Saturday 2 August. Raining on rising today. Bergen is the rain capital of the world though. We went off on a sight seeing trip in the morning. We drove through the main area`s of the city, over Bryggen passing Haakon`s Hall and over to Sandviken - with its small wooden houses and narrow cobbled streets.
Next we went up to Eidsvagneset for a fabulous view over the fjord and city. We went back down again to Bergen, to the Funicular station to go up Mt Floyen by cable car for another view of Bergen and fjords again.
The afternoon was spend wandering round Bergen, the town, the fort, the handicraft shops and stalls and the fish market. It stopped raining by midday.We bought fresh strawberries, apples and breadrolls for tea.
Sunday 3 August. Up early and saw lots of spectacular scenery as we drove to the Sognefjord. We had a lovely 3hr cruise on one of Norways longest fjords. It was fabulous!
We saw waterfalls and Stave Churches along the way.
We arrived at Fagernes by 6.30pm. The buffet dinner was great-heaps of seafood. Kevin and I went for a walk round town and waterfront and then decided to have a sauna and swim. Very nice!
Monday 4 August. Kevin went off for a swim at 7.00 am and after brekky we left for Lillehammer of Olympic fame. Then we saw beautiful scenery, green valleys, shimmering lakes and towering mountains. Saw the ski jumps and saw some people practicing so that was good.
We drove along lake Mjosa and across the border into Sweden.
Passing through the Varmland of wilderness, forests and lakes to arrive in Karlstad at 6.30 pm. We went out to tea to a local chinese restaurant with Jane and Terry from the Goldcoast. It was Terry`s birthday, home by 10pm.
Tuesday 5 August. We left Karlstad and headed East towards Stockholm via Alfred Nobel`s country. ( he invented Dynomite and started the Nobel prizes.)
We passed through Orebro and Eskilstuna and Mariefred. We stopped to visit Gripsholm Castle which sits on the shores of lake Malaren just outside Mariefred. It was built in 1537 by a swedish king- Gustav Vasa.
We arrived in Stockholm about 3.30 pm.Its a unique city set on 14 islands between Lake Malaren and the Baltic Sea.
Wednesday 6 August. We were up and off on a city tour by 8.30 am. At 11.00am we went off on a guided tour of the Vasa Museum. It was excellent value. The Vasa ship sank in Stockholm harbour back in the 16th century and was raised up in 1961 in one piece.
From 1 pm -5 pm we were free to sight see as we wished. We visited Old Town ( Gamla Stan) and went for a boat cruise-Under the Bridges for 2 hrs. We even went through 2 locks between the Baltic Sea and Lake Malaren
Our last tea together and we ended up having a few beers with our fellow travellers, not getting to bed till 1.00am !
Thursday 7 August. Up and breakfasted and farewelling our travelling friends as they headed for home today. We spent the time chatting and emailing. We shared a taxi to the airport to catch our flight to Zurich at 4.15 pm. We arrived in Zurich at 7.30 pm as slightly delayed.
Friday 8 August. We were up and off to explore Zurich via a tram to the waterfront. We caught a waterferry for a river cruise of the Limmat river down to Lake Zurich for 1hr. We walked around the Old Town, the Fraumunster Church, the biggest church clock face on St Peters Tower and the world famous Bahnofstrasse.
We caught a city Tour of Zurich and Surroundings, which consisted of seeing the harbour, the lake, and surrounding hills. We saw the famous Chagall stained glass windows at the Fraumunster Church. We continued to Adliswil for a ride up a cable car to Felsenegg for a beautiful view over Zurich, the lake and peaks of the Alps.
We crossed the lake via ferryboat and drove back to Zurich along the "Golden Coast".
We got back to our Hotel in time for a meeting with our tour guide. We met up with Frank and Mitch( Aussies) from our last tour.
Saturday 9 August. We were up early to journey by train from Zurich to Lucerne. (1 hr).
Lucerne is just an idyllic place surrounded by a beautiful lake and nestled amidst the Alps.
Our day for us was free at leisure to explore Lucerne.
We saw Musegg Wall and its tower (heaps of steps) but with a view that was fabulous, the Lion Monument ( carved into the natural rock in memory of the Swiss Heroes killed in 1792), the Chapel Bridge ( built in 1333-a main landmark) and the 2 churches - the Hofkirche built in 1634 and the Jesuit Church built in 1677. We walked round Old Town and saw various town squares called Platz- Falken Platz, Sternen Platz, Kornmarkt Platz, Nrschen Platz and Muhlen Platz- all with beautiful architecture and statues and water fountains.
We had a great time wandering at our own pace. Home by 5 pm. Then out again at 7.15 pm with the whole group for a restaurant meal, typically Swiss with a folklore show. It was alot of fun!
Sunday 10 August. We left at 7.30 am on the Golden Pass Panoramic Train, heading to Meiringen. ( train 1) Its well known for the Reichenbach Falls, which we visited via flunnicular car.
We visited a square named after the Scottish novelist- Conan Doyle. The father of Sherlock Holmes - there is a bronze statue of the detective as Doyle loved Switzerland and Meiringen made him an Honorary citizen of their town. We caught the train ( train 2 ) to Interlaken Ost, arriving at midday.
We spent 1hr here and wandered down to the beautiful river and park and had our lunch with Frank and Mitch. Then ( train 3) to Zweisimmen, another beautiful spot. We changed trains ( train 4) to Gstaad.
An important spot for international celebrities. We had 2 hrs to spend here and had a little bite to eat then on to our next train ( train 5) to Montreux. It stretches along the shores of Lake Geneva. It is also an important cultural city. After 45 mins we caught our final train (train 6) to get to Lausanne.
We arrived at 7 pm and walked a short distance up hill to our hotel. Lausanne is a cosmopolitan city with lovely views of Lake Geneva and the surrounding Alps. We got a bite to eat in town and had a walk around the Rue Saint Francois Square. We got back at 10 pm very tired out.
Monday 11 August. We put our luggage out at 7.15 am for an early start for Montreux today. Montreux is situated on the shores of Lake Geneva and is known as the "Swiss Riviera". We had time for 2 hrs lunch and leisure. It is a nice place and we enjoyed walking around here.
Next we went off on an excursion to Chillon Castle built on a rocky islet, with its towers reflecting in Lake Geneva. It was first built in the 9th century to guard the road from Avenches to Italy.
We returned via ferry boat to Montreux, to depart at 3.30 pm to Visp on the train naturally!
Then on to Zermatt by 6.30 pm and a 300 metre walk to our hotel.
After a little freshen up we went down to dinner with the rest of our travellers.
Finished off the day with a soak in the bath -wonderful. Zermatt is a lovely tourist resort in all seasons and there are no cars allowed in the area. Hotels have electric baggage cars for delivery of baggage to hotels which you see all over the sreeets.
Tuesday 12 August. Up at 7.00 am ready for the excursion to the famous "Gornergrat", travelling on board Europe's highest rack railway. The views from it's summit were lovely despite cloudy and spitting rain weather. We had a cup of tea in the hotel atop the mountain.
We had our photo taken with St Bernard dogs as well.
We headed back down again and walked through the town to catch the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise Cable Car. But due to high winds it only went up 2 stops to the Trockener Steg. ( 2939m) The view was amazing and worth the trip up. We did not see the Matterhorn because of the clouds but it was close by.
We got down and wandered through Zermatt absorbing all the variety of shops, cafes, bars and narrow streets. We returned to our hotel for a relax and some internet use and a look at the Olympic Games of course. Also interesting Zermatt is Traffic free! It's a beautiful ski resort- boy I wish I could ski well, I'd come back for sure!
Wednesday 13 August. Another early start today as we boarded the Glacier Express for our journey to St Moritz. A famous Swiss Mountain Railway taking 7 and a half hours- across 291 bridges, through 91 tunnels and across the Oberalp Pass at 2,033m Altitude.
A very panoramic trip through the Alps in the heart of Switzerland. It was a real high light of our tour. The landscape was filled with mountain forests, alpine meadows, rushing mountain streams and mountain valleys. All unspoiled natural beauty! We arrived at 5.45 pm. St Moritz is the most famous Swiss Skiing resort and has Sankt Moritz-Dorf- the oldest ski school. (1927) We had a rest before dinner at 7.30 pm.
Thursday 14 August. Kevin went off for a swim in the hotel pool at 7.00 am. The pool is about 15 metres long so he cranked out 80 odd lengths. After brekky we went off on the Bernina Express to Tirano - for one of Europe's most spectacular train rides ! Just magical, fairytale like and majestic are some descriptive words to describe this journey. We crossed the Bernina Pass via the Swiss Poschiavo area to Tirano in Italy.
We had 2hrs in Tirano and visited the Santuario Madonna de Tirano at the Piazza Basilica. (built in 1505). A beautiful cathedral. We had our lunch there with Midge, Frank, Doreen, Steve and David. We also sampled an Italian ice cream.We caught the train back to Pontresina and then got a tour supplied taxi to our hotel.
We decided a dip in the pool was called for and ended up doing several lengths ! Kevin cranked out another 80 or so lengths before heading off for a special Cosmos travellers dinner. We had a great day and really enjoyed experiencing nature via a railway!
Friday 15 August. We left St Moritz this morning for the journey back to Zurich.
On the way we stopped at Klosters ( situated 1,200m above sea level) for a 2 hour stop over. Its famous as Prince Charles visits often to ski here and no I didn't bump into him ! We wandered about and had our lunch with some of the travellers sitting in a childs playground area by the river. We ended up chatting to an American who has now made Klosters his home - very interesting.
We arrived in Zurich to pouring rain. We bought our train ticket required for tomorrows travel.
Everyone met up at 7.30 pm in the bar for drinks and to thank our tour director Judit, for an excellent job she'd done. Then we all had a Cosmos menu dinner together with lots of farewells and goodbyes thrown in. We have had a wonderful trip through Switzerland and made lots of firm friends.
Our next adventure will begin tommorow as we head by train to Frankfurt, Germany. I will try and keep you posted.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Saturday, August 2, 2008
26 July - 1 August, Scandinavia here we come.
Saturday 26 July We spent the night in West Ham, London, before flying to Copenhagen. We tried to find a pub to watch the All Black v Australia game, but had no luck. Therefore we went into central London and found a Walkabout pub down on the Embankment.
Tons of Aussies and New Zealanders were there watching and the atmosphere was great! We met up with a Fitzroy SLS guy called Gusto and the mother of Michelle Sutton from New Plymouth. ( Michelle has had a serious head injury and is in hospital in London). What a fast game but NZ made too many errors and the Aussies in the pub were delighted of course. After this we returned back to West Ham to get organised for our travels the next day.
Sunday 27 July Up early at 6.00 am for our journey to Heathrow Airport, The famous Terminal 5. We flew off to Copenhagen and arrived 3.30 pm. The Cosmos people we expected to be met by had gone by the time we came through the gate, so Kevin and I got a taxi to our Hotel. We met the other 42 people on our tour. Next we had a lovely 3 course dinner, very nice!
Monday 28 July I awoke really early at 4.00 am as it was very light. Up and down to breakfast by 7.00 am. At 8.30 we went on a tour of the city for 1 1\2 hr. We had free time to spend how we wanted to.
At midday we went through beautiful countryside and visited Frederiksborg Castle ( a renaissance Palace), The Kronborg Castle ( famous as a Shakespeares Hamlet play setting), and also Fredensborg ( the Queen of Denmark's Summer Palace).
We went back to Copenhagen in time for a quick shower and change of clothes before we headed out to dinner wth the whole group. It was a great get together with fellow travellers and we sampled typical Danish foods. After this we went over to the Tivoli Gardens.
We watched the Ballet being performed and listened to some big Band music on the Bandstand and wandered through the beautiful gardens and enjoyed the Tivoli Illuminations. We got home safe and sound by 10.30 pm What a nice place Copenhagen is. Clean and eco friendly A very attractive city beside clear blue water.
Tuesday 29 July Today we left at 8.00 am for the journey North. We crossed over the new Storebaelforbinersen bridge which took us to the island of Funel. We stopped at Odense ( Hans Christian Anderson Country.) and checked out his staure and house.
We wandered about the narrow streets and had a fruit lunch under the shade of tree's as it was 30 degrees. Next we crossed the Little Belt Waterway, heading for Frederikshavin on the Jutland Peninsular to our Hotel. Arriving there at 4.30 pm.
After a shower we wandered through the town and visited the port and ferry terminal. We will be crossing to Sweden tomorrow. We had dinner at 7 pm and it was fabulous - Lots and lots of different kinds of seafood ! A smorgasbord like no other with unlimited choices. I see on the news Los Angeles had an earthquake today!
Wednesday 30 July I'm still waking early, 5.00 am this morning. We left at 9.00 am via the ferry across to Kattegat to Gothenburg (Sweden). Its a thriving 2nd largest city and one of Europe's major sea ports. We followed the road and crossed into Norway and arrived in Oslo.
After a shower we went off to explore Oslo. We went down to the Alcer Brygge- the sea front . We wandered about seeing the Royal Palace, The Oslo University, Museums, The Building the Gestapo Occupied during the war and quaint town squares with sculptures. We walked back to our Hotel by 9 pm. Oslo is also a beautiful city surrounded by water.
Thursday 31 July The last day of July ! Off on our way by 8.45 am looking around Oslo. We visited Frogner Park with all the loads of sculptures of people and animals there. Next we visited National Theatre, city Hall and Parliament.
At 12 midday we went off to visit the Viking Ship Museum, then Thor Heyerdahl's Museum which showcased the world renowed "Kon Tiki" raft ( Ra 2 ) which he and a crew sailed in 1947 to prove that Polynesians could travel using papyas materials and the 3rd museum was about the Arctic Expeditions on the "Fram", built in 1892 and also used by Amunsden on his Heroic Trip to the South Pole.
It was really interesting and we both enjoyed it alot being able to walk over the original ship. Where else in the world would this be allowed. There is alot of personal responsibility and flexibility in Scandinavian culture which is really refreshing. Their lifestyle is good and we both notice these things.
We headed back to Oslo town center with time for a quick visit to the Oslo Opera House on the water's edge. Its a beautiful building. We left Oslo at 4.30 pm to drive through the Telemark region to our overnight hotel. Scenic countryside yet again. After a delicious meal we wandered about the small town of Kongsberg and admired their river running through the town.
Friday 1 August We were up early and headed off to visit Vemork. ( where the heavy water plant was) This plant was severly damaged during the war and the ferry boat that was used to transport the heavy water was also blown up by a commando unit to stop the Nazi's using it to make an atomic bomb.
We passed through the Telemark region with its lakes, winding valleys, rugged gorges and towering mountains. We went over the Hardanger Fjord from Utne to Kwannadal by ferry which was a short trip of 25 min.
We saw snow on the tops of the mountains and fantastic water falls. Very very beautiful ! We continued on to Bergen - a picture perfect seaport. We settled into our Hotel and then went down town to explore. We had fresh fish and chips at the Fish Market on the water front of Bergen with several of our tour group who also must have been keen for some good ol fish n chips.
We went for a walk about the town and saw Bryggens - very old wooden buildings and alleyways on the water front, before heading home to our Hotel by 10.30 pm. More will follow see ya later Cheers for now.
Tons of Aussies and New Zealanders were there watching and the atmosphere was great! We met up with a Fitzroy SLS guy called Gusto and the mother of Michelle Sutton from New Plymouth. ( Michelle has had a serious head injury and is in hospital in London). What a fast game but NZ made too many errors and the Aussies in the pub were delighted of course. After this we returned back to West Ham to get organised for our travels the next day.
Sunday 27 July Up early at 6.00 am for our journey to Heathrow Airport, The famous Terminal 5. We flew off to Copenhagen and arrived 3.30 pm. The Cosmos people we expected to be met by had gone by the time we came through the gate, so Kevin and I got a taxi to our Hotel. We met the other 42 people on our tour. Next we had a lovely 3 course dinner, very nice!
Monday 28 July I awoke really early at 4.00 am as it was very light. Up and down to breakfast by 7.00 am. At 8.30 we went on a tour of the city for 1 1\2 hr. We had free time to spend how we wanted to.
At midday we went through beautiful countryside and visited Frederiksborg Castle ( a renaissance Palace), The Kronborg Castle ( famous as a Shakespeares Hamlet play setting), and also Fredensborg ( the Queen of Denmark's Summer Palace).
We went back to Copenhagen in time for a quick shower and change of clothes before we headed out to dinner wth the whole group. It was a great get together with fellow travellers and we sampled typical Danish foods. After this we went over to the Tivoli Gardens.
We watched the Ballet being performed and listened to some big Band music on the Bandstand and wandered through the beautiful gardens and enjoyed the Tivoli Illuminations. We got home safe and sound by 10.30 pm What a nice place Copenhagen is. Clean and eco friendly A very attractive city beside clear blue water.
Tuesday 29 July Today we left at 8.00 am for the journey North. We crossed over the new Storebaelforbinersen bridge which took us to the island of Funel. We stopped at Odense ( Hans Christian Anderson Country.) and checked out his staure and house.
We wandered about the narrow streets and had a fruit lunch under the shade of tree's as it was 30 degrees. Next we crossed the Little Belt Waterway, heading for Frederikshavin on the Jutland Peninsular to our Hotel. Arriving there at 4.30 pm.
After a shower we wandered through the town and visited the port and ferry terminal. We will be crossing to Sweden tomorrow. We had dinner at 7 pm and it was fabulous - Lots and lots of different kinds of seafood ! A smorgasbord like no other with unlimited choices. I see on the news Los Angeles had an earthquake today!
Wednesday 30 July I'm still waking early, 5.00 am this morning. We left at 9.00 am via the ferry across to Kattegat to Gothenburg (Sweden). Its a thriving 2nd largest city and one of Europe's major sea ports. We followed the road and crossed into Norway and arrived in Oslo.
After a shower we went off to explore Oslo. We went down to the Alcer Brygge- the sea front . We wandered about seeing the Royal Palace, The Oslo University, Museums, The Building the Gestapo Occupied during the war and quaint town squares with sculptures. We walked back to our Hotel by 9 pm. Oslo is also a beautiful city surrounded by water.
Thursday 31 July The last day of July ! Off on our way by 8.45 am looking around Oslo. We visited Frogner Park with all the loads of sculptures of people and animals there. Next we visited National Theatre, city Hall and Parliament.
At 12 midday we went off to visit the Viking Ship Museum, then Thor Heyerdahl's Museum which showcased the world renowed "Kon Tiki" raft ( Ra 2 ) which he and a crew sailed in 1947 to prove that Polynesians could travel using papyas materials and the 3rd museum was about the Arctic Expeditions on the "Fram", built in 1892 and also used by Amunsden on his Heroic Trip to the South Pole.
It was really interesting and we both enjoyed it alot being able to walk over the original ship. Where else in the world would this be allowed. There is alot of personal responsibility and flexibility in Scandinavian culture which is really refreshing. Their lifestyle is good and we both notice these things.
We headed back to Oslo town center with time for a quick visit to the Oslo Opera House on the water's edge. Its a beautiful building. We left Oslo at 4.30 pm to drive through the Telemark region to our overnight hotel. Scenic countryside yet again. After a delicious meal we wandered about the small town of Kongsberg and admired their river running through the town.
Friday 1 August We were up early and headed off to visit Vemork. ( where the heavy water plant was) This plant was severly damaged during the war and the ferry boat that was used to transport the heavy water was also blown up by a commando unit to stop the Nazi's using it to make an atomic bomb.
We passed through the Telemark region with its lakes, winding valleys, rugged gorges and towering mountains. We went over the Hardanger Fjord from Utne to Kwannadal by ferry which was a short trip of 25 min.
We saw snow on the tops of the mountains and fantastic water falls. Very very beautiful ! We continued on to Bergen - a picture perfect seaport. We settled into our Hotel and then went down town to explore. We had fresh fish and chips at the Fish Market on the water front of Bergen with several of our tour group who also must have been keen for some good ol fish n chips.
We went for a walk about the town and saw Bryggens - very old wooden buildings and alleyways on the water front, before heading home to our Hotel by 10.30 pm. More will follow see ya later Cheers for now.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Amalfi Coast ( Italy) 18 July - 25 July
`Thursday 10 July - Thursday 17 July It was a buzy week as I worked all week long at Mile End hospital. Kevin was able to relax and check emails / read / do some swimming / get our foreign currency and to get things organised for our trips.
We organised some cartons and packed some stuff to send home and packed some stuff to leave at Bellerbys which we will pick up later. We said our farewells to the college and the reception area of our accommodation and looked forward to when we would begin this phase. We also saw Mama Mia the movie which we both enjoyed.
Friday 18 July We were up early at 2.00am to catch the bus at 3.00 am to get to Victoria train station to catch the Gatwick Express by 4. 30 am. Checked in OK and flew to Naples , Italy. We arrived at 10.30 am Italian time and met our Tour Director - Lauri. Her English was pretty good and we could understand her.
We headed off to our Hotel in Minori, a 2 hour drive - to the Hotel Villa Romana. It was our first sight of Italy and it was hot. The road took us along the motorway before our drive around the Amalfi coastline to our hotel. Our first view of the coastline was mind blowing, with clear blue sea and mountainous cliffs. Kevin was up out of his seat clicking away at the views along the way.
We settled in at the Hotel and got changed into cooler clothes as it was 30+ degrees! Kevin could not wait to get changed into his togs and went for a quick dip in the pool before we walked over to Maiori ( a 10 minute walk) and had a wander around. Then it was back to our village Minori, and a stroll along the waterfront and then off for a swim back at the hotel.
Down to dinner at 7.30pm and chatting and meeting our other touring people, (13 in this hotel ). We also had a tour Meeting with our lovely Tour Director. Bed at 10 pm as tired out.
Saturday 19 July We slept in till 7.00am just lovely! A free day to spend how we want . After breakfast kevin was into the pool again before we caught the local bus to the town of Amalfi, arriving at 10.00am.
The whole Amalfi coastline is a magnet for the rich and famous ( and us too ) and has been so for 50+years. The road winds past Lemon trees, Olive trees, vineyards and tiny villages clinging to the jagged cliffs that plunge straight into the Mediterrnean sea - Breathtakingly beautiful !
We walked the narrow lanes and saw roses and bougainvillea climb round windows and on balconies and red geraniums in pots. All looking lovely. We saw their Piazzas ( town squares) and romantic churches and loved the "Dolce Vita" architecture.
We headed back to Minori our base and grabbed our swim gear and headed to the beach.We spent a couple of hours there swimming and sunbathing - having to pinch ourselves to remind us that we were actually in Italy!
The beach had a light grey sand and pebbles down to the sea. The sea water is transparent and appears to sparkle. It goes very deep quite sharply. It is also very salty but very clear. We headed back to the Hotel and had a dip in the pool as it was so hot.
Kevin must have swum a few lengths of this small pool by now. We had dinner at 8 pm then went walking out on the promenade as is common for the Italians. We spent some time with a lovely couple on the trip ( Eric and Muriel ) having a couple beers and a good old chat. It was just lovely as the evening was starting to cool off.
Sunday 20 July Up early again at 6.00 am and after breakfast we were away at 8 am to go to Amalfi to catch the ferry over to Capri Island for the day. This involved another magical drive around the coastline into Amalfi town and a boat crossing to Capri. We arrived at 10.00 am. This legendary island is surrounded by exquisitely pretty coves and by translucent green seas.
We had a quick look around the seafront area before walking up the steps to this magical city of Capri high above the sea. We had a quick look over this area before catching the local bus up to Anacapri, going up some very winding cliff roads.
We took the chair lift to Monte Solaro for a breathtaking view of the entire bay of Naples. What an amazing view and we took a few photos before heading back down. The whole area is very beautiful but it is expensive.
We caught the ferry home at 4 pm and arrived back to Minori again by around 6.30 pm and a change / swim in pool before dinner. A relaxing evening and a chance to watch some TV.
Monday 21 July Up at 6.00 am as today we were off to Sorrento via the Amalfitan coast, a beautiful medieval town. We spent 3 hrs browsing through the elegant shops, the Piazza St Antonino and Piazza Tasso and naturally the Marina Piccola ( The beachside area ) The water once again was sparkling clear and transperant and an amazing deep blue colour.
We visited a shop where cameos were made and had a taste of Lemon Liquer ( a popular liquer here in Italy, sold everywhere ) and also saw how inlaid furniture is crafted so it was a fascinating day.
Tuesday 22 July Kevin got a card from the fellow travellers at brekky for his birthday today. Wasnt this just nice.
We were next off to Pompeii for a 2 hour discovery walk back into Roman times. It was absolutely amazing ! We had an excellent guide who had alot of experience so that was neat.
After lunch we headed off to Mt Vesuvius - the only active volcano on mainland Europe. The bus took us 1,100 meters up the mountain and we walked the rest for a view of the crater. It was foggy and the view of Naples was not that wonderful but we did get some good photos before the clouds began to hover above which we knew this meant rain was coming along. A great walk though which was good exercise.
Just before we got to the bus we got caught in a sudden hail storm. The ice balls were the size of marbles and hurt as they hit you, we got drenched through as did some of the others. We got home by 5.30 pm to a welcome shower.
We had tea with everyone, but for dessert they turned the lights out and brought out a huge cake for Kevin with a candle on it and everyone sang happy birthday to him, then we all had a piece each. It was a surprize to me as well as Kevin.
We walked over to Maiori this evening to listen to an outdoor Jazz Concert which was fun. Home by 11.45 pm.
Wednesday 23 July Again up early and off to Ravello - a very pretty town on the coast for our visit to the villa Rufolo. It was built in the 12 century with fantastic views over the bay of Salerno. We spent 3 hours here.
Next we headed to Paestum, were a local guide led a tour of this impressive Greco - Roman site. Amazing Temples, said to be the best preserved Greek Temples in the world. Our guide was a professor at Naples university so we gained a good insight into archeology. Returned home again and had a dip in our pool to cool off. Dinner again at around 7.30 pm for a chat with our fellow travellers.
We again walked over to Maiori ( this time we all made the trip together ) to see another Jazz Concert (Cuban jazz ) It was good value. Home by 11.30 pm.
Thursday 24 July We slept in till 8 am as we had a free morning. We spent it relaxing and swimming in our pool. At 1.30 pm we caught a private launch for a mini cruise along the coast. We called in to the enchanting bay of Cona dei Marini to see the Emerald Grotto - a green cavern with stalagmites and stalactites. A bit of a rip off at 5 Euros pp though.
Next we stopped at the picturesque village of Positano and visited the cathedral and wandered the narrow streets. We had a swim at the beach which was lovely. We spent 2 hrs looking about and then went back via launch again. Arrived back at 7 pm. Had our final dinner altogether tonight.
Friday 25 July Up early as per usual, our last brekky in Minori then transferred to our bus for the 2 hr trip to Naples Airport for our flight back to London. The flight was delayed an hour. We arrived in Gatwick at 4 pm and said goodbyes and gave a few hugs to our fellow travellers. We had a good time together.
We managed to catch the Gatwick Express to Victoria Station pretty much straight away. Then on the underground via the Distict Line to Upton Park tube station. Next we got the No 58 bus to Central Park Road and walked the rest of the way to our accomodation. Kevin had booked this for the next 2 days prior to our next phase ( Scandinavia ) We were pretty tired out, but thoroughly enjoyed our Italian Amalfi Coastline adventure.
Today we went into Walkabout ( An Australian pub on the Embankment alongside the River Thames in Central London ) to watch on TV the All Blacks beaten by the Aussies. What an atmosphere. It was packed with a good mixture of Kiwis and Aussies. Since then we have been updating our blog and checking our emails before an early night.
Tomorrow we head off to Denmark, Norway and Sweden for 12 days and then we have a 9 day rail tour of Switzerland to look forward to. Until next time Aravichi cheers from June and Kevin
We organised some cartons and packed some stuff to send home and packed some stuff to leave at Bellerbys which we will pick up later. We said our farewells to the college and the reception area of our accommodation and looked forward to when we would begin this phase. We also saw Mama Mia the movie which we both enjoyed.
Friday 18 July We were up early at 2.00am to catch the bus at 3.00 am to get to Victoria train station to catch the Gatwick Express by 4. 30 am. Checked in OK and flew to Naples , Italy. We arrived at 10.30 am Italian time and met our Tour Director - Lauri. Her English was pretty good and we could understand her.
We headed off to our Hotel in Minori, a 2 hour drive - to the Hotel Villa Romana. It was our first sight of Italy and it was hot. The road took us along the motorway before our drive around the Amalfi coastline to our hotel. Our first view of the coastline was mind blowing, with clear blue sea and mountainous cliffs. Kevin was up out of his seat clicking away at the views along the way.
We settled in at the Hotel and got changed into cooler clothes as it was 30+ degrees! Kevin could not wait to get changed into his togs and went for a quick dip in the pool before we walked over to Maiori ( a 10 minute walk) and had a wander around. Then it was back to our village Minori, and a stroll along the waterfront and then off for a swim back at the hotel.
Down to dinner at 7.30pm and chatting and meeting our other touring people, (13 in this hotel ). We also had a tour Meeting with our lovely Tour Director. Bed at 10 pm as tired out.
Saturday 19 July We slept in till 7.00am just lovely! A free day to spend how we want . After breakfast kevin was into the pool again before we caught the local bus to the town of Amalfi, arriving at 10.00am.
The whole Amalfi coastline is a magnet for the rich and famous ( and us too ) and has been so for 50+years. The road winds past Lemon trees, Olive trees, vineyards and tiny villages clinging to the jagged cliffs that plunge straight into the Mediterrnean sea - Breathtakingly beautiful !
We walked the narrow lanes and saw roses and bougainvillea climb round windows and on balconies and red geraniums in pots. All looking lovely. We saw their Piazzas ( town squares) and romantic churches and loved the "Dolce Vita" architecture.
We headed back to Minori our base and grabbed our swim gear and headed to the beach.We spent a couple of hours there swimming and sunbathing - having to pinch ourselves to remind us that we were actually in Italy!
The beach had a light grey sand and pebbles down to the sea. The sea water is transparent and appears to sparkle. It goes very deep quite sharply. It is also very salty but very clear. We headed back to the Hotel and had a dip in the pool as it was so hot.
Kevin must have swum a few lengths of this small pool by now. We had dinner at 8 pm then went walking out on the promenade as is common for the Italians. We spent some time with a lovely couple on the trip ( Eric and Muriel ) having a couple beers and a good old chat. It was just lovely as the evening was starting to cool off.
Sunday 20 July Up early again at 6.00 am and after breakfast we were away at 8 am to go to Amalfi to catch the ferry over to Capri Island for the day. This involved another magical drive around the coastline into Amalfi town and a boat crossing to Capri. We arrived at 10.00 am. This legendary island is surrounded by exquisitely pretty coves and by translucent green seas.
We had a quick look around the seafront area before walking up the steps to this magical city of Capri high above the sea. We had a quick look over this area before catching the local bus up to Anacapri, going up some very winding cliff roads.
We took the chair lift to Monte Solaro for a breathtaking view of the entire bay of Naples. What an amazing view and we took a few photos before heading back down. The whole area is very beautiful but it is expensive.
We caught the ferry home at 4 pm and arrived back to Minori again by around 6.30 pm and a change / swim in pool before dinner. A relaxing evening and a chance to watch some TV.
Monday 21 July Up at 6.00 am as today we were off to Sorrento via the Amalfitan coast, a beautiful medieval town. We spent 3 hrs browsing through the elegant shops, the Piazza St Antonino and Piazza Tasso and naturally the Marina Piccola ( The beachside area ) The water once again was sparkling clear and transperant and an amazing deep blue colour.
We visited a shop where cameos were made and had a taste of Lemon Liquer ( a popular liquer here in Italy, sold everywhere ) and also saw how inlaid furniture is crafted so it was a fascinating day.
Tuesday 22 July Kevin got a card from the fellow travellers at brekky for his birthday today. Wasnt this just nice.
We were next off to Pompeii for a 2 hour discovery walk back into Roman times. It was absolutely amazing ! We had an excellent guide who had alot of experience so that was neat.
After lunch we headed off to Mt Vesuvius - the only active volcano on mainland Europe. The bus took us 1,100 meters up the mountain and we walked the rest for a view of the crater. It was foggy and the view of Naples was not that wonderful but we did get some good photos before the clouds began to hover above which we knew this meant rain was coming along. A great walk though which was good exercise.
Just before we got to the bus we got caught in a sudden hail storm. The ice balls were the size of marbles and hurt as they hit you, we got drenched through as did some of the others. We got home by 5.30 pm to a welcome shower.
We had tea with everyone, but for dessert they turned the lights out and brought out a huge cake for Kevin with a candle on it and everyone sang happy birthday to him, then we all had a piece each. It was a surprize to me as well as Kevin.
We walked over to Maiori this evening to listen to an outdoor Jazz Concert which was fun. Home by 11.45 pm.
Wednesday 23 July Again up early and off to Ravello - a very pretty town on the coast for our visit to the villa Rufolo. It was built in the 12 century with fantastic views over the bay of Salerno. We spent 3 hours here.
Next we headed to Paestum, were a local guide led a tour of this impressive Greco - Roman site. Amazing Temples, said to be the best preserved Greek Temples in the world. Our guide was a professor at Naples university so we gained a good insight into archeology. Returned home again and had a dip in our pool to cool off. Dinner again at around 7.30 pm for a chat with our fellow travellers.
We again walked over to Maiori ( this time we all made the trip together ) to see another Jazz Concert (Cuban jazz ) It was good value. Home by 11.30 pm.
Thursday 24 July We slept in till 8 am as we had a free morning. We spent it relaxing and swimming in our pool. At 1.30 pm we caught a private launch for a mini cruise along the coast. We called in to the enchanting bay of Cona dei Marini to see the Emerald Grotto - a green cavern with stalagmites and stalactites. A bit of a rip off at 5 Euros pp though.
Next we stopped at the picturesque village of Positano and visited the cathedral and wandered the narrow streets. We had a swim at the beach which was lovely. We spent 2 hrs looking about and then went back via launch again. Arrived back at 7 pm. Had our final dinner altogether tonight.
Friday 25 July Up early as per usual, our last brekky in Minori then transferred to our bus for the 2 hr trip to Naples Airport for our flight back to London. The flight was delayed an hour. We arrived in Gatwick at 4 pm and said goodbyes and gave a few hugs to our fellow travellers. We had a good time together.
We managed to catch the Gatwick Express to Victoria Station pretty much straight away. Then on the underground via the Distict Line to Upton Park tube station. Next we got the No 58 bus to Central Park Road and walked the rest of the way to our accomodation. Kevin had booked this for the next 2 days prior to our next phase ( Scandinavia ) We were pretty tired out, but thoroughly enjoyed our Italian Amalfi Coastline adventure.
Today we went into Walkabout ( An Australian pub on the Embankment alongside the River Thames in Central London ) to watch on TV the All Blacks beaten by the Aussies. What an atmosphere. It was packed with a good mixture of Kiwis and Aussies. Since then we have been updating our blog and checking our emails before an early night.
Tomorrow we head off to Denmark, Norway and Sweden for 12 days and then we have a 9 day rail tour of Switzerland to look forward to. Until next time Aravichi cheers from June and Kevin
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