For anyone that is interested this page is a record of our trip from 23 July 2009 to 11 September 2009 (so will contain quite a lot of detail you may not be interested in). Click on the Table of contents on the right to go straight to the date of our journey

Here is our flight Itinerary

Where we have been so far Maps track and the like

Technology problems we have been having

Contact Sheets 100 photos on each one for entire trip

We are currently at Brisbane Airport and were the first to book in. Our Neighbour next door drop us off at the Airport. Now we have 3 hours to kill before we even board as the big board says the the flight is delayed, but does not say how much it is delayed. Marg Just worked it out 1/2 hour delay so far

Photos at Brisbane Airport

We arrived in Hong Kong just as it was getting dark. The flight was great as we were in daylight the entire time. We saw lots of the Australian coastline that included the Great Barrier reef. At about Cairns we turned slightly left and headed over a small southern peninsula of New Guinea P Dolka. Then flew over Indonesia and the Philippines.

From Hong Kong airport, bought a return ticket on the CityFlyer bus A21 (return N21 night service) $HK55 (less than A$10). Managed to get off at the right bus stop in Kowloon, just a sea of people. Short walk to the hotel which is in the middle of bustling, dumpy area. But soon discovered it is very safe, no deros, but quite a few older street people, harmless. Arrived at the hotel. Better than we expected. Bad things : room smelled really really musty, air con freezing and the beds were rock hard. Pluses: very clean, very friendly and helpful, professional staff, breakfast was better than the 1 slice of bread and watered down OJ Marg had in Singapore. Really very nice. Free internet via power supply in the room, plus a PC room, plus printer at no charge, plus laundry at no charge. Went to the night markets and bought some Velro and new suction caps to hold my GPS to the aircraft window sideways as it only seems to like it that way (Daisy in the cheapie store was very nice). These night markets are the next street, about 20m from where we are staying. I don't know what time they finish but they were going very strong when we left them at about 11:30 pm. Hotel rate HK$470 per night (A$70 something per night)

Photos 23/7/09

(Geoff talking)(spelling by Marg) As the beds were very hard (apparently typical for Hong Kong) we did not get a very good sleep. However we had gained two hours since leaving Brisbane so that made up for it a bit. The hard bed were made up for by the great laid on Breakfast that is included in the price. (Hotel supplied extra blankets for hard mattress for the soft western tourists)

On walking around I first thought there was light rain because the ground was often wet and water coming from above. I soon discovered this was from the plethorer of air conditioners in the high rises above us.

The area we are staying in has some very run down high rise in amongst some even higher rise modern buildings. The Night markets are also very much ramshackle. Rather than repairing the roof they just seem to add another layer of plastic sheeting.

Walked along Nathan Road to Kowloon Park where we saw Turtles, some magnificent brightly coloured birds in a big aviary and some good views

Then walked to the Port area where we ate what we had purchased at a small supermarket for lunch before catching the Star Ferry over to Hong Kong Island. There is a lot of construction work going on at the port area so they have built a long walk way that takes you over all that to the heart of the business centre. In fact you can get to most of the larger buildings around that area without being at street level.

We saw the old double Decker trams and then walked to the Mid Level Escalators that take you up some 800 metres (straight up over a series of escalators of about 70m each). That was amazing again. In amongst the older areas that don't look too crash hot. As you get higher up the real estate appears to improve quite a lot. Along the side of the escalators are steps and restaurants, etc and a little more European. But except for the highrise areas, there is not much European about Hong Kong.

We got off at the top escalator and looked at the views, unbelievable. Then walked to the HK zoo and saw Orangutang, other primates and birds. Then walked to the Peak Train station where we queued for half an hour to buy tickets, then queued for another hour to get on the train. Apparently we were not the only people to think of going up to the peak in the daylight to see the view just before dusk and then wait for the lights of the city to come on!!.

The Peak Tram is a venicular tram, going very steep. Spent a couple of hours on the Peak looking out over Hong Kong and waited till the city lights all came on, spectacular. They didn't set off the fireworks that night, even though they are supposed to be daily. I thought perhaps the Peak, the top of the hill, would be just the top of the hill with the lookout. Well, when you get off the tram the exit takes you into a 4 storey building with restaurants, shops, etc. Half-way up you can exit to a big courtyard where you can find Burger King (Hungry Jacks), Swarovski, (yes that's right), and a separate high-end shopping centre - I used think 'only in America'. Finally headed back about 9.30pm. Again had to queue for about half an hour to get back on the tram to go back down. Down meaning almost vertical. We were so high we were in cloud (got a video of it - weird). I guess it's the highest shopping centre in the world. Walked back down from the Tram stop into Hong Kong city - feet really suffering now, Marg's that is. Took the ferry back over to Kowloon and hobbled home. We were so wrecked that we didn't even have dinner. Peak Tram (including the Tower) $HK48, Kowloon Ferry $HK2.40 each way

Photos 24/7/09

Marg got blisters from walking yesterday, so we just did some local walk to the south of us. Went past the Jade Markets (oodles of jade). Probably cheap if you know your jade, but didn't look a lot different from the market stuff you see in Australia (sure it was though), only there is about the equivalent of 2 Victoria Market rows of the stuff. Went inside a Temple then headed to Kings Park we saw on the map, only problem was the park was an almost vertical hill and we were at the bottom. Finally got to the top and there was a very wide plateau of grassed area. Again, good views. At one end was a fitness area for the elderly - we felt right at home. Marg did some stretches, along with the 80ish year old Chinese gentlemen who were 'elderly jogging'. I don't know how they even made it to the top, let alone do strenuous exercise once up there and in all that heat and humidity. We noticed a lot of older people doing Tai Chi around (Kowloon), plus some doing ballroom dancing, I imagine they are the fittest elderly people in the world. Actually the two old gents on the top of the hill could have been 100 for all we knew! We walked back down and still headed for the other markets, but we ran out of puff (actually feet). Got as far as the Ladies Market just off Dundas street, which is a very, very busy place. Marg got her hair cut in Nathan road on the way back. Hair cut was $HK79, plus service charge = $88, but there was a minimum of $HK100 for credit card. As we didn't have enough cash we decided to use credit card. As there was a $HK12 difference, I (Marg) asked if there was any other little thing I could get to make up the difference. Only thing was a treatment of $HK285! So I said don't worry about it and paid the $HK100. But realised later that the $HK12 difference was only Aus$2 - how embarrassing!

Photos 25/7/09

We had to get up at 3:20 am to catch a bus to the Airport. The bus was only 5 minutes late but although we never said anything to each other im sure we both panicked. Like all buses it went around everywhere, including all the dead ends at the airport. When we got to the airport the but pulled up at what did not look the departures so we stayed on the bus. It then pulled up at what even look less like arrivals so we though we had better get off. One door that led to an very small area and facing a lift. Where the hell are we!. Out of the lift on the 7th level we were at departures.

We waited about half hour before check-in opened. Here at the airport, 13 crew have just boarded.

The flight to London was entirely in daylight so other than the time when their wad cloud cover we go to see lots more of this planet that in the previous times when we have flown at night. See our track from Brisbane to London map

I (Geoff) was able to get some great photos of Northern china of snow capped mountains and Deserts See http://sites.google.com/site/geoffmargs2009holidays/_/rsrc/1248682222195/home/photos-26-07-09/IMG_1743%20Gurbantunggut%20Shamo%20Zizhiqu%20Desert%20in%20Northern%20China.jpg .Also plenty of photos of Eastern Europe.

Typically when you fly into Heathrow you end up doing a number of loops and turns and luckily we got some good photos of central London.

As we stopped for a nature call after exiting the plane by the time we got to migration we virtually went straight through. However we then followed the signs at Terminal 4 to the trains that took us to to the terminal trains rather than the underground trains. So a walk back into the mail terminal building to the tube station were we bought oyster cards with sufficient top up to get us to Farringdon station. Unfortunately their had been a problem with the Pickidelly line and we had to wait about 15 for a train. Compared to Oz that nothing. However because of the delays or perhaps also because it was a Sunday the train got more and more Crowded until where we changed at Kings Cross. The trip to Kings Cross to Farringdon was far less crowed but although only one stop further than what we though.

Kristi met us at Farringdon and then give us a quick tour of that area and the St Johns area and read us some of the history that she had found about it. we are staying with her at Liberty House which is Student accommodation.

We walked up to Islington to bye a few thing including a Lilo but because it was 4:30 pm on a Sunday we did not get to bye the Lilo.

We went out for teas at a Indian restaurant which was in walking distance and came home and wet to sleep after being awake for the last 24 hours.

Photos 26/7/09

As we did not buy a Lilo the previous day Kristi decided to let Marg and I sleep in the two single beds and she slept on the floor on a sleeping bag she had bought. It was not the ideal situation. So we went out in seach of a Lilo which we eventually found

Walked first to Old Street, Finsbury?, (in amongst the 'Subway' diners and 'Sainsbury' stores we found a cemetery which dates back to 1600's and has been a burial ground for over a thousand years Did not get the name of it. Very eiry. Went then up to Angel Islington - bought some bedding and supplies. Took most of the day. Farringdon and Angel Islington is a nice area.

Met Kristi at 5pm from work, which is about 100 metres from where we were staying. We headed off to meet Glen and Claire at the London Eye. Had to catch 3 trains, but still managed to get there in half an hour. I felt like we were in the 'Great Race' for you TV buffs. Jump off one, head up stairs or escalators to change lines, back down (or up) to the next train. Probably waited an average of about 30 seconds to a 1 minute for each train - we'd be just happy with a railway station at Forestdale.

Spent time on the London Eye then went out for dinner in an English Pub in Charring Cross. By the time we'd finished it was 10.30pm - caught by the daylight saving again. Said our good-bye's to Glen and Claire and headed home.

Photos 27/07/09

We decided to help Kristi find permanent accommodation so looked it up on the internet and then went look at properties around Barbican. Whilst their we discovered we were very neat the London Museum so walked to it an spent quite a bit of time discovering the history of London. That turned out to be close to St Pauls Cathedral so we walked to it and had a quick look because we had to be back at Barbican to view a property and also we weren't willing to pay the 11 pound entrance fee.

After looking at the very small property that they want 180 pound per week plus council taxes at about 800 pound per year Kristi had walked down from work and met us and had a look at it also.

We then looked at the outside of a few other properties before walking home and having a relatively early night

Photos 28/7/09

Kristi was able to take a day off work to go see some more properties and we met an Agent at 10 am and looked at 2 Studio Apartments. They are very small and expensive. Even to bye them would be expensive like A$1,000,000 for a dog box.

We then decided to split up. Geoff went to the London Transport Museum and Kristi and Marg to look at some more properties.

I (Geoff) wanted to go to the loo. I asked at Barbican Station if they had one their. The Station Staff said no but that ther was one around the corner and gave me a map where it was clearly marked. I went up and down the street where it was marked and no loo. Whent back to the Station guy and he reconded it was definatly there. As I was going back to Kings Cross Station and that ment going via Farrington Station he reconed thir was a loo on the station or failing that that I could go out through the oyster card machines at Kings Cross Station without having to remove the balance on the card. I get off ar Farrington and the Loo is out or order. When I get past the Oyster gates at Kings Cross the only Loo I can find is a disabled one in the ticket office and ther is a queue for it. However I see a Mcdonalds on the other side Euston rd but that requires a walk 100 metres down to the light to get across Euston Rd. Fortuatly I doscover Burger King is ther and thet do have a Loo but like a lot od them in London it requires going down to the basement. Them back to Kings Cross Station

I realised that I can get the latest Cycling maps at Kings Cross but the ticket counter has a very long queue so I go to the Information counter where Peter sais thay don have them but Tourist information place across the road (Near Mcdonalds) has them So back over Euston road again only to discover although the building is open that the Tourist information counter is closed.

So back to King Cross Station to go to the Transport Museum which was quite good.

On leaving the transport museum and byeing Fruit and Bread for lunch at Tesco's I rang Kristi and Marg and arranged to meet them at Regents Park. As they were going to be a while I decided to walk. Trouble is I only had maps of around Covent Garden and Holborn Station but Kristi said I should head basically North West and if I see it towards the BT tower. They ring me about an hour later and give me directions as I had gone to far west. My GPS does not have maps and in any case does not work to well in the small London streets between the buildings

At least I go to see some part of London that I otherwise would not have. On part of the wall I saw the big Freemasons building

REGENTS PARK

The park is very nice and a reprieve from the endless building and roads of London we got some good photos of parts of it as Marg wanted to go with Kristi to where she has her Guitar lessons but that meant going home first to pick up her guitar and then to South walk. Whilst Kristi was at her gutar lessoon we walked to London Bridge and Tower Bridge but only looked at the Tower of London from Tower Bridge.

Back to Krisits Gutar Lesson Place, then had tea at a little take away place and then back home to St Johns street Islinton.

By GPS that does not work all they time because of the small street and buildings and does not work in the tube recorded 13.7 Km for the day. But am I getting fit and loosing weight?

Photos 29/7/09

Spent all plus more of the morning doing washing. Geoff also walked up to Angle to buy Mobile Broadband to use for the drive over the next week.

Then walked to the British Museum. Spent only about an hour and a half their as we decided to meet Kristi to see a property at 6:30 which she has made an offer on. Hopefully she will be moving in their next week. Then home to get packed up as we will be picking up a hire car tomorrow to start our drive up to Aberdeen.

Kristi had difficulties setting up her UK Bank accounts so as to pay money for the Unit that she will be renting, so we spent some time helping here with that, and we had to drop off at her bank on the way to pick up the car. Then caught the tube to Harrow and Wealdstone to pick up the hire car.

When we got the car we drove into some small back back streets and discover they were so small and with the parked cars their is not enough room to pass a car coming the other way.

The car Hire mob gave us the car with virtually an empty tank so we had to find a petrol station so asked some local workers digging up to street. Followed their directions and immediately ended up in a traffic jam so turned the other way and went to a shopping centre to get something to eat

We drove to Sherwood Forest and took heaps of photos. The Major Oak was impressive in its girth and was supposed to be over 1,150 years old at least. Geoff had a go at shooting arrows

We then drove to Worksop, at total of about 350 Km's for the day where we were book in for the night. As Kristi was with us she then had to make arrangements to get back to London by train the next day. That turned out being a carbarkle because she kept on getting disconnected on her mobile only once because she had run out of credits. Also we could not book it on the internet because the web siters kep crashing. Eventually we decovered she could catch the train from Worksop and buy a ticket at the station.

We drove in to the town of Worksop to bye something for tea and Geoff decided to top up the credit on his phone at a nearby Barklay machine whilst Kristi waited for the Pizzas. With Marg driving and missing the Barkley bank twice we did a few U turns and ended up completly lost such that we had to ring Kristi to get her to tell us the street she was in. Luckly we had the computer, internet access and Google Maps other wise we would never had found Krisit again. Back to the Travelodge to eat and sleep

Photos 31/7/09

The drive North started out very wet which can be a bit scary on those Motorways where the speed lime is 70MPH wiick is close to 120 KPH and some go a lot faster than that. So we made a diversion on to a back road and ended up at a little town called Piercebridge wher we found old Roman Fort ruins.

Continued on past a wind farm. Did not see and winds growing but did see big poles with propellers on them. Then stopped at Corbridge and walked over the bridge and look at the river Tyne. Interesting to see it at this point when we had seen it at Newcastle in 2003.

We then tried to find Hadrian's Wall. Found lots of signs to say it was here once and plenty of dry wall wall but nothing that was what I know (Geoff) is the width of Hadrian's Wall.

We could easily see when we were getting close to Scotland because of the way the landscape had changed. And it just got better and better. The boarder was clearly marked.

Arrived at our destination Galashiels. A little B&B above a shop in the main st. Old but clean. We bought Chinese take away from the store next door. Breakfast was very nice. Next day off to Aberdeen to see Betty and Alan

Photos 1/8/09

We headed to Edinburgh. I, Geoff, wanted to see parts of it but Marg did not so we compromised and went to the Port area to see the Britannia which I has see as a child during one of liz's visits. We diden want to but ended up in the middle of Edinburgh amoungst all the traffic and where not able to get out for a while. In these UK cities it very hard to navigate even when you do have a map (google maps) if you dont know where you are. At one state we followed as Magestic Tours bus as it seemed to be going to all the touristy things. I (Geoff) would liked to have walked up to the top of the hills at the back of the City. We did see the back of the Castle once when we were where lost

Crossed over the bridge North of Edinbrough where we stoped to have a bite to eat.

We stopped at Dendee to see the Mills Observatry. It took a bit to find as does everything in the UK

We took a little diversion going into Aberdeen so came in from the west to Betty and Alans place in Cults

Photos 02/08/09

We slept in the most comfortable bed the entire trip last night at Betty and Alans. Had breakfast and sat out in their back garden. Betty and Alan drove us to Glen Tanar where we went for a very enjoyable walk of about 6 miles. Then we went out for diner to the Dee side Golf Club with Betty, Alan, Allison, Her partner Peter and Steven

Photos 3/8/09

We left Aberdeen later then we expected to because we had a very good talk with Betty and then stopped in Garthdee to see if a friend of someone Geoff knows in the computer club still lives their. Although they were not home a person around the corner said they did still live their.

We also dropped in to see Alan and Richard at their shop a then to see Donna's Mum (Marg used to work with Donna.

Then driving through the fantastic Northern Scottish country side and Mountains

Whilst driving through Bellabeg I say this guy see photo and waved to him and he waved back to me, so I recon either I know him or he knows me. Anyone recognise him?

We arrived in Nairn where we had pre booked into the Winzor Hotel. Walked to and along the beach then into the town where we bought some fish, that was ok and potato wedges that were not very good. Back to the Hotel were the free internet will not work with my computer but does with someonme seles I met in the lobby, we can not find the remote to the TV, can not get any reception on the TV and we can hear people talking in the room next to us (but Marg recons that other had said that on internet reviews

Marg's comments : Nairn is a nice place, the 'Brighton of the North', large seaside village, beautiful old homes on the waters edge but concealed by high mounds. The seagulls are huge compared to Australia and sound just as they sound on the British shows.

Photos 4/8/09

Breakfast at the hotel was like Faulty towers. After waiting for a long time, the staff said all the tables were taken up yet in some cases their was only one person sitting at a 8 chaired table. Marg asked if we could site with those couples sitting on larger tables, 'oh yes, you could ask them' (standard practice in Aussie hotels). We asked a couple sitting at a 8 seat table if we could sit at ther table and they said ok. The guy said good luck getting served. One staff member would go to some tables at random and ask what they wanted. The another staff member then would come out and ask at random tables it this what you ordered? Whilst waiting to be served, we decided to have cereal, toast and juice, yoghurt and tea. However there was no knives to be seen. SO I took some from another non occuied table. The friut juce and yoghurt was warm and the hot drinks cold. At one stage some other people wanted Juice but there were no glasses. I asked a staff member on there Behalf and 1/2 hour later the glasses appeared. By that time most of the guests had left. We still have not been asked what we wanted in terms of a hot meal so we left as well. Pretty much what ever could go wrong did.

At 11:40 we are still in Nairn. We have had a quick look at the harbour and are about to head off towards Inverness

At 12:38 we arrived at CULLODEN BATTLEFIELD. A lot of people here and we are deciding if we should go in as it would take a few hours and we again had a late start. Decided not to and to spend more time at the mountains further along

1:28 Stopped in Inverness at a park to eat lunch. Had lunch at Inverness beside the Ness River (or the Caledonian Canal?). Weather seemed about 23 degrees, very mild. As we were well beind schedule, we decided not to go via Aviemore, but to follow Loch Ness all the way down. Didn't see Nessie, in fact, didn't see much of the Loch as there were trees nearly all the way down the road. Some glimpses of magnificant scenery though. Stopped in to Urquhard Castle along with 50,000 other people. As we were behind schedule, didn't go in. Got to near Fort William and turned into the Ben Nevis road to check out the chair lift, with the intention to go there tomorrow and spend some time on the mountain. Got caught in a traffic jam in Fort William, made a diversion to Glenroy and the Glenroy valley, bit different from the Aussie version. Headed out to Glencoe and up to our hostel accommodation at Kinlochleven. They didn't have our booking (in the town hostel), but they found us a room in their other hostel high on the hill. The views are magnificant. I'd say it was worth losing the en-suite, but, naaa. Went out for dinner at the Tailrace Inn and came back to our luxury acommodation. Doesn't even have a powerpoint. Anyway, it's a bed and it seems clean, so are the amenities. We are armed with our ear plugs as our room is near the lounge and the non-carpet floors echo everything. Did I mention the views are magnificant from our window. Getting an early night tonight - the first since we arrived.

Photos 5/8/09

We have got off to an early start this morning, 8 am because we are back tracking to go to Ben Nevis. 8:50 stopped at Fort William to get some Breakfast. When we left the Hostel this morning Marg did not take too much care to close the door quietly, to get back at those that were noisy last night.

2:10 pm. Have just driven back to Fort William from were we had gone up in the Gondola towards Ben Nevis. The Gondola does not take you to the top so we walked the extra 2.5 K almost straight up. Well I Geoff, did and Marg 1/2 way. I saw some snow on the other side but had to make a quick decent because it looked like it may have started to get clouded it. But it didn't . Well worth the hike up near the top. Now for the drive to Glasgow where we are staying at the travel lodge. It should be comfortable than last night but definitely will not have the view.

6:31 pm Arrived at the Travel Lodge. Biggest room we have had so far on our entire trip. Almost new. The inital part of the drive to Glasgow had some fantastic natural scenary. Giant green and grey mountains coming down to Lochs. I'm sure the photos are not going to do them justice. Most photos taken from the car because we were running short of time because of the following.

We had noticed and Oil smell in the car. Yesterday I had checked the level but because the dip stick is so long and bends to go into the engine is appeared to be overfull. However I did notice it was leaking oil on to the road,a little bit. After filling up with petrol on leaving Fort William today I forgot to check the oil. Whilst stopped to take some photos 5K out of Glencoe I checked the oil and nothing was showing on the dip stick. So a drive back to Glen Co to get some oil. 14 GBP for one litre and it just showed on the bottom of the dip stick. So bought 4L of 20w 50 form 10 GBP and put about another 3 Lt in. Rang the rental mob (Enterprise Car rental) and told them about it and said we were heading for Glasgow. They gave us and address that included the word Londonderry. On checking reception at the Hotel here they said that address is in Dublin Ireland. Would be interesting seeing them trying to deliver another car from their. Luckely they also have a office at Glasgow Airport which is near here. Marg is just ringing them now

Went to the hire placed this morning and they gave us another car but its cigarette lighter power outlet did not work, that was useless to us as we would not be able to use the computer to navigate, so we stayed with the existing car. There were about 6 Enterprise Car Hire places in Manchester, so decided we didn't want to get lost in yet another city, so we decided we will continue the trip and keep adding oil. Fingers crossed.

10:53 and we are still working out way out of the outer suburbs of Glasgow. Got lost in a little town this time, but the trusty GPS combined with the maps as to where we are at this point in time has been invaluable.

12:31 Just crossed the boarder back into England and then crossed the river Esk.

1:24 We turned East off the M6 before Carlisle looking for Hadrian's wall again. Drove about 10K and realised it would be at least another 30K and we would end up near where we were looking for the wall when we headed North. So seeing as it only a pile of rocks (Geoffs thoughts) we decided to go back to the M6 and continue to head south. Took a 'short cut' back to motorway, road was closed and no diversion signs, got on to a road only one vehicle wide and stopped to ask a farmer who confirmed we were on the right road. All today is very pretty country and in Australia this would be really really nice, but not spectacular like yesterday's Highlands mountains.

Car went OK today, so confirmed we would not waste any more time on the hire car people. Will just keep topping up the engine.

Got to place we were staying outside Manchester about 5:00pm. (Travelodges are mostly located on Motorway Services run-offs) Had a hassle getting to the Travel lodge Westbound of the M62 as we were on the eastbound side. Had to drive another 2KM's or so up the M62 to go back in the other direction. As we took the exit into the services area, we finally arrived at the Westbound Travelodge, having missed a little turn-off to the diner area car park which we didn't need at the time. Parked near the Travelodge, but when we decided we would drive back to the other car park, it was NO ENTRY, and we were faced with on-coming semi trailers who have also just come off the motor-way. So the only way legally you can get to the other car park within the Services area is to go on to the Motorway go 2km, do a u-turn, travel 4kms, do a u-turn and then come back off the exit to the Services area. After eating we walked around and discovered a road going over the motorway just near where we were (and it linked the east bound and west bound services), but they say no access they appear not to want us to use it. This is a public road, but I think the council want to only allow local traffic so restrict access to the Services users.

Overall didn't really get to see anything today except motorway traffic, but we knew it would be a long haul.

Meeting Kristi as Oxford station this evening and will spend Saturday and Sunday in the Cotswolds. Kristi will go home Sunday night - to her new flat!! We are heading to Oxford via Chester (to get my fix of Roman history) and overlooking the inlet to Liverpool docks (Geoff's fix).

1:22 PM We did not go all the way into Birkenhead opposite Liverpool, only went to Ellesmere Port, but did see some some long boats and a few boaty things outside a boat Museum. Drove into Chester and very luckily found a 30 minute park so walked to the city wall and the Cathedral. Now driving south of Shrewsbury to keep away from Wolverhampton and Birmingham to get to Oxford.

We drove to Stadford Upon Avon on Kristi's recommendation and spent an hour looking for a toilet. Had a quick look at Anne Hathaways house than headed to Oxford to meet Kristi who had caught the train up from London. Only got there 1 hour late. Headed for our B&B via everywhere except the right roads, but saw some nice scenery we didn't expect. Checked in to the B&B which is in a very very small village (just a couple of houses)old stone. B&B was quaint, clean and comfortable. Went down the road to an inn for dinner. Finally got back to the B&B at 10.30pm.

On the way in to Oxford the plug that goes into the Computer from the 12 Volt supply from the car packed in. It now only works when I push the cable hard against the plug because it has been bumped to many times in this small car.

We intend driving around the Cotwolds tomorrow

Had breakfast at the Cotswolds View Guest house B&B. Very Nice indeed. All three of us headed off to view the Cotswolds. We did a circuit and saw a number of the quaint towns. Each had its own little distinctions. Most interesting thing for the day for me (Geoff) was the ancient burial mound that was at the top of a hill, so we got to walk to the top of a hill. Marg was more impressed with the fact the burial grounds were 4,000 years old (i.e. 2,000 B.C.) It is located along the Cotswolds Way which is a 100 mile walk from Bath, north through the Cotswolds (only about 1km from a road). The Cotswold Way has walking right-of-way all through farmland so was interesting. Kristi really appreciated the open spaces, having been confined to London for the last few months. Her only relief is Regents Park where she goes regularly for some fresh air, peace and quiet.

Stopped for lunch at Winchcombe, but couldn't find anything much open. Same name as Dave B's relatives - wonder if there is a connection?

Advantages of Cotswolds : Pretty, really old buildings, quaint: Disadvantages : Can't stop your car anywhere even to look at a map, can't park anywhere, can't find a toilet. We thought we could at least find a park out of the town centres, but they don't have any, no space. Obviously those who lived here years ago (maybe 1000 years ago), didn't think to plan for cars, how short-sighted were they.

Dropped Kristi off at Oxford station to get back to London this evening. Following going the wrong way twice last night coming out of Oxford, we knew exactly where we were to go coming back tonight….WRONG…..Got around the first roundabout OK, then went off the early exit to be sure we didn't miss the exit this time (but it was a works vehicles only, back on to the Motorway - luckily it was down to 40 mph for roadworks), then went off at the correct exit, but the signs did not say our location, so off to another expressway about 2kms to do a u-turn and back, discovered a Marks and Spencer and a Sainsbury's whilst going around a few more roundabouts [one twice] then finally got on to the right road. If we didn't have Geoff's GPS and the maps, we would still be going around the roundabout or be in London by now. If you miss an exit it usually means about 10km extra.

FOOTNOTE : Good news today from Nairn Police. Someone handed in Geoff's credit cards which he lost 5 days ago. Phew. We only had put a stop on the cards, so don't have to go through getting new ones.

The car is still leaking oil, but Geoff thinks it is coming from the oil filter (dodgy service). We have now spent 50 pound on oil so far which we are told will be re-imbursed!!

Photos 9/08/09

Droped in at Burford on the way out and looked at their Church and Church yard and rang Westpac to reinstate the credit cards.

Drove to Swindon and went to Maplin Electronics http://www.maplin.co.uk/ and bought a new 12 V adaptor to run the computer and with Krisi's permission (she is not with us) bought something to eat at Mc Donalds

1:01 Just stoped at the Ridgeway where their is a bit of a look out and a small vervion of the Uffington white Horse ie the Hackpen horse.

Stoped at Avbery where they have ancient stones. That is ancient stones that ancient people have put in a circle. I think we have more ancient stones in Australia, and proberly our Aboriginals are more ancient (30,000 Years) than the people that put these stones in a circle, but our ancient Aboriginals did not put big rocks in a circle. Because you have to pay for the car parking and walk back about 1/2K to see the stones we just drove past and took photos.

3:06 Arrived at out destination for the night, a Travelodge at Sutton Scotney, the earliest we have ever arrived at out destination. At least we can stop and relax for a while. With the experience of the difficulty getting to the Services areas, we checked the map and figured the road intersecting the motor-way probably crossed over and there was a tiny road just before it. Sure enough the road cross the motor-way, so no access. We took the little road and it did take up to the services area. However, it had a sign restricting going back the other way (and a boom-gate which was up). No reason, again. Next day we just drove back up (as the boom-gate was up) - again this was a public road. Again this Travelodge was about 20kms from a main town so no reason for restrictions. Anyway, we escaped to continue our journey.

Photos 10/08/09

The Travelodge last night was smelly and dirty, at least the bathroom was. They seem to be getting worst as we get closer to London. Drove to Winchester and again could not stop anywhere, even for 5 minutes, without paying for parking so drove around trying to get close enough to the Cathedral to take a photo. No Luck. After driving around about 4 times trying to locate it, we headed for Southhampton. There at least we could take photos of the port area. Decided to bi-pass Portsmouth. Again, most of the photos are from the car.

Drove to Chichester and saw nothing again because we could not get into the centre of the town and there was no parking. This country is pissing me off. But did see the inside of a Sainsburys. We took a photo to show that we had lunch next to a nice treed area and free parking - in Sainsbury car park. Now driving to Brighton. May be we will see something.

Stopped at Shoreham by the sea. What they call their beach. I have realised doing a car trip in England is useless because they have either high hedges or walls right beside every road. On the Motorway there is nothing to see. Will see what Brighton is like.

We were able to see a bit of the Beach in Brighton but not able to park and walk down to the beach. Like all the towns we go to we ended up going the wrong way going through one of the miriad of roundabouts or facing the wrong way on one way street the way we wanted to go.

However because we went the wrong way we ended up at the Brighton Race course, at the top of a hill, and I (Geoff) was able to go to the top of the grand stand and get some photos overlooking Brighton.

One thing we did see today was a Google Street view car. That is the car with the camera on top that takes photos as it drives around that you get to see in Google Street View.

(Marg here) I thought Brighton would be a busy holiday town, but it is huge and streets are as busy as London. We waited at a particularly difficult intersection to turn right (having to give way to two other inroads to our right. The only way we could get out was for a nose to tail accident which happened just to our right which held up one of the lanes and the traffic banked up in the others. This place is crazy, why would you go for a holiday there. The amount of hotel/apartment accommodations was mind-boggling. We did get some shots of the circus, the Brighton Pier and other stuff we have seen on the movies, so all was not lost. I think Geoff and I sound more like whinging Poms (sorry to all those English folk) but we have realised how we can take a 'side of the road' for granted in Australia. You see something so you pull off the road out of harms way. No possible in UK. A dot on the map in Aus usually means a cross-road, or a pub if you are lucky. In UK it means tiny streets, because it is a little dot, but still traffic jams and literally no where to pull off. Next step, try to find a park somewhere near the town. No such luck. I think maybe is has something to do with having 60 million people.

Anyway, reached Dorking, our last night on the road. On the map it is a cross road, but in reality we did the cooks tour again. There is a cemetery across the road so we went for a walk in the sunshine (beautiful day we had). Didn't know what time the gates closed so didn't look too long and just took a deep breath for a while, then had dinner.

TIPS FOR TRAVELLERS : If you plan to drive around UK, give yourself plenty of time. i.e. At Winchester you go to the park 'n ride carpark about 1-2km from the town, pay 2.75pounds and that gives you all day car parking and buses anywhere for the day to explore the town. Beautiful town what we saw of it. But if you think you can drive through, see the sights, stop for 30 seconds, take a photo and move one - forget it. You live and learn. All of the UK is green, can't get over how old everything is. Even the newer stuff is old. Lovely.

Photos 11/8/09

Again the Travelodge had Black fungus growing in the bath shower. I reckon in England they just don't clean showers in Hotels because in 2003 when were were here even the 5 star hotel had mould in the showers.

Got a relatively early start still hassles at roundabouts, but eventually got on to the correct motorway. Had a relatively good trip back into the London suburbs. I thought it would be a nightmare. But the trusty GPS kept us heading in the right direction.

10:36 Now at shopping centre near where we will drop off the car.

11:02 Now at the car place to drop off the car. Only hassle was the last turn to the car hire place - no right turn. So it took us out of our way about 2-3kms. However, got there safe and sound.

We will see if they give us a refund for the 8 Litres of Oil we used and 1/2 a tank of petrol that is left.

They gave us a refund on the Oil and 20% off the rental price (about 30 GBP) for the 1/2 tank of fuel left and the pain and suffering of having to put up with the oil leak. Considering 1/2 tank of fuel is 15 GBP that leaves 15 GBP or about $30 for the pain and suffering. Not much. Marg has the exact figures. At least they didn't argue about it. Pity they couldn't have sorted it out along the way. All in all, I would rent with Enterprise Car Rentals again.

We will catch the tube back to Kristi's new flat. The one she has a 12 month lease on which means she will not have to move for at least another 6 months. Their is a 6 month break clause in the lease.

We arrived at Kristi's place about 12:45 and she walked down from her work to let us in during her lunch hour. We then went for a walk and got keys cut, a money order from the Post Office to pay the Scottish Northern Constabulary for mailing my credit card to krisi's place, A pillow, a sheet set and doona and something for tea. Its raining now so I can't go and mail the letter to the Scottish Northern Constabulary.

Even though London is busier than the small towns we past through the last few days, probably because we are walking we find in much easier to get around. At least most of the streets have names on them.

Photos 12/08/09

A full day in London. We split up I went to The Royal Air force Museum in Colindale and Marg went shoping and to the Natural History Museum. Marg can write her own bit.

I saw lots and lot of aircraft. It is the largest Aircraft Museum that I have ever been to. Of interest was the Euro fighter Old Vulcan bomber, a Hell of a lot bigger than I thought they were, espically for a fixed delta wing aircraft and plenty of old aircraft and Aircraft engines. Like W and M configurations/ See the Photos

Photos 13/8/09

(Marg here:) I went to Victoria station to buy bus tickets to the airport (couldn't book online as it wouldn't accept Aussie credit cards). Then headed to the Natural History Museum. Walked through London streets I hadn't seen before, so was interesting. Walked down a street with many small boutique designer interior design shops (around the Kensington area). Being summer there was a queue at the Natural History Museum for about 15 minutes and thousands of people (I think there was a special Dinosaur exhibition). Wandered around and looked at some of the things I'd missed last time, but was getting weary. Unfortunately the Charles Darwin Exhibition was closed - something I would loved to have seen.

Got up at 4.30am and headed for Liverpool Street Station (only did one wrong turn without the map), not too much distance lost. Found another part of the Roman London City wall we hadn't seen before, (so we knew we were on the right road 'London Wall Road', derrr) looked good in the early morning mist. Bus arrived on time at 6.20am and arrived on time at the airport. 8:17 at Stanstead Airport waiting for flight to Genoa Italy. No Problems getting here. Flying Ryan Air and got all our bags through no problem (left a few electronics as Kristi's so made the weight lighter). The Gate Lounge number is still to come up on the board. Ryanair must wait to the last minute to get the cheapest gate lounge.

Arrived in Genoa, caught the bus to the train station. Unfortunately, only saw the port area and nothing of the city. Thought we'd ring the accommodation to confirm our arrival time - 'sorry we don't have a room available for tonight - the gentleman in the room has decided to stay an extra night“. We caught the train to Vernazza anyway as we had the next two nights confirmed. On arrival “we do have a room for tonight, but it is a more expensive room 100 Euros ($A200)”. The day we left some Aussies we spoke to said same thing happened to them - let the rip-offs begin.

First full day in Vernazza. Slept in because we had to change to another room. Then went and got some breakfast. Foccacia bread because that's all they had. Then walked up one of the hills closest to the town to a small cementary where we sat and absorbed the view for quite some time. Started walking up further but decided to give it away. Only had oranges and fruit for lunch, didn't take water as we didn't think we would go that far. Went back to the room and got changed for a swim. Quick walk from the room to the area where you swim (about 30m). We went off the rocks. Had to take it in turns swimming because we had the camera credit cards etc with us. The water was warm and more saltey than we are used to so you float very easily. Also very clear. Wish I had a face mask. Will see if I can hire one tomorrow.

Out for Tea at a small Cafe. Supprise, supprise, rather than being ripped off we did not get charged for the Beer I drank even after saying he left it off the bill.

Tried to get an early night so we could get up early to go for the walk to the higher tracks. Watched a video until 11:00 and stopped it part way through. ie too late.

Photos 15/8/09

(Marg here:) Vernazza is the 2nd town along the Cinque Terre and the smallest I believe. It is really beautiful, in an ancient, rundown sort of way. There were tourists there, of course, but being a small town it was bearable. No cars (they have to park behind the railway station up the hill in the other part of town. Our hotel room was overlooking the little bay/marina so the views were beautiful. The water was very clear and you could swim off the rocks. The first day we did a relatively small walk, but it was hot, hot, hot so didn't got that far - but it was still a long way up.

Did not get an early start. We walked 6 Km which is not far but climbed and decended 1,000 feet over 6 hours. Steep - often on hands and feet just to get up in many places - mountain goat country. Marg found it a bit difficult going up because her legs and lungs got tired and coming down because it was so steep her toes started pushing forward. Saw some fantastic views, all three of the towns and also the terraced hills behind the towns. Halfway up the ridge we found a small shed with water pipes coming out and a free-running pipe so Geoff filled the water bottles. The who area is spring fed and all the drinking fountains in the towns and on the hills are safe to use. Once up on the first ridge, we came to a road where we found a water pipe with a connection so we refilled our bottles again. We followed the road and then the track climbed again and we finally got to a church called San Bernadino (and the small town) Magnificant views from the town piazza, there was one little store selling drinks, ice-creams, foccacia, etc. It was lovely. And they had a toilet (free and clean). We relaxed there for a while and Marg decided we should walk a little further to where the map showed a Picnic area. Well the track go even steeper with a loose surface and Marg was concerned about being able to get back. We met what sounded like a Dutch or Swiss couple coming down who said there was no picnic area only a forest so we decided not to go any further.

Once back in Vernazza, I (Geoff) bought face goggles and immediately went swimming with them. (Left all valuables in the room and only took the key this time) Marg even had a go with them and was surprised how deep the water was she had been swimming in. Saw plenty of fish, the visibility being very good because the harbour area is all a rock bottom. (Marg here: The water is magic, clear water near the rocks, but very salty, I knew I could at least not drown easily).

Whilst we had been hot and bothered most of the day and the climb extremely difficult, the swim at the end of the day was magic and it is one of the best days of our holiday so far.

Photos 16/8/09

We caught the train to Montorossa and waked around the town. It is more beachey and so more commerical than Vernazza. When we returned to the station to return to Vernazza Marg bought train tickets for Brig in Switzerland which where we are traveling to tomorrow. I (Geoff) went for another swim at Vernazza but because the sun had gone in and it was not stinking hot Marg did not swim this time.

Photos 17/8/09

(Marg Here:) Montorossa is also a lovely town, but much bigger than Vernazza. It has a long stretch of beach (Vernazza has a very small beach area)and the water is, again, crystal clear. Most of the beach you have to pay for, i.e. lounge chairs and umbrellas supplied. There are two free areas where you can just walk on to the beach. It has an esplanade and the old part of town is through a tunnel where you find many little streets, with cafes, etc. (Vernazza has one main street down from the station to the beach area and just alleyways off it). We didn't stay all day as it was hot, hot, hot and finding toilets continued to be a problem. Unfortunately, you tend not to drink as much because of that so we needed to be extra careful of dehydration.

Caught the train to Monorsa, it was 30 minutes late and we were concerned we would not get out connecting train, but we just did.

1:01 On the train now. Dont get to see much untill well out of Genoa as we are in tunnels most of the time.

Changes trains multiple times. Arrived at Interlaken about 6.30pm Great place. Fantastic sceenery and town. Staying at a camping area in a hostel type room. Bought hamburgers for tea and walked around through the city. Far more sofisticated then Italy. Very clean and the people are polite. Surprisingly everyone we have spoken to speak English which helps us, as I can bumbled through with the Italian language, but German is more difficult for me.

Photos 18/8/09

Last Night a bus load of tourists arrived and filled up the backpackers accomdation. Trouble is they decided to get up at 6:00am this morning and talk and bang things. I (Geoff) managed to sleep from 7:00 to 8:30.

After looking up other accomodation places and discovering they where all booked out, we decided to stay at Interlarken Ost for another 3 nights. Hope another bus load of noisy tourists dont turn up.

We found a large supermaket in the town, Co-op, not sure if it's the same one they have in the UK. Drinks are reasonable priced but bread is very expensive. We were going to hire bikes and ride around the town but when we got to back to where they hire then at the accomodation place (River Lodge), the office was closed, so we decided to walk up the mountain behind us, Harder Kuln. The sign at the beginning said 2 hours 20 minites to the top. After we had taken about 3 hours we found another sighn that said 1 hour 10 minutes. We went a little bit further so the GPS showed an elavation of 1,000 metres and then went back. Thought we were good climbing 1,000 metres until we got down again and discovered the town is 563 metres. (So the climb at Vernazza was still the highest, and toughest and hottest.)

The views made the walk worth while. Of course we could see the town, the river flowing through it from one lake to the other, Para-gliders coming off the mountains and landing in the park in the town, the cable car that goes straight up the mountain, cars racing up and down the the runway of the airport, either they are doing a Swiss version of Top Gear or they are running advanced driving courses there and the fantastic view of the snow capped mountains of Schilthorn through the valley

Went out for dinner, back to Mr. Grills. Food is expensive as we expected here. Need to decide where we will go tomorrow. Most likely to the Lauterbrunnen valley and on to the top of Schilthorn (train, gondola, train, gondola).

Photos 19/8/09

Last night another bus load of tourists arrived and decided to make a noisy departure at 6 am this morning. Other than then talking its not quite all ther fault becauase ther are loose walking boards around the building that clunk when anyone walks on them.

We caught a train, a cable car, another train and then two more cable cars to Schiltshorn. We spent quite a few hours up ther. Went for 2 very short walks down off the top because other than haveing to walk up again some parts could be very dangerious.

Saw a parara-gliger start off and go down a valley. We later saw him higher than the highest of Mountains and finally he was so far away and high he disapeared from sight.

We spent a bit of time in the Murren on the way down. We were supprised to see a Coop shop ther. I (Geoff) was supprised how large a town exists so high up.

Also at the bottom we spent some time in the Lauderbrunnen valley and investigated the bottom of the water fall. A spetecular town neseled in a very steep walled valley with waterfalls all down it. At the right time when the waterfalls are stronger it would look even better.

On returning to Interlaken we went to the Coop resteraunt only to find the advertised Fish and Chiis was no longer on and they only had Salards with not much variety, hence we decided to bi our own gormay salards and return to the River Lodge camping area for dinner which we had sitting by the river and looked at the photos we had taken.

The top of the Mountains today we absolutely magnificent. The best I have ever seen, even bettter then New Zealand. They must have been good because for the first time I filled the 4 GB memory card, although I had did have photos on it from the previous day.

This is definatly somethig that everyone, if they have the chance, should do once in ther life, see ther Swiss Alps from the top.

We appear to have been very licky with the weather because as I type this it is now raining. Hopefully it will be stoped by tomorrow. Wonder if that means its snowing up where we were today. I dont think it would be cold enough.

Photos 20/8/09

Was raining lightly when we awoke this morning so we decided not to hire the bikes and instead go see more of Interlaken. By 11.30am we decided to go back to the Restaurant to get our Fish 'n Chips. They weren't on so decided to get something. Couldn't read the signs, when we asked if we could have veges or salad with our piece of cordon bleu we got from the baymarie, the guy said you can have anything - we still didn't know the prices - eventually we found out they charge by weight, but couldn't work out the main and salad pricing structure - anyway it costs us 36 Swiss Francs which is about $Aus40, so our quick cheap lunch wasn't - but the view made up for it.

Received visitor tickets when we arrived. Finally found out they can be used on local buses and one train stop to Wilderspil and it's local buses. Hopped on a bus and 'did' the town. Might have mentioned but Interlaken is a very pretty town and all tours can start from there, not only from Lauterbrunnen. Our accommodation is by the river (not swimable because of the current and large tour boats) and a very pretty spot. Good choice Kristi. Bunk room with sheet and pillow, and that's it, but it is a hostel/camping so can't expect much more. $Aus100 per night, but it is Switzerland. On way back from our walk we stopped at a park bench in the middle of town and just sat and looked at snow-capped Jungfrau, the highest mountain in the region (3k + metres). After a few days of hard yakka we were weary and had a mini-doze on each other's shoulder on the bench. What a view to wake up to.

Back to the Co-Op Supermarket (our second home, so says our credit card statement) to buy up for our 7 hr trip to Venice tomorrow. Choc milk is quite cheap, bread is very expensive as is most most other foodstuffs. Beer is very cheap, the supermarket had 10 large stubbies for 6.90CHF (works out about $Aus.70c per bottle). We did see VB, but as it is 'imported'! beer it was 2.60CHF (about $Aus2.80) per small stubbie. Any shop sells beer and wine. Bought some Swiss choc (pity most of you are in Melbourne - more for us), but resisted buying Swiss Watches, Swiss Army Knives, Swiss Music Boxes and Swiss Cow Bell souvenirs.

(Geoff would have mentioned yesterday about going up to Shiltzhorn - Ab Fab - breathtaking.

Photos 21/8/09

A corporate group arrived last night and we thought the 10pm no-noise rule would apply to them also. At 1pm I (Marg) went to the loo and made an obvious shhhh gesture, but there were only a few left and I only got through to 2 people. So another short sleep. Caught the train at 8am and the train was late by 8 minutes - how disgusting for the Swiss. That left us 2 minutes to catch our connecting train in Speiz, but all went well as they ensured we got our connection. The next connection Spiez to Brig was chockers but we did manage to get a seat and I nursed my back pack. Train Brig to Milano we had 5 noisy German/Swiss gents who seemed to be making jokes about other people - but we could be wrong. I'm glad we did not hire a car from Milano up to the Alps. We couldn't even navigate getting across the road without nearly walking into a bike or car occasionally - why don't they drive on the correct side of the road!

Trip Milano to Venice was relaxing, had 4 seats to ourselves. The countryside went from Alps, to hills, to flat then slightly undulating with kilometers of grapevines closer to Verona and Venice. Geoff (not happy Jan) could not get his GPS to work on the train - something to do with the material in the windows. Finally arrived at Venice, found our hotel really easily (good choice again Kristi) and went to investigate the bus terminus where we are to meet Kristi tonight at midnight. Went for a short walk back but through the backstreets - didn't quite get lost thanks to Geoff's GPS. Can't wait for the grand tour with Kristi tomorrow. We saw a bit but didn't venture too far - no map.

Heaps of people around, I wonder if they all have beds for the night.

By the way today is the first time we have heard any news for 4 weeks - room has a TV and we can get BBC news. Is Australia still afloat? All we know is NZ beat Aust in rugby.

Photos 22/8/09

Kristi flew in from London last night so we went down to the bus station about 11:30 pm to meet her. Because she had had not seen us for a while conversations went on until about 1:30 in the morning so it was not a particulary early start today considering we also had breakfast supplied by the Hotel(Florida Hotel)

The GPS recconed we walked 6.21 Km today but considering most of the time, because of Venice's very narrow streets, it did not have a signal. Got lost plenty of times, but eventually got back doing a round trip (with lots of zig zags). In the busy places there are people everywhere but lots of little laneways with no-one so plenty of quiet time.

Saw lots of canals, lots of small bridges, lots of rotting buildings, lots of shops selling Venetian Masks (absolutely beautiful), Venetian glass (absolutely beautiful). Only saw some Venetian blinds in a shop which is closed down!

Found a supermarket in amongst all of this, but a bit far to go back from the hotel. We are heading back that way tomorrow and will buy fruit for lunch. Geoff also found a 3-Shop so he could again try and get our internet account sorted (for which we have paid for, but can't get access).

Photos 23/8/09

GPS shows we did 8 km of walking today. Saw a few differnt places, including a park.

I (geoff) walked to the 3 dealership today waited half an hour why other customers were being served only to find he did not speak english but was able to say that he only delt with contract accounts and that ther was not any other 3 dealerships in Venice.

Marg and Kristi went to the station to buy tickets to Rome and Kristi posted a letter. Then the three of us went for a long walk again.

Then we headed back to the hotel for a breather and toilet break (WC's cost 1.50 euros, i.e. $Aus3.00!). You can buy day tickets which includes all public tranport AND WC's! Went out for another walk and found different areas AND THE OCEAN and another park, ah green.

Back to the hotel and then out for dinner for our last night in Venice.

Of interest is the black West Africas here that sell handbags in the street. Ever now and then they quickly pack up and tack off into the small laneways because the Polizia are coming. They usally have one looking out with a mobile phone that rings the rest of them to warn then. I assume they must be doing somthing illegal but don't know what or why. Reminds me of the of SP bookies and the two up schools in Australia and their Kockey

Just spoke to the night manager of the Hotel. Turns out these Black Africans are illegal emigrants, they are in Venice without any documents. Deeh, I (Geoff) did not work that out. The Polizia here could use the tourists to catch them.

Photos 24/8/09

Traveled on the train to Rome and met Vince and Rosa onn the train. They spoke no english and we spoke no Italian but we were able to communicate quite a bit. Later Paolo got on who could spead a little bit of English.

We took photos and exchanged email addresses and hopefully they may be able to get some one to read this. They where very nice prople and a pleasure to converse with

Photos 25/8/09

We slept in after getting a relatively late night.

Walked about 10 K and saw the Colosseum, the Forum and Circus Maxumus and other ancient ruins. Finally found a WC (rare animals) and had enough water from one fountain to another. (In Vernazza and Interlaken there were water fountains everywhere). On the way home we took just a little detour which took us off the map, so Geoff's trusty GPS headed us in the right direction. Then found a supermarket!! all was not lost and the extra walk was worth it. As it was about 9pm before we got home we got Takeaway Pizza for tea. That's all they have as takeaway generally. Not very nice because they pre cook it, leave it in the bay marie, cut to your size, weigh it and then heat it up for about 30 seconds, fold it over (so it sticks to itself nicely) then put it in a plastic bag. They should take lessons from El Toro Pizza in West Street, or any Pizza place in Australia for that matter. They mostly sell bread by weight also.

Tomorrow more walking but not so much.

Photos 26/8/09

Again a late Start. To not do as much walking we caught the Metro close to the Vatican.

So we walked to St Peters thingey and spent A lot of time ther taking photos. The walked to a place to have teas and then to the Pantheon the the Trevi Fountain and then the Metro agin to back to the Motel. Did 7.64Km today.

Marg here : Although the queue to get into St. Peter's was very long, it moved quite well. We were behind a group of Spanish nuns, little cuties, wearing their white habits and baseball caps. Photos to prove it. Saw the tombs of the Popes which we had missed last time. Didn't realise St. Peter was entombed there, silly me, must have had my eyes closed last time. When the nuns got to St. Peter's tomb (which extends up into the Basilica itself) they sang a hymn. It was quite moving, but people still just walk in front of them - how rude. Spent more time at St. Peter's than I expected. Didn't leave until after 4pm. If you are ever in Rome and want a clean, free toilet, go to the Vatican (columns outside St.Peter's or the Vatican Museum). Headed into Rome itself and finally found somewhere to eat. Price fixing is rife. We did find one nice little place up an alleyway but they didn't open until 7.30pm and it was only 6pm. Anyway found a nice place, a little expensive, but we needed a place to crash, eat and regenerate. It did the trick and then we headed for the Pantheon. Even Geoffrey was impressed (he was still dreaming about the Swiss Alps). Headed for the Trevi fountain (none of us had seen it before despite previous trips) and then the Spanish steps and by the time we got the Metro back home it was about 10.00pm. A day well spent - but still very tired.

Photos 27/8/09

Other than meeting Kristi's friend going to a old Cemetary and having dinner all we did today was look around Termani station looking for a hotel for the night of the 31st so that we will be close to the station where we have to catch a Bus to Campachino Airport for a flight to 80 Km out of Paris. And then we did not even book a Motel.

Photos 28/8/09

I (Geoff) seem to have caught a cold. A combination of moving in and out of a air conditioned environment and being de-hydrated some of the time probably helped bring it on. I will let Marg write up what we did today and when I get better I will add the Photos. It started off as what I thoght was Hay Fever which Do suffer from but usually only in Melbourne in September.

Marg here : We decided to do less walking today, but still managed to walk 5-6kms. Took the bus to Appia Antica, the Roman road dating back to 300BC. Saw the spot where St. Peter allegedly spoke to Jesus, who talked St. Peter into going back to Rome to face his martrydom. Didn't go into the catecombs as we were at one place for 45 minutes and they were only just puting the next group through. Started at the San Sebastian gate of Rome (could have stayed on the bus a little longer), but saw the remaining piece of the Roman bridge (under the existing ring road). It was pleasant, very hot, but scary as it is only closed to traffic on Sunday. There is about 500mm space on the side of the road to walk and the traffic zooms past at at least 80km. We had to stop at some stages as there was not enough room for us to walk and where the cars go past. The last km was better as not many cars travelled this way. We saw the remains of a Roman Villa, Circus Maxentius and other ruins - a very pleasant walk. But it was really hot, but we managed to get shade most of the way from the wall. Finally picked up a bus at the other end, then took the Metro into Vittorio Emanuale. This Piazza was just OK, the gardens could be really nice, but freqented by people who seem to live there. Most of the parks we visited have people living there. I was very sceptical about using the Metro, but we went to the front of the train with less people and it worked out we didn't go during peak times, so it was fine. The Metro is airconditioned (as opposed to the London tube). Anyway, we still ended up walking more than we wanted to in the heat. Picked up some food at a supermarket near Termini station and headed back home. Geoff went to bed and sleep immediately, so we will need to work through his cold. Shame as we avoided anything for about 5 weeks.

Photos 29/8/09

I (Geoff) stayed in the Hotel room most of today to try and ward off this cold. Marg and Kristi went off on their own expedition so Marg can write up what see did. I spent about an hour and a half speaking to Ivan and Margaret in Alice Springs on Skype, look at the tracks I have recorded on Google Earth and messed around on the computer. I went out for about an hour and walked the local streets.

My observations of Rome. It is a very dirty city because the people just drop their rubbish anywhere. They don't seem to have any respect for public property. Millions of cigarette but everywhere. Also they don't seem to want to maintain anything. If something is broken they just leave it that way anywhere See Photo of Motor Scooter. Or they board it off roughly and people use that as a rubbish dumping area See photo of metro station entrance. I don't no if it is because this is the holiday time or what but their is a reasonable large construction area near the local Metro station that has large cranes and equipment in it, all last week no work had taken place. This seems to be the case with a lot of similar areas around the city.

Then the Italians are all about fashion. So much so that I can't tell where the fashion ends and practicality begins Like it this see photo a device that has some purpose only a advertising sign or a piece of art that someone has stuck advertising on. Its not a one off their where more up the road

All traders appear to want to rip you off. For a single cone gelarity you can pay anything from 1 to 5 euro s. When you go to a restaurant some have a service and or administration charge. In Venice we went to one that said no charges on a sign outside and also said the same thing on the menu. Yet when we get the bill is has a service charge. When we pointed out what it said on the menu they said it only applies to that page. I feel they reckon because we are tourists we are never going to come back anyway so have no problems overcharging. I get the impression their is nothing in the way of consumer legislation or if their is its not enforced.

I also get the impression their is not such thing as Public Liability based on the countless trip and safety hazards that are around.

I don't think the Romans or Italians will ever change because it appears to be part of their culture and only if a Government puts financial constraints to stop it is anything ever going to change and Italians are not big on Government.

Even though we don't have the right balance of Government involvement and civil obedience or dis-obedience I feel we have if better then here.

Photos 30/8/09

(Marg here) Kristi and I went to Ostia Antica. Caught the Rome Metro, changed at then asked the cleaner who told us which train to catch towards Lido. Train was packed but OK, got off at Ostia Antica station. Free toilet but no paper (we learned to take our own). Ostia Antica is about 45 mins train ride from Rome, suburban but countryside in between. Ostia Antica (the old town) is supposedly Rome's answer to Pompeii. Almost as big. Although it was, again, hot there were enough trees to hop across to to get shade. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Saw the Mausoleo (cemetary), the general living areas, the Ostia Foro (Forum), city hall, the temples and of course the Terme (baths). It is a little sad because, unlike, Pompeii, Ostia Antica was abandoned because the Tiber river course (which had been very close to the town) had been diverted by successive floods. Some time after abandonment others moved into and stripped the city of it marble and furnised it down to lime. Richard I on his way back from the Holy Wars around 1100AD dropped in and continued the stripping. It was left alone for a while until 1800 when one of the Popes order excavations to start and by that stage they appreciated the value of the archeological finds. There were still a lot of tiled, patterned floors and some marble steps and column and wall cladding and a few statues.

There is a small musueum on the site with many statues obviously saved from furnising and probably dug out from under the silt was lay undetected by the maurauders. We met an Aussie archeologist in the Museum and spoke to him for about half an hour which was very interesting. Went and had some lunch and then continued our visit. It was so quiet and peaceful you could almost put yourself in the era.

Got to the Teatro (theatre)on our way out which was wonderful. It had a temple in the middle of this big forum type area, surrounded each side by former shops, etc. in front with heaps of tiled flooring depicting scenes and at one end was the ampitheatre. It was quite high. For all you 'Life of Brian' fans, Kristi and I sat right up the top of this half-circle ampitheatre and did a video of the famous scene. “We the Peoples Republic of Judea…hang on we are the Judean People's Republic….no they are……..” anyway you get the picture.

Headed back about 6pm, caught the train with a million other Italians on their way back from the beach at Lido and got back to the hotel about 7.30pm. A really good day.

Photos 30/8/09-2

We moved to a Hotel closer to Termini station today because Marg and I are flying to Paris (actually 80 Km out of Paris via Ryan Air) and Kristi is flying back to London Tomorrow. We booked this place on the internet for 65 Euros a night and when we came to pay they said its an extra 5 Euro for paying with credit card. Another attempted Italian rip off. Unfortunatly we did not have enough cash so we looked up a bank that does not rip us off by charging A$5 for withdrawing from a ATM and that turned out to be about a km away, so we walked their and that was our walk for the day.

Went out for tea and had a good meal with no extra charges (for a change). Our last night in Rome and we finally found the culprit who had been p*ssing in every street and doorway in Rome. Kristi and I crossed the street when we saw him just in time, but Geoff being deaf didn't hear us so got a bit of a shock when he got closer. Geoff was not impressed.

If you want to see some extremely old ruins and try to imagine a life gone by then you can't miss Rome. But you will need to put up with the smell of urine in the street, wherever you go, the homeless people living in nearly every park and outside the main railway station (saw one guy sleeping on a pedestrian crossing) and tie yourself up like Fort Knox so you don't get pickpocketed. The heat was almost unbearable, but I could handle that. Oh, yes and the people - anyone working in retail/hospitality are off-hand or dowright rude. Geoff thought the construction workers, the council workers, etc. were really friendly but only because he spoke to them.

Funny things : Guys selling knock off handbags, bolting when the police are in the area (Venice)

Italy favourites : Vernazza swimming off the rocks, the view at the end of a very long, hot, steep walk of 6 hrs, Ostia Antica and its Museum (Rome's answer to Pompeii), quaintness of Venice, an appreciation of how good Australia is. Finding a cemetary across from Termini Station with 2,000 year old sarcophagus's (or is that sarcophagi). We like cemetaries so this was a treat.

Disappointments : Rome food. Lygon street beats it hands down. Their take away Pizza shops are pre-prepared pizza's, ordinary toppings, cut and weight and heated, so not fresh at all. Do have past takeaway and Maccas and that's all we saw. Oh yes, kebabs in the Pizza place, not turning or cooking, just sitting tepid in the Rome heat - we didn't go there. Geoff's disappointments : how dirty Rome was, it has certainly seen better days (a long time ago)

Photos 31/8/09

Got up at 3:30 am to catch the Bus outside of Termini Station, that a 2 Minute walk and even though the Bus was meant to leave at 4:30 Marg wanted to be their early in case we did not get a seat. The Bus did not leave until 4:40 but appeared to make up time going to Ciampino Airport. Ryan Air want you to be their 2 hours before the flight leaves, but even though we where not that early the check in gate was not open and ther was a queue out to the door. About 20 Minutes Later then check in did open with only one counter and was very slowly getting through people. Just as we were a few away from the counter they opened another one and all the people that were at the back of the queue jumped to that one. Marg recons on that only she will never fly Ryan air again. She doesn't mind queueing but they did not control the queues.

Then the queue for the security check. Last is the Queue at the departure lounge. You have to stand up in a Queue because like all these modern low cost airlines Ryan Air do not have seat allocations so first in gates the better seats or if you are unlucky and are at the end of the queue and they have over booked the flight, which apparently they do, you don't get on the flight. As Ciampino Airport was never designed to have as many 737 size aircraft as it now handles they have airside buses that ferry the passengers from the terminal building to the Aircraft. Well because these buses have multiple doors when you get out of them to board the aircraft you have effectively lost your place in the Gate Lounge queue. However we were one of the lucky ones, we thought, see later, because we got off the bus near the plane door and so got seats about row 3.

(Marg here)Buckled up and ready to take off, they come back and say two rows have to go to other seats to balance the plane to take off. It's a worry when only a few bums can make a difference to take-off. Geoff was surprised they didn't ask us to help peddle. In the air and all is well until they start their selling speil. Firstly selling refreshments (fair enough), then 5 minutes later duty free, then 5 minutes later mobile phone cards, then a few minutes later scratchie tickets, then back to refreshments, then on to duty free again. (Microphone was directly above me and it was loud, not tuned in and repeated in Italian, French and English) Back to the 'landing seats' at the back of the plane. Landed safely (Aussie pilot), of course our hand luggage in the overhead locker was in the front, so we had to wait till last. Beauvois airport is 80km from Paris (didn't know that til after we booked). No passport control, huge line for bus tickets (not sure what tickets I had bought, just followed the crowd). Luggage came out well, buses were waiting and we saw some of the French countryside into Paris (a bit like Nar Nar Goon from the highway - pretty, undulating, farmland). Arrived in Paris, asked for directions to Metro, followed the crowd navigated the Metro with a change and got out at the right station (Gare du Nord where we will go to Calais from). It was raining but a nice relief from the heat of Italy. Our first meal in Paris? Subway. We were hanging out for salad - beautiful. Couldn't work out what direction we were, found a map at a bus stop so after about 45mins near the station and eating breakfast at noon, headed in what we thought was the right direction. It was because as soon as we headed off we looked up and saw the hotel. After getting up at 3.30am we arrived at our hotel at around 1pm. Best Western, small room but really nice (and, Kristi, the lady at reception didn't yell at us and we have not only a shower that doesn't shower directly on to the bathroom floor, but there is a bath). From what we can see Paris is much cleaner than Rome, but we will start our walking travels shortly.

Went for a walk in the afternoon to the top of a hill (as we always do) where their was a very nice looking church and a great view of a lot of that side of Paris. Also got to see the the Eiffel tower for the 1st time in the distance. (Marg : This was the Sacre Cour. I must admit I had heard of it but didn't know what it was. Prime real estate and with great views over Paris as Geoff said. The walk there was good as we saw some of Paris streets, but very touristy at the base of the hill and you had to run the gauntlet of hawkers up the steps all the way to the church. If you ever want a Pharmacy in Paris, just look at the next corner. I guess we saw around 20 just in our travels to the hill and back. All have flashing neon green crosses. Geoff thought maybe it was because they sell a lot of make-up etc. Found lots of little grocers/supermarkets on the way, but was all closed on our way back. Maybe they were like Italy where the smaller Alimentari close at 1pm and re-open at 5pm.)

Photos 1/9/09

GPS Sais we walked 18 KM even thougn we caught the Metro to and from the attractions. Saw the Eiffel tower, the building aacross the river from it, Diannera memorial and tunnel, Chanps Elsee, the Arch De Treiomphe, through the gardens to the Louvre and the Notre Dame

(Marg here, I'll translate). Geoff did the walk up the Eiffel Tower (ticket line was shorter)(To go to the top the ticket line was about 100 mtrs long). I had had enough of climbing over the weeks so chose to stay on the ground, do a little walk and just sit on a park bench and enjoy the mild sunny day. Saw a group of Gypsies together, then separate, then go here and there. Very interesting. When Geoff finally came down we were approached by one who asked if we spoke English and showed us a card which basically said she was from Romania and living with her brother and had no food or money, etc.etc. our 'no' was met by 'please', then she walked off. She was successful with one group who gave her change. Her colleagues also had a note in their hand. At one stage a Policeman was talking to her and she was showing, I guess, her 'papers' (whilst she was tearing up the note). There were also heaps of guys selling Tower souvenirs, but if you said 'no' they did not persist (not like the bag people in Venice who followed you down the street). Anyway I found that the Eiffel Tower was more impressive from the ground, it is massive and I was more impressed than I thought I'd be. We headed off for some big building, but decided to have lunch in a park near a playground, one of the areas you could actually walk on the grass. Walked along the River Seine until we got to a tunnel which looked like the tunnel Princess Di died in. When we got to the path over the top, there were flowers, cards, photos, etc. of Diana, I guess we found the spot. All the memorials were recent. It was quite touching. Headed up George V street and passed Givenchy, John Paul Gaultier, Bvlgari, Louis Vuitton, etc. etc. etc. At the end saw the Arc de Triomphe and Geoff took a photo half way across the road with the green light, bit scary, that road is soooo busy. Walked along the Champs Elysee passed all the restaurants and the other French icons. Geoff's biggest thrill was the Toyota, Renault and Citroen dealerships right in the middle of the main strip with some very unusual cars. Everyone was taking photos.

After a few KMs we came across the Petit Palace and the Grand Palace, I think King Louis had one and Marie Antoinette had the smaller one (but still huge). We went in and they had free entry so we went in as we were not going to spend much time, we were nackered and still had other things to do. But it was very nice and looked at paintings, sculpture and other artifacts. The palace ceilings were beautiful and lovely marble. Headed back out and wondered if we would get to the other things before night fall. Walked up to the Oblisque, took a photo and decided to look it up later (I'm sure it was important). I had a raging headache at this stage, but soldiered on. We bought a crepe and the sugar hit helped a little. Walked through the Jardin de Toulleries (gardens). Very geometric style. Geoff was impressed they provided chairs around the ponds for free (not just bench seats). By the way the toilets at the Eiffel Tower and in the Petit Palace were both free (for those planning a visit to Paris). Did I mention in Venice the toilets were 1.50Euros ($3!!).

Anyway, finally got to the Louvre. We had planned to go in, but it was 6.30pm and we would have needed quite a few hours. Continued our quest for Notre Dame. Finally got there at 7pm and low and behold, our Gypsy friend's sister was there because she had the same piece of paper handing to tourists. We finally found the flying buttresses which Geoff had learned about in school, so he was happy. I thought Geoff wouldn't be interested in the Paris icons, but he knew all the history and engineering details about the Eiffel Tower and had built a model at school as well as learning about Notre Dame, but I think he liked the cars the best. Unfortunately Notre Dame closed half an hour before we arrived, so we couldn't go in.

Anyway, we were both exhausted after having walked 17kms, found a Metro and headed home. As I still had my headache and needed to get home, we decided to get take-away and the only choices near the station was Maccas, Maccas look-alike, Subway or Chinese - so it was Chinese. Again charged by weight, very interesting concept.

Paris has a lot more open space, to counter the smaller roads, than Rome. But of course that makes the distances greater which we didn't realise. Our plan was to catch the metro to the furthest point of interest and then just walk back looking at the others and then catch the metro home. And that still meant 17km walking. Wouldn't have been so bad, except for the headache.

Anyway, did what we set out to do and enjoyed it.

Photos 2/9/09

Booked out of hotel at 9:15 plan to catch the train to Calais ferry across the channel and train to London.

The Train was a buzz. Its top speed was 293 K/Hr and it cruised at about 250 K/hr. Even in the Yards it was was doing 160 K/hr. And it was so quiet, comfortable and clean (even the toilets).

Arrived at Calais Ville station, finally found a bus to the ferry terminal after a taxi driver kindly told us how far it was. Met a couple from Cairns in the same boat (excuse the pun). All worked out and we checked in for a P&O Ferry for which check-in had commenced. Only 7 foot passengers, so likely most are all with cars. Had to go through security, passport control, entry cards just like in an international airport. Geoff and I both had colds and tried not to look sick in case we were not allowed into the UK.

Must say I (Marg) found Paris a bit more refreshing than Rome. The people we met and dealt with were quieter, friendlier and a bit more reserved than the Italians. The train station was quieter and the train was quieter. Don't get me wrong, I'm not criticising, but boy can those Italians talk and talk at the top of their voices.

Liked Paris, but we were not there long enough to soak up the history, culture or cuisine. Bought a Crepe in the Jardin de 'something or other' near the Louvre and bought some Quiche Lorraine at a little shop - made by Chinese as it turns out so I don't think we got the real deal. Anyway if I had to be stranded in Paris or Rome I think Paris is a little more tolerable and more choice of food. Sorry Rome.

Ferry ride was a bit rough because according to the Captain is was blowing a Westerly gale. Took 1 hour 40 Minutes that is 10 Minutes longer because of the bad weather. We thought it was only going to take 30 minutes but we had forgotten the 1 hour time difference. Saw the white cliffs of Dover when arrived. Turns out there were about 50 other foot passengers all in a group who must have arrived separately. We all went to the exit together as directed, but no direction to the bus, so bus departed without us, the 50 or so went another way and there was 5 of us left in the middle of the port. Anyway another bus dropping off arrived 5 minutes later so we didn't have to spend the night sleeping next to semi trailers and containers. Ferry bus dropped us off at the Ferry ticket office. As we had already been through Passport Control in Calais we just walked straight through a big empty area in Dover. We had intended to catch the Train to London (meaning a local bus from the port in to Dover, then catch a train) but there was a National Express Bus sign advertising it cheaper than the train and only 20 minutes longer trip. The office and bus stop was right where we were and was leaving in 15 minutes so we took it.

The driver was very friendly and we chatted for a long time (we were in the front seats). He pointed out some places of interest. Really good considering it was not a tour bus. Of course the bus turns off at every town, but at least we got to see the The Abbey and Town Roman Wall in Canterbury. Very slow going when we got into the outer part of London even though there are dedicated Bus lanes, mainly because push bikes also use it and so hold up the buses. Got to see again the Parliament buildings, London Eye and other sights we hadn't seen so it was worth the extra time. When we got over the river there had been an accident that held us up for about 15 minutes. Finally arrived at the bus station and headed towards Victoria station. Geoff had to go back as he had left his GPS on the bus window. When he got back the bus has gone, but was only in the back street. Finally caught the train from Victoria station to Barbican via the circle line where Kristi had tea ready for us (a lamb roast/kebab).

Overall the day was relatively relaxing even though we travelled all day and thought we'd spend the night on the docks.

Photos 3/9/09

Walked 8.41 Km today and it was meant to be an easy day. Spent the morning doing very little at Kristi's. The had a quick look around Barbican and the Smithfield Markets right opposite Kristi's. Saw the memorial plaque to William Wallace and to the people marytered during Henry VIII's reign. Then walked to Angel (Islington) to do some shopping.

Got home just before Kristi go home from work and we all went out on the tube to Regents Park, walked around (Roses were still blooming) and finally ended up at a Cafe in Baker St (passed Sherlock Holmes museum but it had closed - yes I know he was fictitious) and had Fish and Chips and then took the tube home.

Kristi went to Guitar so we hang around her place for a while and then went to her Guitar School at Southwark (Getting off at London Bridge tube stop). We stopped at Brough Markets under the North side approach to London Bridge on the way. They had hot apple cider there but we did not try it. Very croweded (pickpockets paradise). Was basically fruit, vegetables and fish but the attraction was the stalls which had cheese, bread, olives and other speciality/gourmet foods. A bit expensive for London prices (therefore a lot expensive for Aussie prices, e.g. $A9 for a loaf of bread). Afterwards we walked across the Bridge and had a small snack at Pret de Manger (bit like the Coffee Shop)and discovered we where right next to the Monument (Monument to 1600 great fire of London) where we had been to in out 2003 trip.

We had seen the Gherkin Building whilst on the Bridge so decided to walk there. On the way we found another Market area, closed, but it had nice architecture, also a pen shop that had one pen for 395 GBP about $A800. This was Leadenhall Market, but was now an upmarket restaurent and boutique shop area. Before we found the Gherkin Building we came across the Barklays Building which is quite unique in that it is inside out in respect to a lot of its piping and air-conditioning. The whole building is just stainless steel piping and facade. It looks quite good against all the conventional buildings and even the Gherkin building. As we were relatively close to St Pauls which is near Kristi's place we decided to walk home. Prompted by a question from some Czech tourists as to where the Jack the Ripper tour went (which we didn't know) we tried to re-trace Kristi's steps when she did it a few years ago. Didn't find it though, but it was nearby. (FOOTNOTE: Had time when we got home to Australia to look up all about Jack the Ripper murders and their locations - we were so close at the time)

Headed back along London Wall Road and visited the remnants of the Roman Wall once again as Kristi hadn't seen it. Walked past the Museum of London (so we knew we were nearly home), down Little Britain (lane) back into the large area abutting the Smithfield Markets. This area was used for hangings, burnings, disembowlings way back when and there is a plaque for William Wallace (Scotland's freedom fighter - 'Braveheart') He was dragged behind a horse from Tower Bridge to here, hung, drawn and quartered in 1300's. Another plaque says 4 men of God (named) were burned for their Christ in 1556, 7 & 8. It's a bit eerie knowing what happened to people here and incomprehensible as to how people could do such things (but of course it continues today in some parts). No wonder Charles Dickens referred to the Smithfield Markets as the 'armpit' of London (and in those days also). Apparently 'Oliver Twist' and 'Bill Sykes' in Dickens' story, went through the Smithfield Markets and Fagan's lair was somewhere up the road where Kristi now works. In the wall with the plaque's, there were bullet holes/chunks speckled right across this whole building (St. Bartholomew's Hospital 1100's) and we figured it was from the 2nd World War when a V2 bomb demolished part of the markets across the square.

Anyway, we stopped at the Pub on the corner which apparently has really nice pies, but turns out they were only open for a private function (40th Birthday party). We decided to eat in so Kristi and Marg went down to Tesco's to buy pasties for dinner and we finished off the lamb Kristi had cooked for us. Marg still fighting off the cold, but a good day. The weather has been very windy last two days and quite cold.

Photos 5/8/09

Geoff has been wanting to go to the Duxford Air Museum and we only found out yesterday morning that it was having an air show yesterday and today. However, the good things were happening yesterday but not today. So I think Geoff will just go to the Museum part on Tuesday. Need to catch a train to Cambridge then a bus out.

Went to the Science Museum today and ran out of time to go to the Imperial War Museum. At 5pm headed across the road to the Victoria & Albert Museum.

Today we saw George Washington's false teeth, Edward Jenner's (the bacteria man) hair, Napoleon Bonaparte's toothbrush (or at least the case), a mumified baby, adult, cat and bird - wow what a day. Actually it was quite interesting, it was the Wellcome Collection on the 5th floor of the science Museum and it was the history of medicine. Kristi and I didn't get to most of the other exhibits, but Geoff did.

What Geoff saw at the Science Museum: General Purpose Analogue Computer G-PAC) by Elliot 1957

Coventry Climax FPF 1.5 Litre four cylinder engine 1956

Only had a little time at the Victoria & Albert Museum, but it was an interesting collection of (from around 1700's) paintings, statues, furniture/soft furnishings and fashion. It had Princess Diana's pearl dress. We missed the silks and other things.

Although we took the tube there and back we still walked about 5km. On the way home we found some German Sausage place and combined that with Pizza (yes Pizza) for dinner (this area is pretty quiet on week-ends, it tends to cater for the business people and jumps during the week which is good for sleeping in on week-ends).

Photos 6/9/09

Sitting here this morning and helicopter just few past, fairly low. (Marg)

We decided to go to the Imperal War Museum at Lamberth. Saw some great stuff. Lots of Tanks and Aircraft and even Laurence of Arabia's Buau Superiour Motor bike that killed him. Also the Holocaust part was quite moving. Unfortunatly you are not allowed to take photos in that area. (Marg: I didn't dwell too much on the 'final solution', but the early prejudices against the Jews was interesting. With 2000 years of already evolved prejudices and hatred combined in a particular kind of man in the right place at the right time…..well we all know what happened.) (Geoff) Their was also an area called the secret wars where their was this quote “What we need is something like the British Secret Service - an Order, Doing its work with Passion”……Adolf Hitler.

(Marg) Finally worked out a bus to home, so got to have our double decker bus ride. Only lasted 7 minutes and we were there, but it took about 30 mins and a tube station change to go by tube. Seems if you know the bus system, in some instances, it's quicker than the tube. I'll miss the convenience of London's public transport. Especially when we get home to Brisbane where the last leg will be a 2km walk to home from the nearest bus stop (and that's through a rough walking track). I suppose you can't have everything, we'll still have the space and the trees.

Photos 7/9/09

We Walked to the Houses of Parliament which is a couple of Km's from Kristi's flat. As we set off we passed the Old Bailey. Stopped at Somerset House (the Courtaulds Gallery) on the way and even though Marg used to work for them they still wanted to charge an entrance fee! How dare they. Got a different view of London from that side of the river because we had only been to the London eye side when Glen and Claire were here. Walked along the embankment road beside the river. Good views of the river, London Eye and stopped at Cleopatra's Needle (something else the British 'acquired'). Saw the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben in the distance. The usual touristry things.

When we got to Westminster Parliament, they wanted almost 12 GBP $A25 for a guided tour or 15 GBP $A30 to get into Westminister Abbey so we looked at the outside of the buildings as we have an interest in architecture. Had a look at the Jewel Tower. Paid $5 for a soggy microwaved pastie for part of lunch and started walking back, firstly past St.James park which is really nice, up to Piccadilly Circus and then through SOHO and the theatre district which was interesting. Found a whole street full of Guitar shops that Kristi already new about. Walked the back streets back to Kristi's place, which is actually surprisingly close to central London.

There are quite a few parks in London, spread around, so beats Rome hands down for sitting opportunities.

(Marg) I must admit I have found the area around Smithfield (where Kristi lives) more interesting than the usual tourist things in London. The history is overwhelming. Witch burnings, hangings, disembowlings, the execution of William Wallace, Roman Walls and Gates, a quiet 1,000 year old church and churchyard (virtually Kristi's back yard in the lane behind her place) and 1,000 year old hospital, WW11 bombings, mentions in Charles Dickens books and the scene of two Dr. Who episodes in the 70's, all within 200mtrs of Kristi's flat. Admittedly the street below is not a clean tourist area, the motorcycle couriers are there all day and the taxi's parked there all night (some level of security to the neighborhood actually) and the 24hr cafe underneath, but you look straight out of her 1st floor window and you are looking at, not 20mtrs away, gargoyles and copper domes and old iron-work of the Smithfield Markets and best of all, a big expanse of sky which is rare to find out a London window.

We had dinner at a pub just up the road, The Butchers Hook and Cleaver selling Fullers Ales and Pies, overlooking the park where the hangings used to take place. They specialised in pies and they were really quite nice. First time I had had carrots and mash in 7 weeks. Lovely old pub with an upstairs mezzanine floor, with iron-work staircase, etc. A popular haunt for the after-work suits, most of whom stand outside the pub to drink and even across the road. This happens with most pubs. Not sure if they do the same thing in winter. The area is really safe which I am quite relieved about. You may get your odd dero occasionally.

Photos 8/9/09

As we don't fly out until 10:05pm tonight we are staying in and doing some washing before we go. I (Geoff) had a quick talk to one of the Motor cycle couriers that park across the road. They get work because they can deliver items, usually documents, up to 3 time faster that a car driver around London although he told me he has even done jobs up to Liverpool. May go for a short walk up to Barbican.

Kristi will come home to have lunch together, as when we say good-bye tonight Kristi will drop in at 6.10pm to pick up her guitar then she needs to be at guitar by 7.00pm, so will go straight away. We'll probably get the tube together, she heads one way and we head the other way to Heathrow.

This afternoon Marg wanted to go to a Flight center to check if we had to confirm our flight because we had been on hold with Qantas for quite a while and had used up a lot of the remaining Prepaid mobile time we had. So we walked to almost the other end of London Wall road to the Flight Center mob and they said we did not have to confirm our flight.

On the way home from there I found the Barbican centre library because I wanted to find a photo of that area after WW2 before it was rebuilt in the late 60's. The whole area was bombed during the was and stayed as ruins from then unti the late 60's. Well the lady at the information counter at the library said I would have to go to the Barbican Center information counter or to some other library. After quizing her a bit more I discovered they had some books under the counter that had the photos I was looking for. Took photos of the photos.

As the tube ride to Heathrow Airport will take longer than we thought, it was cutting it a bit fine to catch a train at 6.30pm, so we said goodbye to Kristi at her place when she arrived home from work, although the original intention was to do so at the station as she has Guitar tonight.

8:40 pm We are at boarding gate 5 at Heathrow terminal 4 and although they supply power outlets and and a small shelf to use a lap top they dont supply a chair and the internet access costs. I left the sim card from my 3 Mobile broadband modem with kristi, although knowing 3 it most likely would not work here anyway.

11:11 pm london time. On boarding the aircraft I did my normal thing and ask the steward if he could ask the Captain if it was ok for me to use my GPS during the flight. He says ask him yourself as he is just there, standing in the aisle. I asked him and initially he said yes but was a bit unsure. He then said oh they are a transmitting device and they cant be used, so no. Even when I assured him it was not a transmitting device he still said no. So I cannot use my GPS to record this leg of the flight from London to Singapore. I'm annoyed that someone as senior as a Qantas 747 Captain does not know that a GPS is a receiver only and not a transmitting device. What am I going to do to amuse myself for the next 12 Hours. To top it off they hare having trouble with the in-flight entertainment system and recon it will take 30 minutes to re-boot it. Funny, im allowed to use my computer during the flight which is a transmitting device (Wireless networking) but not my GPS.

Photos 9/9/09

8:31 am London time Singapore time. We both had managed to get a bit of sleep (Marg: very little). I found the earplugs helped a lot. its still uncomfortable but bearable. We think we will get breakfast before we land. They have the cabin lights on half. Just under 2.5 hours to Singapore.

Arrived Singapore 6pm (Singapore time) 11.00am (London time). Waiting 3 hours to catch a flight to Brisbane. Departs 9.25pm (Singapore time).

My Technical difficulties never end. They have free wireless intenet here at Changi Airport but you have to ring a number on your mobile and it sends you a password, And what it sent me won't work. But they do have a non wifi point where you can plug in a cable, but I don't have a cable. Even if I did have a cable Im sure it would want a password.

Marg managed to fall asleep in a very comfortable lounge chair at the airport but I had to wake her up to get her to look after the notebook that is charging on a power point while I used the free computer.

Photos 10/9/09

The arrived pretty much on time (6.50am) in Brisbane and because we both had chips on our Passports were ushered to the self passport control queue that was very short. You put you passport through a reader and then stand in front of a devise that takes a photo of you and compares it with the one they have in their computer files. So that saved a lot of time but then we had to wait ages for our luggage. Glad we did not buy anything to bring home as the luggage carousel was so high that anything only the slightest bit delicate would have been broken. Yet another queue for customs (with a few plane loads of people waiting). At two points in the line, someone checks your arrival card and directs you to another line, but because Marg declared bringing in some food, small packet of lollies we got on the plane, they let us through without even scanning our bags, so didn't even get to the inspection point.

We either had to get public transport home or a $150 taxi ride. As we did not have any time constraints, first time ever on the whole trip, and because we would try to hold off sleeping until the evening, we went the for the public transport option. That was the Sky Train to Brisbane Central, Bus to Grand Plaza, Browns plains, another bus to Lionhart Street Forestdale and walked the last 1 k. Interesting that we left for our holidays via the front of the house (thanks to our neighbour Ray who took us to the airport) and arrived home via the back yard at about 11:45 am.

Other than the grass being a little bit longer Home was exactly how we left it. Marg's plants were even still alive.

The best thing for us that day was the walk home, as we could hold off getting to sleep until 12:30pm and slept till 7:30 pm. I had set my mobile alarm for 4 pm but it did not go off because I had not re set the time correctly. We got up and went to the supermarket, then had some tea, watched a movie and got to sleep about midnight.

JET LAG RECOVERY NOTES 12/9/09 We could not sleep beyond about 5:30 this morning but I think we have gotten over most of the jet lag. We both still have the cold we caught in Rome, Marg more so than me.

Photos 11/9/09

13/9/09 Slept till 8.30am, thought we were back on track, but bombed out early this evening.

14/9/09 Woke at 5.30am and couldn't get back to sleep. Geoff went to do the training and, as I don't re-start for a few weeks, went food shopping. By the time we got home at 4pm we were both exhaused. Layed down for a nap and woke at 6pm with the alarm. (I never sleep during the day) Had tea and went back to sleep at 10pm (couldn't keep our eyes open).

15/9/09 Woke at 5.30am and couldn't sleep any longer. Hope we hang out till normal sleep time tonight. Didn't realise that just because you were back sleeping at Aussie sleep time, that your body is still fighting to go to sleep UK time.