It was good to get on the flight from Heathrow to LA and to start feeling like we were not far from home. The cabin staff were extra friendly in Premium Economy and it was good to get great service as well as terrific food.
Arrived in LA a few minutes late and when we finally got off the plane, had hardly any distance to go to get to immigration. Through immigration and customs quickly then a wait of about 10 minutes for the shuttle to the hotel.
Checked in and unpacked, while getting organised for the trip home as well.
Bed and a half decent sleep, only to wake at 4.30am.
Got up about 6 and went for a swim in the pool which was very warm. The air was a bit cool but it did get very hot later in the day.
Had breakfast at the Starbucks in the lobby then packed up ready to check out. Stored the bags and took the bus to Santa Monica.
It took about half an hour to get there and it was not too busy, so we walked to the beach front and took some pictures then walked back to the 3rd St promenade.
Spent most of the morning looking in shops such as Gap and Banana Republic for items on the shopping list from Suzanne. Walked down to try to find Michaels and it had closed and moved somewhere further away.
After a lunch of filled crepes, we went back to 3rd St and got a gelato. Then took a very long walk to Joann's on Lincoln Blvd to do a bit of craft shopping. Roger found a comfortable chair!
Walked back to the bus stop about 4 blocks away then waited for the bus. It took nearly an hour to get back to the hotel. Roger went for a swim while I packed the bags of purchases away. We went to the airport about 6 and checked in. Went through security and immigration and wandered through to the Koru Lounge. Had a shower then some food and waited for the flight to Auckland.
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Thursday, August 29, 2013
On the way
Packed up after breakfast then waited for some time for our shuttle to the airport. We had booked it for 10 am, but it did not arrive. The receptionist rang to find out and they said 10 minutes. 20 minutes later - still waiting! Finally a shuttle arrived and we loaded up but the driver decided down the road a bit that he could not take us. He stopped and a minute later our shuttle arrived and we had to transfer into that one.
After a very fast trip to the airport, we arrived in plenty of time to check our bags through to LA. We got boarding passes but not together. You would think that, having booked so long ago, we would be able to be seated together!
Went through passport control and security then got some lunch upstairs in the food court.
Went to the gate K53 to wait for the flight and it was not long before it was called. Not impressed too much with Air France. Service was passable. Thank goodness the flight only took 50 minutes!
Found our way through Terminal 4 to the transit area and waited for a bus to take us to Terminal 1. After going through security again, we were able to get our boarding passes for the flight to Los Angeles and only had to wait half an hour till boarding. It took another 15 minutes or so to get to the gate and boarded soon after we got there. The plane did not seem to be too full.
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After a very fast trip to the airport, we arrived in plenty of time to check our bags through to LA. We got boarding passes but not together. You would think that, having booked so long ago, we would be able to be seated together!
Went through passport control and security then got some lunch upstairs in the food court.
Went to the gate K53 to wait for the flight and it was not long before it was called. Not impressed too much with Air France. Service was passable. Thank goodness the flight only took 50 minutes!
Found our way through Terminal 4 to the transit area and waited for a bus to take us to Terminal 1. After going through security again, we were able to get our boarding passes for the flight to Los Angeles and only had to wait half an hour till boarding. It took another 15 minutes or so to get to the gate and boarded soon after we got there. The plane did not seem to be too full.
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Tuesday, August 27, 2013
A full day in Paris
Slept in a bit this morning so it was nearly 8.30 before we went down for a lovely continental style breakfast. Had plenty to eat so we would not feel too hungry later on.
Got organised and decided that we would go on the On/Off tour bus instead of using the underground. As it happened, it was a much better idea to do this as we saw a lot of the city from the top of a double decker bus. Fortunately it was a fine day.
We first went on the yellow tour as that was the closest one to pick up, but we changed over to the green one later so we could go round all the major sights like the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. We got off at the Louvre for a wander round then went on to the Notre Dame Cathedral where there were long queues waiting to get in. This year is the 850th anniversary of Notre Dame so that was quite special.
We had some lunch in a cafe near the cathedral, then got the bus again and went along the Seine to the Arc de Triomphe, the Trocadero and the Eiffel Tower. We decided not to get off here as you could see it well enough from the bus.
We then stopped near the Printemps and Galleries Lafayette where we had a look, bought a couple of things then got the bus again to a stop near the hotel. Had a cup of tea at a cafe, then walked to the hotel.
We found a Greek restaurant near the hotel and went there for a meal which was very nice.
Took photos with my camera today so will have to wait till I get home to post them.
Packing up tonight for our flight back to Heathrow then on to LA tomorrow afternoon. It has been a great holiday, but we are looking forward to getting home now.
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Got organised and decided that we would go on the On/Off tour bus instead of using the underground. As it happened, it was a much better idea to do this as we saw a lot of the city from the top of a double decker bus. Fortunately it was a fine day.
We first went on the yellow tour as that was the closest one to pick up, but we changed over to the green one later so we could go round all the major sights like the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. We got off at the Louvre for a wander round then went on to the Notre Dame Cathedral where there were long queues waiting to get in. This year is the 850th anniversary of Notre Dame so that was quite special.
We had some lunch in a cafe near the cathedral, then got the bus again and went along the Seine to the Arc de Triomphe, the Trocadero and the Eiffel Tower. We decided not to get off here as you could see it well enough from the bus.
We then stopped near the Printemps and Galleries Lafayette where we had a look, bought a couple of things then got the bus again to a stop near the hotel. Had a cup of tea at a cafe, then walked to the hotel.
We found a Greek restaurant near the hotel and went there for a meal which was very nice.
Took photos with my camera today so will have to wait till I get home to post them.
Packing up tonight for our flight back to Heathrow then on to LA tomorrow afternoon. It has been a great holiday, but we are looking forward to getting home now.
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Location:Rue Clauzel,Paris,France
Paris
We have arrived in Paris!
This morning we packed up and had a late brunch with David and Carol, then did a couple of messages and took Gina to see the church at Birchington.
We packed our things into 2 cars and set off for Margate to catch the train to Ashford International where we would pick up the Eurostar to Paris.
It was comparatively easy to get to the international terminal at the station and we simply scanned our tickets to check in, then through security where our bags were x-rayed and on to passport control. There was no-one at the British passport control so we just went to the French desk and had our passports stamped.
Had about 50 minutes to wait for the train so had a coffee while we waited.
The train trip was uneventful and took about an hour and a half. Reached Paris about quarter to eight (pm) and got a taxi to the hotel.
We went down the street and around the corner to find a meal and managed to get a lovely meal at an Italian restaurant for a very reasonable price. Met up with some folks from Taranaki who were very chatty and who are also staying at the same hotel (Hotel des trois poussins).
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This morning we packed up and had a late brunch with David and Carol, then did a couple of messages and took Gina to see the church at Birchington.
We packed our things into 2 cars and set off for Margate to catch the train to Ashford International where we would pick up the Eurostar to Paris.
It was comparatively easy to get to the international terminal at the station and we simply scanned our tickets to check in, then through security where our bags were x-rayed and on to passport control. There was no-one at the British passport control so we just went to the French desk and had our passports stamped.
Had about 50 minutes to wait for the train so had a coffee while we waited.
The train trip was uneventful and took about an hour and a half. Reached Paris about quarter to eight (pm) and got a taxi to the hotel.
We went down the street and around the corner to find a meal and managed to get a lovely meal at an Italian restaurant for a very reasonable price. Met up with some folks from Taranaki who were very chatty and who are also staying at the same hotel (Hotel des trois poussins).
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Location:Rue Clauzel,Paris,France
Sunday, August 25, 2013
Last few days in Birchington-on-Sea
Today brings us to the end of our lovely stay in the UK.
The last few days have been very relaxing with our friends, David and Carol.
On Saturday, we went over to Broadstairs so Gina could meet up with her friend. The weather was not so good - intermittent showers, but not really cold. We had some lunch in a cafe overlooking the sea front.
We then went to the railway station in Margate to get tickets for the train to Ashford on Monday so we could get the Eurostar to Paris. A quick bit of retail therapy to Westgate Cross to get a couple of light tops for the expected warmer climes of Paris and LA then home again.
Roger helped David to make a pizza for tea and was quite delicious!
On Sunday, we had a restful day with the highlight being a very nice meal at the Cafe Bee, just around the corner, at lunchtime.
Today is pack up day again, with nothing much planned other than catching the train at Margate to Ashford for the Eurostar to Paris.
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The last few days have been very relaxing with our friends, David and Carol.
On Saturday, we went over to Broadstairs so Gina could meet up with her friend. The weather was not so good - intermittent showers, but not really cold. We had some lunch in a cafe overlooking the sea front.
We then went to the railway station in Margate to get tickets for the train to Ashford on Monday so we could get the Eurostar to Paris. A quick bit of retail therapy to Westgate Cross to get a couple of light tops for the expected warmer climes of Paris and LA then home again.
Roger helped David to make a pizza for tea and was quite delicious!
On Sunday, we had a restful day with the highlight being a very nice meal at the Cafe Bee, just around the corner, at lunchtime.
Today is pack up day again, with nothing much planned other than catching the train at Margate to Ashford for the Eurostar to Paris.
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Friday, August 23, 2013
Friday - hot again!
Well, today was pretty hot again - around 25 degrees.
We went to the village this morning to do a wander up and down the Main Street. David and Carol had a few messages to do as well so we took our time. The funniest thing we saw was a traffic jam in the middle of the street.
A fellow with a blue parking sticker (like a mobility card) took it into his head that he could park on a double yellow line on the Main Street just by a corner where the road was very narrow anyway. The end result was that it caused a traffic jam. Cars, trucks and a bus ended up being blocked by this car and blocking each other. People were coming out on to the street and checking out the car jam and others tried remonstrating with the driver, who was still sitting in his car waiting for a passenger to finish his shopping, but he steadfastly refused to move, even though there was a park available three cars length down the road! Eventually, after a call to the police by one bystander, a warden came along and had words with him, just as the passenger arrived back at the car. It really was the highlight of the day!
We also had a look inside and around the Parish church at Birchington, All Saints. It is a very old church and had memorials dated from the late 1500s inside the church.
After lunch, we went for a drive around by Minnis Bay and were very surprised at the number of people on the beach and surrounding areas. There were a lot of cars parked on the road and up many side streets.
We then went to a garden centre to buy a plant for the garden for David and Carol to remember David's mum who passed away a few weeks ago. We then went to Quex Barn and had a cup of tea and an ice cream, before heading back.
Gina came down from London by coach and we picked her up then had a fish and chip tea in her honour! Biggest pieces of fish I have ever seen from a fish and chip shop.
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We went to the village this morning to do a wander up and down the Main Street. David and Carol had a few messages to do as well so we took our time. The funniest thing we saw was a traffic jam in the middle of the street.
A fellow with a blue parking sticker (like a mobility card) took it into his head that he could park on a double yellow line on the Main Street just by a corner where the road was very narrow anyway. The end result was that it caused a traffic jam. Cars, trucks and a bus ended up being blocked by this car and blocking each other. People were coming out on to the street and checking out the car jam and others tried remonstrating with the driver, who was still sitting in his car waiting for a passenger to finish his shopping, but he steadfastly refused to move, even though there was a park available three cars length down the road! Eventually, after a call to the police by one bystander, a warden came along and had words with him, just as the passenger arrived back at the car. It really was the highlight of the day!
We also had a look inside and around the Parish church at Birchington, All Saints. It is a very old church and had memorials dated from the late 1500s inside the church.
After lunch, we went for a drive around by Minnis Bay and were very surprised at the number of people on the beach and surrounding areas. There were a lot of cars parked on the road and up many side streets.
We then went to a garden centre to buy a plant for the garden for David and Carol to remember David's mum who passed away a few weeks ago. We then went to Quex Barn and had a cup of tea and an ice cream, before heading back.
Gina came down from London by coach and we picked her up then had a fish and chip tea in her honour! Biggest pieces of fish I have ever seen from a fish and chip shop.
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Thursday
The day dawned a bit wet and cooler today, so we spent the morning relaxing and waiting for the rain to go off.
After lunch, we drove to Margate for an outing and parked down at the waterfront. Walked along to the Turner Gallery to have a look and get a cup of tea. Some interesting exhibits there including a journal of Joseph Banks which was done on his trip with Captain Cook to Australia.
The weather was a bit damp and cool, but not too bad and it did clear up later on.
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After lunch, we drove to Margate for an outing and parked down at the waterfront. Walked along to the Turner Gallery to have a look and get a cup of tea. Some interesting exhibits there including a journal of Joseph Banks which was done on his trip with Captain Cook to Australia.
The weather was a bit damp and cool, but not too bad and it did clear up later on.
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Wednesday, August 21, 2013
A relaxing day in Birchington on Sea
Well, today was one of the most relaxing days we have had on our trip so far. While we woke up early, we at least did not have to pack up and go somewhere else.
It was a very sunny, warm day so we were able to sit in the garden this morning and enjoy the lovely atmosphere.
After lunch, we went over to Westwood Cross retail centre at Broadstairs so I could get something at Hobby Craft. Had a wander around some of the shops then had a cup of tea at M&S.
Roger was keen to have a BBQ this evening for dinner, so David found a disposable one in the garden shed that he had bought and never used. They lit the charcoal twenty minutes before they wanted to cook as it said in the instructions, but after much fanning and watching, they were doomed to disappointment and gave up as the charcoal did not want to get really hot.
They gave up and cooked the chicken on the cooker. Actually, they did try a couple of pieces on the BBQ, but they took a bit longer than the cooker!
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It was a very sunny, warm day so we were able to sit in the garden this morning and enjoy the lovely atmosphere.
After lunch, we went over to Westwood Cross retail centre at Broadstairs so I could get something at Hobby Craft. Had a wander around some of the shops then had a cup of tea at M&S.
Roger was keen to have a BBQ this evening for dinner, so David found a disposable one in the garden shed that he had bought and never used. They lit the charcoal twenty minutes before they wanted to cook as it said in the instructions, but after much fanning and watching, they were doomed to disappointment and gave up as the charcoal did not want to get really hot.
They gave up and cooked the chicken on the cooker. Actually, they did try a couple of pieces on the BBQ, but they took a bit longer than the cooker!
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Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Leaving Scotland
Yesterday we took the train to Edinburgh to take a look around there. the city is very busy at the moment as the Fringe Festival is on and there were buskers and stalls everywhere.
The weather there was pretty cool and windy. We walked a little way up Princes St then across to the older part of town and along the Royal Mile.
We found a little cafe for lunch, but it was not that great as Roger had ordered a grilled burger and it was served cold, so he sent it back and asked for a hot one! That was at the Castle Cafe, so would not really recommend it to friends...
It was not very warm still so after lunch we walked around a couple of smaller treats then found our way back to the railway station and took the train back to Stirling.
When we got there, we went up to the National Wallace Monument and Gina walked up to the top. She said it was very windy up there.
After that, it was time to find somewhere for a meal so after driving around Springkerse shopping centre we ended up back at the restaurant next to the hotel.
Watched some interesting programmes on TV then had a good sleep.
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The weather there was pretty cool and windy. We walked a little way up Princes St then across to the older part of town and along the Royal Mile.
We found a little cafe for lunch, but it was not that great as Roger had ordered a grilled burger and it was served cold, so he sent it back and asked for a hot one! That was at the Castle Cafe, so would not really recommend it to friends...
It was not very warm still so after lunch we walked around a couple of smaller treats then found our way back to the railway station and took the train back to Stirling.
When we got there, we went up to the National Wallace Monument and Gina walked up to the top. She said it was very windy up there.
After that, it was time to find somewhere for a meal so after driving around Springkerse shopping centre we ended up back at the restaurant next to the hotel.
Watched some interesting programmes on TV then had a good sleep.
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Location:Edinburgh Airport
Sunday, August 18, 2013
Filling in a day in Stirling
Woke up to sunshine this morning but by mid-morning, it was raining again!
Went into the city centre and dropped Gina off at Stirling Castle soshe could see a real castle while in Scotland. We went back to the city centre to try to park in a building near the Thistles, but the car parking buildings were all closed - probably because it was too early and it was Sunday. We eventually found a park on the road, not too far from the shopping centre and walked down to the Thistles - a shopping mall in the centre of the city. Found that it didn't open until 11.00 am!!! Went to Costas for a leisurely coffee then had a bit of a walk around to fill in time. By 10.45, Gina had finished at the castle and had walked into the city centre and quite by chance, saw us there. So she had a coffee then we went to the shopping centre.
Went to a few shops to have a look - Debenhams, M&S etc and bought a few things - little things cos the bag is already getting a little heavy! Had lunch at Debenham's then decided to go for a drive to Loch Lomond.
First we drove to a small place on the lakeside, Balmaha, which was small, but very full of tourists and hikers and it was difficult to get any really good pictures of Loch Lomond, so we headed back towards Balloch and managed to get a picture from the roadside on the way.
It was really busy there too so we went down to Alexandria where the outlet shops are located in an old car factory. Unfortunately, a lot of them have closed down since we were there last and we did not stay very long.
Headed back to Stirling and, after a couple of wrong turns, arrived back at the hotel in time for a meal. Yummy Belgian Waffles for dessert!
Early to bed I think, as we are planning to go to Edinburgh tomorrow.
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Went into the city centre and dropped Gina off at Stirling Castle soshe could see a real castle while in Scotland. We went back to the city centre to try to park in a building near the Thistles, but the car parking buildings were all closed - probably because it was too early and it was Sunday. We eventually found a park on the road, not too far from the shopping centre and walked down to the Thistles - a shopping mall in the centre of the city. Found that it didn't open until 11.00 am!!! Went to Costas for a leisurely coffee then had a bit of a walk around to fill in time. By 10.45, Gina had finished at the castle and had walked into the city centre and quite by chance, saw us there. So she had a coffee then we went to the shopping centre.
Went to a few shops to have a look - Debenhams, M&S etc and bought a few things - little things cos the bag is already getting a little heavy! Had lunch at Debenham's then decided to go for a drive to Loch Lomond.
First we drove to a small place on the lakeside, Balmaha, which was small, but very full of tourists and hikers and it was difficult to get any really good pictures of Loch Lomond, so we headed back towards Balloch and managed to get a picture from the roadside on the way.
It was really busy there too so we went down to Alexandria where the outlet shops are located in an old car factory. Unfortunately, a lot of them have closed down since we were there last and we did not stay very long.
Headed back to Stirling and, after a couple of wrong turns, arrived back at the hotel in time for a meal. Yummy Belgian Waffles for dessert!
Early to bed I think, as we are planning to go to Edinburgh tomorrow.
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Location:Bannockburn, near Stirling
Stirling
After two lovely days with Lucy and Donald in Ochiltree, we packed up the car again and took the road to Glasgow. It was raining most of the way!
Got to Glasgow in about 40 minutes and found our way into the city and into an expensive car parking building near George Square. We walked down to Buchanan St then along to Sauchiehall St. We walked along to the famous Willow Tea Rooms, designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh and decided it was time for lunch. Had a lovely lunch there then walked back towards the car park via the Buchanan Galleries.
Found a wifi hotspot to check the score in the All Blacks v Australia game and were pleased to see that it was a good win for NZ.
Back to the car then on to Stirling. It is not too far from Glasgow and we found the hotel at Bannockburn easily. The Premier Inn is situated in a rural setting and when we looked out the window, we saw some rabbits contentedly grazing on the grass close to the hotel!
After a rest and a cup of tea, we headed out to find a supermarket and found the one at the big shopping centre behind the hotel where Suzanne and I stayed last year. From there we went in to meet up with Vicki and Ali and Lukas for a meal.
Lukas was very energetic and had a great time climbing and jumping and playing with his toys. He is talking really well and loves his books. Vicki cooked us a lovely meal and we had a very enjoyable evening catching up on what has been happening in the last year or so.
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Got to Glasgow in about 40 minutes and found our way into the city and into an expensive car parking building near George Square. We walked down to Buchanan St then along to Sauchiehall St. We walked along to the famous Willow Tea Rooms, designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh and decided it was time for lunch. Had a lovely lunch there then walked back towards the car park via the Buchanan Galleries.
Found a wifi hotspot to check the score in the All Blacks v Australia game and were pleased to see that it was a good win for NZ.
Back to the car then on to Stirling. It is not too far from Glasgow and we found the hotel at Bannockburn easily. The Premier Inn is situated in a rural setting and when we looked out the window, we saw some rabbits contentedly grazing on the grass close to the hotel!
After a rest and a cup of tea, we headed out to find a supermarket and found the one at the big shopping centre behind the hotel where Suzanne and I stayed last year. From there we went in to meet up with Vicki and Ali and Lukas for a meal.
Lukas was very energetic and had a great time climbing and jumping and playing with his toys. He is talking really well and loves his books. Vicki cooked us a lovely meal and we had a very enjoyable evening catching up on what has been happening in the last year or so.
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Location:Stirling
Friday, August 16, 2013
Dumfries House
Had a lovely day today with Donald and Lucy. Went to Catrine House out in the country for a nice lunch.
Lucy had organised tickets for all of us to go to Dumfries House, a large house in the country near Ochiltree (http://dumfries-house.org.uk/about/history/) which has been bought by a trust that has restored the place to its original state.
We had a 90 minute guided tour of the house which contains a lot of original Chippendale furniture as well as furniture by a number of other famous English and Scottish designers.
There were also lots of paintings to admire and one name that came up was Campbell of Louden, to which Roger has a link through his mother's ancestry.
When we finished the guided tour, we went over to the shop and had a browse, before heading back to Catrine House for an ice cream.
Had another lovely meal cooked by Lucy, then relaxed for a chat afterwards.
It was lovely to see Gayle and David and Eilidh on Skype tonight. Eilidh seems to have grown more and is trying to say more. We are missing her heaps! And of course, the rest of the family back home LOL!
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Lucy had organised tickets for all of us to go to Dumfries House, a large house in the country near Ochiltree (http://dumfries-house.org.uk/about/history/) which has been bought by a trust that has restored the place to its original state.
We had a 90 minute guided tour of the house which contains a lot of original Chippendale furniture as well as furniture by a number of other famous English and Scottish designers.
There were also lots of paintings to admire and one name that came up was Campbell of Louden, to which Roger has a link through his mother's ancestry.
When we finished the guided tour, we went over to the shop and had a browse, before heading back to Catrine House for an ice cream.
Had another lovely meal cooked by Lucy, then relaxed for a chat afterwards.
It was lovely to see Gayle and David and Eilidh on Skype tonight. Eilidh seems to have grown more and is trying to say more. We are missing her heaps! And of course, the rest of the family back home LOL!
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Location:Main Street,Ochiltree,United Kingdom
Roman Forts and Hadrians Wall
Found our way to the roman fort at Corbridge, not too far from Durham.
It was not too expensive to get in so we decided to explore a bit.
It never fails to amaze me how good the Romans were at design and engineering.
After leaving the fort, Roger decided he wanted to try to find Hadrians wall as well so we drove down some back road to find a place where you didn't have to pay to get in!!
By now the weather had turned a little bit damp, but not too cold. After Roger and Gina went for a walk to see the wall, we got back onto the main road and headed for Carlisle then Gretna Green. Stopped at the outlet shops and had a late lunch at Costas then did a wander around the shops. Found a little top for Eilidh and bought some chocolates.
Took the road across to Dumfries then up to Ochiltree. Arrived late afternoon at Donald and Lucy's house. It was so nice to see them again and we got a guided tour around the new house. It is amazing what they have done to make it a really comfortable house for their retirement.
Had a lovely meal of roast beef - the last from the butcher's shop. Did a lot of talking then off to bed.
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It was not too expensive to get in so we decided to explore a bit.
It never fails to amaze me how good the Romans were at design and engineering.
After leaving the fort, Roger decided he wanted to try to find Hadrians wall as well so we drove down some back road to find a place where you didn't have to pay to get in!!
By now the weather had turned a little bit damp, but not too cold. After Roger and Gina went for a walk to see the wall, we got back onto the main road and headed for Carlisle then Gretna Green. Stopped at the outlet shops and had a late lunch at Costas then did a wander around the shops. Found a little top for Eilidh and bought some chocolates.
Took the road across to Dumfries then up to Ochiltree. Arrived late afternoon at Donald and Lucy's house. It was so nice to see them again and we got a guided tour around the new house. It is amazing what they have done to make it a really comfortable house for their retirement.
Had a lovely meal of roast beef - the last from the butcher's shop. Did a lot of talking then off to bed.
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On the way to Durham
Left the hotel at Carlisle about 9 and took the A65 towards Hexham then turned off onto a smaller road towards Alston. The countryside is very hilly and the road quite winding. We stopped at the Cumbrian Pantry in Alston for a coffee. The locals were very friendly and a mine of information.
Wandered a bit round the corner and found some really old buildings and a lovely little town.
Drove back to a lookout where you could see a great panoramic view. Lots of bikers there and a little cafe as well. Apparently very popular place.
From here we passed back through Alston village and took the road to Durham. We passed through another few villages and stopped for lunch at Crook in The Butterfly Cafe. The food was wholesome and good.
Not too far from there we found Gina's cousin's house. It was lovely to meet them and Sheila played us with tea and a scrummy carrot cake before Cousin Roger took us on a guided tour in the centre of Durham. Went to the Cathedral and wandered around looking at the different parts of the place,
Including St Cuthbert and St Bede!
Wandered back through the town and back to the car which Roger had parked on a small side street.
Back to Almoners Barn where Sheila and Roger live for drinks and a beautiful meal cooked by Sheila. Gina enjoyed looking at Roger's family pictures and even found some of herself.
After a good nights sleep and breakfast, set off for Carlisle and Gretna Green about 10am.
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Wandered a bit round the corner and found some really old buildings and a lovely little town.
Drove back to a lookout where you could see a great panoramic view. Lots of bikers there and a little cafe as well. Apparently very popular place.
From here we passed back through Alston village and took the road to Durham. We passed through another few villages and stopped for lunch at Crook in The Butterfly Cafe. The food was wholesome and good.
Not too far from there we found Gina's cousin's house. It was lovely to meet them and Sheila played us with tea and a scrummy carrot cake before Cousin Roger took us on a guided tour in the centre of Durham. Went to the Cathedral and wandered around looking at the different parts of the place,
Including St Cuthbert and St Bede!
Wandered back through the town and back to the car which Roger had parked on a small side street.
Back to Almoners Barn where Sheila and Roger live for drinks and a beautiful meal cooked by Sheila. Gina enjoyed looking at Roger's family pictures and even found some of herself.
After a good nights sleep and breakfast, set off for Carlisle and Gretna Green about 10am.
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Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Nearly in Scotland!
We had a lovely meal with Beth and Aleck in Freckleton last night. We had to drive back into Preston then out to Freckleton which is on the way to Blackpool.
Got back to the hotel in Bilsborrow about 10.00pm - the latest night we have had since arriving in the UK!
This morning we left about 9 am and took the road to Lancaster after having a brief look around the village.
There is a canal boating club at Bilsborrow and a number of canal boats and other motor boats were moored here.
We arrived at Lancaster about half an hour later and drove through the city, past the castle, which is now one of HM Prisons.
From here, we went over the county border to North Yorkshire and had morning coffee at a tea rooms in Hornby.
Back in the car again and off to a village called Ingleton which turned out to be really quaint. There was even a peacock walking along the footpath in the middle of the town!
The next stop was the Lakes district and about an hour later we arrived in Windermere where we stopped to have lunch, then found a Lakeland store near the railway station so we could get some things for Suzanne. Lakeland is a fabulous kitchen store and there are 65 stores all across the UK. the one at Windermere is the flagship store and is probably the biggest one in the UK. This area is always busy at this time of the year and it was full of tourists wandering around - just like us!!
We then drove around the lake to Ambleside and on to Grasmere where we stopped at Dove Cottage, the home of the poet, William Wordsworth. We didn't go in because it was quite expensive, but we did take some pictures!
The countryside around this area is very picturesque and we stopped a bit further down the road to take some pictures of the farmland.
We then got to Keswick and headed across towards Penrith, and on to the M6 towards Carlisle. The hotel is just off the motorway and was easy to find. There is a Hobbycraft shop just nearby so went over and had a look around. They had some good bargains too...
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Got back to the hotel in Bilsborrow about 10.00pm - the latest night we have had since arriving in the UK!
This morning we left about 9 am and took the road to Lancaster after having a brief look around the village.
There is a canal boating club at Bilsborrow and a number of canal boats and other motor boats were moored here.
We arrived at Lancaster about half an hour later and drove through the city, past the castle, which is now one of HM Prisons.
From here, we went over the county border to North Yorkshire and had morning coffee at a tea rooms in Hornby.
Back in the car again and off to a village called Ingleton which turned out to be really quaint. There was even a peacock walking along the footpath in the middle of the town!
The next stop was the Lakes district and about an hour later we arrived in Windermere where we stopped to have lunch, then found a Lakeland store near the railway station so we could get some things for Suzanne. Lakeland is a fabulous kitchen store and there are 65 stores all across the UK. the one at Windermere is the flagship store and is probably the biggest one in the UK. This area is always busy at this time of the year and it was full of tourists wandering around - just like us!!
We then drove around the lake to Ambleside and on to Grasmere where we stopped at Dove Cottage, the home of the poet, William Wordsworth. We didn't go in because it was quite expensive, but we did take some pictures!
The countryside around this area is very picturesque and we stopped a bit further down the road to take some pictures of the farmland.
We then got to Keswick and headed across towards Penrith, and on to the M6 towards Carlisle. The hotel is just off the motorway and was easy to find. There is a Hobbycraft shop just nearby so went over and had a look around. They had some good bargains too...
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Location:Carlisle
Southport
After having lunch at the lovely Tea Rose cafe in Southport, we drove to 3 Manx Janes Lane so that Gina could find the house where her aunt lived some time ago. We found the house down a small lane tucked in behind another row of houses.
Gina went and knocked on the door but no-one was home, so she decided to take a couple of pictures anyway. Just as she was finishing up, the owners arrived home and when she explained who she was and why she was there, they invited us in to have a look around and also have a cup of tea. While we were there, the owner found the title deeds which showed the original plans and also included a marriage certificate for her aunt. Gina was quite thrilled to see all this and she was able to take more photos of these documents.
From there, we found the road that led down to the marshes where there is a bird sanctuary. There were a few people with binoculars eagerly watching the marshes. Unfortunately, while it was at the coast, it was quite a distance to the sea shore so we did not go down for a paddle.
Got back on the road to Preston and found the hotel, which is just north of the city, in a country setting in Bilsborrow. Tonight we are going over to Freckleton to have dinner with Beth and possibly Aleck - if he is home! It will be nice to see them again. Beth has even offered me the use of her craft room should I have an urge to get inky!
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Gina went and knocked on the door but no-one was home, so she decided to take a couple of pictures anyway. Just as she was finishing up, the owners arrived home and when she explained who she was and why she was there, they invited us in to have a look around and also have a cup of tea. While we were there, the owner found the title deeds which showed the original plans and also included a marriage certificate for her aunt. Gina was quite thrilled to see all this and she was able to take more photos of these documents.
From there, we found the road that led down to the marshes where there is a bird sanctuary. There were a few people with binoculars eagerly watching the marshes. Unfortunately, while it was at the coast, it was quite a distance to the sea shore so we did not go down for a paddle.
Got back on the road to Preston and found the hotel, which is just north of the city, in a country setting in Bilsborrow. Tonight we are going over to Freckleton to have dinner with Beth and possibly Aleck - if he is home! It will be nice to see them again. Beth has even offered me the use of her craft room should I have an urge to get inky!
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Location:near Preston
Monday, August 12, 2013
Garden Centre Shopping
Managed a little more sleep last night and it was a bit cooler! Packed up and managed to get on the road by 8.30am. The Premier Inn at Gresford was a very nice place to stay. Not too big, comfortable and very quiet.
We headed north towards Liverpool and took the Kingsway tunnel under the Mersey then took the road towards Southport.
Down the road a little, we came across a garden centre that also had a craft shop and cafe so we had to stop for our morning coffee and a little bit of crafty shopping!
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We headed north towards Liverpool and took the Kingsway tunnel under the Mersey then took the road towards Southport.
Down the road a little, we came across a garden centre that also had a craft shop and cafe so we had to stop for our morning coffee and a little bit of crafty shopping!
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Location:Ince Blundell
Sunday, August 11, 2013
Manchester and Liverpool
Had another early start today. Roger made us a cup of tea at about 4.30am and we stayed awake until it was time to get up! So we had an early breakfast and watched the World Athletics Championships from Moscow for a while.
Had decided to go to Manchester and Liverpool today as both are not too far from Wrexham, where we are staying. Left about 9 and by just after 10 we were sitting in Starbucks in Manchester having a coffee. We went for a walk into Albert Square where the Town Hall is located, then down to Canal Street so Roger could see the canal. Brought back memories of three days spent in Manchester last year with Suzanne!
By 11.30 we were ready to move on so we found the way (eventually ) to the M62 which takes you to Liverpool. Less than an hour later, we were at the car parking building just opposite the Albert Dock and in the middle of a large shopping centre. Had a nice lunch at Pret a Manger and were just about to leave when there was a torrential downpour. Fortunately it only lasted a few minutes so we were able to wait for the rain to go off. Went to John Lewis for a browse and Roger found something to buy.
We walked over the road to the Albert Dock and walked around the area that used to be the warehouses for the ships. It is mostly restaurants and tourist shops now with apartments and galleries above.
Of course, Liverpool is the home of The Beatles and you can't go home without something relating to them so I got this cute little bear...
We are going to head back to Wrexham soon via the tunnel to Birkenhead, then to Chester, an old Roman town.
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Had decided to go to Manchester and Liverpool today as both are not too far from Wrexham, where we are staying. Left about 9 and by just after 10 we were sitting in Starbucks in Manchester having a coffee. We went for a walk into Albert Square where the Town Hall is located, then down to Canal Street so Roger could see the canal. Brought back memories of three days spent in Manchester last year with Suzanne!
By 11.30 we were ready to move on so we found the way (eventually ) to the M62 which takes you to Liverpool. Less than an hour later, we were at the car parking building just opposite the Albert Dock and in the middle of a large shopping centre. Had a nice lunch at Pret a Manger and were just about to leave when there was a torrential downpour. Fortunately it only lasted a few minutes so we were able to wait for the rain to go off. Went to John Lewis for a browse and Roger found something to buy.
We walked over the road to the Albert Dock and walked around the area that used to be the warehouses for the ships. It is mostly restaurants and tourist shops now with apartments and galleries above.
Of course, Liverpool is the home of The Beatles and you can't go home without something relating to them so I got this cute little bear...
We are going to head back to Wrexham soon via the tunnel to Birkenhead, then to Chester, an old Roman town.
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Location:Liverpool
Saturday, August 10, 2013
Oxford
Having stayed overnight in Oxford, we needed to do the obligatory sightseeing wander around part of the city. So we spent an hour or so in the centre of the city marvelling at the antiquity of some of the buildings.
Again, the place was full of tourist groups walking around as well as a lot of individual tourists.
Left Oxford about 10.30 and headed for the Cotswolds. Managed to get through the traffic to Stow-on-the-Wold where we had lunch at a cute little cafe.
After a light lunch, we went to Coventry where we spent some time looking at the Cathedral, which we conveniently found not far off the motorway. They had a huge coat that was being made for a giant Lady Godiva. On the blurb it said it was a size 54!
Left Coventry about 2 and headed towards the North of Wales where we are staying at a Premier Inn at Gresford, just north of Wrexham. It is interesting to see the road signs in English and Welsh. Had dinner at the restaurant next to the hotel where there is also free wifi, even though it is slow!
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Again, the place was full of tourist groups walking around as well as a lot of individual tourists.
Left Oxford about 10.30 and headed for the Cotswolds. Managed to get through the traffic to Stow-on-the-Wold where we had lunch at a cute little cafe.
After a light lunch, we went to Coventry where we spent some time looking at the Cathedral, which we conveniently found not far off the motorway. They had a huge coat that was being made for a giant Lady Godiva. On the blurb it said it was a size 54!
Left Coventry about 2 and headed towards the North of Wales where we are staying at a Premier Inn at Gresford, just north of Wrexham. It is interesting to see the road signs in English and Welsh. Had dinner at the restaurant next to the hotel where there is also free wifi, even though it is slow!
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Location:Oxford, United Kingdom
Friday, August 9, 2013
We have arrived!
After a boarding delay of about 45 minutes, we finally left Hong Kong at 15 minutes past 1 in the morning. The flight was uneventful taking around 11 hours 45 minutes. Managed to get some sleep during the flight which was good. It was not too cold either. Cathay Pacific was ok as an airline but the service was not quite as good as we are used to on AirNZ and the food was not up to the standard either. The film selection was poor so listened to stuff on my iPad.
We arrived at Heathrow and deplaned at 6.30am. No delays at immigration and our bags were early on the baggage claim belt so we were able to get through customs before 7.00 am. We had to wait in drizzle for the bus for the rental car place but it was only a few minutes so did not get too wet.
The rental car people tried to get us to upgrade the car as the one we were getting did not have a big boot, but we didn't want to pay an extra 25 pounds a day so we decided to manage with the car we got.
After packing up the car, we took the A4 to Windsor where we stopped at a pub to have a coffee and found free wifi so managed to clear some emails and check Facebook! The coffee was nice too and the girl who was serving was very helpful.
We walked up to the castle and took some pics.
As you can see in the picture, the tourist groups had started arriving before 9 and were taking up room on the footpaths. The Queen is at Balmoral now so didn't get to say hello.
We are now going to head to Wantage, where there is a neat craft shop, then on to Oxford for the night. More later!
We eventually got to Wantage and found the craft shop and did some shopping. Also went to the supermarket and the car phone warehouse to get a SIM card, then had a bite to eat before going on to Oxford.
Checked in at the hotel in Oxford mid afternoon and sorted out some things before having a shower and a rest. Went over to M&S to get some food then went into town and found a nice little Italian restaurant for tea.
An early night I think - it has been a long day.
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We arrived at Heathrow and deplaned at 6.30am. No delays at immigration and our bags were early on the baggage claim belt so we were able to get through customs before 7.00 am. We had to wait in drizzle for the bus for the rental car place but it was only a few minutes so did not get too wet.
The rental car people tried to get us to upgrade the car as the one we were getting did not have a big boot, but we didn't want to pay an extra 25 pounds a day so we decided to manage with the car we got.
After packing up the car, we took the A4 to Windsor where we stopped at a pub to have a coffee and found free wifi so managed to clear some emails and check Facebook! The coffee was nice too and the girl who was serving was very helpful.
We walked up to the castle and took some pics.
As you can see in the picture, the tourist groups had started arriving before 9 and were taking up room on the footpaths. The Queen is at Balmoral now so didn't get to say hello.
We are now going to head to Wantage, where there is a neat craft shop, then on to Oxford for the night. More later!
We eventually got to Wantage and found the craft shop and did some shopping. Also went to the supermarket and the car phone warehouse to get a SIM card, then had a bite to eat before going on to Oxford.
Checked in at the hotel in Oxford mid afternoon and sorted out some things before having a shower and a rest. Went over to M&S to get some food then went into town and found a nice little Italian restaurant for tea.
An early night I think - it has been a long day.
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Location:Windsor
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Second day in Hong Kong
After a late breakfast at Starbucks, we took the MRT to Central station then walked over to Exchange Square where we got a bus to Stanley Market.
The buses are all double deckers and sitting on the top going quite quickly around a winding road over the hill to Stanley is a rocky journey. Very scenic though as you go past a lot of lovely bays and apartment buildings.
Arrived at the market about 11.30 and wandered through one or two alley ways, checking out different shops. Roger was persuaded to buy a new bag and managed to get it for a little more than $NZ25. Janet bought an umbrella that is very light and ideal for the sun as well as the rain!
Found a nice place for lunch called Grouchos and we had a burger each made with NZ beef. It was very tasty as was the fruity smoothie that we had.
It was very hot by then and we decided that we should head back to the hotel as we needed to check out by 4. So we got back and packed up then checked out. The queue for checking out was a lot shorter than it was yesterday afternoon and this morning so it was done quickly.
Had a look around a little "local" mall in Nathan Road, just around the corner from the hotel. It was a lot different from the one we went to yesterday.
Then back to Starbucks for a cold drink and a rest to fill in time before getting a meal at the delicatessen under the Holiday Inn where we ate some years ago! Nice meal then back to the hotel to change and get the bus to Kowloon Station.
We were able to check our bags in at the station and get our boarding passes so that saved a lot of time at the airport. All we had to do then was find out which gate to go to (gate 1 - easy to find!) and wait.....
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The buses are all double deckers and sitting on the top going quite quickly around a winding road over the hill to Stanley is a rocky journey. Very scenic though as you go past a lot of lovely bays and apartment buildings.
Arrived at the market about 11.30 and wandered through one or two alley ways, checking out different shops. Roger was persuaded to buy a new bag and managed to get it for a little more than $NZ25. Janet bought an umbrella that is very light and ideal for the sun as well as the rain!
Found a nice place for lunch called Grouchos and we had a burger each made with NZ beef. It was very tasty as was the fruity smoothie that we had.
It was very hot by then and we decided that we should head back to the hotel as we needed to check out by 4. So we got back and packed up then checked out. The queue for checking out was a lot shorter than it was yesterday afternoon and this morning so it was done quickly.
Had a look around a little "local" mall in Nathan Road, just around the corner from the hotel. It was a lot different from the one we went to yesterday.
Then back to Starbucks for a cold drink and a rest to fill in time before getting a meal at the delicatessen under the Holiday Inn where we ate some years ago! Nice meal then back to the hotel to change and get the bus to Kowloon Station.
We were able to check our bags in at the station and get our boarding passes so that saved a lot of time at the airport. All we had to do then was find out which gate to go to (gate 1 - easy to find!) and wait.....
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Location:Hong Kong
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
Hot in Hong Kong
Wednesday in Hong Kong was very hot. After a drink and a snack at Starbucks, we went to Harbour City mall to have a look around. So many shops over lots of floors. Most of the shops are up-market, name shops and even though there were lots of people around, very few shops were actually busy, except for the Swatch shop. It was full of giggly young people!
Went back to the hotel to get our rooms, the showered and changed and had a bit of a rest before hitting the streets again. Picked up the contact lenses I had ordered in the morning and bought some new frames as well. Roger decided that he needed some new sunglasses so was talked into buying some very cool RayBans!
Took the underground to the Ladies Market at Mong Kok and walked up and down two of the three blocks of the market. Most of the stalls are quite similar - knock off bags and watches, clothes and electrical accessories like iPad and iPhone covers. Found a flip cover for my phone for less than $10.
Back to the hotel for our free drink at the bar and decided to eat there instead of going out again.
Roger and Gina went to the waterfront to see the light and sound show after dark. Gina was most impressed.
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Went back to the hotel to get our rooms, the showered and changed and had a bit of a rest before hitting the streets again. Picked up the contact lenses I had ordered in the morning and bought some new frames as well. Roger decided that he needed some new sunglasses so was talked into buying some very cool RayBans!
Took the underground to the Ladies Market at Mong Kok and walked up and down two of the three blocks of the market. Most of the stalls are quite similar - knock off bags and watches, clothes and electrical accessories like iPad and iPhone covers. Found a flip cover for my phone for less than $10.
Back to the hotel for our free drink at the bar and decided to eat there instead of going out again.
Roger and Gina went to the waterfront to see the light and sound show after dark. Gina was most impressed.
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Location:Hong Kong
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Arrived safe!
Landed safely in Hong Kong, bags found and on the train within half an hour or so.
Took the train into the station and got a bus to the Kowloon Hotel and checked in. The room was not ready so we got changed and put the bags into storage then wandered around the corner to Nathan Road.
Went to the optician to order some new contact lenses - only $HK150 per pack of 6. Not a bad price really. Works out about $NZ25 each.
Found Starbucks and bought coffee and a snack then off to explore the Harbourside sopping centre.
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Took the train into the station and got a bus to the Kowloon Hotel and checked in. The room was not ready so we got changed and put the bags into storage then wandered around the corner to Nathan Road.
Went to the optician to order some new contact lenses - only $HK150 per pack of 6. Not a bad price really. Works out about $NZ25 each.
Found Starbucks and bought coffee and a snack then off to explore the Harbourside sopping centre.
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Location:Hong Kong
On the way to Hong Kong
Boarded the flight in Auckland about 11.30pm and it seemed to takes ages from the time everyone was on board until we actually took off.
I had trouble accessing my handset from the set arm. It had been jammed ion and it took a pen and the set belt end to unjam it. Need not have bothered though because the film selection was average. Started watching The Great Gadsby and got bored with it - the screen was quite dark as well so it was hard to see. Then started watching another one and couldn't get into that so gave up and went to sleep.
By 2.30am (NZ) time, we were fed and able to settle down for some sleep. Miraculously, we managed to sleep reasonably well woke ready to face the day in Hong Kong.
Food has been very nice on the flight. We all had a basil and ricotta stuffed chicken with roasted baby potatoes, butternut squash cake and tomato caper broth for dinner. Breakfast was. Choice of scrambled eggs or lemon scented brioche French toast. Both were very nice. Well done Air New Zealand!
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I had trouble accessing my handset from the set arm. It had been jammed ion and it took a pen and the set belt end to unjam it. Need not have bothered though because the film selection was average. Started watching The Great Gadsby and got bored with it - the screen was quite dark as well so it was hard to see. Then started watching another one and couldn't get into that so gave up and went to sleep.
By 2.30am (NZ) time, we were fed and able to settle down for some sleep. Miraculously, we managed to sleep reasonably well woke ready to face the day in Hong Kong.
Food has been very nice on the flight. We all had a basil and ricotta stuffed chicken with roasted baby potatoes, butternut squash cake and tomato caper broth for dinner. Breakfast was. Choice of scrambled eggs or lemon scented brioche French toast. Both were very nice. Well done Air New Zealand!
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Monday, August 5, 2013
Getting Packed
Well, it is finally here - the day we head off to the other side of the world. The bags are packed and we are sitting with Gina having a snack in the new Christchurch Koru Lounge before flying to Auckland to join the flight to Hong Kong.
Actually, Roger and Gina are sorting out Gina's "new" iPad before boarding the flight to Auckland.
Arrived in Auckland and found the quick way to security via the premium check-in. Took no time at all to get through except that I had put a lock on my carry on bag and had to look for the key so held up the line at the x-ray machines!
Now begins the long wait for the flight to Hong Kong.
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Actually, Roger and Gina are sorting out Gina's "new" iPad before boarding the flight to Auckland.
Arrived in Auckland and found the quick way to security via the premium check-in. Took no time at all to get through except that I had put a lock on my carry on bag and had to look for the key so held up the line at the x-ray machines!
Now begins the long wait for the flight to Hong Kong.
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