Firstly apologies for the last couple of entries where the wording has been a bit strange. I had predictive text on this tablet and it was a pain in the a...!
Finally found out how to take it off.
Oakura
Saturday. Today we went for a drive around the New Plymouth port area, and around the mountain and up to Dawson falls. Mt Egmont really is quite spectacular with its snow on top that looks like icing running down. They dont get to ski on it for very long during the season. This year they got three days.
We took Rudi and Verena out to dinner to a nice italian place they liked.
Sunday. We left our friends place around 9am and headed north towards Hamilton. We decided not to visit Waitomo caves due to cost and the fact that we have glo worms here and we have seen plenty of staligmites etc.
We found a nice place to stay in Cambridge and decided to visit the movie set of Lord of the rings on Monday. It is called Hobbiton. It was very good although it rained as we were walking around.
We then travelled to Auckland.
As we were driving to Cambridge on Sunday we both had been thinking the same thing and that was, we felt we had seen all we wanted to see and had spent enough money and it was time to go home.
So at lunchtime Monday we rang to see about flying out earlier and instead of finding some accomodation that night, we flew home that night leaving Auckland at 7.45. ( should have been 6.50) arriving at Tullamarine at 9.15pm, but there were about 5 other planes too so it took a long time to get through customs.
Stayed with mum last night and with Katherine tonight.
Heading home to Cobden tomorrow. Happy with our decision to come home.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Friday, November 09, 2012
Wellington to Oakura .
Wednesday we want for a drive through the Hutt Valley. the weather had turned quite cold overnight and the wind was coming from the south. Straight from the Antarctica!
We drove through more hills but once over that it was much flatter and we went to a town called Martinborough. It was wine country.
Drove back to Wellington but missed the turn off and ended going across to the other side of Wellington towards the airport. Drove around a bit then went back to Wellington our accommodation for a pit stop then out to the shops.we were right in the hub of johnsonville and there was lots of eateries so after looking around the shops we bought dinner , a lamb roast to take back to our room so we could just heat it when ready.
Next morning we left around10 and made our way to Wanganui. We stopped for smoko 1 .hr after we left, at a little beachside town and still arrived at wanghanui not long after 12.30. We found our accommodation and then went for a drive around. It is on the river but also has ocean which looks like it could get a bit rough. Never seen so much driftwood. We went up to a lookout and they also have an elevator that takes you down to the shops on the other side of the river.
We then went looking for the mouth of the river. There were plenty of people fishing and we saw a couple of guys pulling in some fish at least 2ft long.
Drove around the river area. They had a couple of very old paddle steamers that do river tours but we decided not to bother.
Went to the RSA for lunch (RSL) and the Brick House restaurant for dinner.
Next day we followed the coast to get to Oakura . Stopped at Patea for look at a very old works along the river. Before we stopped there the very majestic and imposing Mt Tauranaki (.mt egmont ) came into view. Looking down the main st of Patea with the snow topped mountain at the end was quite something. I would put up a pic but still haven't worked out how.
The weather was much nicer today. A nice spring day. We arrived in Oakura and went to have lunch before we rocked up at Rudi and Verena's house.
We chatted for the afternoon and after dinner went to where their house is being built. It is on a hill with a great view of New Plymouth . They are building an Echo house and it is just the shell and roof for now. The windows are coming from Europe so won't be here till Dec or January.
They have 2 cows that are keeping the grass down and are purely for them to eat at a later date. They have already started a vege patch and planted some nut trees.
Today, Friday, Verena and I went to the shops till lunch and this afternoon we are just chilling.
Wednesday we want for a drive through the Hutt Valley. the weather had turned quite cold overnight and the wind was coming from the south. Straight from the Antarctica!
We drove through more hills but once over that it was much flatter and we went to a town called Martinborough. It was wine country.
Drove back to Wellington but missed the turn off and ended going across to the other side of Wellington towards the airport. Drove around a bit then went back to Wellington our accommodation for a pit stop then out to the shops.we were right in the hub of johnsonville and there was lots of eateries so after looking around the shops we bought dinner , a lamb roast to take back to our room so we could just heat it when ready.
Next morning we left around10 and made our way to Wanganui. We stopped for smoko 1 .hr after we left, at a little beachside town and still arrived at wanghanui not long after 12.30. We found our accommodation and then went for a drive around. It is on the river but also has ocean which looks like it could get a bit rough. Never seen so much driftwood. We went up to a lookout and they also have an elevator that takes you down to the shops on the other side of the river.
We then went looking for the mouth of the river. There were plenty of people fishing and we saw a couple of guys pulling in some fish at least 2ft long.
Drove around the river area. They had a couple of very old paddle steamers that do river tours but we decided not to bother.
Went to the RSA for lunch (RSL) and the Brick House restaurant for dinner.
Next day we followed the coast to get to Oakura . Stopped at Patea for look at a very old works along the river. Before we stopped there the very majestic and imposing Mt Tauranaki (.mt egmont ) came into view. Looking down the main st of Patea with the snow topped mountain at the end was quite something. I would put up a pic but still haven't worked out how.
The weather was much nicer today. A nice spring day. We arrived in Oakura and went to have lunch before we rocked up at Rudi and Verena's house.
We chatted for the afternoon and after dinner went to where their house is being built. It is on a hill with a great view of New Plymouth . They are building an Echo house and it is just the shell and roof for now. The windows are coming from Europe so won't be here till Dec or January.
They have 2 cows that are keeping the grass down and are purely for them to eat at a later date. They have already started a vege patch and planted some nut trees.
Today, Friday, Verena and I went to the shops till lunch and this afternoon we are just chilling.
Monday, November 05, 2012
Rotorua to Wellington
We went out to the supermarket to buy something for dinner and get some fuel and relaxed for the evening.
After brekky we went up to a what we thought was a lookout but was a restaurant on a peak with a great view over Rotorua. It was a beautiful clear morning and alas quite warm sitting outside with our morning tea.
After looking at all the brochures we decided to go to a living maori village during the day. We arrived at 11.30 and finally left after looking looking 4.30pm. We thoroughly enjoyed our time on the guided tour and then our hangi lunch. We also had a concert at all2pm and then spent a long time chatting to a guy who was carving jade. Back to our room for dinner. We had water constantly running through the pipes and it had kept us awake the night before. We decided to ask about it and as a result we were given another room with our own spa pool.
Next day we went to see the museum which was housed in the old bathhouse. It was good and the buidling was impressive. After lunch we went to the Redwood grove and went for a walk through them. Then later went for a drive around the lake and surrounds and then went back to have a spa. Should have had before bed not before dinner.as we were quite lethargic. Also did some laundry before the spa.
Today we left Rotorua and headed through Lake Taupo on our way to Napier on the coast. It was overcast in Taupo and cool so we didn't see much if it.
It was a winding drive across to Napier but good roads. We arrived in Napier around lunchtime and had lunch at an RSA or as we would know it rsl . It was too early to check in so we went driving around. Www ent up to the bluff lookout an had a great view. We also watched a ship loading logs which was interesting. Went the wharf area and watched a fishing boat off loading their catch.
Back to the main part of Napier to look at the art demo buildings and then we checked in to our accommodation. Very nice.
Next day we went heading off to Wellington. Jane, the gps, decided to miss Hastings and took us on a couple of minor detours but we had a great good trip with only a great short stop for morning tea.
We got to go through the pass which had a been closed for over a year. It was 7 km and apparently cuts off 1/2.hr. it was a nice part of the drive.
We finally found our motel tucked away beside the motorway. We are staying 5 km out of Wellington.
We settled in and then went for a walk around the area.
Today is Monday 5th and we hopped on the train to go into Wellington. It was more a light rail and it had conductors! We found the train cable car and after that went to the wharf area. Lots of joggers and school girls. Went walking along the wharf heard lots of noise coming from kids. All the girls were jumping into the water in their uniforms. Turns out they were year 12 students who had just finished school. Their exams start next week. There was about 200 of them from one school.
We then went to Te Papa museum for a couple of hours or so. Walked back along the wharf and caught a ferry for a return trip across the bay. By this state it was getting rough and quite cool.
We caught a bus back to our accommodation. It took the train 1/2.hr to take us in and the bus in peak hour only 10mins to greet back
After brekky we went up to a what we thought was a lookout but was a restaurant on a peak with a great view over Rotorua. It was a beautiful clear morning and alas quite warm sitting outside with our morning tea.
After looking at all the brochures we decided to go to a living maori village during the day. We arrived at 11.30 and finally left after looking looking 4.30pm. We thoroughly enjoyed our time on the guided tour and then our hangi lunch. We also had a concert at all2pm and then spent a long time chatting to a guy who was carving jade. Back to our room for dinner. We had water constantly running through the pipes and it had kept us awake the night before. We decided to ask about it and as a result we were given another room with our own spa pool.
Next day we went to see the museum which was housed in the old bathhouse. It was good and the buidling was impressive. After lunch we went to the Redwood grove and went for a walk through them. Then later went for a drive around the lake and surrounds and then went back to have a spa. Should have had before bed not before dinner.as we were quite lethargic. Also did some laundry before the spa.
Today we left Rotorua and headed through Lake Taupo on our way to Napier on the coast. It was overcast in Taupo and cool so we didn't see much if it.
It was a winding drive across to Napier but good roads. We arrived in Napier around lunchtime and had lunch at an RSA or as we would know it rsl . It was too early to check in so we went driving around. Www ent up to the bluff lookout an had a great view. We also watched a ship loading logs which was interesting. Went the wharf area and watched a fishing boat off loading their catch.
Back to the main part of Napier to look at the art demo buildings and then we checked in to our accommodation. Very nice.
Next day we went heading off to Wellington. Jane, the gps, decided to miss Hastings and took us on a couple of minor detours but we had a great good trip with only a great short stop for morning tea.
We got to go through the pass which had a been closed for over a year. It was 7 km and apparently cuts off 1/2.hr. it was a nice part of the drive.
We finally found our motel tucked away beside the motorway. We are staying 5 km out of Wellington.
We settled in and then went for a walk around the area.
Today is Monday 5th and we hopped on the train to go into Wellington. It was more a light rail and it had conductors! We found the train cable car and after that went to the wharf area. Lots of joggers and school girls. Went walking along the wharf heard lots of noise coming from kids. All the girls were jumping into the water in their uniforms. Turns out they were year 12 students who had just finished school. Their exams start next week. There was about 200 of them from one school.
We then went to Te Papa museum for a couple of hours or so. Walked back along the wharf and caught a ferry for a return trip across the bay. By this state it was getting rough and quite cool.
We caught a bus back to our accommodation. It took the train 1/2.hr to take us in and the bus in peak hour only 10mins to greet back
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Day 3 we left booking our car till this morning and used a company not in the big leagues (hertz etc).
We were picked up at 10.45 and taken to pick up the car. It is an 8yr old lancer. So far it is good and it cost less than $400aus for 3 weeks hire.
We got Jane working, our gps and headed for the coromandel area. It was raining in Auckland when we left but cleared as we drove away from the area.
Stopped at Thames to pick up some bits to make dinner and then went another 14km to our accomodation. It was c lean and very tired but right on the water.
Day4 we drove the Coromandel through small quaint villages and it was also A very winding road so lots of concentration for Owen. Stopped at Whitianga for lunch and watched the ferry going back and forth.
Drove on back through Thames, did some shopping and went back to cook dinner.
Day 5 today we headed for Waihai to a quilt shop i wanted to visit. I spent some time looking and chatting to the ladies at Cushla's Village shop. Owen sat in the car under a tree. And of course i did buy a couple of things.
We then travelled on to Tauranga for lunch then on to Te Puke to a kiwi Fruit farm. We tripped around in a little train and had the guide to ourselves. It was very interesting.
Then on to Rotoroua . So far the smell isn't too bad, just smells like I opened some egg sandwiches.
Our accommodation is quite nice and we will stay here for 3 days.
We were picked up at 10.45 and taken to pick up the car. It is an 8yr old lancer. So far it is good and it cost less than $400aus for 3 weeks hire.
We got Jane working, our gps and headed for the coromandel area. It was raining in Auckland when we left but cleared as we drove away from the area.
Stopped at Thames to pick up some bits to make dinner and then went another 14km to our accomodation. It was c lean and very tired but right on the water.
Day4 we drove the Coromandel through small quaint villages and it was also A very winding road so lots of concentration for Owen. Stopped at Whitianga for lunch and watched the ferry going back and forth.
Drove on back through Thames, did some shopping and went back to cook dinner.
Day 5 today we headed for Waihai to a quilt shop i wanted to visit. I spent some time looking and chatting to the ladies at Cushla's Village shop. Owen sat in the car under a tree. And of course i did buy a couple of things.
We then travelled on to Tauranga for lunch then on to Te Puke to a kiwi Fruit farm. We tripped around in a little train and had the guide to ourselves. It was very interesting.
Then on to Rotoroua . So far the smell isn't too bad, just smells like I opened some egg sandwiches.
Our accommodation is quite nice and we will stay here for 3 days.
Monday, October 29, 2012
New Zealand
Hello from the land of the long white cloud. NEW ZEALAND
We stayed Friday night at the Mantra Close to the airport and were up at 5am to get ready to catch the shuttle bus. We were at the airport and checked our luggage in by 6.30 so went off to have some breakfast. We had another breakfast on the plane.
We touched down at 1.30pm( NZ time)Sat 27th October and I declared some biscuits and nuts so got to go through straight away but Owen had a British passport and had to go through the long queue. Didn't matter in the end as the cases took ages to come out.
We went and got a couple of sim cards, one for the phone and one for the ipad, then got the shuttle bus to our accommodation. It is good although a front unit so gets road noise although not too bad.
Went for a walk to Sky City and went up the tower to see the great view and an overall pic of the city. Found an Italian place for dinner which was nice And strolled back to our accommodation ready for bed.
Day 2 we went back to Sky City to pick up the hop on hop off bus. Unfortunately clashed with the city marathon so couldn't get down to the wharf area and the Sun Princess has arrived early that morning. It looked quite large against the buildings.
Stopped and got off at the museum and did a very quick look as we wanted to catch the satellite bus to do a different circuit.
That took an hour then back onto the double decker and by this stage we were able to get off at the wharf area. Walked around there, had some lunch and then walked around till was time for an early dinner.
We stayed Friday night at the Mantra Close to the airport and were up at 5am to get ready to catch the shuttle bus. We were at the airport and checked our luggage in by 6.30 so went off to have some breakfast. We had another breakfast on the plane.
We touched down at 1.30pm( NZ time)Sat 27th October and I declared some biscuits and nuts so got to go through straight away but Owen had a British passport and had to go through the long queue. Didn't matter in the end as the cases took ages to come out.
We went and got a couple of sim cards, one for the phone and one for the ipad, then got the shuttle bus to our accommodation. It is good although a front unit so gets road noise although not too bad.
Went for a walk to Sky City and went up the tower to see the great view and an overall pic of the city. Found an Italian place for dinner which was nice And strolled back to our accommodation ready for bed.
Day 2 we went back to Sky City to pick up the hop on hop off bus. Unfortunately clashed with the city marathon so couldn't get down to the wharf area and the Sun Princess has arrived early that morning. It looked quite large against the buildings.
Stopped and got off at the museum and did a very quick look as we wanted to catch the satellite bus to do a different circuit.
That took an hour then back onto the double decker and by this stage we were able to get off at the wharf area. Walked around there, had some lunch and then walked around till was time for an early dinner.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
1st May till Sat 14th May
I am very behind with the blogging, sorry.
Day 2 at Chester we travelled to Liverpool and stopped along the way at a National Boat Museum(there are several) This one was about the immediate area around Ellesmere and was about the canals and canal boats. It was very good and we spent a bit of time there.
Then it was on to cross the Mersey (remember the song "ferry cross the Mersey" Gerry and the Pacemakers). Well we didn't cross by ferry but went through the tunnel under the Mersey.
We drove around for a while and ended up in a car park somewhere on the edge of the city and walked through the mall down toward the dock area. There was a spring festival on and lots of people, boats, displays etc. We had a walk around and then did a boat cruise of the quay and then went on the hop on hop off bus to have a look at Liverpool.
Drove back to Chester via the old tunnel under the Mersey and out to a popular pub for dinner where we had Sunday roast with the biggest Yorkshire puddings I have ever seen. (at least five or six inches in diameter).
Day 3 saw us have a leisurely breakfast and check out as Stew's train wasn't until 11.30. We left him at approx 11 to go on our way to Sheffield.
We had 2 nights in Sheffield having a look around and going to a couple of museums but it isn't really a tourist place as such.
Then we went to Derby to Owen's cousin. We arrived too early so left our car at the park and ride and went into the main town and had a walk around but it wasn't all that big so got back and had some time to kill before Cath got home around 4.15.
It didn't seem like 2 years since we were there last and they thought it was only 1 year.
We just picked up where we left off from their family came around for dinner which was really nice.
Next day we travelled into the Peak district and went to Crompton Mill, and a flour mill and looked at canals. Also went to a tram museum and had a ride on a double decker old tram. Then on to our accommodation for then night in a pub in Ashton in the Water. It was better than we had expected for a pub and the meal was great.
Next day we went to see Chatsworth House where the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire reside. Very impressive from the outside and the estate was fabulous. The house was very impressive and very ornate, lots of painted ceilings and just so happened there was a floral display for 3 days and that was great. Lots to look at inside and out. Lots of tulips in and around the garden. Back to the pub for another lovely meal.
Next day went to an area where there are lots of caves and can't think of the name of it at the moment. Woke up to rain today but not cold. Went down into a huge cavern and cave. People used to live and work making rope in the cavern. The stench must have been awful.
We then went on to Bakewell and for walk around and then back to Derby for a leisurely afternoon before heading out for dinner.
Paul had promised us a splendid Sunday roast and he delivered. I got a lesson on making Yorkshire pudding and then we left them around 2.30 to head south towards Exeter and we stayed the night at a hotel half way.
Unfortunately the hotel had a wedding on in a marqee and they had loud music and then a family above us were running and jumping around at 1 or 2am so not a great night's sleep.
We were up and out of the hotel just after 8am so decided to go to Plymouth on the coast before arriving at Owen's other cousin's house.
Got down to Plymouth and had a drive around then parked the car and started to walk towards a quay area and saw a sign for a cruise in half an hour. It only cost 6pound which we thought was ok and went around the docks and into the Tamar river. The weather today was overcast and windy. Well that was 6pound well spent it was a lengthy cruise and we would never have seen it all from the road. What a huge area and also the biggest Naval dock area although not many ships as they are all deployed. We then headed off to Topsham arriving around 2.30pm.
Had a lovely dinner and next day we went off on the train to ride up the coast to Teignmouth and Torquay on a train that runs right beside the water. It wasn't rough so no splashing up onto the train. Got back to Topsham around 3 and went out for dinner to an Italian place. It was good to catch up with Sheila and Ted as they had come up to London for the wedding but we hadn't been able to spend a lot of time with them.
Wed 11th we travelled back up to London to Matt and Jana's flat. We met up with Stew and had dinner at his flat (oh my goodness, can't believe what he is paying for one bedroom which is tiny)
Then back to Matt and Jana's for bed.
Next day(Thurs) we took the car back and went into Kingston and did some shopping and then home to cook dinner. Stew also came for dinner.
Friday we went into London to catch a boat to Hampton Court Palace. It was a good cruise, long and got a little chilly but no rain. It took over 3 hrs and we went through 1 lock. We then bussed it back into Kingston to make some enquiries re something we had purchased and eventually got back to the flat around 5.30pm.
Matt and Jana's wedding gifts arrived from their registry so it was unnpacking time. We then went out to a Brazilian place for dinner very late. We are not used to eating so late at night and we were so full.
Well only 2 whole days left and then an afternoon flight out on Monday. So will be back to Aus in 4days. I think I am just about ready.
Day 2 at Chester we travelled to Liverpool and stopped along the way at a National Boat Museum(there are several) This one was about the immediate area around Ellesmere and was about the canals and canal boats. It was very good and we spent a bit of time there.
Then it was on to cross the Mersey (remember the song "ferry cross the Mersey" Gerry and the Pacemakers). Well we didn't cross by ferry but went through the tunnel under the Mersey.
We drove around for a while and ended up in a car park somewhere on the edge of the city and walked through the mall down toward the dock area. There was a spring festival on and lots of people, boats, displays etc. We had a walk around and then did a boat cruise of the quay and then went on the hop on hop off bus to have a look at Liverpool.
Drove back to Chester via the old tunnel under the Mersey and out to a popular pub for dinner where we had Sunday roast with the biggest Yorkshire puddings I have ever seen. (at least five or six inches in diameter).
Day 3 saw us have a leisurely breakfast and check out as Stew's train wasn't until 11.30. We left him at approx 11 to go on our way to Sheffield.
We had 2 nights in Sheffield having a look around and going to a couple of museums but it isn't really a tourist place as such.
Then we went to Derby to Owen's cousin. We arrived too early so left our car at the park and ride and went into the main town and had a walk around but it wasn't all that big so got back and had some time to kill before Cath got home around 4.15.
It didn't seem like 2 years since we were there last and they thought it was only 1 year.
We just picked up where we left off from their family came around for dinner which was really nice.
Next day we travelled into the Peak district and went to Crompton Mill, and a flour mill and looked at canals. Also went to a tram museum and had a ride on a double decker old tram. Then on to our accommodation for then night in a pub in Ashton in the Water. It was better than we had expected for a pub and the meal was great.
Next day we went to see Chatsworth House where the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire reside. Very impressive from the outside and the estate was fabulous. The house was very impressive and very ornate, lots of painted ceilings and just so happened there was a floral display for 3 days and that was great. Lots to look at inside and out. Lots of tulips in and around the garden. Back to the pub for another lovely meal.
Next day went to an area where there are lots of caves and can't think of the name of it at the moment. Woke up to rain today but not cold. Went down into a huge cavern and cave. People used to live and work making rope in the cavern. The stench must have been awful.
We then went on to Bakewell and for walk around and then back to Derby for a leisurely afternoon before heading out for dinner.
Paul had promised us a splendid Sunday roast and he delivered. I got a lesson on making Yorkshire pudding and then we left them around 2.30 to head south towards Exeter and we stayed the night at a hotel half way.
Unfortunately the hotel had a wedding on in a marqee and they had loud music and then a family above us were running and jumping around at 1 or 2am so not a great night's sleep.
We were up and out of the hotel just after 8am so decided to go to Plymouth on the coast before arriving at Owen's other cousin's house.
Got down to Plymouth and had a drive around then parked the car and started to walk towards a quay area and saw a sign for a cruise in half an hour. It only cost 6pound which we thought was ok and went around the docks and into the Tamar river. The weather today was overcast and windy. Well that was 6pound well spent it was a lengthy cruise and we would never have seen it all from the road. What a huge area and also the biggest Naval dock area although not many ships as they are all deployed. We then headed off to Topsham arriving around 2.30pm.
Had a lovely dinner and next day we went off on the train to ride up the coast to Teignmouth and Torquay on a train that runs right beside the water. It wasn't rough so no splashing up onto the train. Got back to Topsham around 3 and went out for dinner to an Italian place. It was good to catch up with Sheila and Ted as they had come up to London for the wedding but we hadn't been able to spend a lot of time with them.
Wed 11th we travelled back up to London to Matt and Jana's flat. We met up with Stew and had dinner at his flat (oh my goodness, can't believe what he is paying for one bedroom which is tiny)
Then back to Matt and Jana's for bed.
Next day(Thurs) we took the car back and went into Kingston and did some shopping and then home to cook dinner. Stew also came for dinner.
Friday we went into London to catch a boat to Hampton Court Palace. It was a good cruise, long and got a little chilly but no rain. It took over 3 hrs and we went through 1 lock. We then bussed it back into Kingston to make some enquiries re something we had purchased and eventually got back to the flat around 5.30pm.
Matt and Jana's wedding gifts arrived from their registry so it was unnpacking time. We then went out to a Brazilian place for dinner very late. We are not used to eating so late at night and we were so full.
Well only 2 whole days left and then an afternoon flight out on Monday. So will be back to Aus in 4days. I think I am just about ready.
Sunday, May 01, 2011
Saturday 30th
Got up and had a big brekky and then waited for the first red hop on hop off bus just across the road. The tour went for an hour and gave us a good look at Chester then back to get the car and travelled back into Wales to find the aquaducts and viaducts (canals and train bridges) to show Stew. We went to Llangolen and that was very pretty and very busy and on to Trevor to see the aquaduct there which is 120ft high. We then found our way to Chirk to see where the aquaduct and viaduct run side by side. We had missed this one last time and Owen really wanted to see it.
Then back to Chester to catch the bus into town to have a look at the covered walkways over the shops. We also walked along part of the wall of Chester as it is a walled city like York.
We then headed back to our hotel for dinner.
Then back to Chester to catch the bus into town to have a look at the covered walkways over the shops. We also walked along part of the wall of Chester as it is a walled city like York.
We then headed back to our hotel for dinner.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
Thursday 28th and Friday 29th
We headed off for Cardiff around 9am. It was not very far and of course we used the motorway. We had arrived there by 10am too early for our hotel.
We headed into the city and found a car park and Cardiff castle. We went onto the hop on hop off bus first and that gave us a good feel for the city and then on it's return went into the castle which had had many repairs and styles.
We came out and had a quick look at a music shop but by then had to go back to our car as the time was up. We went for a drive to try to find an area I wanted to look at but ended up just driving along and found a nice coastal town and stopped for a short time and then headed back to our hotel.
Oh what a change from the one before. Lovely room, roomy, tasteful and just very nice all around. Dinner was nice too.
Friday we left again around 9am to take a leisurely drive to Chester where we are staying for 3 nights.
It was lovely just driving through the Welsh countryside and towns. Nothing stands out but it was just nice. At one stage we were up quite high and it was 9degrees but by the time we got to Chester it was 18deg.
Arrived around 3pm and came into our hotel. Interesting. Floor level in the bathroom differs by nearly 4inches. It's quite funny as they said they had upgraded us to a Superior room. Stew arrived by train around 5.20. We came up to the room and chatted and then the fire alarm went off. By this stage we had decided to go out for dinner anyway so we left.
We found a restaurant that had Thai and Japanese food. We opted to go with the Teppanyaki menu. That was a bit of fun. So now I am catching up with the blog. I might even get some pics up in the next day or so.
We headed into the city and found a car park and Cardiff castle. We went onto the hop on hop off bus first and that gave us a good feel for the city and then on it's return went into the castle which had had many repairs and styles.
We came out and had a quick look at a music shop but by then had to go back to our car as the time was up. We went for a drive to try to find an area I wanted to look at but ended up just driving along and found a nice coastal town and stopped for a short time and then headed back to our hotel.
Oh what a change from the one before. Lovely room, roomy, tasteful and just very nice all around. Dinner was nice too.
Friday we left again around 9am to take a leisurely drive to Chester where we are staying for 3 nights.
It was lovely just driving through the Welsh countryside and towns. Nothing stands out but it was just nice. At one stage we were up quite high and it was 9degrees but by the time we got to Chester it was 18deg.
Arrived around 3pm and came into our hotel. Interesting. Floor level in the bathroom differs by nearly 4inches. It's quite funny as they said they had upgraded us to a Superior room. Stew arrived by train around 5.20. We came up to the room and chatted and then the fire alarm went off. By this stage we had decided to go out for dinner anyway so we left.
We found a restaurant that had Thai and Japanese food. We opted to go with the Teppanyaki menu. That was a bit of fun. So now I am catching up with the blog. I might even get some pics up in the next day or so.
Sunday 24th to Wed 27th
Sunday we spent the day with our friends from Mill Park. We rode the buses most of the day. Twenty six pounds and it gave us 6 different bus routes to do. Just hop on and off where you want.
We did the blue one first, stopped had something to drink, onto the red route and that took ages then off again at Trafalgar Square to have another drink and thent he yellow route but we got on the wrong side of the road and ended up doing the whole thing and we didn't get off the bus until after 6pm. The weather had been great for the open top bus. It was also very busy being Easter and the coming royal wedding. We went out for dinner and finally got home at 9.10
Monday we looked after Mackenzie so that Katherine and Dave could do some shopping and mum and John also had an easy morning planned. We all went down to Wimbledon park with Mackenzie and it was very busy. She of course loved it.
Mum and John left at 2pm to go to their hotel for the night as their tour of England, Scotland and Ireland left on the Tues morning.
Matt and Jana and Stew came for dinner that night.
Tuesday saw us packing up and leaving the house. We left at 10am to go to Kingston to pick up our rental car and Katherine and co left around 10.30 to go to Stew's new house (which was Matt's old house). They stayed there for the next 2 nights until they flew out on Thursday. (they have arrived home and are now having to adjust.)
Tuesday we headed out without Jane's help and found Brookland race track and the Mercede Benz museum. We only went into the Brooklands museum which had old cars, racing cars and some of the old track. Also planes. It was quite good.
We then got out Jane (our gps) and found out we hadn't even got past Heathrow.
We travelled to Bath and found our accommodation. We had been last time but we felt we hadn't done it justice. We had two nights here. We were a bit disappointed with our accomodation. The size of the ensuite was no bigger than a wardrobe and adjusting the water was interesting.
On Wednesday we went to the American museum. It is the only wholly American museum outside of the US.
I was mainly there to see the quilts. They were great but of course we weren't allowed to take pictures and the book was very heavy so didn't buy it.
We found a Chinese buffet for dinner which was nice and when we got back someone had turned on the heater and our room was like a furnace. Glad to leave to the next morning.
We did the blue one first, stopped had something to drink, onto the red route and that took ages then off again at Trafalgar Square to have another drink and thent he yellow route but we got on the wrong side of the road and ended up doing the whole thing and we didn't get off the bus until after 6pm. The weather had been great for the open top bus. It was also very busy being Easter and the coming royal wedding. We went out for dinner and finally got home at 9.10
Monday we looked after Mackenzie so that Katherine and Dave could do some shopping and mum and John also had an easy morning planned. We all went down to Wimbledon park with Mackenzie and it was very busy. She of course loved it.
Mum and John left at 2pm to go to their hotel for the night as their tour of England, Scotland and Ireland left on the Tues morning.
Matt and Jana and Stew came for dinner that night.
Tuesday saw us packing up and leaving the house. We left at 10am to go to Kingston to pick up our rental car and Katherine and co left around 10.30 to go to Stew's new house (which was Matt's old house). They stayed there for the next 2 nights until they flew out on Thursday. (they have arrived home and are now having to adjust.)
Tuesday we headed out without Jane's help and found Brookland race track and the Mercede Benz museum. We only went into the Brooklands museum which had old cars, racing cars and some of the old track. Also planes. It was quite good.
We then got out Jane (our gps) and found out we hadn't even got past Heathrow.
We travelled to Bath and found our accommodation. We had been last time but we felt we hadn't done it justice. We had two nights here. We were a bit disappointed with our accomodation. The size of the ensuite was no bigger than a wardrobe and adjusting the water was interesting.
On Wednesday we went to the American museum. It is the only wholly American museum outside of the US.
I was mainly there to see the quilts. They were great but of course we weren't allowed to take pictures and the book was very heavy so didn't buy it.
We found a Chinese buffet for dinner which was nice and when we got back someone had turned on the heater and our room was like a furnace. Glad to leave to the next morning.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
The Church Wedding 23rd April 2011
Well apologies for not keeping up with my writing but it has been busy.
Saturday the sun was up early and it was going to be 25deg for the day, possibility of rain late afternoon.
Up early so as to be able to all get a shower in. Katherine not feeling well, Taxi arrived at 10.50 and we were in Kingston by11.20.
The church was decorated with lots of vases of flowers and white petals down either side of the aisle. It looked very pretty. The girl in charge had done a lovely job. She had been there since 6am that morning.
There was a bit of an upset with the bridesmaids dresses. A mix up with the sizes saw one girl trying to wear a 10 when she was a 12 and after alot of tooing and froing one of the girls gave up her dress and squashed herself into the 10.
Mackenzie got into her dress and thought it was great and of course she looked so pretty.(unfortunately Owen didn't manage to get a pic of her.)
The boys were there in their suits looking very spiffy or should I say "dapper"
Our friends had arrived by train before us and Owen,s cousins from Topsham also arrived. Mackenzie had on her dress and was running around. Then we found out Jana was running late. Very late.
She had said she would be there by 12.10pm but unfortunately didn't leave home till 12 and then got caught in a huge traffic jam and at least one and a half hours later finally arrived.
Anyway the wedding went off well and it was very relaxed and had light moments too.Both sets of parents were asked if they would release their son/daughter which I thought was nice.
Matt was a bit emotional and he made us all cry too.
They had written their vows to say at the church service,(and as they had had their official ceremony and signed the register on the Wednesday), they signed them instead and then had all the family members sign them also.
We then went out to the foyer area where the high tea was set up and we had the cutting of the cake and also the speeches and of course food and drink.
I think I forgot to mention there were 7, yes seven, bridesmaids and 4 groomsmen.
Also a junior bridesmaid and a flowergirl and a pageboy who got carried down the aisle.
After that we went to Richmond park for more photos. Unfortunately our taxi driver got lost and dropped us off a long way from where we had to go and by the time we got there we were very tired and the feet weren't too impressed either.
We left them in the park having even more pics taken and we got a lift to our bus stop and we headed for home. By the time the bus got to where we had to change buses, it was raining and we all got rather wet. There had been lots of thunder and dark clouds whilst we were at the park but the bridal party did not get wet.
We were all quite tired by the time we got home.
Saturday the sun was up early and it was going to be 25deg for the day, possibility of rain late afternoon.
Up early so as to be able to all get a shower in. Katherine not feeling well, Taxi arrived at 10.50 and we were in Kingston by11.20.
The church was decorated with lots of vases of flowers and white petals down either side of the aisle. It looked very pretty. The girl in charge had done a lovely job. She had been there since 6am that morning.
There was a bit of an upset with the bridesmaids dresses. A mix up with the sizes saw one girl trying to wear a 10 when she was a 12 and after alot of tooing and froing one of the girls gave up her dress and squashed herself into the 10.
Mackenzie got into her dress and thought it was great and of course she looked so pretty.(unfortunately Owen didn't manage to get a pic of her.)
The boys were there in their suits looking very spiffy or should I say "dapper"
Our friends had arrived by train before us and Owen,s cousins from Topsham also arrived. Mackenzie had on her dress and was running around. Then we found out Jana was running late. Very late.
She had said she would be there by 12.10pm but unfortunately didn't leave home till 12 and then got caught in a huge traffic jam and at least one and a half hours later finally arrived.
Anyway the wedding went off well and it was very relaxed and had light moments too.Both sets of parents were asked if they would release their son/daughter which I thought was nice.
Matt was a bit emotional and he made us all cry too.
They had written their vows to say at the church service,(and as they had had their official ceremony and signed the register on the Wednesday), they signed them instead and then had all the family members sign them also.
We then went out to the foyer area where the high tea was set up and we had the cutting of the cake and also the speeches and of course food and drink.
I think I forgot to mention there were 7, yes seven, bridesmaids and 4 groomsmen.
Also a junior bridesmaid and a flowergirl and a pageboy who got carried down the aisle.
After that we went to Richmond park for more photos. Unfortunately our taxi driver got lost and dropped us off a long way from where we had to go and by the time we got there we were very tired and the feet weren't too impressed either.
We left them in the park having even more pics taken and we got a lift to our bus stop and we headed for home. By the time the bus got to where we had to change buses, it was raining and we all got rather wet. There had been lots of thunder and dark clouds whilst we were at the park but the bridal party did not get wet.
We were all quite tired by the time we got home.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Thurs 21st and Friday 22nd
Well I am getting behind with posts. Thursday we all went in separate directions. I have a sore groin and hip from too much walking in one hit so I decided to mostly stay home and rest it. I did go by bus to a shopping centre to do some shopping but was able to go at my own pace and just wander. I bought a pair of slip on, tone up shoes and did the shopping required, then came home to relax.Katherine and Dave went to see Wicked that night in London and we baby sat. They said it was brilliant.
Mum and John went into Kingston and Owen went into London on his own and walked a lot and visited the Imperial Musuem and other areas.
Friday we went into Kingston had a wander into some shops then off to the church to help set up for the wedding. Lots of sitting around and a long day of not doing a lot. My feet blew up a bit so I sat like "lady muck" on the chesterfield couch with my feet up.
Katherine and co arrived in the afternoon for the rehearsal and Mum and John went into Kingston to do some shopping then home.Owen and I ended up going out with the boys for dinner at a Jamie Oliver restaurant in Kingston and back to Stew's house for a while then home. Long day.
Mum and John went into Kingston and Owen went into London on his own and walked a lot and visited the Imperial Musuem and other areas.
Friday we went into Kingston had a wander into some shops then off to the church to help set up for the wedding. Lots of sitting around and a long day of not doing a lot. My feet blew up a bit so I sat like "lady muck" on the chesterfield couch with my feet up.
Katherine and co arrived in the afternoon for the rehearsal and Mum and John went into Kingston to do some shopping then home.Owen and I ended up going out with the boys for dinner at a Jamie Oliver restaurant in Kingston and back to Stew's house for a while then home. Long day.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Wednesday 20th
Number one wedding.
Matt and Jana were doing the legal wedding today.
Mackenzie was running a temperature the night before and was still not well today so Dave stayed home with her.
We caught a taxi to Wandsworth Town Hall.
Every one finally arrived by 10.10am. The ceremony began around 10.30 after Matt and Jana had answered questions and filled in paperwork.
It was in a lovely room and was a lovely ceremony for a registry office.
We then hopped a bus for Putney and The Boathouse for lunch. By the time we had lunch it was extremely late but it was nice and we played musical chairs so we had chats to everyone. We finally left there well after 3. We were all pretty tired again as it had been a long day and quite warm again.
We had prepared for 15 to 20deg whilst here but the past two days had been 25-26deg and quite warm. We even got sunburnt on Tuesday.
Matt and Jana were doing the legal wedding today.
Mackenzie was running a temperature the night before and was still not well today so Dave stayed home with her.
We caught a taxi to Wandsworth Town Hall.
Every one finally arrived by 10.10am. The ceremony began around 10.30 after Matt and Jana had answered questions and filled in paperwork.
It was in a lovely room and was a lovely ceremony for a registry office.
We then hopped a bus for Putney and The Boathouse for lunch. By the time we had lunch it was extremely late but it was nice and we played musical chairs so we had chats to everyone. We finally left there well after 3. We were all pretty tired again as it had been a long day and quite warm again.
We had prepared for 15 to 20deg whilst here but the past two days had been 25-26deg and quite warm. We even got sunburnt on Tuesday.
Tuesday 19th
Today mum, John, Owen and I went into London to catch the river cruise down the Thames to the flood barriers. It was very busy and people can be quite rude.
It was a beautiful morning and not cold at all on the boat. We came back from the barriers and Mum and John got off at Greenwich. We contined back to St Katherine's dock at Tower Bridge and wandered around the quay area where there were lots of power boats, yachts and dutch clippers. We had lunch at a place called The Dickens Inn and then walked over Tower Bridge to the south side of the Thames and met up with Stew for about 1hr. We walked on to see the replica of the Golden Hind which was Frances Drake's ship he circumnavigated the world in. We then walked along all kinds of streets, some narrow and cobbled and ended up missing where we could catch the bus and walked over the Black Friars bridge to the north side of the Thames to catch the underground. My hips and groin had completely had it by this time and we headed for home. It was a long day. Out at 9am and home at 5pm.
Dinner in, cooked pasta
It was a beautiful morning and not cold at all on the boat. We came back from the barriers and Mum and John got off at Greenwich. We contined back to St Katherine's dock at Tower Bridge and wandered around the quay area where there were lots of power boats, yachts and dutch clippers. We had lunch at a place called The Dickens Inn and then walked over Tower Bridge to the south side of the Thames and met up with Stew for about 1hr. We walked on to see the replica of the Golden Hind which was Frances Drake's ship he circumnavigated the world in. We then walked along all kinds of streets, some narrow and cobbled and ended up missing where we could catch the bus and walked over the Black Friars bridge to the north side of the Thames to catch the underground. My hips and groin had completely had it by this time and we headed for home. It was a long day. Out at 9am and home at 5pm.
Dinner in, cooked pasta
Sunday 17th, Monday 18th
Sunday morning saw us going to church in Kingston with Stew. Had to catch a couple of buses. We were all still pretty tired so went home from there. It was Katherine's 30th birthday and we were going out for dinner.
We all rested for the afternoon and we went in to Picadilly Circus to a place called Adam's Rib for dinner. Jana's family also came and I met Koot (pronounced kwet) for the first time.
Jana's family are very friendly and we have all felt at home together very quickly.
Monday Owen and I ended up at Canary Wharf at a Museum. Problem is we did a lot of walking to find it. Finally rocked up home about 4.30 after doing shopping for dinner.
Katherine and David took Mackenzie to Wimbledon Park and Mum and John went up to the local shops but generally had a rest day.
Today was mum's 81st birthday.
We all rested for the afternoon and we went in to Picadilly Circus to a place called Adam's Rib for dinner. Jana's family also came and I met Koot (pronounced kwet) for the first time.
Jana's family are very friendly and we have all felt at home together very quickly.
Monday Owen and I ended up at Canary Wharf at a Museum. Problem is we did a lot of walking to find it. Finally rocked up home about 4.30 after doing shopping for dinner.
Katherine and David took Mackenzie to Wimbledon Park and Mum and John went up to the local shops but generally had a rest day.
Today was mum's 81st birthday.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Friday, Sat 15th and 16th
We left Folkestone and travelled to Royal Tunbridge Wells. Had no idea exactly where we were going once we arrived so parked and went on foot. We did lots of walking and saw the Pantiles and decided after a while that we would cancel our B & B and tell Stew we were coming to stay the night if that was ok.
In the end we picked Matt up from work, went to his and Jana's new flat for dinner with them and Maxi and then home to Stew's for the night.
Sat morning we went into Kingston for Stew to buy some fun stuff for Matt to wear for his buck's night and then back to get our car and head on over to Wimbledon to the house we were staying in.
Short catch up with Kath, Dave and Mackenzie and checking out the place then we all went our separate ways to take both cars back.
2& 1/2 hrs for us and 3hr for Kath and co. We were all glad to have arrived back. But 1/2 an hour later we were back on the road. Kath, Mackenzie and I to Jana's hen's night and one of the girls picked us up which was lovely and the guys to meet up with the boys at a pub for dinner.
Jana's friends had done a lovely job of decorating for the hen's night and we had a lovely time and the boys seem to have had a fun time also. Matt had been dressed in a kids tutu, bunny ears and had to wear a sign and beg for money for his honeymoon. Believe it or not he actually made 30pound!!
I am sure I will be able to get some pics soon.
Jana's was a little bit more sedate but fun. A lovely bunch of girls. Another one of which gave us all a lift home.
Friday, April 15, 2011
Thurs 14th
The main reason for being in Folkestone was a railway not far away which is a one-third scale steam railway. It operates from Hythe through Dymchurch, St Mary's, New Romney and on to Dungeness. We were the first in the carpark which is unusual for us and had to wait an hour till it ran and by that time the Kids starting arriving. The first group were so excited. It was an hour ride to Dungeness which is also where there is a nuclear power station now but it is on an area that used to be underwater eons ago and it is very flat and nothing but pebbles but never the less people have homes out there a bit more sparse closer to the end of the peninsula. There wasn't a lot to see there so we caught the same train back. It was there for 20mins. We then got off at New Romney to see a model train exhibition and arrived back at Hythe around 2.30. Again by this time it was time for a siesta, but of course I am writing this instead. Not sure where dinner is tonight.
Wed 13th
Today we headed north from Canterbury to Whitstable on the coast and followed the coast through Herne Bay, Reculver, Margate, Ramsgate, Sandwich, Deal, Cover to our 2night stopover in Folkestone at the Clifton Hotel. Stopped in a few spots along the way. Went to a cliff top cafe at Capel Le Ferne for a cuppa and bite and then arrived at Folkestone around 2ish. Owen had booked this place from Aus and asked for a sea view room. It is a lovely big room with a couple of lounge chairs and bay window. The room has floors that are up and down and creak like crazy so you can't creep around the place. It is a little tired in some ways, especially the bathroom and could do with the tv being upgraded to a digital but over all it is ok. We went out for a walk along the Leas along the promenade. It was cool but was a good walk. Owen had wanted to stay at the Grand but it was just a bit pricey but it is a lovely building. Lots of nice old architecture around the area. We had dinner in the hotel restaurant which was nice and coffee in the lounge.
Tuesday 12th April
Decided to leave Stew's when he left for work. So we were out the door by 7.45am. Needed to get fuel and also get Jane to work. JANE is the lady who speaks on our GPS so when you read about Jane that is who we are referring to. Took a while for Jane to fire up and find the satellites as she was last used in Aus, but we also had to remember how to put her on to the UK maps. We hadn't had breakfast and decided to find somewhere along the way. Why can you never find something when you need it, or find it when you are in the wrong lane. We ended up eventually at a Sainsbury's superstore, which is a very large supermarket which also had a cafe attached. Bye this stage it was 10am and we needed a drink badly. Eventually sated we headed on towards Leeds Castle. Over here it is school holidays also and by the time we got there, I counted at least 10buses and oodles of cars with families, or grandparents and kids. Not so bad once inside the castle as a lot of them went for the maze and other areas. Beautiful castle which we missed last time so glad we found it this time. It has a large moat and beautiful grounds. They are going to put up a large screen in the grounds so people can watch the Royal Wedding on Friday 29th. From there we went to Canterbury but by this stage we were starting to feel very tired again. We parked outside the Cathedral walls and finally got a connection to book a B&B in Canterbury. We had planned to go further on but we decided to plonk there. The Canterbury Cathedral is massive. Lots of tourist too. Remember it is school hols but also lots of European bus travellers. Lovely cobbled streets in the surrounding area and we would have liked to spend more time be we had had enough. B&B was nice, walked to a pub call "Ye Old Beverley" and had a lovely meal. Crashed early and had a nice full english brekky. I have to stop having them. I already feel fatter.!!!!
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
UK Trip 2011 for Matt and Jana's wedding
Hi folks, we made it to London ok. On time, but we missed our "looked forward to welcome from the boys" as they were late, and we were unable to phone them as Owen's phone had died for some reason. We had to get picked up from Heathrow to where we had booked our car from as we had found somewhere much cheaper than the usual car hire places. Whilst there we plugged in the phone to ring the boys and made arrangements to meet at Stew's house. We arrived about 10mins before them. Luckily we had looked at his place on google earth when he moved or we would never have found it. It was great to see the boys and finally meet Jana face to face and also Jana's mum, Maxie. It was Owen's birthday so we went out for dinner beside the Thames and it was nice. Got to bed around 9.30-10pm and by that time we we were struggling to keep the eyes open. Conked out immediately. Plugged in our phone
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Tuesday 14th July 09
Hi from Dubai. Our flight from Heathrow was delayed in leaving by 30mins but we had a tail wind and arrived in Dubai at 3.05. It was 34degrees Celcius. By the time we got our bags, got our ride to our hotel and got to our room it was after 4.30.
Up again at 9am to meet a lady from a tourist agency who gave us some ideas and thoughts on what to do. We booked a half day tour starting at 2pm. We went to have breakfast and met down in the lobby.
Back out into that lovely heat. It was a long afternoon and was a reasonably good tour. Would have taken a lot less time if we hadn’t had wait at a few stops for some people.
It is an interesting place and we found out June July and August is their off peak season because of the humidity which was about 75% or more. No one stays dry.
Our last stop was the gold souk and we have never seen anything like it. Shops upon shops with 18ct, 21 and 22ct gold. Windows just of so much gold it almost looked fake. And watches, jewellery bags pashmina’s but in this souk mo9stly gold and diamonds. Problem was we only had about 40mins and we were bombarded from all sides with people wanting to sell us something. I did look at some earrings but we aren’t used to bartering and it was hard to quickly convert from Dirham to US$ or Aus dollars. Ended up walking away. Owen bought a watch (yes kids, ANOTHER ONE)
but even that was a tag team job. Not something we enjoyed.
Finally got back to our hotel at 8pm and we hadn’t had any lunch and not a lot to drink so went to and english pub in the hotel. Now time for night night as we have an early wakeup call
Almost home
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