Friday 29th April The Wedding Day
We decided to take the round trip to Mt Rigi and back this would be by ferry and train up the mountain and return by cable car. Whilst waiting for the ferry we were entertained by a squad of 6 aerobatic jets who produced some spectacular flying. 45 minutes across the lake to Vitznau where we got on the cable train which runs on tracks, with a third line in the centre, which is a cog with the corresponding male at the end of the train. Arrived at Rigi KULM which is 6000ft high melting snow on the way which had turned to ice. Had a light lunch with appelstrudel and brutworst and some red wine at the top. Took the train down to Karlbad to catch the cable car to Weggis where we caught the ferry back to lucerne
Saturday, April 30
Thursday 28th April
Could not have a pee at the station yesterday as we only had Euros. These Swiss keyboards are a pain in the butt. We had a late start and wandered around looking for a bank to change monez to Swiss franks. Visited the Gletschergarten of Lucerne which was very interesting. We saw various facets of the Ice Age. Lucern, 20 million years ago was a tropical beach. We saw fossilised animals of that age together with fish and shells, and ripple marks in sandstone shaped by waves and currents locked in the rock. There was also a fossilised palm frond embedded in rock, which supports the theory of Lucern being a palm beach. There was an area of boulders that had been dragged beneath the glacier as it was melting and these rocks formed holes in the rock, due to the pressure from the melting ice water. In the museum a little wooden house has been constructed and showed how people lived in the 1800 in Lucern. What beautiful woodwork. There is a large lion carved into solid rock in the garden showing he had been injured or slain. This sculpture was created in 1820/21 in memory of the Swiss heroes who gave their lives at Tuileries in Paris 1792.
On our way back to the hotel we hopped on the city train tour. We learned that Lucerne had a fire in 1993 which destroyed a portion of Chapel Bridge (originally built in 1333). The tower alongside the bridge was a jail and torture chamber in the 14th century.Switzerland verz pretty and green picture postcard. Old buildings in >Lucerne, originally known as the city of lights, are clean orderly 60,000 residents. People dress well and we have not seen any beggars. Switzerland we have found is not a member of the EU. We noticed in Amsterdam that banks do not have access to public unless upstairs, downstairs and locked doors. Must be a securitz issue.
ATM the way to go. We also visited the hall of mirrors at the garden - what a hoot but decided to come out, as it was seriously bad maze.
Could not have a pee at the station yesterday as we only had Euros. These Swiss keyboards are a pain in the butt. We had a late start and wandered around looking for a bank to change monez to Swiss franks. Visited the Gletschergarten of Lucerne which was very interesting. We saw various facets of the Ice Age. Lucern, 20 million years ago was a tropical beach. We saw fossilised animals of that age together with fish and shells, and ripple marks in sandstone shaped by waves and currents locked in the rock. There was also a fossilised palm frond embedded in rock, which supports the theory of Lucern being a palm beach. There was an area of boulders that had been dragged beneath the glacier as it was melting and these rocks formed holes in the rock, due to the pressure from the melting ice water. In the museum a little wooden house has been constructed and showed how people lived in the 1800 in Lucern. What beautiful woodwork. There is a large lion carved into solid rock in the garden showing he had been injured or slain. This sculpture was created in 1820/21 in memory of the Swiss heroes who gave their lives at Tuileries in Paris 1792.
On our way back to the hotel we hopped on the city train tour. We learned that Lucerne had a fire in 1993 which destroyed a portion of Chapel Bridge (originally built in 1333). The tower alongside the bridge was a jail and torture chamber in the 14th century.Switzerland verz pretty and green picture postcard. Old buildings in >Lucerne, originally known as the city of lights, are clean orderly 60,000 residents. People dress well and we have not seen any beggars. Switzerland we have found is not a member of the EU. We noticed in Amsterdam that banks do not have access to public unless upstairs, downstairs and locked doors. Must be a securitz issue.
ATM the way to go. We also visited the hall of mirrors at the garden - what a hoot but decided to come out, as it was seriously bad maze.
Thursday, April 28
Wednesdaz 27 April
Last night I managed to get a blog done in the hotel computer, same tonight but the letters are in different places as everything is Swiss. Did not realise that languages have letters at different places. We were up early as usual and as per usual (so Norton like) we left for the station easly, so caught the early train.As we moved into the countryside the much larger canals which were lined with lovely trees ran alongside the train line and we could see the container barges, plus side canals where stationary boats for residents are tied up. We saw our first ma collapsable bike - it reduced down to the wheels depth which folded back over each other and the seat was twisted down and the bar was the carrying handle. The man in the suit must have assembled at the other end and went on his way.
For some unknown reason after leaving Anaheim the first 4 carriages had to vacate towards the back of the train. Not easy moving with suitcase at 220 km per hour. We appear to have had a glich in the system. Changed trains at Frankfurt and had to stand until Mannehim. New train and another change at Basel and arrived at Lucern 4pm - even though we have had supper I still feel the rocking of the train. Weird. It has been a long day but have arrived at a really nice room - the hotel is part of Best Western and is very spacious. Have to change some money tomorrow as Switzerland only deal in Franks, not Euros like the rest of the Euro system.
Last night I managed to get a blog done in the hotel computer, same tonight but the letters are in different places as everything is Swiss. Did not realise that languages have letters at different places. We were up early as usual and as per usual (so Norton like) we left for the station easly, so caught the early train.As we moved into the countryside the much larger canals which were lined with lovely trees ran alongside the train line and we could see the container barges, plus side canals where stationary boats for residents are tied up. We saw our first ma collapsable bike - it reduced down to the wheels depth which folded back over each other and the seat was twisted down and the bar was the carrying handle. The man in the suit must have assembled at the other end and went on his way.
For some unknown reason after leaving Anaheim the first 4 carriages had to vacate towards the back of the train. Not easy moving with suitcase at 220 km per hour. We appear to have had a glich in the system. Changed trains at Frankfurt and had to stand until Mannehim. New train and another change at Basel and arrived at Lucern 4pm - even though we have had supper I still feel the rocking of the train. Weird. It has been a long day but have arrived at a really nice room - the hotel is part of Best Western and is very spacious. Have to change some money tomorrow as Switzerland only deal in Franks, not Euros like the rest of the Euro system.
Wednesday, April 27
Tuesday 26 April
Made an appointment for Rich to see a doctor this morning, as he had a bad night coughing and coughing. We decided to get it sorted before going any further, as it would ruin the rest of the trip.
Earlier we went to the train station to check our bookings for tomorrow to Lucerne - all set and we have been put on another train, which means we get to Lucerne at 4pm and not after 7, which we are pleased about. This afternoon we strolled around trying to find a bank - people only deal with the 'hole in the wall'which we eventually used. We ended up in Dam Square which is shops and shops and more shops and eating outlets!! Sat down to have a Dutch pancake for tea, the size of a plate - no one came to serve us - the girls preferred to play on their mobile phones, so we got up and walked out. Perhaps after dinner will see what we can find - can't leave Holland without having tried a pancake!! We had intended taking a Cocktail Cruise which took us up the canals and to the Red Light District, but the weather which has been so good for us, seems to be cooling, and with a lousy chest, not a good thing to be out on the water, so have given it a miss. We have an early start tomorrow, and thr trip about 8 hours, so will turn in early.
I forgot to mention the number of bicycles around the place which and the Lambrettas which appear to be the rolls royce of tracel. How residents do not end up under the wheels I do not know.
Made an appointment for Rich to see a doctor this morning, as he had a bad night coughing and coughing. We decided to get it sorted before going any further, as it would ruin the rest of the trip.
Earlier we went to the train station to check our bookings for tomorrow to Lucerne - all set and we have been put on another train, which means we get to Lucerne at 4pm and not after 7, which we are pleased about. This afternoon we strolled around trying to find a bank - people only deal with the 'hole in the wall'which we eventually used. We ended up in Dam Square which is shops and shops and more shops and eating outlets!! Sat down to have a Dutch pancake for tea, the size of a plate - no one came to serve us - the girls preferred to play on their mobile phones, so we got up and walked out. Perhaps after dinner will see what we can find - can't leave Holland without having tried a pancake!! We had intended taking a Cocktail Cruise which took us up the canals and to the Red Light District, but the weather which has been so good for us, seems to be cooling, and with a lousy chest, not a good thing to be out on the water, so have given it a miss. We have an early start tomorrow, and thr trip about 8 hours, so will turn in early.
I forgot to mention the number of bicycles around the place which and the Lambrettas which appear to be the rolls royce of tracel. How residents do not end up under the wheels I do not know.
Monday 25th April
We were up early to leave excess baggage in the hotel and after breakfast went round to Russell Square tube station to catch the train to Heathrow. We had to change trains as we left from Terminal 5. Whow the place is vast and that was one terminal. We sat on the tarmac for half an hour awaiting our turn to fly out to Amsterdam. Arrived at Schipol airport and caught the express train into Amsterdam Central, then a tram to hotel. What a pretty city and even thought the some buildings are old, they have a clean look - if that makes sense. Much history around and we've been for a stroll and being Easter, the crowds are everywhere, but to be expected. We had some spare ribs for dinner - damn near as many as a half a cow!!
Fairly late the crowds were sitting outside cafe hotels anywhere where chairs were available - just drinking and watching everyone else. We had a look at the boats/vessels cruising the canals - looks fun. Some of the small boats have organised picnic meals as they cruise the canal. Early to bed as we had a long day.
We were up early to leave excess baggage in the hotel and after breakfast went round to Russell Square tube station to catch the train to Heathrow. We had to change trains as we left from Terminal 5. Whow the place is vast and that was one terminal. We sat on the tarmac for half an hour awaiting our turn to fly out to Amsterdam. Arrived at Schipol airport and caught the express train into Amsterdam Central, then a tram to hotel. What a pretty city and even thought the some buildings are old, they have a clean look - if that makes sense. Much history around and we've been for a stroll and being Easter, the crowds are everywhere, but to be expected. We had some spare ribs for dinner - damn near as many as a half a cow!!
Fairly late the crowds were sitting outside cafe hotels anywhere where chairs were available - just drinking and watching everyone else. We had a look at the boats/vessels cruising the canals - looks fun. Some of the small boats have organised picnic meals as they cruise the canal. Early to bed as we had a long day.
Monday, April 25
Sunday 24 April
Happy Easter to you all - had a quiet day today. We spoke to Wayne on skype but unable to make contact with Glenn & Carleen -must be out.We went down to Covent Garden and found a small bag for me and wandered around the craft stalls - very interesting. Most shops closed today so returned to the hotel and packed up for the trip to Amsterdam tomorrow. We have been allowed to store our excess baggage here, while away for a week for a small fee. We have been dividing up what to leave and what to take, and sure as hell we will find that something should have gone with us. Still hot in spite of the rain last night. White bodies still strewn around the parks!!
At this stage we are not sure we will have communication for the next week, as we are not going out to buy another USB stick for the internet. If possible we will attempt to keep the blog going on an Internet cafe site.
Happy Easter to you all - had a quiet day today. We spoke to Wayne on skype but unable to make contact with Glenn & Carleen -must be out.We went down to Covent Garden and found a small bag for me and wandered around the craft stalls - very interesting. Most shops closed today so returned to the hotel and packed up for the trip to Amsterdam tomorrow. We have been allowed to store our excess baggage here, while away for a week for a small fee. We have been dividing up what to leave and what to take, and sure as hell we will find that something should have gone with us. Still hot in spite of the rain last night. White bodies still strewn around the parks!!
At this stage we are not sure we will have communication for the next week, as we are not going out to buy another USB stick for the internet. If possible we will attempt to keep the blog going on an Internet cafe site.
Sunday, April 24
Saturday 23rd April:
Caught our bus, no. 91 to Trafalgar Square, then tube from Charing Cross to Kew Gardens. Kew seems to be a really nice area - posh cars, I mean posh - we were early for opening time & sat & waited in the quiet. What a beautiful setting throughout Kew Gardens, lots of annuals in segregated colours giving a gorgious effect. We found a very old Cycad in a glass house which was over 200 years old. It was a Cycad collected in 1773 on the shores of Eastern Cape in South Africa by Francis Masson. It arrived in Kew in 1775 & is still growing. Interesting to note that some Cycads live for as long As 2500 years!! We found a really odd tree, the Atlas Cedar, which had grown every which way, in fact there were several trees the same. We walked, or should we say climbed the 183 steps up to the Xtrata Tree Top Walkway. Very interesting landscape looking out over the tree tops from 18 metres high. The Azalea & Rhoderdendroms gardens were magnificent. We wandered down the Holly walk - the path way lined by large Holly trees that had been topiaried. On our return to the exit, we walked down the Syan Vista avenue in the garden which was lined with beautiful Elms, Oaks & Cedars etc. The lawns appeared to be Mondo Grass which requires limited maintenance & the big fat ducks are lawn mowers in themselves. We had a cup of 'English Tea' with carrot cake- Tandy yours much better - but this was very nice!! It was a good morninbg & we thoroughly enjoyed the visit. Returned back to Kew Station and were given a wrong steer (non reflector) and got on the wrong train. Fortunately we realised this one station down the line so were able to detrain at the next station, cross over the platform to collect the train going the other way! We came off the train amongst the throngs at St James's Station and made our way to Buckingham Place. The world and his wife and others were milling around getting glimpses of "buck house" - no one looked out the windows at us! We just missed the changing of the guard due to the stuff up on the trains. TV vantage points have been erected for the wedding route plus barrier controls. The gardens are looking lovely. Unfortunatley the Daffodills are over, but they must have been beautiful. When we arrived back in Trafalgar Square the horsemen were practising for their wedding procession duties. There was also a demonstation by 'rent a crowd' Turks for whatever problem they have in Turkey!! Collected with another train to Regents Park to visit London Zoo. Neither of us approve of animals in a zoo but had heard so much of the London Zoo, but very disappointed in what we saw & in the zoo itself. The tigers looked good & healthy as were the asian lions, the gorillas amusing as always, but we have been spoilt seeing animals in the wild. Returned to hotel via another train - an interesting exercise joining the throngs at Camden Town!! Weather remained good for the day & this evening a bit of thunder & very light rain.
Caught our bus, no. 91 to Trafalgar Square, then tube from Charing Cross to Kew Gardens. Kew seems to be a really nice area - posh cars, I mean posh - we were early for opening time & sat & waited in the quiet. What a beautiful setting throughout Kew Gardens, lots of annuals in segregated colours giving a gorgious effect. We found a very old Cycad in a glass house which was over 200 years old. It was a Cycad collected in 1773 on the shores of Eastern Cape in South Africa by Francis Masson. It arrived in Kew in 1775 & is still growing. Interesting to note that some Cycads live for as long As 2500 years!! We found a really odd tree, the Atlas Cedar, which had grown every which way, in fact there were several trees the same. We walked, or should we say climbed the 183 steps up to the Xtrata Tree Top Walkway. Very interesting landscape looking out over the tree tops from 18 metres high. The Azalea & Rhoderdendroms gardens were magnificent. We wandered down the Holly walk - the path way lined by large Holly trees that had been topiaried. On our return to the exit, we walked down the Syan Vista avenue in the garden which was lined with beautiful Elms, Oaks & Cedars etc. The lawns appeared to be Mondo Grass which requires limited maintenance & the big fat ducks are lawn mowers in themselves. We had a cup of 'English Tea' with carrot cake- Tandy yours much better - but this was very nice!! It was a good morninbg & we thoroughly enjoyed the visit. Returned back to Kew Station and were given a wrong steer (non reflector) and got on the wrong train. Fortunately we realised this one station down the line so were able to detrain at the next station, cross over the platform to collect the train going the other way! We came off the train amongst the throngs at St James's Station and made our way to Buckingham Place. The world and his wife and others were milling around getting glimpses of "buck house" - no one looked out the windows at us! We just missed the changing of the guard due to the stuff up on the trains. TV vantage points have been erected for the wedding route plus barrier controls. The gardens are looking lovely. Unfortunatley the Daffodills are over, but they must have been beautiful. When we arrived back in Trafalgar Square the horsemen were practising for their wedding procession duties. There was also a demonstation by 'rent a crowd' Turks for whatever problem they have in Turkey!! Collected with another train to Regents Park to visit London Zoo. Neither of us approve of animals in a zoo but had heard so much of the London Zoo, but very disappointed in what we saw & in the zoo itself. The tigers looked good & healthy as were the asian lions, the gorillas amusing as always, but we have been spoilt seeing animals in the wild. Returned to hotel via another train - an interesting exercise joining the throngs at Camden Town!! Weather remained good for the day & this evening a bit of thunder & very light rain.
Saturday, April 23
Friday 22nd April:
Cyclists are riding everywhere in between cars & taxis & Buses - no helmets! We hate to think what Glenn was ,like when he was riding around here in London. Not a good day for the two old gits. Decided to use our London Pass & visit supposedly Lords but ended up at the Oval instead. We had taken a bus then tube to the Oval & guess what the Oval do not do tours. So back onto the tube to Westminster Station & caught a river cruise down the Thames. We had commentary along the way highlighting various buildings & points of significance such as the 3rd London Bridge, the bridge built by the ladies during WW2, St Paul's Cathedral, Houses of Parliament - both Lords & Commons, HMS Belfast moored now in the Thames as a tourist attraction - a naval vessel that saw service during WW3 & Korea. We also discovered that the Union Flag is only referred to as the "Jack" when flown on a ship of the Royal Navy, otherwise it is the Union Flag - bit of a surprise for us. WHARF stands for Ware House At River Front!! New London Mayor's offices - glass domed city hall, and many other old and new places. Reached the Tower Bridge & left the ferry to visit the Tower of London along with many thousands of other tourists. The warm weather, Easter Friday & The Wedding all contributed to London overflowing - we think so anyway. Wanted to see the Crown Jewels but the queue for this was at least 300mts long. We sadly gave it a miss as it is just time wasted & it was moving very slowly. In time returned to the ferry & returned to Westminster Pier, walked up to Trafalger Square to collect gthe bus no.91 which brings us home to Russell Square. Temperatures today were pretty warm, in fact we were told ' the warmest Easter ever'. Bubbles we have seen a number of tuk tuks operating here - just short of rickshaws with the leaping Zulu! These guys are of a paler shade. Pub dinner tonight but think we will return to our usual wander in the evening & eventually finding a 'restaurant' that meets our fancy & budget.
Cyclists are riding everywhere in between cars & taxis & Buses - no helmets! We hate to think what Glenn was ,like when he was riding around here in London. Not a good day for the two old gits. Decided to use our London Pass & visit supposedly Lords but ended up at the Oval instead. We had taken a bus then tube to the Oval & guess what the Oval do not do tours. So back onto the tube to Westminster Station & caught a river cruise down the Thames. We had commentary along the way highlighting various buildings & points of significance such as the 3rd London Bridge, the bridge built by the ladies during WW2, St Paul's Cathedral, Houses of Parliament - both Lords & Commons, HMS Belfast moored now in the Thames as a tourist attraction - a naval vessel that saw service during WW3 & Korea. We also discovered that the Union Flag is only referred to as the "Jack" when flown on a ship of the Royal Navy, otherwise it is the Union Flag - bit of a surprise for us. WHARF stands for Ware House At River Front!! New London Mayor's offices - glass domed city hall, and many other old and new places. Reached the Tower Bridge & left the ferry to visit the Tower of London along with many thousands of other tourists. The warm weather, Easter Friday & The Wedding all contributed to London overflowing - we think so anyway. Wanted to see the Crown Jewels but the queue for this was at least 300mts long. We sadly gave it a miss as it is just time wasted & it was moving very slowly. In time returned to the ferry & returned to Westminster Pier, walked up to Trafalger Square to collect gthe bus no.91 which brings us home to Russell Square. Temperatures today were pretty warm, in fact we were told ' the warmest Easter ever'. Bubbles we have seen a number of tuk tuks operating here - just short of rickshaws with the leaping Zulu! These guys are of a paler shade. Pub dinner tonight but think we will return to our usual wander in the evening & eventually finding a 'restaurant' that meets our fancy & budget.
Friday, April 22
Thursday 21st April
Got on the bus with our new Oyster Card & headed for the Strand & Covent Garden to purchase street maps for our road trip when we return from Europe. Took a stroll in the local market to find Regent Street - passed Zimbabwe House & took a picture - ho ho ho!! Phoned Didy Grahame, Secretary of the VC/Gc Association & agreed to meet. Found our way to Royal Horse Guards building where she works and had a quick tour of the place - steeped in history. We were introduced to a fellow who is putting together a book on the VC's and would you believe he was actually working on Dad whilst we were there!!! Passed some visiting English soldiers, just in from active service in Afganistan - they had a tan -went out for a cup of tea & chat with Didy. Left Didy & headed for Houses of Parliament & Big Ben, along with many thousands of others. Westminster Abbey is closed due to Easter & preparations for THE WEDDING next week. Preparations everywhere, crowd barriers being erected and TV access/commentator points along the wedding route. Pity we will miss the wedding excitement. All shops full of memoribilia. Crowds growing & again sadly it is a case of spot the pom. Made contact with David Hoar & hope to see him over the weekend.
Got on the bus with our new Oyster Card & headed for the Strand & Covent Garden to purchase street maps for our road trip when we return from Europe. Took a stroll in the local market to find Regent Street - passed Zimbabwe House & took a picture - ho ho ho!! Phoned Didy Grahame, Secretary of the VC/Gc Association & agreed to meet. Found our way to Royal Horse Guards building where she works and had a quick tour of the place - steeped in history. We were introduced to a fellow who is putting together a book on the VC's and would you believe he was actually working on Dad whilst we were there!!! Passed some visiting English soldiers, just in from active service in Afganistan - they had a tan -went out for a cup of tea & chat with Didy. Left Didy & headed for Houses of Parliament & Big Ben, along with many thousands of others. Westminster Abbey is closed due to Easter & preparations for THE WEDDING next week. Preparations everywhere, crowd barriers being erected and TV access/commentator points along the wedding route. Pity we will miss the wedding excitement. All shops full of memoribilia. Crowds growing & again sadly it is a case of spot the pom. Made contact with David Hoar & hope to see him over the weekend.
Wednesday 20th April
Had to find Vodaphone Outlet as Italian internet USB stick not working in England. We now find Uk stick only for Uk!!! Amazing what salespersons will tell you. Had trouble getting started and ended up back in shop for them to install new USB stick.Laundry done - went to St Pancras Station to check out where we will arrive from Paris and find out where we can leave excess baggage. Spent some hours deciding on what we would like to see and how to get there. Given that public holidays including Easter start pretty soon this will need some thought. Been another hot day for the Poms today - in fact all & sundry lying around the parks in various states of undress soaking up the sun - could be back in Africa. Have forgotten what it is like to live in a city- ambulance, cops & fire engines seem to run artound the clock.
Had to find Vodaphone Outlet as Italian internet USB stick not working in England. We now find Uk stick only for Uk!!! Amazing what salespersons will tell you. Had trouble getting started and ended up back in shop for them to install new USB stick.Laundry done - went to St Pancras Station to check out where we will arrive from Paris and find out where we can leave excess baggage. Spent some hours deciding on what we would like to see and how to get there. Given that public holidays including Easter start pretty soon this will need some thought. Been another hot day for the Poms today - in fact all & sundry lying around the parks in various states of undress soaking up the sun - could be back in Africa. Have forgotten what it is like to live in a city- ambulance, cops & fire engines seem to run artound the clock.
Tuesday 19th April
So Venice, Italy came to an end after a rather good dinner last night. Checked out of hotel & connected with local ferry for the trip to Marco Polo airport. An 80 minute ride accross the water for E13.00 each. Routine at airport - surprisingly large - I am not sure of the engineering skills used in erecting/constructing this airport where theyb have, which must be on reclaimed ground. However we took off on time & were in London a short while later. Prebooked shuttle service met us. After an interesting drive, reached our Hotel Imperial in Russell Square. been in better, but not bad & does have tea & coffee making facilities!! Temperature in London 25deg C. Found` Laundromat, Had dinner, had a call from Wayne caught up on his news.
So Venice, Italy came to an end after a rather good dinner last night. Checked out of hotel & connected with local ferry for the trip to Marco Polo airport. An 80 minute ride accross the water for E13.00 each. Routine at airport - surprisingly large - I am not sure of the engineering skills used in erecting/constructing this airport where theyb have, which must be on reclaimed ground. However we took off on time & were in London a short while later. Prebooked shuttle service met us. After an interesting drive, reached our Hotel Imperial in Russell Square. been in better, but not bad & does have tea & coffee making facilities!! Temperature in London 25deg C. Found` Laundromat, Had dinner, had a call from Wayne caught up on his news.
Sunday 17th April
Libera & Nadia came to Farewell us at the Viviana. Sad farewells as we had made good friends at Montigridolfo. Terzo & Tiziano drove us to Rimini where we climbed aboard a train for Venice - 1st class no less!! Lovely countryside & much flatter. Arrived Venice & caught ferry to San Marco Square & had to use the knowledge of a local, who was an import, to find the hotel! Beth,s heart sank as we entered the rabbit warren of 4 story high buildings which are so crowded and close together. Went for a stroll and Beth felt so claustrophobic & people...............being a Sunday it was like"a disrupted ants nest"! We could hardly move in the confined spaces. Went for an eaqrly supper in daylight - such as it gets at ground level - in ordwer to find our way home. That night Beth decided Venice is for others - not her! Next morning we ferried to a Murano Glass Factories. This was good & returned via the ferry. Had a look around & managed to loose ourselves only once for a short while with some discussion on whose fault it was! Joined the throngs in San Marco Square & rich had a really good hot dog - amazing - first in Italy! Beth tried Gilato - OZ is Better!! Had early supper after organising travel method to Marco Polo Airport. Strolled arouns after supper & thought we would take a gondola ride to end the Venice visit - E100 (A$146) so we gave it a miss. Received invite from Oz Ambasodor in Rome to attend ANZAC day celebrations in Rome - our system works as they know we are here!!
By the way if you want to pee in Venice it will cost you E1.50 and bit less in Rome!!!
Libera & Nadia came to Farewell us at the Viviana. Sad farewells as we had made good friends at Montigridolfo. Terzo & Tiziano drove us to Rimini where we climbed aboard a train for Venice - 1st class no less!! Lovely countryside & much flatter. Arrived Venice & caught ferry to San Marco Square & had to use the knowledge of a local, who was an import, to find the hotel! Beth,s heart sank as we entered the rabbit warren of 4 story high buildings which are so crowded and close together. Went for a stroll and Beth felt so claustrophobic & people...............being a Sunday it was like"a disrupted ants nest"! We could hardly move in the confined spaces. Went for an eaqrly supper in daylight - such as it gets at ground level - in ordwer to find our way home. That night Beth decided Venice is for others - not her! Next morning we ferried to a Murano Glass Factories. This was good & returned via the ferry. Had a look around & managed to loose ourselves only once for a short while with some discussion on whose fault it was! Joined the throngs in San Marco Square & rich had a really good hot dog - amazing - first in Italy! Beth tried Gilato - OZ is Better!! Had early supper after organising travel method to Marco Polo Airport. Strolled arouns after supper & thought we would take a gondola ride to end the Venice visit - E100 (A$146) so we gave it a miss. Received invite from Oz Ambasodor in Rome to attend ANZAC day celebrations in Rome - our system works as they know we are here!!
By the way if you want to pee in Venice it will cost you E1.50 and bit less in Rome!!!
Saturday 16th April
Woke up to a clear day - been so lucky with the weather. It was a very emotional day for me as Terzo took us to the battlefields where Dad and his men performed in extraordinary conditions. The mountain and valleys would have been difficult having to 'leopard crawl' up a steep incline to deal with Germans who had bunkered down at the top and literally watched the Allies crawling up the mountain. We met a woman in the spot close to the battle site and she told us that her husband had been a boy of 9, and he witnessed the battle, plus all the soldiers who died/injured. Terzo told us he was 12 at the time, but his family had been moved into the mountains, when it was evident what was going to happen. Typical 12 year old said it was like watching a fireworks display. He said he observed plenty at that time - his father used to supply the german soldiers with watered down wine!! A British ammo box (303 bullets) has been found all these years later and will go to the museum.
Saw battle ground from 2 sides and bunkers, which now have housing built ontop.
A story was related about a german soldier on his own sat in a 'lookout' and waited for the Canadian soldiers to 'stop for tea' and let rip with a machine gun and killed 75, but he did not last too much longer as he was dispensed with a flame thrower!!
We had a drive down G R Norton via and were taking photos and a woman came up to see what was happening, as she lived in the street and was so proud to live there and ran home to bring me a bunch of flowers - they started me!! Much hugging etc. Tulips which I haven't seen before.
So many came up and shook me by the hand and hugged me, said thank you to Capt Norton for their liberation. The whole town know we were there quite amazing.
In the afternoon we attended the Council meeting, which normally has an attendance of 5 to 6 people, but this day, 14 the whole council were there to welcome us.
I gave a talk on our family and presented a copy of Dad's citation, which had been sent from London. They were extremely grateful to have this for their museum. Also an emotional time as they are all so grateful we had come to celebrate with them. I was presented with a huge plague in the form of a wall hanging with Dad's picture on it done by a local sculpture artiste.
There was an interpruter for the speeches, and at the last moment decided not to try and read my thanks, in Italian!! Mariuccia you were right - bit difficult and was emotional atthe time too.
The people of Montegridolfo have been exceptional and shown such love and respect for Dad - in their eyes he liberated their town alone,but he had a platoon too. We saw the Commonwealth cemetery and a number of Hampshire regiment soldiers, who were with Dad are there - we were lucky he came home. Canadian lost so many. That night we had a quiet dinner with Terzo and Libera, having had a lunch with members of the council .
Woke up to a clear day - been so lucky with the weather. It was a very emotional day for me as Terzo took us to the battlefields where Dad and his men performed in extraordinary conditions. The mountain and valleys would have been difficult having to 'leopard crawl' up a steep incline to deal with Germans who had bunkered down at the top and literally watched the Allies crawling up the mountain. We met a woman in the spot close to the battle site and she told us that her husband had been a boy of 9, and he witnessed the battle, plus all the soldiers who died/injured. Terzo told us he was 12 at the time, but his family had been moved into the mountains, when it was evident what was going to happen. Typical 12 year old said it was like watching a fireworks display. He said he observed plenty at that time - his father used to supply the german soldiers with watered down wine!! A British ammo box (303 bullets) has been found all these years later and will go to the museum.
Saw battle ground from 2 sides and bunkers, which now have housing built ontop.
A story was related about a german soldier on his own sat in a 'lookout' and waited for the Canadian soldiers to 'stop for tea' and let rip with a machine gun and killed 75, but he did not last too much longer as he was dispensed with a flame thrower!!
We had a drive down G R Norton via and were taking photos and a woman came up to see what was happening, as she lived in the street and was so proud to live there and ran home to bring me a bunch of flowers - they started me!! Much hugging etc. Tulips which I haven't seen before.
So many came up and shook me by the hand and hugged me, said thank you to Capt Norton for their liberation. The whole town know we were there quite amazing.
In the afternoon we attended the Council meeting, which normally has an attendance of 5 to 6 people, but this day, 14 the whole council were there to welcome us.
I gave a talk on our family and presented a copy of Dad's citation, which had been sent from London. They were extremely grateful to have this for their museum. Also an emotional time as they are all so grateful we had come to celebrate with them. I was presented with a huge plague in the form of a wall hanging with Dad's picture on it done by a local sculpture artiste.
There was an interpruter for the speeches, and at the last moment decided not to try and read my thanks, in Italian!! Mariuccia you were right - bit difficult and was emotional atthe time too.
The people of Montegridolfo have been exceptional and shown such love and respect for Dad - in their eyes he liberated their town alone,but he had a platoon too. We saw the Commonwealth cemetery and a number of Hampshire regiment soldiers, who were with Dad are there - we were lucky he came home. Canadian lost so many. That night we had a quiet dinner with Terzo and Libera, having had a lunch with members of the council .
Friday 15th April
This morning we tried filling blog, but had hassles -must be up in the mountains!!
Terzo and Tiziano arrived spot on time to fetch us to take us to Montegridolfo. The trip was a very pretty drive up mountain and down dale - green and lush. Hotel Viviana is an old castle - heigh ceilings, plenty of rooms - could thoroughly lost. Staircases going up and down and every which way - real castle. In fact we were asked if we had encountered the ghosts!! We were shown around the museum - we had a private showing while a tour party was kept out! Dad is evident everywhere in photos and even on the scenic panarama. Bit emotional for me. The mayor arrived to meet us and tell us that dinner that night was on the house - council paid!
This morning we tried filling blog, but had hassles -must be up in the mountains!!
Terzo and Tiziano arrived spot on time to fetch us to take us to Montegridolfo. The trip was a very pretty drive up mountain and down dale - green and lush. Hotel Viviana is an old castle - heigh ceilings, plenty of rooms - could thoroughly lost. Staircases going up and down and every which way - real castle. In fact we were asked if we had encountered the ghosts!! We were shown around the museum - we had a private showing while a tour party was kept out! Dad is evident everywhere in photos and even on the scenic panarama. Bit emotional for me. The mayor arrived to meet us and tell us that dinner that night was on the house - council paid!
Thursday 14th
Blue skies and looks like a good day. Glenn and family must be on way to Sydney and Dubbo zoo today!
Left the Hotel Augustea and pulled out suitcases down to the station to catch the Eurostar to Ancona, where we changed trains for Rimini. Fascinating ride through Rome suburbs as we headed east into lovely countryside. Comfortable train travelling 1st class. Snow still on the mountains but starting to melt in the warm sun. The Rimini line runs along the ocean which is lovely blue green - Adriatic but no surfing for sure. Suitable for kids swimming! We arrived in Rimini about 3pm and walked to the Napoleon hotel not far from the station.
Just for those who had misgivings about our purchase of an emersion heater - one hotel in 5 has had tea making facilities so far and that was KL. Hotels range from 2 and half star to 4 star. Needless to say we have enjoyed out tea/coffee.
Plenty of rain and cold in Rimini but took a stroll around - old buildings with narrow roads, mad drivers. Had a phone call from Terzo checking we were there
Blue skies and looks like a good day. Glenn and family must be on way to Sydney and Dubbo zoo today!
Left the Hotel Augustea and pulled out suitcases down to the station to catch the Eurostar to Ancona, where we changed trains for Rimini. Fascinating ride through Rome suburbs as we headed east into lovely countryside. Comfortable train travelling 1st class. Snow still on the mountains but starting to melt in the warm sun. The Rimini line runs along the ocean which is lovely blue green - Adriatic but no surfing for sure. Suitable for kids swimming! We arrived in Rimini about 3pm and walked to the Napoleon hotel not far from the station.
Just for those who had misgivings about our purchase of an emersion heater - one hotel in 5 has had tea making facilities so far and that was KL. Hotels range from 2 and half star to 4 star. Needless to say we have enjoyed out tea/coffee.
Plenty of rain and cold in Rimini but took a stroll around - old buildings with narrow roads, mad drivers. Had a phone call from Terzo checking we were there
Thursday 14th April
We have been having trouble uploading photos so have decided to give it a miss, and just give you a running commentary. Perhaps our little Toshiba is just to small.
Back in Rome after a late night in from Napoli. Rich sorted out and found a laundrey so keep us up to date. Ran around trying to find a USB stick - did get one but as it transpired, a limited amount og service - and all in Italian. We had intended to do a tour around Rome, but I developed Rome belly - something I ate on Capri, and had to remain very close to 'facilities'.
We have been having trouble uploading photos so have decided to give it a miss, and just give you a running commentary. Perhaps our little Toshiba is just to small.
Back in Rome after a late night in from Napoli. Rich sorted out and found a laundrey so keep us up to date. Ran around trying to find a USB stick - did get one but as it transpired, a limited amount og service - and all in Italian. We had intended to do a tour around Rome, but I developed Rome belly - something I ate on Capri, and had to remain very close to 'facilities'.
Tuesday, April 19
wednesday 13th April
Marco, our guide met us, and in another bus took us up the mountain to Annacapri. Horrendous traffic on one road up and down.We passed vehicles with wing mirrors bent backwards & almost touching. No shouting between drivers or rude gestures as in Australia - very orderly chaos. They obviously have a problem & have all learned to live with it. Saw various places of interest, lovely gardens & visited what was once a home of the Krupp dynasty, as in German steel & armaments, who created a beautifull pathway down to the beach from the top of the mountain. Fascinating to look at this path way from above. Touched in at the local perfumery which actually dates back many hundreds of years. Had yet another very good lunch - hell they eat a lot of food!!! Returned down the mountain to Capri where we caught a ferry to Napoli. Here we met our bus to return us to Roma, arriving uneventfully @ 10 pm.
Marco, our guide met us, and in another bus took us up the mountain to Annacapri. Horrendous traffic on one road up and down.We passed vehicles with wing mirrors bent backwards & almost touching. No shouting between drivers or rude gestures as in Australia - very orderly chaos. They obviously have a problem & have all learned to live with it. Saw various places of interest, lovely gardens & visited what was once a home of the Krupp dynasty, as in German steel & armaments, who created a beautifull pathway down to the beach from the top of the mountain. Fascinating to look at this path way from above. Touched in at the local perfumery which actually dates back many hundreds of years. Had yet another very good lunch - hell they eat a lot of food!!! Returned down the mountain to Capri where we caught a ferry to Napoli. Here we met our bus to return us to Roma, arriving uneventfully @ 10 pm.
Tuesday 12 April
Sorry about the missing days, but had trouble with connections. Will add photos as we go.... Following a night in Sorrento in a really nice hotel, we were picked up and takento an inlaid woodworks factory which was interesting. Our tour guide Marco was quite hilarious and typical Italian charmer. After the woodwork factory we headed for the ferry to take us to the island of Capri. We were told to remain in the front of the ferry, so that we could get off the boat first and make for the smaller boats to carry us to the Blue Grotto, which is a holein the rocks, which the ocean flowsinto and the smaller boats 'slide' into that aperture. I had my doubts and claustrophobia had me thinkingof 'no entry for me'. Anyway decided to go as I had come that far - transfered into tiny row boat (5 people) and we had to lie down, in order to pass through the holein the rock........ we made it and observed a beautiful hue of blue water. This pool is 20mtr deep x 50mtrs long. Returned to larger boat with 40 other japs & headed for Capri.
Sorry about the missing days, but had trouble with connections. Will add photos as we go.... Following a night in Sorrento in a really nice hotel, we were picked up and takento an inlaid woodworks factory which was interesting. Our tour guide Marco was quite hilarious and typical Italian charmer. After the woodwork factory we headed for the ferry to take us to the island of Capri. We were told to remain in the front of the ferry, so that we could get off the boat first and make for the smaller boats to carry us to the Blue Grotto, which is a holein the rocks, which the ocean flowsinto and the smaller boats 'slide' into that aperture. I had my doubts and claustrophobia had me thinkingof 'no entry for me'. Anyway decided to go as I had come that far - transfered into tiny row boat (5 people) and we had to lie down, in order to pass through the holein the rock........ we made it and observed a beautiful hue of blue water. This pool is 20mtr deep x 50mtrs long. Returned to larger boat with 40 other japs & headed for Capri.
Friday, April 15
Monday 11th April
Climbed aboard the bus outside the hotel and picked up the rest of the load of people. Travelled down to Napoli via cassino, the mountains were covered in snow which was pretty. Arrived in Napoli and picked up another tour guide who showed us various places of interest in the city - apparently it is the 3rd biggest city in Italy - very dirty and a lot of crime we are told. There must have been a garbage strike as piles of rotting garbage everywhere - not pleasant. Saw plenty of 'non reflectors' selling anything and everything on the street - could have been back in Africa!! Italy has an enormous problem with refugees fleeing from over the water. After Napoli we went to have a look at Pompei and on the way were shown a cameo factory, and needless to say offered purchases. Fascinating as I did not know cameo were made from a certain type of seashell. The old fellow doing the work had been there forever, I am sure. We went and had lunch - whow what a lunch, before touring the site ofPompei. I am sure you all know that Pompei was covered in lava when Mount Vesuvius erupted way back in 79 AD, and in more recent times excavations continue to unearth the town, plus bodies and animals which remain in a 'frozen 'state.
Climbed aboard the bus outside the hotel and picked up the rest of the load of people. Travelled down to Napoli via cassino, the mountains were covered in snow which was pretty. Arrived in Napoli and picked up another tour guide who showed us various places of interest in the city - apparently it is the 3rd biggest city in Italy - very dirty and a lot of crime we are told. There must have been a garbage strike as piles of rotting garbage everywhere - not pleasant. Saw plenty of 'non reflectors' selling anything and everything on the street - could have been back in Africa!! Italy has an enormous problem with refugees fleeing from over the water. After Napoli we went to have a look at Pompei and on the way were shown a cameo factory, and needless to say offered purchases. Fascinating as I did not know cameo were made from a certain type of seashell. The old fellow doing the work had been there forever, I am sure. We went and had lunch - whow what a lunch, before touring the site ofPompei. I am sure you all know that Pompei was covered in lava when Mount Vesuvius erupted way back in 79 AD, and in more recent times excavations continue to unearth the town, plus bodies and animals which remain in a 'frozen 'state.
10th April
Boarded plane at midnight with half of Italy!! Very long flight, rough weather. A laugh will be enjoyed at old gits expense. Had trouble operating the reclining chair so called for help - enough said the button was on the other side!!! Food service good. Landed Rome late alongside Thai Airways. Approaching customs we got swallowed up in the mob. Had to catch another airtrain to go thru customs. Caught shuttle train to Rome station - while on station turned on phone to find sms from Wayne! Pleasant run into the city but my goodness the graffiti along the train line is something else. Our mayor in Brisbane would have an heart attack. Rows and rows and rows of multi story buildings in need of paint - this high density, but in spite of the downtrodden look, aerials of all descriptions were evident on top of the buildings. Found our way out of the station andwalked to the hotel. Anyhow they agreed to keep our luggage while we went to find a internet USB so we could go on-line. Had a look at te Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, in disrepair outside but magnificent inside. Arranged for suitcases to be left at hotel, while we went down south.
Boarded plane at midnight with half of Italy!! Very long flight, rough weather. A laugh will be enjoyed at old gits expense. Had trouble operating the reclining chair so called for help - enough said the button was on the other side!!! Food service good. Landed Rome late alongside Thai Airways. Approaching customs we got swallowed up in the mob. Had to catch another airtrain to go thru customs. Caught shuttle train to Rome station - while on station turned on phone to find sms from Wayne! Pleasant run into the city but my goodness the graffiti along the train line is something else. Our mayor in Brisbane would have an heart attack. Rows and rows and rows of multi story buildings in need of paint - this high density, but in spite of the downtrodden look, aerials of all descriptions were evident on top of the buildings. Found our way out of the station andwalked to the hotel. Anyhow they agreed to keep our luggage while we went to find a internet USB so we could go on-line. Had a look at te Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica, in disrepair outside but magnificent inside. Arranged for suitcases to be left at hotel, while we went down south.
Landed at KL 5 am found our way out to shuttle bus to Concorde Inn which is not far from the airport, but 80 kms from town.Rested up in the room provided to us for the day - people very helpful and tried to go on-line, but using hotel internet not a good idea, as they wanted us to remove the firewall..... no ways. We had to use a high speed train to immigration/customs. remarkable concept. KL buzzing with people as it was the Malyasian Grand Prix - full compliment of Aussies at hotel
Wednesday, April 13
9th April
Arrived in Kuala Lumpur after dramas at Brisbane airport. Arrived at International airport via a shuttle bus from Sunshine Coast - saw a number of prangs on the way and plenty of rain. Had our suitcases cling wrapped and the drama started there. We were told we were only allowed 7.5 kgs in cabin baggage. Shifted stuff around as the big suitcases were under weight, and also took out the one backpack which was filled and used as my handbag! Through check-in and then security who once more asked for stuff to be shifted around, but noted that computer inclusion in baggage was fine, even though the weight had been re-arranged across various suitcases! As Rich said what a load of shit!!!
Monday, April 4
Well now, everything is just that much closer to being real! Just 4 sleeps to go & we think we have completed everything. Even to a "practice pack"! All fitted in & seems to be underweight - surprisingly. Even have a mobile pharmacy with us. Looking at the weather over there & it seems to be warming up, so Beth has decided there may be a need for a pair of shorts for her afterall.
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