56 Years ago we looked like this
now we look like this
Saturday, 15 February 2014
We have planned our travels for 2014. Leaving OZ 27 Feb 2014, destination Barcelona. We pick up a car in Barcelona. Our travels are to take us through Spain, Morocco, Portugal and France. Planning to arrive into the UK 21 June. It is then planned to go to Ireland for 5 weeks. The next leg is to Seattle en-route to Alaska and British Columbia for 4 weeks. A VIA Canadian train trip from Vancouver to Toronto. Meet up with Gillian on the 21st Oct. Tourist time then drive with Gillian home to Bloomington. ID. Time with Gillian, Scott and family. Head South to warmer weather early November. Back to OZ Jan-Feb 2015. Things can change due to health and enjoyment but without plans nothing will happen.
 |
.jpg) Our daughter Gillian is posting our diary under comments   Altea old town we are half way up the hill by the tree. 
Experiencing the contrasts
 
Spring festival Denia
  Tight town parking  
Excellent Spanish 'Bubbly'
Our trusty Leatherman required to open it
.jpg)
So it did snow on the mountain
Our place in Nerja Eve at front door
Alhambra. Granada
Granada. Sierra Nevada in background
Great beer at AU$3.75 12 pack
Gibraltar. not taken by us
 
Spot the Ape!
.jpg)
Eve`s new best friend-our tour guide
Moroccan mobile phone towers
 
Dyed wool Marrakech
 .jpg)
Narrow roads with 10 cm sharp shoulder edges and Donkey traffic
.jpg)
Where from, where to?
Lisbon
Miramar rail station murals
Porto rail station murals
Selfie Portonovo
Paris- 5 Years ago not one padlock when we were here.
Exhausted tour guide in London
Physical centre of the UK
WRENS memorial at the National Memorial Arboretum
Tour and taste was a must when in Dublin
Peat mining briquettes for domestic use
Peat mining for commercial use in nurseries and mushroom farms
Murals-Galway
  
Their vessel
Glacier ice sample
Sea Lion see video blog for Dolphins
River Otters
Butchart Gardens 1920
Butchart Gardens 2014
Living fossil on petrified wood 225 million years old
Tour guide fossil
Close up of interior of 225 million year old petrified wood
|
.jpg){kind=link}
Hi Guys
ReplyDeleteJust a brief note to say we had the best flight experience in the Airbus A380. Having seen it in production in Toulouse and now having the privilege to fly in it, one has to say “It`s the only way to fly” so smooth and quiet and not dehydrating. Had a nice view of the South entrance/exit of the Suez canal, then flew parallel with the Nile and the surrounding agriculture. Sadly it was hazy and the pyramid’s not visible. Making ourselves at home in Barcelona, after an 11 hour sleep the first night. No granny naps for us, just a siesta!
Cheers John/Eve
After a rough couple of days, John is up and running again. He writes:
ReplyDeleteYes, I am feeling 100% mentally and 50% physically. My ribs are giving me grief. Not so much walking but lying and bending down. The money side is now manageable, the phones are all working. Now have a Spanish Ph. #, get this! Cost €10, so has €10 in calls. Connection 15c. each min 1c. You beauty! But it is only for the EU and only within a particular country. So in Spain OK but cannot ring out of Spain to another EU country. And a new camera.
OK, the weather is fantastic, cold but dry. Yesterday the tour guide made arrangements to go to Montserrat (old monastery in the mountains. Spectacular when you get there 30+ km from Barcelona Have great video clips, just as well the old camera broke) anyway with 1hr 20 min to get to the train we left our apartment. Caught the metro (1 train every 3 min unreal and spotlessly clean) arrived and Sant ????? station. 1 hr. 10 min till next train. Coffee. Suggest to tour guide she check where to go. Tour guide miffed at being asked. Tour guide returns with determined walk. Said “you’re not going to believe this .I am going to have to sit down and tell you” Tour guide explains after further confirmation at my suggestion with another source. We are at the wrong station. Different company altogether. Tour guide states we go back to our original starting point 20 min left to train time. (each walk in the metro is 1-200 metre distance in PEEK travel time. Like ants underground). Throngs of people going through the ticket gates with ease. Tour guide gets stuck, causes blockage. Help arrives. Our 10 ride ticket expired. Buy new tick. Ticket machine busy. Buy new 10 ride ticket. Tour guide gets stuck. Release tour guide. 1 ride used up for 10cm trip. Arrive back at the start. With the help of people we are pointed to the other rail line. 4 mins to train leaving. Turn styles busy and fumbling fools trying to get through. Through turn style, 1 min to train leaving (miss this train 60 min wait till next) run to platform 3 pushing and shoving the young and old out of the way. Alarm door bells ring. Train packed, pushed harder, back pack stops door from closing. Closes 2 nd attempt. I fired the tour guide who pleaded and said “if you keep me on I will sleep with you” tour guide reinstated.
This was the first of 3 trains. the 2nd train a ‘Rack and Pinion for about 10 km up the side of the mountain. Spectacular. The electric train was very new and smooth. The last train/Funicular was almost vertical for 300 mts. David remember the Blue Mountains train? Total trip time for train 1. 1hr+. Tour guide sat, I stood.
John/Tour guide
This comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteAs the day wears on in sunny Spain, we learn Dad's sore ribs were not due to a Bull fight but rather he fell over a bollard….
ReplyDeleteoh boy, I know I should feel sorry instead of giggling as I read about your misfortune but after all that I am sure you both enjoyed the trip still.
ReplyDeleteHi Guys
ReplyDeleteAll going very well. Left Barcelona after a wonderful week (Less damage control) a very welcoming, clean and friendly city with excellent public transport. Picked up our new Peugeot 308. Lovely car. Took the coast road South to Cambrils. Drivers here are very careful and responsible. Road system excellent. Even roads on the map which are just lines, paved and in excellent condition, and all so well signposted. Spent time in the Mountains De Prades, incredible scenery. Nice to visit our local fishing port. 12+ commercial trawlers operate out of the marina. Around 1600 - 1700hrs. they return and sort and box their catch. Great atmosphere. On the walk back to our spacious 2 bedroom apartment 100 mts, from the beach. One has to stop for a beer and vino. We just love the European lifestyle.
John and Eve
Hi Guys.
ReplyDeleteTravelled on 400km of what must be 1000s of KM of Autopista`s ( motorways) across Spain, albeit tolled. We are 600km South of Barcelona and what a contrast in every respect. Our observations are of course personal.
Altea is on the Mediterranean Coast and is our first encounter of the ‘South of Spain’ commercial high density, holiday resort. We are in an open plan 3 level apartment on the side of the hill in the old part of town, an area of 1 sq. km, a maze of 1 way lanes and alley ways plus a million steps . No car parking, ( 200 mts away) laneway 3.5 mt wide, (how tradies work in these environments is amazing) our apartment is newly refurbished. Altea is surrounded by huge dominating mountains. The mountains here are dramatic mainly due not only their height, but you are viewing from sea level and close proximity and silhouetted against a clear blue sky. Altea is in the Valencia region. This region has been inhabited/occupied by the Greeks/Phoenicians/Romans, etc. for 50,000 years. The Med-sea here is picture postcard “Med-Blue”. The peoples cultural attitude is in total contrast to Catalonia region. Far more laid-back, shops will open Mon-Fri, maybe. Catalonia people are more like Northern Europe, more disciplined, efficient and aware of their environment. Prices here are 50% higher that Barcelona/Cambrils in the tourist area. Our travel cases are to be repacked. Winter cloths to the bottom. Summer on top. The fuel economy of the Peugeot 308 seems to good the be true. As you have to prepay for fuel you do not “fill up” each fill. Money paid for fuel and not used is lost. But, indications are around 12 km /lt, mixed highway and back streets.
Love Dad/Mum
PS. Thank goodness for Eve`s much traveled Swiss army knife. No screw tops here mate!
Peugeot 308 update and correction: Economy should read 21 km/lt not 12.
DeleteHi Guys
ReplyDeleteOur travels have taken us ‘outback’ behind the coastal mountains of Atea. It is a real ‘eye opener’ the countryside and the towns, some very large. How they manage to build up the side out mountains, and substantial buildings as well is amazing. All towns are very well kept and look prosperous, we have to say we expected a more humble situation. These towns seem to be supported by citrus, olives and wine production. Our Spanish is not improving. Trying to locate the Tourist office, sometimes located in Council buildings. We saw a very substantial official building with Municipio Oficinas (amongst other words) large on the outside wall. Eve ventured in, we became suspicious when the receptionist was wearing a white coat with a stethoscope around her neck. An elderly limping man exiting a ‘serviso’ door. By the time Eve had the receptionist totally confused as neither understood each other, it was time to smile and exit.
Mum and Dad, I love reading about your travels and I especially love seeing your smiling faces!!
ReplyDeleteThe area of Atea looks very beautiful and charming.
Thank you for sharing. Love Gill
Hi John and Eve, good to see you both happy and enjoying the drive. Now, I must say I have been slack in checking my emails, in a 100 emails I get, 98 of them a junk mails trying to sell me medicine or advising me that I need a second wife or shopping. So I normally do a quick scan and may miss a few until I remove the junk mails. Now let's figure out how I managed to post my reply...just a sec, need to capture screen shots here and there.
ReplyDeleteOk its done. For anyone want to see how I add the comment, goto this link --> http://eddytojohn.blogspot.com.au/
ReplyDeleteBy the way, have you considered using Facebook?
ReplyDeleteHi there John and Eve,
ReplyDeleteNice to catch up again.
We have just arrived back home at Midway Point after baby, sorry" young men' sitting duties in Launceston.
Keep the travel notes flowing....
Love,
Jan and John.
just worked out how to talk t o you. All sounds that things are going well. lovely pictures. At the bea ch last weekend. your house is still standing. Ours has been painted and looks fine. we are both ok. love gloria
ReplyDeleteWish I was there. I can see the country side again as I read your blog. More please. Jan U
ReplyDeleteHi Guys
ReplyDeleteNow in the province of Murcia. The contrast in landscape very noticeable. From the fertile regions in the North (I should have added Almonds to their commercial production ) Gone are the commercial farms of Olives, Vines, Citrus and Almonds. Replaced by hectares of plastic ‘greenhouses’ growing tomatoes. This is very arid country. Not unlike the saltbush of outback OZ. We are in a semi-gated community, seems like an English enclave. All very nice but isolated from the nearest town and sea. The region is certainly less prosperous that the North. It is giving us time to relax and re-charge ourselves. Not getting into price comparisons too deeply, some food items are much cheaper than OZ. All quality is excellent. Mention must be made of the Mediterranean Garlic. Like the garlic of Sicily seeping with oil and large. Wonderful. The 2 staples of life, Beer and wine. A 6 pack of stubbies (250 ml bottles) 4.7% from €0.95 local and very acceptable. Wine from €1.25-€2.50 varies but some very acceptable (Dan Murphy $5-$10 range) €2.50+ well, even Eve likes them.
Love John and Eve
Readers: Click on the pics to enlarge the photos. I love the dancing women pic- beautiful details, lace, fabric, expressions on their faces. Thank you for sharing Dad.
ReplyDeleteSome nice photos John. Did you say you bought a new camera. What is it?
ReplyDeletePam and I enjoy your blog. Hungry for more info.
Cheers
Bob W
The drive down from Mazarron was somewhat demanding. Excellent roads but got caught up in a ripper of a storm crossing the mountains. We could see it developing from afar. Clouds looked really weird, dark brown/grey. When we reached it our elevation was around 300 mt (if we had been another 300 mts higher I am sure we would have been in snow). The heavy rain ,lightning and truck spray was full on, visibility poor, travelling at 70km in 120km zone. The temperature suddenly dropped 10° (Eve was watching the display at the time) and instantly fogged up the windscreen. When finally found, the demister was very efficient, it seemed to take forever to find. Could not see anything for what seemed like many minutes, a real worry as I am sure all other vehicles would have been affected also. A 2 km tunnel was a welcome relief to relax the tension from my body, only to exit into the same conditions. On arrival in Nerja we have found out that the tainted dark brown sky was topsoil from afar.
ReplyDeleteWe find ourselves in the ‘Old Town’ of Nerja first constructed 1456, although founded in the 9th century, a maze of very narrow roads and alley ways. No steps here and no parking, public parking 400 mts away. An exceptionally clean, neat and tidy town and no canine evidence. We are 300 mts walk to the sea. No high rise tourist town this; wonderful.
Our apartment is a spacious and newly renovated 1 bedroom/kitchen/lounge/dining with a wonderful large private courtyard. We have moved to daylight saving (until Morocco, who does not have daylight saving, but same time zone) so 1600 hrs. in OZ is 0800 hrs. here.
Next day:
Indeed it did snow as per photo, but was gone within 6 hours. The dust we were told was from North Africa.
Love John/ Eve
Hi Guys
ReplyDeleteAfter an uneventful drive from Nerja to Tarifa, no storms. The dust cloud we encountered during our last trip made it to the UK, you may have seen it on TV. Tarifa is South of Gibralter. The view of Gibraltar from the North is very dramatic (no lay-bye to stop for photo- shoot) The Southern region of Andalucía is a total contrast to the North. It is very lush, green and plenty of eucalyptus. Tarifa has the Mediterranean on one side and the Atlantic on the other. Consistently windy and the wind surfing and kite surfing centre for Europe we are told. The beaches are ‘yellow sand’ rather that the ‘grey dusty’ uninviting beaches of the Med.
Aussie beer drinkers take note “youse are being ripped off” see blog photo. A 12 pk 330ml 4.8% beer €2.88 , just because its “cheap” does not reflect its quality, very acceptable. Local beer €7.60 30 slab.
Our apartment is a large modern one on the outskirts of Tarifa. Views of the hills covered in wind turbines and the main road and supermarket a block away ( sounds worse than it is ). A beautiful beach 3oo mts. At the near conclusion of the first leg of our intended travels we have to say that all of our pre-booked accommodation has met or exceeded our expectations. Wonderful as you always wonder what the reality will be.
We just came in from a nearby beach that must have 100 wind surfers and 100 kite surfers with the same again on the beach taking a break and some of them are as old if not older than us. Yes women also. These guys are serious operators as it has to be at least 20 km+ wind+.
John/Eve
Hi Guys.
ReplyDeleteWe decided to go to Gibraltar today against well-meaning but factual advice. “The relationship between the British and Spanish is very poor, expect to wait up to an hour to get in and 3 hours to get out”.
Phew! We drove straight in, a glance at our UK passports and a “welcome my dear and also you sir”. Phew! Found a much sort after free car park in the best position in Gibraltar. Walked the Main drag, tourist office and a coffee. Drove up to St Michaels Cave which has the world’s largest column made of stalagmites meeting stalactites the cave is 300 mts above sea level, and said to have been inhabited some 40,000 yrs. BC. We arrived at the same time as 3 tourist buses were unloading. Our progress was reduce to a few centimetre’s and hour. We became the most photographed car in Gibraltar. A baby Barbary Ape jumped on the car and sat on the passenger rear-vision mirror. Our camera was in the backpack but we were too busy closing windows. Phew! then we walked the final 1.5 km to the non-tourist summit swirling in cloud. Checked out the other ‘ROCK’ attractions. Phew! Drove straight out of Gibraltar into Spain without stopping, with just a greasy look from a Spanish policeman.
Did you know?
The rock has 48.28 kms of man-made tunnels.
The rock is 426 mts high.
Gibraltar is 6.4 sq. km and has 27 km of roads.
There are over 600 species of flowering plants.
Over 270 variety of birds have been recorded.
There are more registered companies than residents in Gibraltar.
Neanderthal humans occupied the caves 40,000BC
John/Eve
Hi Folks
ReplyDeleteDue to very high winds 36knots+ (checked the local weather site) we have been apartment bound. The wind was strong enough to ‘flex’ the double glassed steel framed sliding doors to our veranda. Gives one an example of what you may expect in a cyclone, say 4 times stronger.
Anyhow, gave me time to consider our video clips. The originals are huge for their duration. I have compressed them down by 80%. Given that they were taken with an inexpensive pocket ‘stills’ camera they have lost definition but still worth watching at full screen. The clips (4 published) are ‘raw’ they start and finish, no fading etc. Have a look and see what you think. The videos were to enhance views and movement opportunities not conveyed in a still shot. Early days but we are pleased with the effect they convey. Have the sound on.
So go to https://vimeo.com and put the following code into search 026801749. For more explanation see comments at our Blog http://thefields2014.blogspot.com.au/
Thinking about Gibraltar, we think it should be on everyone’s ‘bucket’ list. We could return again, so much to take in. We did not do the organised tourist thing, did it by ourselves, saw more at our own pace and less crowds.
Cheers John/Eve
Like the beer and the ape.
ReplyDeleteBrian & Maz
Somewhat frustrating start for Morocco. We had booked a secure locked garage for our car, whilst we are in Morocco. Arriving at said lock up it was found to be 400 mm short. 20 min to dismantle temporary wall and 15 min to dismantle work bench. Car now fitted. Owner to replace when we vacate and he finds out. Ferry departure delayed 75 min, a few hundred people in an airless room, say no more.
ReplyDeleteOur hire car was to be picked up at Tangier wharf depot. Depot did not exist. Taxi into town. Found Eurocar. The car we were given looked good. Citroen???
With only 121,666 km on the speedo it performed like it had 250,000 on the dial. Morocco is very mountainous. Foot flat to the floor and low gear use. This is going to be a tiring trip.
Moroccan drivers, suicidal. Scenery SPECTACULAR, AWESOME. After such a day we were hanging out for a drink, yep, you guessed it, ‘DRY’ town. Our very considerate hotel host wanted to impress us Australians. We were given the penthouse, mountain views, own balcony, fantastic. Downside, there always is. It is on the 5th floor and no lifts. Next day moved to the ground floor.
My past Middle East travels came to the rescue. Every ‘DRY’ place has a 5 star hotel that certified registered guests can…………………………Eve, dressed like an ambassador’s wife and I nodded and smiled full of authority and confidence through the hotel. Found a table with magnificent views of the mountains. Waiter arrived, a beer and G&T please, certainly sir, room # please? Room 21, but we pay cash tonight please, eh! Decided to go for broke (literally) in the restaurant. Prices unseen, the ambassadors wife ordered a half bottle of Vin Blanc de Qualite Superieure and I am more modest Cab-Sav. Went the full 3 course, certainly sir, room # please. Room 21, but tonight we will pay cash, eh! Wonderful view of a Halo full moon rising from behind the mountain from our table. Just enough coin for a half star Petit taxi back to our modest hotel.
Cheers John/Eve
Well as they say “you win some and you lose some” today was one. Set out in heavy fog. Finally got pulled over by the police, all fine. The police are EVERYWHERE always pulling up cars checking the cars “papers” just to be sure you stop they have spikes across the road. Our sat-nav is super, 99% of the time. Today it wanted to send us in a different direction to the signposts, hence up a dry gully. Having ‘be there done that before’ we followed the road signs to FES as the mountains looked too steep for the heap of crap we were driving *(later to swap). Continued to ignore sat-nav, the sign to FES became smaller as did the roads. Continued on as did the sign to FES. Committed, we continued on. The sign to FES became smaller and the road pathetic. Having 50km to go we continued. The sign to FES lead us to the worst roads conditions we have EVER encountered anywhere, for the next 28 km. We are in serious rural Morocco, the conditions were really bad. Wonderful experience after the event to witness the rural lifestyle, to rude to take photos. My only concern was a puncture or suspension damage. Yes it was that bad. This trip in Morocco is really an education of a lifestyle you would only see in a documentary, really, you could write a book on the wonderful sights we have witnessed. We feel so humble. We have NEVER felt threatened. Tested the comfort zone a couple of times.
ReplyDelete*Changed car to Peugeot 206 unfortunately just as bad as the last (choice of cars is limited). It is taking its toll, I am stressing out and that`s not like me. When you have a donkey cart overtake you on a hill you know it`s bad. A change of itinerary in order.
Cheers John/Eve
have just got home from emu park after easter. weather absolutely perfect. almost got in for a swim - it was so calm. love reading about your travels. Gloria
ReplyDeleteYou are certainly having an interesting, diversified and exiting time.
ReplyDeleteLove to hear the details.
Brian & Maz
Now in Ouarzazate, a modernised town in South Morocco close to the snow covered Atlas mountains. We have to cross these at an altitude of 2260 mts to get to Marrakech. A change in itinerary has us here for 5 nights and cut 1300km from our original plans. Everywhere is booked solid. We are in a 3 star hotel after 3 nights in an authentic Kasbah in Tinghir, a town just redeveloping its self into a modern place. A re-development mess at the moment and one wondered what awaited us accommodation wise on arrival into town. Nice surprise once inside the Kasbah. We are finding people very friendly and feeling very relaxed in this environment, seems slightly more ‘Western’ less Islamic, than our previous locations. Big dust storm late afternoon and a big clean up the following day. Very much enjoying the Moroccan cuisine. Still trying to adjust to the dry air/altitude, the RH must be below 5%. The nerve of some companies. Our hire car ‘mob’ have billed our MasterCard $2020 security on safe return of the car. Bloody thing is not worth that. No wonder insurance was impossible to get on our leased car.
ReplyDeleteCheers John/Eve
Whilst in Ouarzazate we visited one of 3 movie companies sets. Truly amazing the effects achieved to replicate stone , mud walls etc. all ‘front’. You have to keep touching/knocking to remind yourself that it is not marble/stone/brick etc. The latest movie was this year with Nichole K called ‘Queen of the Desert’, and the other movie we can remember was ‘The English Patient’. A Tibetan Temple took months to build for 2 min actual movie footage. Should have prefaced by saying it’s the DESERT scenes, also said to be the light and NO FEAR OF RAIN.
ReplyDeleteHad an unexpected trouble and stress free drive over the High Atlas Mountains (still snow covered) our road peak 2260mts. I felt sorry for our automotive heap, covered in sand and dust (inside and out) and wet mud spray, after so much off road travel. So, I put it in for a ‘showroom’ detail in Ouarzazate prior to our High Atlas travel. New looking car emerged, hang the expense; €3, last of the big spenders. But it looked great.
Like our drive into Fes, our GPS brought us into Marrakech through the ‘backdoor’ past the rubbish tip, past the shanty town shacks and the destitute end of town. Not content with that it then proceeded to take us, ‘dead set’ through the tourist old city centre. Readers who have visited Marrakech will know Place Jemma EL FNA. Fair dinkum, never, ever, have we driven, or been driven through such mayhem and chaos, a seething mass of humanity, metal and beasts, lawless in every direction at once. Words cannot describe the experience. We will visit the place on foot and try and post a video.
Once over the High Atlas we encountered a green lush fertile environment, a relief from the previous 2 weeks of barren ochre landscape and houses. Our hotel is in the ‘up-market’ end of town and has been an excellent choice. Our tour guide told us that there is not a hotel room or hire car available in Marrakech at the moment, claims Marrakech is now the 6th most visited tourist destination in the world.
John/Eve
Now safely back in Spain. Driving in Morocco is best described as ‘lawless mayhem’ as it is for pedestrians also. We covered 2000km, went through countless police road blocks and only stopped and checked twice. Surprisingly we only saw 1 car crash, a head-on in the High Atlas mountains. Having said that, we have had a wonderful travel experience in all respects.
ReplyDeleteFor the first time ever, in all of our travels, we rejected pre-booked accommodation, not even getting out of the car. Regrettably the town of El Jadida was not a good choice, very poor and run down. Our pre-booked Hotel choice was in a less than desirable part of town. Found a boutique hotel for the night. Moved on to pre-booked Assilah for an extra night, wonderful place with so much going for it. Thoroughly recommend it if you ever visit Morocco. Wonderful choice of seafood restaurants, supplied by a small boat fishing fleet on the Atlantic coast. The contrast between the ‘haves and have nots’ is very obvious in the large towns and cities and by Spanish standards Morocco is expensive. In fact, an English couple we met in Tingher said it was London prices. As did our hotel receptionist in Marrakech. Yet you get a car detailed for €3. Main course meals were very consistent throughout Morocco €15. However, we are convinced that Moroccans like to print/present large impressive menu’s. When you come to order only a very few of the dishes are available. Oh to be back behind the wheel of our new 308 after a delayed crossing from Tangier to Tarifa due to technical problems and 43 knot winds.
Cheers John/Eve
Oh to be back into a weekly cycle of accommodation, and not have to wait until 2030 hrs. to eat, and still be the first in the restaurant! Traveling in Morocco we were on the move all the time. Now in Portugal, and after Morocco it all seems very bland but peaceful. The past 2 apartments have been excellent, as have the locations and the beaches. Only 1 day of rain since we started our travels, clear blue skies, Spring wild flowers and tree blossom everywhere. Supermarket prices are 50%+ higher than Spain. An interesting /common sense approach for foreign drivers entering Portugal, (some of the Toll system is electronic charge only) you are offered the option to go to a ‘check’ point and have your car registered with the Toll road system. You place your credit card into the machine, it records your number plate and it is valid for 1 month. At the end of the month you are billed and the Toll registration cancelled. It is interesting that countries that have a common border and been invaded/occupied by the same groups for centuries can be so different. We are still forming an opinion here in Portugal, they, the people, seem to lack personality, bored in their work position and, in general, uninterested in your presence. Not being a linguist, the Portuguese language seems one of its own.
ReplyDeleteJohn/Eve
Hi Guys.
ReplyDeleteYou can be forgiven for thinking you are in so many parts of Australia here in Portugal. The 350km motor-way from Lagos to Lisbon is like being on the Hume Freeway. The landscape, flora and coast-line. The coast-line in the SW is just like the Great ocean road, and the cliffs of the Great Australian Bight. Eucalyptus, Acacia, everywhere. We chanced on Portugal’s Navy day in our current location of Cacais. Front row viewing of all activities, even the President passed us at 15 meters. Security seemed very low key. The parade were kept in place for 2hrs 20 min. many personal were passing out and they had replacements to take their place immediately. Full marine invasion demonstration, helicopter, landing craft etc. The vessels out to sea included the 2 Portuguese 4 masted sailing ships, submarine and large to small navy ships. All very impressive. Revisited the town of Sintra. Last visited 46.4 years ago with our 2 daughters. Memories flooded back driving into Lisbon over the Vasco Da Gama bridge having sailed under it 46.4 years ago, and the huge statue of Christ on the hill. From our beautiful apartment on the 5th floor we can see the cruise ships depart each night @ 1800 hrs. We are so thankful that we have good health to enjoy these times.
Cheers john/Eve
Correction
ReplyDeleteThe bridge mentioned as Vasco Da Gama is in fact called, 25 April Bridge, so named after the revolution in 1972.
Hi Guys
ReplyDeleteSooner or later it had to happen. Cascais, Sunday, Navy Day, 30°C, today Tuesday 12°C and wet. Wonderful day in Lisbon which is getting ready to host the European Champions Cup, May 24. Highlights! Saw major fire at a car dealership 20+ appliances. Saw Michael Palin. What more could you ask for? Visited the most Western point of the European Continent Capo de Roca. Our impressions of the Portuguese has not changed. Trying to come to terms with their suburban driving, very fast and traffic indicators an un-necessary accessory, therefore making traffic roundabout’s a ‘Russian roulette-speedway’.
Our 3 bedroom villa in Miramar is close to the beach/train. Couple of days spent in Porto taking bus tours. Interesting place and history. We are fast reaching ‘burn-out’, re the castles/churches/old historic buildings etc. however, what is so interesting in Portugal are Baroque tile murals portraying historical scenes. They are always blue and white in colour, tile size 10x10 cm mural size varies up to10 X 15 mts. See video blog.
Hi Guys
ReplyDeleteNice to back in Spain in the company of the most courteous and patient drivers on the planet. The Atlantic coastline is rugged, spectacular and most picturesque. Apart from the main towns, the Atlantic coastline is heavily forested as is most of Portugal. Our 2 bedroom apartment is located in Pontonovo, overlooking a small fishing village around 60km north of Vigo in the province of Galicia. Galicia has it`s curiosities, one being the ‘Horreos’ which are relics of the 15 century, they are elevated granite storage areas 4x2 mts. for grain etc.: located in private Villa properties. Beautiful inlet beaches, water pristine. Close by the largest Mussel farm in the world, the day we were there we counted 12 large harvesting vessels. We are always in amazement at the amount of Granite used in roads and buildings both in Portugal (roads) and in Spain,( buildings).
Hi Guys.
ReplyDeleteOur last couple of days in Portonovo were spent seeking Grain Water Mills on the Pilgrims Way. An amazing engineering feat of 600 years ago. History abounds and the Pilgrims Way is just one example, dating back to 9th century. Still heavily walked today, in fact pilgrims are passing beneath our widow in Nueva as I write . Forgive me, one last time. The Spanish road system is world class. Our drive from Portonovo to Nueva, on the North Coast was 461 kms, of that 450 was motorway, cost,€10. Our apartment in Nueva is in the centre of a very affluent village at the base of Peeks of Europe NP, its soaring mountains are said to be home to 80-100 brown bears. The higher Peaks are still snow covered (26450 mts). The village architecture is unique, a combination of Spanish/Portuguese/Tibetan, beautiful and so well maintained and presented. Eve is smitten by it all. The area is said to have been inhabited some 18,000 years ago judged by paintings in Caves.
Bilbao is our last accommodation in Spain. A visit to the Guggenheim was a must. However, we thought MONA in Hobart a better venue with more variety of displays.
good to hear all is going so well. must be the organising.. we are both ok. laurie has slowed down a lot but has still managed to keep us in fresh vegetables and eggs. so far not much winter. suits me fine. love gloria
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHi Guys
ReplyDeleteWell the French certainly let you know you are in France. Expensive and frequent road tolls. Most food and wine 2-3 times that of Spain.
A coffee in Spain €1.20 in France €3.50 lowest to €5.90 highest. We had to change a pre-booked destination as we were not getting any reply response, not worth the risk of fronting and finding it closed. Train strike in Paris makes the roads impossible, total grid lock. But, work this out. “Train strike now into 10th day”. We went into Paris, by train, and the Metro, a train every 5 min. Who’s on strike? A visit to Monet’s Garden (on the bucket list ) was well worth the effort, beautiful. Unfortunately there was only 25,000 others, not the most pleasant way to see the gardens. Returned the car without a scratch or chip after nearly 8000kms and 4.5lt/100 economy.
The weather has been real kind and only 3 days of rain in 4 months. Both of us are down to our preferred ‘fighting’ weight, not sure we will be able to maintain that with a bit of dining out ahead.
Well, it had to happen. A distraction scam got our travel card, lost a fair bit out of the account. Even with a witness, police called and card stopped. Welcome to London. Not a good money day all round. For our flight to London Air France charged us $260 for our baggage. L O N G day for us.
Went to stretch our legs 2030 hrs in Hyde Park. All the girls had flower Tiara’s on their heads, the park was a mass of people having picnics. LONG day? Sure, 21st June
Hi Guys
ReplyDeleteOur stay in London has been fantastic, apart from the fraud theft. On that subject, the London Metropolitan Police have been wonderful, for what, in the big picture, it is a petty crime (big money though) yet they have made personal and email contact after the initial interview. Very professional. At last the CBA have ‘performed’ our replacement card arrived from Sydney to the CBA London office after 4 days. We also make mention that every person we have asked for information (road sweepers to business folks) have had a willingly and friendly attitude. So, not all is bad. This visit we filled in the non-tourist gaps and covered many, many, Kms by foot. NO RAIN. Found the Southwark County Court with the full media circus. We just happened to be in place to see PM Cameron depart Downing Street. No police sirens, just lights and all over in seconds very impressive. For the devilment of it we tried to sign the visitors book inside Buckingham Palace, only to be told by an armed police officer not looking at us “don`t do that no more”.
Picked up our brand new Passat Estate and headed out of London in the rain into the luxury of the West Sussex countryside and wonderful friends.
Hi Guys.
ReplyDeleteOur relationship with our brand new Passat Estate was short lived. Topped up with diesel en-route to Cornwall seems a liquid contaminate was included with the purchase. Surprisingly it did not cause trouble until 260 km and 2 days later, it just stopped. We are now driving a brand new Skoda Octavia Estate. A wonderful time in Cornwall, which, by the way, want independence from England.
Good news, the bank has refunded the fraudulent London distraction scam transaction within 5 days of us making a claim.
We take this opportunity to sincerely thank all of our friends who have made us most welcome and been so generous with their hospitality towards us.
We are currently enjoying the beautiful countryside of Mid Wales before exploring East then North and West Wales. We have given up trying to pronounce Welsh town names, impossible to comprehend. English is officially their 2nd language. Visited the Red Kite centre and witnessed the feeding session. Part of a restocking programme that has seen the Red Kite close to extinction in 1990 to 1000 pairs today within a 30km radius of where we are staying. The only place the Red Kite is now found in the British Isles. A visit to Montgomery on the Welsh border to find evidence of distant relatives of Eves, alas to no avail. However, should you every visit Montgomery the Ironmonger BUNNERS should be on your visit list; established in 1892 it’s an Aladdin’s cave of, well, everything and it is very busy. Our travels took us to the Anderton Boat Lift (see our video blog or click on http://canalrivertrust.org.uk/anderton-boat-lift ) built 1875, an amazing engineering feat.
We seemed to have gained another bonus day, this time at the National Memorial Arboretum in the Midlands. Thinking we would have the place to ourselves. It turned out to be the Police annual Memorial service day. Our arrival time had us walking through a guard of honour with a polite “good morning”. If you are ever in the Midlands we recommend it. 150 Acres and 300 memorials to Honour men and women who have served our Nation in many different ways. Wonderful, yet emotional.
Well, we have fluked anther bonus day. Here on the Isle of Anglesey the RAF Red Arrows aerobatic team are based. We had the privilege of watching a full dress rehearsal for the opening of the Commonwealth Games later tonight. Sweating with the weather not a cloud in the sky, not complaining, but high 20s with very little open ventilation in our hotels makes it uncomfortable. This is a beautiful part of Wales.
ReplyDeleteArrived in Dublin safe and well after a ‘millpond’ sea crossing. The boarding of the ferry was super effortless and surprisingly, not interested In passports. An Irish mist welcomed us but still in the 20s.
Ireland is living up to what everyone has told us. Extremely friendly and helpful with a wonderful sense of humour. The countryside looks magnificent so lush. However, compared to England/Wales public arears and waterways are very untidy with litter, great shame. We were also told that Ireland is very expensive, this is not our observation when compared to England/Wales and France. Experienced a night in a Pub with folk music. Here the Pubs do not start to get going until 2000 hrs. and then just keep going. Great night. Also went to a very professional youth concert of music and dance. Excellent. Our travels to the South West, in the rain, turned out to be a horror day. Our apartment reception in Clonakilty was supposed to open @ 1600 hrs. Did not open. 1630 hrs. phone calls to find out what is happening. “You have no booking Mr Field” “I have a booking confirmation #....”.(remember we are in Ireland) “Ah yes Mr Field we can see that but there was no apartment arranged for you” Well, you get the drift, phone melting in my hand. 1715 hrs. “We have found you a much better apartment on the beach @ Inchydonney. Off we go, beautiful 5 star set-up and exceedingly busy. 1800 hrs. “ Ah, Mr Field the apartment has already been let and nobody told us, ah, sorry, give us 15 min and we will ring you back ”Still raining and my phone credit warning ,LOW! 1830 hrs. “Mr Field we have nothing at all in the area, everything fully booked. However we have located a house 30 km away will you accept that?” (I would have accepted a night in a dry cell). Arrived 1940 hrs. The house turned out to be, (at no extra cost, made sure of that at the very beginning) a modern 4 bedroom, 2 lounge, large dining and sleeps 10. in the very rural community of Curragilly on outskirts of Union Hall, still not sure how we found it but today not a cloud in the sky and cows grazing.
ReplyDeleteAfter the dreary and sombre cities of Dublin and Cork we are enthralled with countryside of the South West region and small towns and villages. The coast line is rugged and spectacular dotted with hamlets and bays. The coastal drive known as the ‘Wild Atlantic Way’ claimed to be the longest coastal dive in the world @ 1500 km. Viewed the Fastnet Rock lighthouse from the Mizen Head weather station. Thoroughly recommend the Dingle peninsular, really a drive to be taken. We are currently staying at the Limerick University village accommodation. This was chosen early en-route after a cottage we booked was not available. The university is located on 270 acres and has a very open space setting and the campus is divided by the Shannon river. Our apartment has 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, kitchen etc. basic but excellent value. An interesting observation, surprisingly, Field is a very common name here in Ireland as judged by business headings, shop fronts and truck signage. Not in the Murphy category though. Regrettably, it is looking like the major towns are offering the same depressing appearance, with so many empty shops, half-finished projects abandoned and nobody seems to have a ‘sparkle’ about them.
ReplyDeleteHave been watching Premier League Hurling, an interesting game, which could write its rules on the back of a postage stamp. The ‘Wild Atlantic Way’ continues to surprise and delight. The trip from Limerick to Galway, on a beautiful sunny day, displayed rugged inland scenery and the sheer Moher Cliffs along the shoreline, and the barren limestone landscape of the Burren hills. How pleasing it is to report that Galway is a very nice friendly city and its environs look prosperous. The city centre of narrow streets are vehicle free and full of activity. The river Corrib has a network of canals and many water ways feeding into it giving it character, it is also full of salmon ( you can see them: see video blog) waiting to continue upstream to spawn. Locals say it is the most seen in memory. You can also see trout in the canals. Observation, large supermarket chains are open 7 days a week from 6am until midnight, and eating out on Sundays does not include a penalty loading. Wake up Australia. The Sligo region has proved a good choice for historical sites and inland scenery. Now having to focus on our American leg has brought us to the decision to keep our booked return to OZ on the 20 Nov. We feel by then ‘travel lag’ would affect further adventure enjoyment. Save it for next time.
ReplyDeleteTime has come to depart the European leg of our trip. So many fond memories of our time there. Fortunately very few downsides, plenty of upsides. Highlights are many, from the incredibly friendly Irish, to the politeness of Spanish drivers. Spectacular coastal scenery in Portugal, Wales and Ireland. The unexpected tidiness of England and conversely the untidiness of Ireland. Spain could lure us back, not because of the low cost of living, but, still so much more to discover and see. Challenges were mainly road conditions and driving, having clocked up 18,000km feel qualified to comment on driving conditions. The condition of Moroccan roads and the absence of road rules. The numerous one car wide roads/ lanes of Ireland and the incredibly busy congested roads of England. Not sure how many speeding fines await us from the England travels, never known so many and frequent cameras. Phew! Managed to return Hertz car without any damage. Not a bad effort, 3 cars - 18,000 km and not a chip or scratch. Our flight from London to Seattle via the sub-Artic over Iceland-Greenland was uneventful. Initial impression is that here, in Seattle at least, the cost of living is quiet high comparing supermarket prices as well as general pricing in relation to low wages.
ReplyDeleteOur 12 day Alaskan trip has been a wonderful learning and adventure experience and has exceeded our expectations 10 fold. The area is so vast and remote which added to the atmosphere of the visit. Our cruise vessel had only 76 passengers, small enough to enter the narrow straits and coves. But large enough to not feel ‘closed in’. We experienced all that Alaskan weather can offer. Extremely cold and wet to cloudless sunny days, 50 knot winds and 3-4mt seas. Fortunately all land and water activities went ahead as scheduled, we were supplied rubber foot wear. The ship had permits to venture into restricted areas. Our land treks were not as controlled as in the Galapagos but still had to conform to strict conservation requirements. However, most onshore treks were ‘bush bash’ and compass. No bears encountered but fresh scat evidence along with fresh salmon kill. The flora is amazing. Glacier Ice was the biggest surprise. Crystal clear, 50% heavier than normal ice. Trapped air is under 100psi pressure. AND; it has live worms living in it. Wild sea life abundant and varied and plenty of Bald Eagles. Not until Ketchikan, after 7 days cruising did we encounter any other tourist ships. We are dwarfed by them. With only 20 of us left for the last leg to Seattle we were SPOILT! Great crew and guests.
ReplyDeleteWell just when you thought “it cannot get better than this” it did. Our float plane trip into the Knights Lodge was 40 min and interesting. The lodge is floating in an estuary and accommodates 50 people. Extremely well organised. Our bear viewing was spellbinding and the 2 hours spent at the site flashed by. Wonderful and privileged viewing. See Video blog. Boat outings also made shore and water bear viewing activities possible. Our return trip to Campbell River (NE Vancouver island) was by helicopter as we were ‘clouded’ in. That was an experience to behold. Following the valley’s and water ways at very low level flying. Did not want it to stop. Having a problem with mandatorily 15% tipping min. Credit card terminal also gives a choice 20 & 25%, and 2-4 lots of taxes on top of your purchase price. Ferry trip very efficient and passes many islands in its 100 min voyage from Vancouver to Vancouver Island. Vancouver, down town, ‘at first blush’, is the ugliest city ever, high rise without character. Also very high Asian community. Locals call it ‘Hongcouver’.
ReplyDeleteThe Canadian leg of our trip has certainly been a contrast. The bears and wildlife of the remote NW to the lower Rocky mountains National parks and the distressing homeless people of Vancouver, and a parking ticket. Our week here was a house on the Fraser river some 40km East of Vancouver. The logging rafts along the Fraser river created a unique insight into local industry. For some 80km along the Fraser are Sawmills feed by huge floating rafts of logs towed by tugs. During our National Parks walks we came across long past felled Cedars some 4mt+ in diameter, huge. Our 1 night stay in the city, pre-booked hotel, close to rail station proved interesting. Firstly it was spotlessly clean and the staff exceptional, however, location was 100 mt from a ‘protest’ homeless tent ‘shanty town’ that was being cleared the day of our arrival. No dramas for us just distressing to witness 180 people being sent onto the streets with the other 1000+ already there. Accommodation is extremely expensive in Vancouver we are told, basic 1 bedroom unit/flat $1200 per month if you can find one. We got our parking ticket cancelled with one of my “dear John letters”. The VIA trans Canadian rail trip exceeded our expectations on all counts, (and that includes food) now that’s a big call. We think our trains are long, do the maths on this: 200x15mt freight carriages double decked with 40` containers, LPG, new cars etc.; one every 20 min or so, true. Each daylight travel day over the 4500km journey saw a different landscape from The Rocky mountains-prairie-Fir & Birch forests. Managed to ‘collect’ 3 cattle at a crossing when doing 130kmh, more delays. Cost of living in British Columbia is extremely high. 15% GST,20% PST, on everything, +10% hotel tax and 12cents/litre congestion tax. Hire cars 12% sport tax? Contrast in Alberta a flat 5% tax.
ReplyDeleteThe train trip ended in Toronto. Our car journey down to Indiana took in Niagara Falls. Wow! so close to the edge can you get, as well as the sides, fantastic. We both thought the falls were smaller than we had expected. The new park layout allowed excellent viewing. Wonderful experience. Our 9 days with Gillian, Scott, Rebecca and Mark was truly fantastic. A first for us, our Grandchildren picked up the lunch tab. The Autumn leaves are in full display. Experienced snow the night of departure from Indiana, but clear blue skies perfect for travel during the day. Mornings temps minus freezing though. Driving off the major interstate routes when/where practical to see the real USA. Now “u-all”, 1 for the bucket list if not already seen in Oklahoma City. http://www.okc.gov/landrun/index.html (read then play the video it took 25yrs to complete).
ReplyDeleteCurrently at/in the Grand Canyon NP. South Rim. Fortunately it is off season but the place is still very busy. The weather is clear blue skies. Walked 5 km yesterday of the West Rim. Pulled the plug with 7 km to go due to Mums sore foot and my unsteadiness on my feet.( I have lost confidence somewhat after the fall in Barcelona. I am not a tottery old fool, well not yet, just very conscious of sure footing). The rim trail at this point was1 mt wide uneven stone and only 1 mt to the sheer drop of 800 mt, so after 200 mts we pulled the plug, one stumble and the end. Even the bus driver (there is a network of 3 free bus routes that drop off and pick up every 15 min) said from here on it is not for the faint hearted to walk the track. So I did not feel so bad. Today. Started our East rim walk of 6 km with the temp -5°C and a light cover of snow that fell overnight, and returned to our car at 1400 hrs. and the temp was just below 0°C. Mum lasted the 6 km, just. Repeating myself, BUT. Nothing you see on film or read in books prepares you for what you see here. Off to Las Vegas tomorrow.
ReplyDeleteOur travels have taken us through so many experiences in the US to list them all. The Texan experience has been a stand out. We fluked it again. This time the US WRAC(Working Ranchers Cowboys Association) rodeo finals. Finalists from 24 previous competitions around the US. This included a full on trade fair. Anything a cowboys needs was on sale spread over 4 halls. All but the ‘Fields’ wore a Stetson Texan hat. Great atmosphere “u-all”. In the event arena were junior competitors, an 8 year old worked the horse and the steer like a veteran, doing the same routine as the adults. Wonderful. Travel across Texas/ New Mexico is very much like the Barkly Hwy, on steroids, not much between the major towns. Santa Fe. New Mexico,(and its environs) is a lovely city set in time with covenants on building codes and heritage protection laws for its local architecture. Arizona & New Mexico and their many National Parks and history of origin are amazing, photos just cannot do them justice. Everyone knows the Grand Canyon NP South Rim is awesome, and it is, hard to really comprehend that it is so vast, nothing can prepare you for the experience. Vegas, well it`s Vegas ,to say it is fully over the top to extreme excess and opulence is an understatement. Arrived at our car rental return to clear our car of any chips or scratches as have the other 10 cars, somewhat apprehensive the last 2 weeks as to the ‘what if’ factor after a trouble free 9 months. Now in Qantas lounge safe and well. Thanks to so many who kept in touch during our travels, and reading our blog. Much appreciated. Back in OZ 22nd Nov
ReplyDeleteCheers John/Eve
Useless information
In the last 9 months we have:
Driven 27,000km in:-
11 cars
10 different countries &
17 different states of the USA
6 car ferry crossings
4200km Train trip
600km+ dedicated walking
108 GB Photos/Video clips
Had 1,987 visits to our blog site
On budget