
Still, we all survived and we met some interesting people. Recommended and best value were SM farm and Killiane, Fort View. Hotels Buswells and Sheedy's Don't go near Serenaville Kinsale.if you have strong ears go to Glebe House at Cobh.
We had the ugly and bad when we happened upon the Rose of Tralee festival on the night we were staying at the inaptly (?ineptly)named Grand Hotel- a Victorian hotel expanded to the next county via rabbit warren corridors and small poorly finished rooms-locks that didn't work,poor outlook ( garbage bins)and no parking.The ugly was our first b and b where our hostess with a lovely garden and immaculate house looked as though we were a nuisance when we arrived- couldn't wait to get us out for a meal and grab our cash. ( Athulmney Manor nr Navan)
Good were The last Band B Killiane Castle nr Wexford, SeaMount farm nr Bantry and Sheedy's Country house hotel at Lisdoonvarna and Fort View House Kinvara.
We were very happy with Buswells in Dublin- a lovely hotel!
The ambivalent feelings we had were about Glebe House in Kinsale- clean and adequate with a highly entertaining hostess, who could talk under wet cement in a broad accent- calling on the Holy Mother of God with regularity- hard to escape from!
Our host at Kinsale with the Blarney was making a killing from unwary tourists who book on the internet- room clean enough but the house ( his family home ) was barely clean and breakfast slapdash.
Still, we all survived and we met some interesting people. Recommended and best value were SM farm and Killiane, Fort View. Hotels Buswells and Sheedy's Don't go near Serenaville Kinsale.if you have strong ears go to Glebe House at Cobh.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
The south west of Ireland
After a great drive over the wild country- granite outcrops,heather hills and clifftop roads with even more death defying sheep, we arrived at gorgeous Bantry Bay coast and drove into Bantry town which has the most superb aspect overlooking the bay.
The B and B was on Goats head path- so we were expecting primitive area- how wrong we were-the best b and b so far- lovely house and excellent view with a great breakfast!Seamount Farm highly recommended should you be planning a trip to the area.
Again charming people gave us directions and the roads wound between hedgerowa full of wildflowers and fuschias.Off along the coast to Kinsale last night. Had to go to a cafe to get them to ring the owner to guide us- a real charmer with a Blarney stone influence. Bit like Fawlty towers but we slept well and had a good shower.
Kinsale is superb with lots of brightly coloured buildings and harbour that was very photogenic at dusk- mirrorlike water with boats of all sorts.Had a lovely salmon dinner at Jimmy Edwards Pub-woodpanelled and atmosheric with decent food.
Arrived in Cork this am to do a bit of genealogy on the Reeves' who allegedly came from here no luck so far.Cork is less pretty than we expected but still interesting.Off to be tourists now.
Weather fine and coolish- grat for travelling,
The B and B was on Goats head path- so we were expecting primitive area- how wrong we were-the best b and b so far- lovely house and excellent view with a great breakfast!Seamount Farm highly recommended should you be planning a trip to the area.
Again charming people gave us directions and the roads wound between hedgerowa full of wildflowers and fuschias.Off along the coast to Kinsale last night. Had to go to a cafe to get them to ring the owner to guide us- a real charmer with a Blarney stone influence. Bit like Fawlty towers but we slept well and had a good shower.
Kinsale is superb with lots of brightly coloured buildings and harbour that was very photogenic at dusk- mirrorlike water with boats of all sorts.Had a lovely salmon dinner at Jimmy Edwards Pub-woodpanelled and atmosheric with decent food.
Arrived in Cork this am to do a bit of genealogy on the Reeves' who allegedly came from here no luck so far.Cork is less pretty than we expected but still interesting.Off to be tourists now.
Weather fine and coolish- grat for travelling,
Monday, August 20, 2007
Touring
After a great b and b at Kinvara- headed up to Connemara-aroung Galway and |North to a rugged interesting region with lots of brave sheep on the roads-death defying grazing.
Cute villages and variable weather. Headed back to the hotel booked Sheedy's country house in Lisdoonvarna- had a supurb meal there and then a good night's sleep in a lovely spacious room. Headed to the Cliffs of Moher- a stunning place with a fantastic visitors centre showing the geological development and natural features of the area- a virtual reality show- you being a seagull or a fish depending if you were above or below water level. Well done.
Off south to Foyle where there is a museum about flying boats a blip of history aviation wise - a plane there along with film and uniforms etc. of the time -late 30's to mid 40's. The mouth of the Shannon was ideal and these were used to fly diplomats etc. bet UK and USA and the fist transatlantic crossings.
Off to out grand hotel in tralee- what a nightmare- Therose of tralee festival was on- out st blocked off and sat nav useless!Parked the car then walked and had our dinner-finally unpacked at 9pm after much shenanigans (A useful Irish word!)Woke at 630 to the sound of rolling metal beer kegs- after the bar music session the night before.
Have driven today thru the most beautiful lake/mountain scenery with sun!
Cute villages and variable weather. Headed back to the hotel booked Sheedy's country house in Lisdoonvarna- had a supurb meal there and then a good night's sleep in a lovely spacious room. Headed to the Cliffs of Moher- a stunning place with a fantastic visitors centre showing the geological development and natural features of the area- a virtual reality show- you being a seagull or a fish depending if you were above or below water level. Well done.
Off south to Foyle where there is a museum about flying boats a blip of history aviation wise - a plane there along with film and uniforms etc. of the time -late 30's to mid 40's. The mouth of the Shannon was ideal and these were used to fly diplomats etc. bet UK and USA and the fist transatlantic crossings.
Off to out grand hotel in tralee- what a nightmare- Therose of tralee festival was on- out st blocked off and sat nav useless!Parked the car then walked and had our dinner-finally unpacked at 9pm after much shenanigans (A useful Irish word!)Woke at 630 to the sound of rolling metal beer kegs- after the bar music session the night before.
Have driven today thru the most beautiful lake/mountain scenery with sun!
Friday, August 17, 2007
Hire cars !
Rocked up to Murrays the Erocar agent about 10 after a giant Buswells breakfast and a lovely walk- chaos rteigned- ;Lots of disgruntled customers waiting for cars and muliple harrassed staff!Not a car in sight- allegedly hold up at Shannon airport- retired to a coffee shop as you do and rang the hotel to put our packed luggage in the foyer so they could relet our rooms.Walked back to Buswells and cooled our heels till the car arrived about 3 oclock-a day wasted in Dublin esp as we wanted to get to Newgrange and see it in p.m. Finally got to newgrange after C negotiated the Dublin one way system using SaTNAV TOMTOM-staff understood out plight and put us in the first group for Fri a.m so we went to our grand sounding B and B- turned out to be clean but basic- landlady in the wrong job.
Slept well and set off early to newgrange- amazing neolithic tomb-most interesting and then we set off for Strokestown Museum and house- a run down Georgian house with intact furnishings and kitchen-lots of children with slack parents were touching furniture, books etc. and eating crisps. Grrr!
Famine museum interesting. Had great mushroom soup for lunch.
Off to Kinvarra - peak hour traffic at end slowed progress and small fine rain but not cold.Arrived at B and B- lovely- Fort View.Had a great meal at Keogh's Giant oysters and great steak.
Slept well and set off early to newgrange- amazing neolithic tomb-most interesting and then we set off for Strokestown Museum and house- a run down Georgian house with intact furnishings and kitchen-lots of children with slack parents were touching furniture, books etc. and eating crisps. Grrr!
Famine museum interesting. Had great mushroom soup for lunch.
Off to Kinvarra - peak hour traffic at end slowed progress and small fine rain but not cold.Arrived at B and B- lovely- Fort View.Had a great meal at Keogh's Giant oysters and great steak.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Ireland- Dublin
Hit the road early with Keith and Carol to reach Stansted for the trip to Dublin on Ryan air-know our way round Stansted now!
Good flight and arrived to be well organised into a taxi with a lovely affable man who gave us good advice etc about Dublin. Our hotel surpassed my expectations- lovely room, excellent breakfast- all set in a group of Georgian houses- Buswell's is its name. The deal also includes 24hr bus passes which take in all the sites of Dublin on a hop on and hop off basis- so we took an orientation trip in the top of a double decker bus- the driver was extremely droll- making sick jokes and singing Molly Malone to us. Today went to Trinity college- again a clever young history graduate with a wry sense of humour took us thru the history and architecture of the college. We finished up seeing the book of Kells- an ancient illuminated manuscript- a personal wish of mine for many years- I was not disapponted. The lead up exhibition explaining the processes was interesting. Then thrill of seeing the library- Harry Potters Hogwarts library was modelled on it- the smell of old leatherbound volumes- pannelling etc.was terrific.
Off to another cultural experience at Guinness- again a very professional display of brewing and the ingredients for stout.Archivist searched unsuccessfully for my ggf's apprenticeship records there- We finished in the glasswalled bar on the 7th floor having a pint of the product-very pleasant and then we had no need for lunch!Off to explore more on foot- shops were very interesting-bookshops, food shops etc. then to meet George Reeves at the hotel- a possible relative on my father's side- a lovely man,so we set off to a couple of libraries and archives with him- again no luck!
Dinner in the bar of the hotel- food not bad as we expected-off to the countryside tomorrow.Weather cool with occasional shower-locals sick of rain they've had 64 days of it and no summer since April! Green is everywhere-intense beautiful and lush.
Good flight and arrived to be well organised into a taxi with a lovely affable man who gave us good advice etc about Dublin. Our hotel surpassed my expectations- lovely room, excellent breakfast- all set in a group of Georgian houses- Buswell's is its name. The deal also includes 24hr bus passes which take in all the sites of Dublin on a hop on and hop off basis- so we took an orientation trip in the top of a double decker bus- the driver was extremely droll- making sick jokes and singing Molly Malone to us. Today went to Trinity college- again a clever young history graduate with a wry sense of humour took us thru the history and architecture of the college. We finished up seeing the book of Kells- an ancient illuminated manuscript- a personal wish of mine for many years- I was not disapponted. The lead up exhibition explaining the processes was interesting. Then thrill of seeing the library- Harry Potters Hogwarts library was modelled on it- the smell of old leatherbound volumes- pannelling etc.was terrific.
Off to another cultural experience at Guinness- again a very professional display of brewing and the ingredients for stout.Archivist searched unsuccessfully for my ggf's apprenticeship records there- We finished in the glasswalled bar on the 7th floor having a pint of the product-very pleasant and then we had no need for lunch!Off to explore more on foot- shops were very interesting-bookshops, food shops etc. then to meet George Reeves at the hotel- a possible relative on my father's side- a lovely man,so we set off to a couple of libraries and archives with him- again no luck!
Dinner in the bar of the hotel- food not bad as we expected-off to the countryside tomorrow.Weather cool with occasional shower-locals sick of rain they've had 64 days of it and no summer since April! Green is everywhere-intense beautiful and lush.
Sunday, August 12, 2007
Prague
What a lovely city. Still showing signs of years of communism when away from the city centre and the tourist area, much refurbishment is occurring of elegant old buildings.
Dale had the flu for a couple of days but we had fine weather up to about 30 degrees.
First day visited the Mucha museum- terrific to learn more about an artist whose work I had admired for years-even Dale enjoyed seeing the theatre posters etc.
The medieval planning makes navigation difficult so we wandered happily through the picturesque streets along with thousands of other tourists all clutching maps. Our hotel was a tram ride from the centre though we walked in the 1.5 km the first day and home gain on our wits- I think 5km or so with some dodgy navigation- we did happen upon cute parks with old ladies in them and local activity so it was interesting. We also saw the TV tower which you can see from all over Prague close up- it has babies crawling up it ( actually sculptures) which is a bizarre concept- shouldn't surprise one in Kafka's hometown??
We went over the river to the castle and St Vitus's church ( Mucha had done one of the stained glass windows there)- superb gothic cathedral-worth a visit.Palace was bare but interesting and the torture chamber at D tower nearby was stomach turning- bad vibes+++.
Visited the Jewish area on Thursday- weren't meant to go in as there was a noisy American blocking the queue at the only place to buy tickets-spied through the wall at the overcrowded and overgrown gravestones under enormous trees. Had great lunch- cheeses and interesting breads with Stella Artois for a change instead of pilsner at Moules in the jewish area- great shops around here too- Cartier etc. plus classy tourist shops with exquisite glassware, garnets and crystals. Already have too much stuff so resisted temptation.Took lots of photos though!
Had not been to the fabled Wenceslas Square- only crossed it on the No 9 tram-so the last am went there strolled up to the National Museum and entered.Charming lady at the audioguides told us Casino Royale was filmed in the foyer- as the casino- certainly very beautiful decoration.
The displays were very interesting- meteorites, gemstones et. along with excellent ethnography displays from Bronze age through to medieval times-all well arranged and fascinating to us Time team fans! Zoology with the moa and woolly mammoth displays was also good tho the Australian animals were a bit threadbare-they need a decent ringtail possum which we would be glad to donate from our back yard!
Easyjet was fine both ways and we enjoyede our visit a lot.
Back in UK getting ready for the Irish trip on Tuesday- expecting cooler weather there-will be a change to have cold instead of heat and humidity.
Dale had the flu for a couple of days but we had fine weather up to about 30 degrees.
First day visited the Mucha museum- terrific to learn more about an artist whose work I had admired for years-even Dale enjoyed seeing the theatre posters etc.
The medieval planning makes navigation difficult so we wandered happily through the picturesque streets along with thousands of other tourists all clutching maps. Our hotel was a tram ride from the centre though we walked in the 1.5 km the first day and home gain on our wits- I think 5km or so with some dodgy navigation- we did happen upon cute parks with old ladies in them and local activity so it was interesting. We also saw the TV tower which you can see from all over Prague close up- it has babies crawling up it ( actually sculptures) which is a bizarre concept- shouldn't surprise one in Kafka's hometown??
We went over the river to the castle and St Vitus's church ( Mucha had done one of the stained glass windows there)- superb gothic cathedral-worth a visit.Palace was bare but interesting and the torture chamber at D tower nearby was stomach turning- bad vibes+++.
Visited the Jewish area on Thursday- weren't meant to go in as there was a noisy American blocking the queue at the only place to buy tickets-spied through the wall at the overcrowded and overgrown gravestones under enormous trees. Had great lunch- cheeses and interesting breads with Stella Artois for a change instead of pilsner at Moules in the jewish area- great shops around here too- Cartier etc. plus classy tourist shops with exquisite glassware, garnets and crystals. Already have too much stuff so resisted temptation.Took lots of photos though!
Had not been to the fabled Wenceslas Square- only crossed it on the No 9 tram-so the last am went there strolled up to the National Museum and entered.Charming lady at the audioguides told us Casino Royale was filmed in the foyer- as the casino- certainly very beautiful decoration.
The displays were very interesting- meteorites, gemstones et. along with excellent ethnography displays from Bronze age through to medieval times-all well arranged and fascinating to us Time team fans! Zoology with the moa and woolly mammoth displays was also good tho the Australian animals were a bit threadbare-they need a decent ringtail possum which we would be glad to donate from our back yard!
Easyjet was fine both ways and we enjoyede our visit a lot.
Back in UK getting ready for the Irish trip on Tuesday- expecting cooler weather there-will be a change to have cold instead of heat and humidity.
Sunday, August 5, 2007
Bury and surrounds
Had a lovely day with Keith in Bury yesterday- market stalls in the square and lots of people having a good time. Street jazz musos and lots of flowered boxes and lamp post baskets.
The cathedral grounds were spectacular garden wise-local disabled people maintain and plant it-Had a massage today at Clarice house to try to sort out neck- dodgy after plane I think.
D has the dreaded lurgie but nobly soldiering on-hope we get to Prague tomorrow.
The cathedral grounds were spectacular garden wise-local disabled people maintain and plant it-Had a massage today at Clarice house to try to sort out neck- dodgy after plane I think.
D has the dreaded lurgie but nobly soldiering on-hope we get to Prague tomorrow.
Friday, August 3, 2007
Suffolk continued
Beautiful weather today- sunny and not too hot. Keith and Carol have taken us to ancient church- nr St Botolph's grave etc. in Iken- 8th century with later additions and very quaint- highland cattle grazing nearby and nearly ran over a hedghog! We had a pleasant lunch at Waldingham overlooking an estuary- little sailboats, fisherman with interesting accents and colourful rowboats pulled onto the beach.
Dale has caught my cold- hopefully not too bad.
Dale has caught my cold- hopefully not too bad.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
Suffolk Hollyhocks
Our friends took us on a great tour today to Lavenham.This an interesting village where wool trade was wealth producing to the area- the guild hall is a fascinating museum of displays about production of wool and horsehair products as well as history of the area.The church was stripped by Henry VIII and the puritans finished the job but there are interesting tombs of families and lovely stained glass. The village is mostly half timbered houses- small scale and very cute. Hollyhocks out everywhere and all green and lush- really beautiful.
We also visited Kersey- similar cuteness but not as touristy. One house by the stream was built in 1490-still inhabited -if slightly derelict.Farmland around flat mostly with fields of mown crops- haystacks- some handmade dot the area. Spotted a large pheasant in a hedgerow- no doubt a good target for the shoot starting next week.This is largely a bit of the world that is isolated because it is not on the way to anywhere so is largely unspoilt.
We also visited Kersey- similar cuteness but not as touristy. One house by the stream was built in 1490-still inhabited -if slightly derelict.Farmland around flat mostly with fields of mown crops- haystacks- some handmade dot the area. Spotted a large pheasant in a hedgerow- no doubt a good target for the shoot starting next week.This is largely a bit of the world that is isolated because it is not on the way to anywhere so is largely unspoilt.
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Thurston Suffolk- near Bury St Edmunds
Quizzed at immigration- where were we going etc.?Had to produce return ticket!Keith and Carol met us at Heathrow and drove us via a series of freeways to their village 100k away- not a traffic light did we see.
The approach to the village was through a beautiful wood with fern undergrowth-pheasant shooting is about to start there and we think we glimpsed one.
Suffolk is beautiful- green and lush -surreal after Dubai adventure.
Spent yesterday relaxing and catching up with Keith and Carol- they have a beautiful house and garden.
Today walked around the lake at Ickworth- a National Trust house- geese dived onto the lake and we watched them bobbing about-much better trained than Australian geese who are often in attack mode! Garden superb and lots of wildflowers out- gorgeous!
Needed cash, so went into Bury to the bank- superb windowboxes and flower displays on lampposts and in garden beds on roundabouts- all maintained by local handicapped people brilliant idea.
Carol has more adventure planned for us-going with the flow!
The approach to the village was through a beautiful wood with fern undergrowth-pheasant shooting is about to start there and we think we glimpsed one.
Suffolk is beautiful- green and lush -surreal after Dubai adventure.
Spent yesterday relaxing and catching up with Keith and Carol- they have a beautiful house and garden.
Today walked around the lake at Ickworth- a National Trust house- geese dived onto the lake and we watched them bobbing about-much better trained than Australian geese who are often in attack mode! Garden superb and lots of wildflowers out- gorgeous!
Needed cash, so went into Bury to the bank- superb windowboxes and flower displays on lampposts and in garden beds on roundabouts- all maintained by local handicapped people brilliant idea.
Carol has more adventure planned for us-going with the flow!
Dubai
Had a great time there- jet lagged but such a fascinating place! Building +++ everywhere and traffic that flew along great roads built by the resident ruler for his people-dark windowed cars usually$WD's were the locals and all pulled over to allow them to pass- even at 120k per hour- no seatbelts but very skilful drivers on the whole!
70000 dollars must be paid to the family of anyone you kill on the road. Trucks travel at 60 k on the outside lane- penalty jail and deportation for the driver! Ruler has a benevolent dictatorship- announces a new law one day in the newspaper and that's it! Place is very safe-and despite 48 degree heat during the desert safari- i.e. sand skiing in a 4WD -we had a great time.
Visited the Gold Souk- amazing craftsman ship and every design you could imagine from discreet and tasteful to the truly OTT!
Some looked like gold steel wool, some like fine mesh. Rushed for time there 38 degC at 1130p.m.!
As we had the brother of a friend of mine showing us around we went to Hattah Fort and lake - looks like Afghanistan landscape with green lake!
Went to the Blue Souk-beautiful Moorish architecture and cheaper rug shops than Dubai!
Visited a new Shopping mall- no expense spared makes Chadstone look plain and small- has an Egyptian room, Tunisian room, Chinese Room ++ all with elaborate decor and chandeliers etc.
Fascinating history displays also about explorers,mathematics and astronomy.
Most building is less thn 3 years old and there are cranes everywhere. A metro is being built very fast and with 80% of the population imported to service the tourist, building banking etc.the locals have a pretty nice life I think. Would like to visit again in their winter when lower temperatures and clear skies- not dust from the desert blocking the sun.
70000 dollars must be paid to the family of anyone you kill on the road. Trucks travel at 60 k on the outside lane- penalty jail and deportation for the driver! Ruler has a benevolent dictatorship- announces a new law one day in the newspaper and that's it! Place is very safe-and despite 48 degree heat during the desert safari- i.e. sand skiing in a 4WD -we had a great time.
Visited the Gold Souk- amazing craftsman ship and every design you could imagine from discreet and tasteful to the truly OTT!
Some looked like gold steel wool, some like fine mesh. Rushed for time there 38 degC at 1130p.m.!
As we had the brother of a friend of mine showing us around we went to Hattah Fort and lake - looks like Afghanistan landscape with green lake!
Went to the Blue Souk-beautiful Moorish architecture and cheaper rug shops than Dubai!
Visited a new Shopping mall- no expense spared makes Chadstone look plain and small- has an Egyptian room, Tunisian room, Chinese Room ++ all with elaborate decor and chandeliers etc.
Fascinating history displays also about explorers,mathematics and astronomy.
Most building is less thn 3 years old and there are cranes everywhere. A metro is being built very fast and with 80% of the population imported to service the tourist, building banking etc.the locals have a pretty nice life I think. Would like to visit again in their winter when lower temperatures and clear skies- not dust from the desert blocking the sun.
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