Wednesday 17/11/2010
Landed in Sydney at 9:20am and by 10am we had disembarked, gone through Immigration and Customs and were on our way to Domestic Transfer. Dropped our bags off (girl in Hong Kong had checked them right through to Canberra so we just had to collect to go through Customs etc and then drop them off because we already had our boarding pass) and down to the Domestic transfer departure lounge. Over to Domestic and an espresso then to our departure lounge for the last leg of the trip - to Canberra at about 12noon. Landed in Canberra at 12:50pm and Donna was there to collect us at about 1:30pm (she had to collect Xavier from pre-school) and after stopping at the shop for the necessities were home at about 2pm.
A GREAT TRIP!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Tuesday 16/11/2010
Our last day of our trip! We walked up Nathan Road to a stall (like a market between 2 buildings) to buy some shoe bags for the girls at work. Stopped on the way back to look at shoes - bought a pair of red patent slip-ons. Mike could not find any he liked. Back to the hotel at about 11am and showered again and changed into our travel clothes because checkout was 12noon. We sat and read in the lobby area till about 1:30pm (my travel friend had a doze for a while and I had a couple of short ones). We then went in search of somewhere to have lunch - lots of places so it was just a matter or choosing which Chinese restaurant we would settle for. On the way back we collected my slacks from the tailor and sat and read again till about 3:30pm when we took advantage of the "Welcome free drinks" voucher we were issued on arrival. Just after 4:40pm we moved downstairs to wait for the shuttle bus to the airport (pick up scheduled for 5:15pm). Shuttle arrived about 5pm and we travelled in and out of narrow Hong Kong streets for quite a while, arriving at the airport jut after 6pm. Checked in, had dinner and then went for a coffee and to share an apple crumble pie because the Hong Kong dollars we had would only stretch to this. Worked out it would cost $HK126. When I went to pay I was presented with a bill for $HK138.60 and between us we only had $HK136 - we had not calculated in the "service charge" and the fellow said not to worry about this when I enptied my purse and told him I was $HK2.60 short (guess they often get this at the airport with people leaving). I thought we would have some change to put in the Unicef envelope but sorry! While we were having coffee a 3 piece band set up and played some really good easy listening music. A South African businessman sittling at the next table said his flight did not leave till midnight (current time about 8pm) and he had been through HK a few times recently and they were playing so he was happy to just sit and listen while he had a drink. We left and went to find our departure gate (No 70) which meant a walk then an escalator, train trip and then another escalator before we did the long walk to Gate 70 for boarding time scheduled for 9pm. Pretty much on time. Plane was only half full and as the seatbelt sign was turned off the midle rows of 4 seats filled with people stretching out across them. Mike and I didn't sleep a lot (excited to be heading home I think). Mike watched "Predators" and I watched "The Tournament"
Our last day of our trip! We walked up Nathan Road to a stall (like a market between 2 buildings) to buy some shoe bags for the girls at work. Stopped on the way back to look at shoes - bought a pair of red patent slip-ons. Mike could not find any he liked. Back to the hotel at about 11am and showered again and changed into our travel clothes because checkout was 12noon. We sat and read in the lobby area till about 1:30pm (my travel friend had a doze for a while and I had a couple of short ones). We then went in search of somewhere to have lunch - lots of places so it was just a matter or choosing which Chinese restaurant we would settle for. On the way back we collected my slacks from the tailor and sat and read again till about 3:30pm when we took advantage of the "Welcome free drinks" voucher we were issued on arrival. Just after 4:40pm we moved downstairs to wait for the shuttle bus to the airport (pick up scheduled for 5:15pm). Shuttle arrived about 5pm and we travelled in and out of narrow Hong Kong streets for quite a while, arriving at the airport jut after 6pm. Checked in, had dinner and then went for a coffee and to share an apple crumble pie because the Hong Kong dollars we had would only stretch to this. Worked out it would cost $HK126. When I went to pay I was presented with a bill for $HK138.60 and between us we only had $HK136 - we had not calculated in the "service charge" and the fellow said not to worry about this when I enptied my purse and told him I was $HK2.60 short (guess they often get this at the airport with people leaving). I thought we would have some change to put in the Unicef envelope but sorry! While we were having coffee a 3 piece band set up and played some really good easy listening music. A South African businessman sittling at the next table said his flight did not leave till midnight (current time about 8pm) and he had been through HK a few times recently and they were playing so he was happy to just sit and listen while he had a drink. We left and went to find our departure gate (No 70) which meant a walk then an escalator, train trip and then another escalator before we did the long walk to Gate 70 for boarding time scheduled for 9pm. Pretty much on time. Plane was only half full and as the seatbelt sign was turned off the midle rows of 4 seats filled with people stretching out across them. Mike and I didn't sleep a lot (excited to be heading home I think). Mike watched "Predators" and I watched "The Tournament"
Monday 15/11/2010
Today we didn't have breakfast till about 9:30am and then we had the Concierge at the hotel book us on a Cruise on the Harbour for tonight which also included a walk through a Seafood Market and dinner at the Chinese Restaurant nearby. Next stop was a tailor across the street from the hotel to have him copy a pair of slacks for me (Marg). I ordered 3 pairs. From there we walked to Jordan station to catch the train to Central to find Vicki's shoes (another Pauline referral). Found 2 pairs that wanted to come home with me!! Along the same street we found thongs for Olivia, casuals (camoflage) for Xavier and cute little bright coloured ones for Arianna. Had lunch in McDonalds (we said we wouldn't do it but........) and a couple who shared the table (he a Kiwi and she Hong Kong born) told us we should get a taxi to Peak Train station and take the ride up. Thi was well worth doing! Back to Admiralty station and home about 4pm for a short break and then prepare to head out to our meeting place for our cruise. The ferry picked us up at Pier 3 and we arrived back there at about 9:15pm A good trip - very interesting seeing all the buildings lit up with their Christmas message and the commentary was very good. After the cruise we strolled around the Star Ferry Terminal area and neaby Harbourside we saw a big lights display which we can only assume was for Christmas (different from Christmas lights we know). Caught a taxi back arriving about 10pm Time to update the diary again and do some reading before calling it a day (10:50pm). Mike has just taken stoke of our spending for the day!!! (Probably shouldn't have done that)
Today we didn't have breakfast till about 9:30am and then we had the Concierge at the hotel book us on a Cruise on the Harbour for tonight which also included a walk through a Seafood Market and dinner at the Chinese Restaurant nearby. Next stop was a tailor across the street from the hotel to have him copy a pair of slacks for me (Marg). I ordered 3 pairs. From there we walked to Jordan station to catch the train to Central to find Vicki's shoes (another Pauline referral). Found 2 pairs that wanted to come home with me!! Along the same street we found thongs for Olivia, casuals (camoflage) for Xavier and cute little bright coloured ones for Arianna. Had lunch in McDonalds (we said we wouldn't do it but........) and a couple who shared the table (he a Kiwi and she Hong Kong born) told us we should get a taxi to Peak Train station and take the ride up. Thi was well worth doing! Back to Admiralty station and home about 4pm for a short break and then prepare to head out to our meeting place for our cruise. The ferry picked us up at Pier 3 and we arrived back there at about 9:15pm A good trip - very interesting seeing all the buildings lit up with their Christmas message and the commentary was very good. After the cruise we strolled around the Star Ferry Terminal area and neaby Harbourside we saw a big lights display which we can only assume was for Christmas (different from Christmas lights we know). Caught a taxi back arriving about 10pm Time to update the diary again and do some reading before calling it a day (10:50pm). Mike has just taken stoke of our spending for the day!!! (Probably shouldn't have done that)
Sunday 14/11/2010
Well we landed at 7am (on time) in Hong Kong and were through customs and immigration and had our luggage by about 7:45am. We had to wait for our transfer bus to leave at 8:30am. Because there were other passengers for various hotels we ended up being the last off at about 9:20am at the Novotel Nathan Road, Kowloon. Our room was not going to be available till 1pm so we decided to have a second breakfast at 10am at the Novotel and then caught a taxi to pick up Mike's glasses which he had ordered on the way through to UK. We then went to investigate SOGO because Pauline had given us details. They were in the middle of a HUGE sale and we think we were just a little too tired because we had a look around but were not really interested. Walked back along Nathan Road towards the hotel, picked up some sushi, jumped in another taxi back to th hotel and slept from 2pm till about 5pm. We were then ready to shower and head out to the night markets. Picked up a few things and shared a table for dinner at a street side eatery with a man from New Zealand who lives in Fiji and was in Hong Kong for a week or so because he works for Kingfisher Air. We bought a cabin bag because we had too much to fit our original bags and were home by about 9:30pm. Updated the diary, read for a while and crashed at about 10:45pm
Well we landed at 7am (on time) in Hong Kong and were through customs and immigration and had our luggage by about 7:45am. We had to wait for our transfer bus to leave at 8:30am. Because there were other passengers for various hotels we ended up being the last off at about 9:20am at the Novotel Nathan Road, Kowloon. Our room was not going to be available till 1pm so we decided to have a second breakfast at 10am at the Novotel and then caught a taxi to pick up Mike's glasses which he had ordered on the way through to UK. We then went to investigate SOGO because Pauline had given us details. They were in the middle of a HUGE sale and we think we were just a little too tired because we had a look around but were not really interested. Walked back along Nathan Road towards the hotel, picked up some sushi, jumped in another taxi back to th hotel and slept from 2pm till about 5pm. We were then ready to shower and head out to the night markets. Picked up a few things and shared a table for dinner at a street side eatery with a man from New Zealand who lives in Fiji and was in Hong Kong for a week or so because he works for Kingfisher Air. We bought a cabin bag because we had too much to fit our original bags and were home by about 9:30pm. Updated the diary, read for a while and crashed at about 10:45pm
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Saturday 13/11/2010
We were at breakfast at 7am along with a lot of other guests who obviously wanted to get started with the day. Seeing as we had finshed breakfast and probably had time to get to the station and catch the 8:22am train to the airport we decided to do this. Taxi trip this time cost 15 Euro - better price! Arrived at the airport station at the time we originally had planned to catch the train. The walk from the train station into the airport was a bit lengthy (no wories as we are used to walking). We were into the Check-in area (our check-in counter was listed as 208 and we entered near counter 400). We were able to check-in and be free of our bags. Lucky we had walked around a group of 60-80 Asians who were organising themselves and were lined up after we were finished our check-in. We went for a coffee and a Canadian couple who sat at the next table struck up a conversation and we sat there for about 45 minutes talking to them. By the time we left them we only had time to go through customs and security and head for the boarding area. This was a trek as well - we followed arrows and signs to G3 which took us along a wide walkway, up an escalator and then onto a 2 carriage train which took us to the departure lounge area (a separate building). The screen showed we were boarding at 11:25am for a 12:25pm departure (we were not looking forward to an hour onboard waiting). We boarded at 11:40am however the flight did not take off until 1:05pm anyway bound for Hong Kong. Flight was uneventful except the 2 Italians in the seat in front talked very loadly and did not even stop after the lights went out. I asked them to be quiet and they did. Took off from Rome and as I was on a window seat and as the day was fine and sunny I was able to see quite a lot of Italy as we crossed, from 30,000 feet up. I saw the sun set over the Black Sea (3:30pm Saturday Rome time).
We were at breakfast at 7am along with a lot of other guests who obviously wanted to get started with the day. Seeing as we had finshed breakfast and probably had time to get to the station and catch the 8:22am train to the airport we decided to do this. Taxi trip this time cost 15 Euro - better price! Arrived at the airport station at the time we originally had planned to catch the train. The walk from the train station into the airport was a bit lengthy (no wories as we are used to walking). We were into the Check-in area (our check-in counter was listed as 208 and we entered near counter 400). We were able to check-in and be free of our bags. Lucky we had walked around a group of 60-80 Asians who were organising themselves and were lined up after we were finished our check-in. We went for a coffee and a Canadian couple who sat at the next table struck up a conversation and we sat there for about 45 minutes talking to them. By the time we left them we only had time to go through customs and security and head for the boarding area. This was a trek as well - we followed arrows and signs to G3 which took us along a wide walkway, up an escalator and then onto a 2 carriage train which took us to the departure lounge area (a separate building). The screen showed we were boarding at 11:25am for a 12:25pm departure (we were not looking forward to an hour onboard waiting). We boarded at 11:40am however the flight did not take off until 1:05pm anyway bound for Hong Kong. Flight was uneventful except the 2 Italians in the seat in front talked very loadly and did not even stop after the lights went out. I asked them to be quiet and they did. Took off from Rome and as I was on a window seat and as the day was fine and sunny I was able to see quite a lot of Italy as we crossed, from 30,000 feet up. I saw the sun set over the Black Sea (3:30pm Saturday Rome time).
Friday 12/11/2010
Dull, overcast and damp feeling today in Siena. By 9.15am we had showered, had breakfast and Mike had done a sketch while sitting on the balcony around from our room, which overlooked the entrance. Checkd out, left our bags at the hotel and walked to the "Fast food" Nannini's for a coffee and to buy a panini to take on the train for lunch. As the weather was not looking good and rain was threatening we decided to call a taxi and go to the station. The station was fairly quite so we found a spot in the corner and I sat and read while Mike sketched. The train departed on time at 11:18am, arriving in Firenze SMN at 12:55pm leaving 15 minutes to change to our train for Rome. We had already been to the station and knew the layout was all on one lavel (thank heavens!) We came in down the back end of the train from Siena on Platform 3 and had to go to Platform 11 and our reserved seats were in Car 3 which was one of the furtherest from the head of the platform so it was all go-go-go till we goth there to find our seats and stow our luggage for the trip(hopefully not too far away and within sight). The ride was good and the staff came through 1st Class (where we were) with complimentary drinks and nibbles. Then they came back with a small packaged biscuit each. Arrived at Roma Termini on time at 2:45pm. Out to the taxi rank and a fellow directed us to a taxi which was sitting almost in the middle of the road. The driver told us there was a demonstration happening and that the trip to the hotel would take 25-30 minutes and it would cost 35 Euro. What do you do when you do not know how far away the hotel is? We accepted and were at our hotel in about 9 minutes. He managed to get us out of the taxi, we paid him and was gone so quickly that we did not think to challenge him on the price. The receptionist told us it should have cost about 10 Euro (we guess we need to add the cost for bags as they charge extra per bag). After check-in we walked to the Trevi Fountain and parted with some coins! Not far away was a Gelati place (Gelato di San Crispino) which is mentioned in the book Eat, Love, Pray so we found that and had a gelati. Off then to the Spanish Steps and a couple from Manchester, UK askd us on the way if we knew where the Steps were so we walked together. After some photos we walked down via Condotti, looking at all the expensive brand shops (Dior, Burberry, Versace, Jimmy Choo, Giorgio Armani) and taking photos of them, with the crowds as the sun set along this street. Found a place to eat however it was only 5:30pm so we sat with a drink till about 6pm when we ordered dinner. We both enjoyed our last dinner in Europe! Walked home via another Piazza (they are everywhere). We had the "Rooftop" room and it was SMALL!! Not a lot of room to spare with the bed against one corner of the room. Hopefully we will get a good night's sleep as tomorrow will be long - flight at 12:25pm to Hong Kong arriving Sunday 7am. Today I finished another book " A lesser Evil" by Lesley Pearse (I will leave it here) and I am about to start on my third - "Under the Tuscan Sun" by Frances Mayes which I bought in Florence.
Dull, overcast and damp feeling today in Siena. By 9.15am we had showered, had breakfast and Mike had done a sketch while sitting on the balcony around from our room, which overlooked the entrance. Checkd out, left our bags at the hotel and walked to the "Fast food" Nannini's for a coffee and to buy a panini to take on the train for lunch. As the weather was not looking good and rain was threatening we decided to call a taxi and go to the station. The station was fairly quite so we found a spot in the corner and I sat and read while Mike sketched. The train departed on time at 11:18am, arriving in Firenze SMN at 12:55pm leaving 15 minutes to change to our train for Rome. We had already been to the station and knew the layout was all on one lavel (thank heavens!) We came in down the back end of the train from Siena on Platform 3 and had to go to Platform 11 and our reserved seats were in Car 3 which was one of the furtherest from the head of the platform so it was all go-go-go till we goth there to find our seats and stow our luggage for the trip(hopefully not too far away and within sight). The ride was good and the staff came through 1st Class (where we were) with complimentary drinks and nibbles. Then they came back with a small packaged biscuit each. Arrived at Roma Termini on time at 2:45pm. Out to the taxi rank and a fellow directed us to a taxi which was sitting almost in the middle of the road. The driver told us there was a demonstration happening and that the trip to the hotel would take 25-30 minutes and it would cost 35 Euro. What do you do when you do not know how far away the hotel is? We accepted and were at our hotel in about 9 minutes. He managed to get us out of the taxi, we paid him and was gone so quickly that we did not think to challenge him on the price. The receptionist told us it should have cost about 10 Euro (we guess we need to add the cost for bags as they charge extra per bag). After check-in we walked to the Trevi Fountain and parted with some coins! Not far away was a Gelati place (Gelato di San Crispino) which is mentioned in the book Eat, Love, Pray so we found that and had a gelati. Off then to the Spanish Steps and a couple from Manchester, UK askd us on the way if we knew where the Steps were so we walked together. After some photos we walked down via Condotti, looking at all the expensive brand shops (Dior, Burberry, Versace, Jimmy Choo, Giorgio Armani) and taking photos of them, with the crowds as the sun set along this street. Found a place to eat however it was only 5:30pm so we sat with a drink till about 6pm when we ordered dinner. We both enjoyed our last dinner in Europe! Walked home via another Piazza (they are everywhere). We had the "Rooftop" room and it was SMALL!! Not a lot of room to spare with the bed against one corner of the room. Hopefully we will get a good night's sleep as tomorrow will be long - flight at 12:25pm to Hong Kong arriving Sunday 7am. Today I finished another book " A lesser Evil" by Lesley Pearse (I will leave it here) and I am about to start on my third - "Under the Tuscan Sun" by Frances Mayes which I bought in Florence.
Thursday 11/11/2010
Our last day in Siena! We decided to check out some of the 8 gates on the old wall and the first we visited was Porta Fontebranda. We went down a set of steps (wide and very long - each step slightly sloped and wider than the size tread we are used to) near the church on the corner from our hotel and that took us right to the gate which was quite a lot lower than the church. We then travelled on 6 escalators up to about the level we started but over to anothr area of town. From there we walkd to Ports S. Marco, stopping on the way for a coffee and pastry (love those pastries!!). Next stop was Porta Laterina which was a more direct walk from s. Marco. After this we zig-zagged (as you do in Siena) our way back to Il Campo for lunch. Sat in a restaurant here and watched the lunch-time goings on. We took our time as it had begun to rain just a little (not a lot to worry about) and we had a good viewing spot. After lunch it was off to Porta Ovile and we went through Piazza del Mercato first which was just behind the Town Hall and then through another couple, one of which was names Abbadia (name of our accommodation in Meniglia). When we arrived at the gate it was not as impressive as the other 2 we had visited but the walk down to and back up from this one was impressive and just as well we were used to walking up and down steps/hills. Closer to home we checked out a small "department" store and bought a beanie for Nathan. We also discovered another Nannini (coffee) shop close to our hotel. After walking Siena for the last 2 1/2 days we can understand why Justin and Suse like the place. Everytime you turn a corner there is another interesting building - lots of churches. Home at about 5pm to share a Pink Lady apple and some Panforte we purchased in Siena. We also tasted some Wild Boar Salami today because we could not get to the restaurant Justin had mentioned and wanted to try it. We are all packed ready to leave tomorrow morning. Sent Brendan a "Happy Birthday" message via text as it is about 7am in Mackay on 12/11/2010.
Our last day in Siena! We decided to check out some of the 8 gates on the old wall and the first we visited was Porta Fontebranda. We went down a set of steps (wide and very long - each step slightly sloped and wider than the size tread we are used to) near the church on the corner from our hotel and that took us right to the gate which was quite a lot lower than the church. We then travelled on 6 escalators up to about the level we started but over to anothr area of town. From there we walkd to Ports S. Marco, stopping on the way for a coffee and pastry (love those pastries!!). Next stop was Porta Laterina which was a more direct walk from s. Marco. After this we zig-zagged (as you do in Siena) our way back to Il Campo for lunch. Sat in a restaurant here and watched the lunch-time goings on. We took our time as it had begun to rain just a little (not a lot to worry about) and we had a good viewing spot. After lunch it was off to Porta Ovile and we went through Piazza del Mercato first which was just behind the Town Hall and then through another couple, one of which was names Abbadia (name of our accommodation in Meniglia). When we arrived at the gate it was not as impressive as the other 2 we had visited but the walk down to and back up from this one was impressive and just as well we were used to walking up and down steps/hills. Closer to home we checked out a small "department" store and bought a beanie for Nathan. We also discovered another Nannini (coffee) shop close to our hotel. After walking Siena for the last 2 1/2 days we can understand why Justin and Suse like the place. Everytime you turn a corner there is another interesting building - lots of churches. Home at about 5pm to share a Pink Lady apple and some Panforte we purchased in Siena. We also tasted some Wild Boar Salami today because we could not get to the restaurant Justin had mentioned and wanted to try it. We are all packed ready to leave tomorrow morning. Sent Brendan a "Happy Birthday" message via text as it is about 7am in Mackay on 12/11/2010.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Wednesday 10/11/2010
We decided to lighten our load in the suitcases and send the Italy and France Lonely Planet guides back to Anne and Jeff. Arrived at the Post Office in Siena at 9.40am, took a ticket, waited 10-12 minutes and when called was told wer had the wrong ticket. Back to the machine, took a ticket and waited another 20 minutes. We were then told we had to purchase a box/bag from the little counter in the middle of the office (we had not even noticed this). The lady there sold us a box which when we opened we found was huge. Back to her and she indicated that was it. When we went back to the counter the lady said "gross". I agreed and she eventually was able to change to a smaller box. The large one with Anne's name and address and our name and address in Canberra was put back on the shelf. Suprise for the next person to buy this!! We left the Post Office nearly an hour after we entered. It cost 3.30 EURO for the box and 21.70 EURO for postage. Better than paying excess baggage!! From there we visited the Wednesday markets which were just the other side of the stadium which was at the back of our room. They went on forever with van after van each with custom-built annexe which unfold from a pod on the roof - clothes and shoes mainly (all winter gear) and a couple of food stalls. We walked up onto the wal of the Fort of St Barbara, which was just beside where the market was held, and had some very good views of the town from on top. On the way back towards town we visited the Basilica di Domenico on the corner near our hotel and the entrance doors were amazing with sculptured scenes on. We dropped into the hotel for a quick stop and then to Il Campo and the restaurant that my newphew, Justin (who was married in Siena 2 years ago to the beautiful Suse) told us about. Unfortunately the restaurant was closed for a period as a few were leading into winter. Found another spot for lunch and then went walking again to the Duomo. Florence Duomo is large and fairly empty however the Siena Duomo is smaller but when we entered WOW! We spent a couple of hours in here and when we came out the light was fading. Back down the streets to Il Campo and stopped at Nannini Cafe (another Justin and Suse recommendation because they had wedding photos taken there) and we had a Hot Chocolate - forgot when we ordered just what the Italian Hot Chocolate was like (like melted chocolate). Back to base about 5pm as it had started to rain and it became heavier as we got closer to home. Later it had almost stopped and we went into Il Campo for dinner. Mike thought he knew where we were going when we headed home and I was not comfortable and went back to Il Campo to follow the way we knew. I did not want the adventure trip - some other time maybe!!!
We decided to lighten our load in the suitcases and send the Italy and France Lonely Planet guides back to Anne and Jeff. Arrived at the Post Office in Siena at 9.40am, took a ticket, waited 10-12 minutes and when called was told wer had the wrong ticket. Back to the machine, took a ticket and waited another 20 minutes. We were then told we had to purchase a box/bag from the little counter in the middle of the office (we had not even noticed this). The lady there sold us a box which when we opened we found was huge. Back to her and she indicated that was it. When we went back to the counter the lady said "gross". I agreed and she eventually was able to change to a smaller box. The large one with Anne's name and address and our name and address in Canberra was put back on the shelf. Suprise for the next person to buy this!! We left the Post Office nearly an hour after we entered. It cost 3.30 EURO for the box and 21.70 EURO for postage. Better than paying excess baggage!! From there we visited the Wednesday markets which were just the other side of the stadium which was at the back of our room. They went on forever with van after van each with custom-built annexe which unfold from a pod on the roof - clothes and shoes mainly (all winter gear) and a couple of food stalls. We walked up onto the wal of the Fort of St Barbara, which was just beside where the market was held, and had some very good views of the town from on top. On the way back towards town we visited the Basilica di Domenico on the corner near our hotel and the entrance doors were amazing with sculptured scenes on. We dropped into the hotel for a quick stop and then to Il Campo and the restaurant that my newphew, Justin (who was married in Siena 2 years ago to the beautiful Suse) told us about. Unfortunately the restaurant was closed for a period as a few were leading into winter. Found another spot for lunch and then went walking again to the Duomo. Florence Duomo is large and fairly empty however the Siena Duomo is smaller but when we entered WOW! We spent a couple of hours in here and when we came out the light was fading. Back down the streets to Il Campo and stopped at Nannini Cafe (another Justin and Suse recommendation because they had wedding photos taken there) and we had a Hot Chocolate - forgot when we ordered just what the Italian Hot Chocolate was like (like melted chocolate). Back to base about 5pm as it had started to rain and it became heavier as we got closer to home. Later it had almost stopped and we went into Il Campo for dinner. Mike thought he knew where we were going when we headed home and I was not comfortable and went back to Il Campo to follow the way we knew. I did not want the adventure trip - some other time maybe!!!
Tuesday 09/11/2010
Raining again and back to the markets for a couple more wraps (just in case we need them) and back to Za Za to collect the book which Stefano has signed. Decided we would make our way to the Train Station as we did not think the rain situation would improve. The receptionist gave us a couple of LARGE heavy plastic bags which we were able to slip over our bags to cover them completely and pull them to the station. The bottom of our jeans and a bit of our backpack got wet but as we arrived just after 10am and our train was not due to depart till 11:10am we had time for coffee and to at least dry off a little. Train left on time and arrived in Siena on time at 12:38pm. Took a taxi from the station as the website for the Hotel Chiusrelli recommended for about 8Euro. Checked in and straight out to explore. We went to Il Campo, through narrow, interesting streets and back to base at about 3:45pm as it was becoming a bit cool and we were weary. Time for a Nanna nap and when we turned on the TV at about 5pm there was a John Wayne western (don't know the name) in Italian. We had dinner in the Hotel Restaurant and Mike had an amazing dish - "Fagottini di fromaggio e pere in salsa di noci" (fagottini filled with cheese and pears with walnut sauce). There was a busload of people in the restaurant and they are staying for the 3 nights we are here. Back to our room to do what will probably be our last wash as we then will have enough clean undies to last till home. The heated towel rail in the hotel is very effective and dries clothes very quickly so we will take advantage of this. There is a Nicholas Cage movie on TV - in Italian.
Raining again and back to the markets for a couple more wraps (just in case we need them) and back to Za Za to collect the book which Stefano has signed. Decided we would make our way to the Train Station as we did not think the rain situation would improve. The receptionist gave us a couple of LARGE heavy plastic bags which we were able to slip over our bags to cover them completely and pull them to the station. The bottom of our jeans and a bit of our backpack got wet but as we arrived just after 10am and our train was not due to depart till 11:10am we had time for coffee and to at least dry off a little. Train left on time and arrived in Siena on time at 12:38pm. Took a taxi from the station as the website for the Hotel Chiusrelli recommended for about 8Euro. Checked in and straight out to explore. We went to Il Campo, through narrow, interesting streets and back to base at about 3:45pm as it was becoming a bit cool and we were weary. Time for a Nanna nap and when we turned on the TV at about 5pm there was a John Wayne western (don't know the name) in Italian. We had dinner in the Hotel Restaurant and Mike had an amazing dish - "Fagottini di fromaggio e pere in salsa di noci" (fagottini filled with cheese and pears with walnut sauce). There was a busload of people in the restaurant and they are staying for the 3 nights we are here. Back to our room to do what will probably be our last wash as we then will have enough clean undies to last till home. The heated towel rail in the hotel is very effective and dries clothes very quickly so we will take advantage of this. There is a Nicholas Cage movie on TV - in Italian.
Monday 08/11/2010
At 7:15am the sky looked good from the little we could see out our window which faced a small alley, however, by the time we had showered and had breakfast it wasn't looking so good. The receptionist made reservations for us on a tour of Central Market (19euro each) which involved a walk round the markets with a chef being shown and trying olive oil, salami, cheese, bread and all "washed down with a Chianti". Confirmation was emailled through and by the time we had put our coats on and were at the door with our umbrella (about 10 minutes from start to here) the receptionist called us to say the tour place were on the phone and the chef was sick. Tour cancelled and money back we walked down the short street to the Central Market and did our own "self-guided tour". These markets were a bit like the Vic Markets in Melbourne however not as big. Purchased a small grey handbag from the other markets as well as a leather plaited belt for Mike and these were our "leather from Florence". Off then to check out the inside of the Duomo because when we went to Mass on Saturday we only just went in the side door to the Chapel and then out again. The place is amazingly large with statues and stained glass!! After lunch we decided to go the the Uffizi Gallery only to find it closed on Mondays. Instead we visited the Museum di Palazzo Vecchio which was nearly. This was very interesting, large and decorative. So glad we decided to go in for a look. We spent quite a bit of time there. Had my first cafe latte of the trip which was nice but very milky. In Europe the coffee is served ready to drink and not boiling like it is served in lots of places in Australia. Back through the markets where Mike found 2 silk ties he liked so they will go home with us. Back to Za Za for dinner tonight and purchased a cookbook which has been put together by the owner. Left it for him to sign and we will pick it up tomorrow before we leave. Mike is feeling very tired. Don't know if it's the 2 bottles of wine we have consumed since 4:45pm or the cold which has started to take hold of him.
At 7:15am the sky looked good from the little we could see out our window which faced a small alley, however, by the time we had showered and had breakfast it wasn't looking so good. The receptionist made reservations for us on a tour of Central Market (19euro each) which involved a walk round the markets with a chef being shown and trying olive oil, salami, cheese, bread and all "washed down with a Chianti". Confirmation was emailled through and by the time we had put our coats on and were at the door with our umbrella (about 10 minutes from start to here) the receptionist called us to say the tour place were on the phone and the chef was sick. Tour cancelled and money back we walked down the short street to the Central Market and did our own "self-guided tour". These markets were a bit like the Vic Markets in Melbourne however not as big. Purchased a small grey handbag from the other markets as well as a leather plaited belt for Mike and these were our "leather from Florence". Off then to check out the inside of the Duomo because when we went to Mass on Saturday we only just went in the side door to the Chapel and then out again. The place is amazingly large with statues and stained glass!! After lunch we decided to go the the Uffizi Gallery only to find it closed on Mondays. Instead we visited the Museum di Palazzo Vecchio which was nearly. This was very interesting, large and decorative. So glad we decided to go in for a look. We spent quite a bit of time there. Had my first cafe latte of the trip which was nice but very milky. In Europe the coffee is served ready to drink and not boiling like it is served in lots of places in Australia. Back through the markets where Mike found 2 silk ties he liked so they will go home with us. Back to Za Za for dinner tonight and purchased a cookbook which has been put together by the owner. Left it for him to sign and we will pick it up tomorrow before we leave. Mike is feeling very tired. Don't know if it's the 2 bottles of wine we have consumed since 4:45pm or the cold which has started to take hold of him.
Sunday 07/11/2010
We were a bit later starting this morning and left the Hotel about 10:15am and walked through the markets again (we had seen them last night) and eventually arrived at Ponte Vecchio (old bridge in Florence) after a few hours exploring different streets and the usual alleyways which are found all over these European towns. Mike bought 2 shirts on sale for only 9.90Euro and they appear to be quite good quality however we will find out when they are washed I guess. On the way back from Ponte Vecchio we purchased a cashmere/wool jumper each (good for next winter in Canberra). By this time the rain was quite heavy so we headed back to the Hotel. It had started just after 1pm and it is now about 3:30pm. We had our most expensive coffee of the trip near Ponte Vecchio - 2 espressos and 2 medium sized biscuits like small rock cakes - 15 euro. Lunch of 2 foccacia was only 7.80euro! Bought a bottle of white wine just across the lane from the entrance to our hotel (Botticelli Hotel) for 5euro which was not the best wine of the trip. While we drank this in the room we had the TV on and saw Mark Webber (from Queanbeyan, NSW) take out second place in an F1 championship race in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Za Za Tratorria for dinner tonight as we read in the Visitors book at the Hotel an entry which said it was very good.
We were a bit later starting this morning and left the Hotel about 10:15am and walked through the markets again (we had seen them last night) and eventually arrived at Ponte Vecchio (old bridge in Florence) after a few hours exploring different streets and the usual alleyways which are found all over these European towns. Mike bought 2 shirts on sale for only 9.90Euro and they appear to be quite good quality however we will find out when they are washed I guess. On the way back from Ponte Vecchio we purchased a cashmere/wool jumper each (good for next winter in Canberra). By this time the rain was quite heavy so we headed back to the Hotel. It had started just after 1pm and it is now about 3:30pm. We had our most expensive coffee of the trip near Ponte Vecchio - 2 espressos and 2 medium sized biscuits like small rock cakes - 15 euro. Lunch of 2 foccacia was only 7.80euro! Bought a bottle of white wine just across the lane from the entrance to our hotel (Botticelli Hotel) for 5euro which was not the best wine of the trip. While we drank this in the room we had the TV on and saw Mark Webber (from Queanbeyan, NSW) take out second place in an F1 championship race in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Za Za Tratorria for dinner tonight as we read in the Visitors book at the Hotel an entry which said it was very good.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Saturday 06/11/2010
Final breakfast at Abbadia san Giorgio and a farewell kiss and hugs from Susanna and Megali and also wishes for Boun Natale (Merry Christmas). I went down town for another memory card and Mike went up the hill again as he wanted to see how far he could get up the hill towards the B&B but was stopped by a locked gate. Off to the station for the 10:28am train to La Spezia Centrale then a change of train at 12:06pm to Pisa Centrale where we saw John and Samantha (Brisbane) who were off to Rome. Train to Florence left at 1:32pm and was supposed to be air-conditioned however it was fairly full and hot - no air. We had walking directions to Hotel Boticelli and they were good. Streets were busy and there appeared to have been a market on in the large building we passed which we discovered was the Central Market (like Vic markets in Melbourne) The 2008 Lonely Planet Guide said there was a 5pm English Mass in the Duomo. The receptionist checkd this and it was still the case so we were off to there.On our trip today we say villages everywhere doting the hills, especially on the north side of the train line. Between La Spezia and Mass we saw many yards of marble - obviously the area. Weather warm, probably about 20 degrees and the locals are in heavy coats, scarves and the women are in long boots. Don't know what they wear in winter!! Mass was memorable with the priest having us sing the "Allelua" before and after the Gospel acclaimation and just as an extra he had us do it again at the end of Mass. The Mass was in a side chapel and it was the anniversary of the dedication of the Santa Maria del Fiore (the Duomo). There were probably about 150 people there. After this we strolled through the markets (in the rain). There were more scarves, wraps and leather than I think I have ever seen . Stopped for a gelati after dinner on the way home and spoke to a couple from Perth (Brooke and Mark) who were on their honeymoon. They asked where we had been and when we mentioned the Cinque Terre they wantd information because that was to be their next stop. Home by about 9pm
Final breakfast at Abbadia san Giorgio and a farewell kiss and hugs from Susanna and Megali and also wishes for Boun Natale (Merry Christmas). I went down town for another memory card and Mike went up the hill again as he wanted to see how far he could get up the hill towards the B&B but was stopped by a locked gate. Off to the station for the 10:28am train to La Spezia Centrale then a change of train at 12:06pm to Pisa Centrale where we saw John and Samantha (Brisbane) who were off to Rome. Train to Florence left at 1:32pm and was supposed to be air-conditioned however it was fairly full and hot - no air. We had walking directions to Hotel Boticelli and they were good. Streets were busy and there appeared to have been a market on in the large building we passed which we discovered was the Central Market (like Vic markets in Melbourne) The 2008 Lonely Planet Guide said there was a 5pm English Mass in the Duomo. The receptionist checkd this and it was still the case so we were off to there.On our trip today we say villages everywhere doting the hills, especially on the north side of the train line. Between La Spezia and Mass we saw many yards of marble - obviously the area. Weather warm, probably about 20 degrees and the locals are in heavy coats, scarves and the women are in long boots. Don't know what they wear in winter!! Mass was memorable with the priest having us sing the "Allelua" before and after the Gospel acclaimation and just as an extra he had us do it again at the end of Mass. The Mass was in a side chapel and it was the anniversary of the dedication of the Santa Maria del Fiore (the Duomo). There were probably about 150 people there. After this we strolled through the markets (in the rain). There were more scarves, wraps and leather than I think I have ever seen . Stopped for a gelati after dinner on the way home and spoke to a couple from Perth (Brooke and Mark) who were on their honeymoon. They asked where we had been and when we mentioned the Cinque Terre they wantd information because that was to be their next stop. Home by about 9pm
Friday 05/11/2010
A bigger day than we originally planned. Mike went to take photos of a property (B&B) up on the hill behind the accommodation and I went off into town to buy a memory card for the small camera as I had filled the 1GB card. Caught the train to Manarola and walked the usual (for the Cinque Terre) up and down steps and hills for about 1 3/4 hour and then back on the train to Vanazza because we had been told it was a pretty place. Had lunch and checked out the church of St Margarita, purchased a shirt for Mike, earrings for me and a bottle of Cinque Terre wine - 2 hours there. Next stop was Levanto but when we came off the train found that we would have to have walked quite a distance to really, maybe, see anything we were interested in so back on the next train going in the direction of Moneglia. We found we were on a train that did not stop at Moneglia and it took us on to Sestri Levante. Off that and on to one going back to Moneglia which was only 5-10 minutes ride hoping there would not be a ticket check because we were probably supposed to have another one. We has put our washing in a "wash me" bag in the room assuming (alright I know! - don't assume) it would be taken, washed and returned to us. WRONG! We will wash them at the next stop. We decided we would buy pizza and sit on the verandah with the bottle of wine as we were a bit worn out and just wanted to kick back.
A bigger day than we originally planned. Mike went to take photos of a property (B&B) up on the hill behind the accommodation and I went off into town to buy a memory card for the small camera as I had filled the 1GB card. Caught the train to Manarola and walked the usual (for the Cinque Terre) up and down steps and hills for about 1 3/4 hour and then back on the train to Vanazza because we had been told it was a pretty place. Had lunch and checked out the church of St Margarita, purchased a shirt for Mike, earrings for me and a bottle of Cinque Terre wine - 2 hours there. Next stop was Levanto but when we came off the train found that we would have to have walked quite a distance to really, maybe, see anything we were interested in so back on the next train going in the direction of Moneglia. We found we were on a train that did not stop at Moneglia and it took us on to Sestri Levante. Off that and on to one going back to Moneglia which was only 5-10 minutes ride hoping there would not be a ticket check because we were probably supposed to have another one. We has put our washing in a "wash me" bag in the room assuming (alright I know! - don't assume) it would be taken, washed and returned to us. WRONG! We will wash them at the next stop. We decided we would buy pizza and sit on the verandah with the bottle of wine as we were a bit worn out and just wanted to kick back.
Thursday 04/11/2010
Breakfast was quite different her because there was a bigger choice and the 2 ladies (Susanna and Megali) were great. We were the only ones for breakfast this morning. Apparently the place is closing for the winter when we leave on Saturday. Caught a train (with a daily pass allowing access to trains and busses on the Cinquw Terre) to Riomaggorie and walked up and up and up then down and down down many narrow steps in alleys to the Marina (no big boats - just tinnies). We spent about 2 hours here and the place is beautiful. Unfortunately a lot of the businesses are starting to close for the winter as tourism drops off so it was not just a matter of having a coffee anywhere. It needed to be planned. This didn't really bother as we just walked and tok photos. Then we were back on the train again to Monterosso where we spent about 1 1/2 hours. Purchased some wraps and scarves as gifts. By this time were were foot and leg tired so back to Moneglia with the thought we might buy a bottle of wine and sit out on the verandah. No such luck as it was not yet 4pm which seems to be the re-opening time here. Even the Post Office at this time of year only opens 8:30/9am - 12:00/12:30pm. We sat on the verandah with an instant coffee instead. After being given a username and password for the internet we found the room was locked (again because it is so quiet they are out). I did not like the "squat over" public toilets in Italy!! I finished the book "The Evil Seed" by Joanne Harris which I "borrowed" from the bookshelf at The Hotel Churchill in Bayeux. Can't believe I have done so much reading. It is 6:45pm and there is a family of 2A + 2C in the playground near our accommodation - our kids would be home having dinner. This seems to be the practice here with children out late in restaurants etc. Calld Aimee, our travel agent, this morning to tell her just how good the accommodation was. Visited the same restaurant as last night and I think she is trying to get us back tomorrow night (our last night).
Breakfast was quite different her because there was a bigger choice and the 2 ladies (Susanna and Megali) were great. We were the only ones for breakfast this morning. Apparently the place is closing for the winter when we leave on Saturday. Caught a train (with a daily pass allowing access to trains and busses on the Cinquw Terre) to Riomaggorie and walked up and up and up then down and down down many narrow steps in alleys to the Marina (no big boats - just tinnies). We spent about 2 hours here and the place is beautiful. Unfortunately a lot of the businesses are starting to close for the winter as tourism drops off so it was not just a matter of having a coffee anywhere. It needed to be planned. This didn't really bother as we just walked and tok photos. Then we were back on the train again to Monterosso where we spent about 1 1/2 hours. Purchased some wraps and scarves as gifts. By this time were were foot and leg tired so back to Moneglia with the thought we might buy a bottle of wine and sit out on the verandah. No such luck as it was not yet 4pm which seems to be the re-opening time here. Even the Post Office at this time of year only opens 8:30/9am - 12:00/12:30pm. We sat on the verandah with an instant coffee instead. After being given a username and password for the internet we found the room was locked (again because it is so quiet they are out). I did not like the "squat over" public toilets in Italy!! I finished the book "The Evil Seed" by Joanne Harris which I "borrowed" from the bookshelf at The Hotel Churchill in Bayeux. Can't believe I have done so much reading. It is 6:45pm and there is a family of 2A + 2C in the playground near our accommodation - our kids would be home having dinner. This seems to be the practice here with children out late in restaurants etc. Calld Aimee, our travel agent, this morning to tell her just how good the accommodation was. Visited the same restaurant as last night and I think she is trying to get us back tomorrow night (our last night).
Wednesday 03/11/2010
Sunshine!!!! Into the shower and no hot water. Called reception and the male receptionist told me he's be up in a minute - didn't know what he was going to do. He was up in a few minutes - with a pot of hot water. Explained that it was the shower which I had told him when I called - language problems. Off to the train station at 8.30am because the taxi arrived earlier than booked. We were ready anyway. Spoke to a staff member at SNCF (train station) who said he had been to Australia. He really had because he had been to Gosford, Newcastle and mentioned other towns up the NSW coast. He suggested we catch the earlier train which was leaving in 10 minutes (8:53am) instead of the one we had planned to catch at 9:44am. Glad we did because our next connection in Monaco Monte Carlo we would not have made. We only had enough time to go the the bathroom between trains. From there it was on the Ventimiglia and instead of 24 minutes we only had about 12 minutes of dragging cases up and down stairs. We had reserved seats from Ventimiglia to Genova and as we hurried to get on board a fellow having his last cigareete said "I'll put that on for you" and lifted my suitcase on. We found our allocated seats in a compartment with 4 others. One was the fellow (John) who put my bag on and he and his partner (Samantha) were from Brisbane. The other couple, Jade and Dallas were from Kansas, USA. The were 2 separate couples and much younger than our kids however we had an enjoyable trip and chatted. We left them in Genova and boarded our last train for the day and arrived in Mongelia at 3:25pm. About a 10 minute walk from the station was Abbadia San Giorgio - an old Franciscan monastry which has been converted to accommodation. The room was amazing - 6m x 6m with 4m ceilings, tiled floor with lovely rugs and funished with antique furniture.
Sunshine!!!! Into the shower and no hot water. Called reception and the male receptionist told me he's be up in a minute - didn't know what he was going to do. He was up in a few minutes - with a pot of hot water. Explained that it was the shower which I had told him when I called - language problems. Off to the train station at 8.30am because the taxi arrived earlier than booked. We were ready anyway. Spoke to a staff member at SNCF (train station) who said he had been to Australia. He really had because he had been to Gosford, Newcastle and mentioned other towns up the NSW coast. He suggested we catch the earlier train which was leaving in 10 minutes (8:53am) instead of the one we had planned to catch at 9:44am. Glad we did because our next connection in Monaco Monte Carlo we would not have made. We only had enough time to go the the bathroom between trains. From there it was on the Ventimiglia and instead of 24 minutes we only had about 12 minutes of dragging cases up and down stairs. We had reserved seats from Ventimiglia to Genova and as we hurried to get on board a fellow having his last cigareete said "I'll put that on for you" and lifted my suitcase on. We found our allocated seats in a compartment with 4 others. One was the fellow (John) who put my bag on and he and his partner (Samantha) were from Brisbane. The other couple, Jade and Dallas were from Kansas, USA. The were 2 separate couples and much younger than our kids however we had an enjoyable trip and chatted. We left them in Genova and boarded our last train for the day and arrived in Mongelia at 3:25pm. About a 10 minute walk from the station was Abbadia San Giorgio - an old Franciscan monastry which has been converted to accommodation. The room was amazing - 6m x 6m with 4m ceilings, tiled floor with lovely rugs and funished with antique furniture.
Tuesday 02/11/2010
Well today we woke to a better day and by the time we went down for breakfast there was sunshine on the hills. We left at about 9:30am and went to the markets in Cour Saleya which are on every morning except Mondays - fruit, veg, glace fruits, crystalised fruits, jams, honeys and flowers. We then walked, and walked, and walked up and down narrow streets and alleys they call streets, visiting 3 churches. We walked up to the ruins of the Chateau (on the hill above our hotel) and back down again (by this time we had over 16,300 steps on Mike's pedometer). We went back to our room, took the shoes off to have a break (4.30pm). The sun didn't really shine today and we got a few drops of rain however it was not enought to use an umbrella. It was 16 degrees at 2.30pm. Bought a bottle of Gris de Grenache for 2.90 euro and sat and drank that while we watched the sun set from our room along the beach - first time we've seen the sun (5.10pm). Out for dinner and had a conversation with a couple of Doctors from Dublin who were at the next table with 2 of their daughters. They told is they had spent time working in Brisbane so were familiar with Australia.
Well today we woke to a better day and by the time we went down for breakfast there was sunshine on the hills. We left at about 9:30am and went to the markets in Cour Saleya which are on every morning except Mondays - fruit, veg, glace fruits, crystalised fruits, jams, honeys and flowers. We then walked, and walked, and walked up and down narrow streets and alleys they call streets, visiting 3 churches. We walked up to the ruins of the Chateau (on the hill above our hotel) and back down again (by this time we had over 16,300 steps on Mike's pedometer). We went back to our room, took the shoes off to have a break (4.30pm). The sun didn't really shine today and we got a few drops of rain however it was not enought to use an umbrella. It was 16 degrees at 2.30pm. Bought a bottle of Gris de Grenache for 2.90 euro and sat and drank that while we watched the sun set from our room along the beach - first time we've seen the sun (5.10pm). Out for dinner and had a conversation with a couple of Doctors from Dublin who were at the next table with 2 of their daughters. They told is they had spent time working in Brisbane so were familiar with Australia.
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Thursday 28/10/10
Today is our last chance to do some washing and drying in bulk as we leave Chinon tomorrow morning. Went to market in Joan of Arc square. Product was fantastic. More salamis than we have ever seen. Clothes were well priced and different. Bought 3 wraps and got a freebe. Said goodbye to the girl at Cafe d Art who had been serving us coffees and did some more exploring.
Friday 29/10/10
Breakfast was from the bakery on the way through, it was still dark, and the lady there wished us a safe trip as she knew we were off to the train. Sorted out the trains as France was still experiencing problems. Had to detour at Tours to St Pierre des Corps and then to Montpanasse. Taxi from there to Gard du Lyon with a Vietmanese driver who told us his life story. Nearly missed our train as I had read the time wrong. Made it by 10 minutes. Arrived in Avignon and straight to Pont du Avignon for a look as it was getting late. Walked acros the bridge with an audio accompanyment which was great. It was still light until after 6pm so got some photos. Our room overlooks the square which is quite busy.
Saturday 30/10/10
Off to the Palace of the Popes which was wonderful. Spent the morning there and then spent the remainder walking the streets. Tried one church for Mass at 5pm with no luck. Went to another church St Pierre and who was there but Phil Flaherty from DBCDE (Margs work).
Sunday 31/10/10
It was raining as we left for the train. Had been raining most of Saturday as well. The ride from Avignon to Nice was rain all the way and we arrived in Nice to pouring, windy rain. Organised the queue at the railway station for taxis as they kept trying to get in front of us. When we got our taxi there was an orderly queue of about 8 people. As we did not have our bearings and the weather was so bad we bought a bottle of wine from the Hotel and ordered a pizza in. The view from our room was good and gave us a view right along the beach which was good with the rain.
Monday 01/11/10
Still raining and we decided to buy tickets for the Hop on Hop Off bus so that we could at lease see something. Did one round and decided to get off and have a look around the square as the rain had eased. Back on and did almost another round so that we could have a good look at a Russian Orthodox church. Back on again to find a group of 4 Aussies behind us and they were 2 sisters from Toowoomba and Brisbane with their husbands. Got talking and said we originally came from Rocky. One guy said he grew up in Depot Hill in Rocky. His name is Reg Knowles and he grew up in Campbell Street opposite Freemans Pies. His sisters are Annette Mooody and Suzette Harrison. Small world. We had dinner at Lar Storia in Cour Saleya which was very good. It was pouring again and we were not in a hurry to leave. The waiter bought us some liqueurs which we determined were blueberry from Corsica.
Today is our last chance to do some washing and drying in bulk as we leave Chinon tomorrow morning. Went to market in Joan of Arc square. Product was fantastic. More salamis than we have ever seen. Clothes were well priced and different. Bought 3 wraps and got a freebe. Said goodbye to the girl at Cafe d Art who had been serving us coffees and did some more exploring.
Friday 29/10/10
Breakfast was from the bakery on the way through, it was still dark, and the lady there wished us a safe trip as she knew we were off to the train. Sorted out the trains as France was still experiencing problems. Had to detour at Tours to St Pierre des Corps and then to Montpanasse. Taxi from there to Gard du Lyon with a Vietmanese driver who told us his life story. Nearly missed our train as I had read the time wrong. Made it by 10 minutes. Arrived in Avignon and straight to Pont du Avignon for a look as it was getting late. Walked acros the bridge with an audio accompanyment which was great. It was still light until after 6pm so got some photos. Our room overlooks the square which is quite busy.
Saturday 30/10/10
Off to the Palace of the Popes which was wonderful. Spent the morning there and then spent the remainder walking the streets. Tried one church for Mass at 5pm with no luck. Went to another church St Pierre and who was there but Phil Flaherty from DBCDE (Margs work).
Sunday 31/10/10
It was raining as we left for the train. Had been raining most of Saturday as well. The ride from Avignon to Nice was rain all the way and we arrived in Nice to pouring, windy rain. Organised the queue at the railway station for taxis as they kept trying to get in front of us. When we got our taxi there was an orderly queue of about 8 people. As we did not have our bearings and the weather was so bad we bought a bottle of wine from the Hotel and ordered a pizza in. The view from our room was good and gave us a view right along the beach which was good with the rain.
Monday 01/11/10
Still raining and we decided to buy tickets for the Hop on Hop Off bus so that we could at lease see something. Did one round and decided to get off and have a look around the square as the rain had eased. Back on and did almost another round so that we could have a good look at a Russian Orthodox church. Back on again to find a group of 4 Aussies behind us and they were 2 sisters from Toowoomba and Brisbane with their husbands. Got talking and said we originally came from Rocky. One guy said he grew up in Depot Hill in Rocky. His name is Reg Knowles and he grew up in Campbell Street opposite Freemans Pies. His sisters are Annette Mooody and Suzette Harrison. Small world. We had dinner at Lar Storia in Cour Saleya which was very good. It was pouring again and we were not in a hurry to leave. The waiter bought us some liqueurs which we determined were blueberry from Corsica.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)