Libby's blog

A lady under wraps

2011-07-17T11:51:00.000-07:00

Saying hello to London is always lovely and exciting, and sometimes frustrating. The lady is getting dressed for next year's festivities of Olympics and royal celebrations. So Leicester Square is completely covered in building, Charing Cross station is getting new lifts in Trafalgar Square, and Strand, great buildings in Regent Street are totally swathed in wrap while they are renovated. Picadilly Circus is rather tricky to negotiate, and on it goes. But it is a good opportunity for the city to look good for the visitors, so it is all accepted in good humour, mostly. The summer however, has appeared for a few days, and forgotten to return so far. Today we got soaked in a sudden downpour - heavy rain just appears - there is no workup to it - just heavy - with the consequence of looking very bedraggled if not prepared . The sun came out again, but hopefully summer will remember to come back soon.
After a couple of rain journeys, a sorte or two to Oxford Street, and Sloane Square, and a couple of visits to the galleries, it is time to start looking at the suitcases and how best to make one big mass into a small one. Also realised we have different dates on our flight ticket, so slight panic stations till tomorrow - hopefully it is all sorted.
It has been a wonderful journey on water, and land, seeing snow and ice, and incredible fjords and glaciers, tiny towns, and cities in various stages of development and sophistication. But all so interesting and offering new experiences and perspectives. And a special reassurance that we have the best country to call our own.
Home soon

The Dover cliffs were greeting us......

2011-07-10T22:15:00.000-07:00

......as we sailed towards the port. There was a pink tinge to the sunrise,which highlighted the chalky white cliff face with a beautiful day predicted in London. After 4800 nautical miles, it is definitely time to hit firm ground again. There has been the most stunning scenery and experiences north of the Arctic Circle, which will be part of the memory forever.
Now there is a team removing our worldly goods from the ship, passports are being stamped, and we are being farewelled before the next group arrives. We are no longer part of this vessel, we need to move on, so trains await.
Off to London and a few points around UK .
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Oslo - Capital of Beautiful Noway - Sat 9 July 2011

2011-07-10T05:22:00.000-07:00

Another day on the water, we sailed into Oslo harbour – a beautiful sight – with over 40 islands in the archipelago on the way to the port. (We missed the first part – the presence of a little darker dusk meant a little more sleep). Went for a walk on Saturday morning in this pretty city – very easy to get around as there is much of it almost traffic free bar the trams and buses.

It is time to prepare for the last part of the expedition – we are getting instructions for disembarkation, and packing and looking forward to London. (and firm ground). We have seen some stunning scenery, and sights far beyond expectations. The seas have mainly been kind to us, which is always appreciated. There have been more sea days than we expected, which can become tedious, though it is always a good excuse to get reading (loved Follett’s new book – Fall of giants – I hope he is busy writing the second of the trilogy). Seeing the very far north, seeing and hearing the polar fields, the glaciers which sadly are retreating at an alarming rate, and the berger bits – that encouraged the birds to catch a free ride – nature at its best – seeing the spouts of whales, and the breaching – the mighty tail fly up in possible salute, or more likely a farewell wave. – this has all been so special and forever part of our memory. The cities and towns and villages – with their various personalities – Copenhagen in its Danish elegance, to the wild presence of Longeaybyen , in Spitsbergen, way out in the Norwegian sea, and the grim, but proud aspect of Murmansk – not yet ready for the cruise presence which is part of modern travel. All part of a wonderful time.

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Thoughts from the top of the world as the owl and the pussycat mess about in boats

2011-07-04T23:54:00.002-07:00

Nord Cap (North Cape) is the very top of Norway, and a popular point to visit both at midsummer (now) and mid winter, when you can witness the northern lights. It was cloudy when we arrived but by the afternoon, the sun shone as we clambered around the town of Honnesvag, the views down the end of the fjord were wonderful, the water as blues as the postcards present. It was really peak hour in the little port as there were three cruise ships coming in at various times. We sailed out very late in the evening, with broad daylight giving a bright farewell to the very north of Norway. We start three days at sea now, cruising through the stunning fjord of Geiranger in the next couple of days on our way south to Oslo. There may be a little dusk in the next day or so, but the daily news still lists: the sun never sets. An amazing time. It has added to the whole experience of being so far north, with no phone or internet or television contact – we were away from the world we know on a daily basis, and in a wild, lonely but incredibly beautiful landscape which demanded no distractions.

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Thoughts leaving Murmansk

2011-07-04T23:54:00.001-07:00

I am not going to give too much history on this city – the largest city north of the Arctic circle. Around 340,000, and has lost about 1/3 of its population in the last 10 years. We had to wait for customs and passport clearance, so were late leaving the ship – onto buses, and local guides with us to give some narration. It is a city based on fishing, and the oil and gas industry being generated from the seas off north Russia. So the port area is very large and busy. There are floating dry docks, and oil or gas offshore rigs in for service, many fishing vessels, and others all competing for wharf space.

The city itself boasts the wide streets that we saw in St Petersburg, with a lot of trees on the side. It is early summer (or what sits as summer here) so the lavender bushes are everywhere. But we mostly noticed the blocks of flats – everywhere, in all areas of the city – there are three terraces of the city – all reflecting the different geological development periods of the harbour. There is a low area, moving to two higher levels. And everywhere, there are these oppressing buildings which house the vast majority of the population. Much of Murmansk was bombed to obliteration during the dark times of the second world war. After the war, the housing was very grim, and gradually, these utilitarian buildings of one, two and three room (not bedroom) flats were constructed. They reflected the different tough styles of the leaders, from Kruschev, to Breshnev, and the other leaders. Some newer ones are a little brighter, but they are still very bald - we do not appreciate how lucky we are. One wondered what the Local passport control staff thought of the grandness of the ship decor, while we were processed. There is little colour in the streets, other than the green of the trees. But they are very proud of their history, and there is a huge statue of a lone soldier on a hill overlooking the city and Kola Harbour, in recognition of the young soldiers lost in the wars. It is amazing to see close up.

It has been an eye opening visit, after the incredible wealth seen in St Petersburg a few years ago, a very different city, where there is little evidence of the historic wealth of the larger southern cities. But they are strong, they have to be to survive the winter time alone – in mid winter, there is 19 minutes of daylight on the shortest day – a little time of celebration, with only around 30 days of good sun per year – a lot of cloud, and some severe storms and high winds – and the long weeks of 24 hour daylight – quite a challenge all year round.

So we sail out, with some bewildered thoughts as to how the locals do pass their days and years, and understand how the population , particularly the young, slowly drift away.

More soon

Of the birds of the air and fish of the sea, and the men who came.

2011-07-02T05:17:00.001-07:00

Once upon a time there were some birds soaring and swooping over the seas of the land of the north. They knew of many people living on those lands, and they knew they had different ways of travelling and eating and hunting. Some of the birds knew of the people of what we now know as Norway, and some knew the people called Danes, and some more knew of the groups from a place called Sweden. There were groups of people who went from these countries and travelled in long boats to other countries to trade and sometimes to be fierce warriors over the people. And the birds followed them, to see what was there. Those that flew around Norway followed their people as they sailed north and west towards Greenland, and Northern Canada – they met other birds who taught them about other lands and different fish in the sea, and how to catch different gulf streams to soar and dive, and travel to wonderful new places, but also to track back home. Those that followed the Danish folk saw a wonderful new land with green fields, and cliffs, and towns and people wanting to trade. They were happy to trade and some settled, but the birds knew that they must go back, so the currents and fish streams led them eventually home with tales of all they had seen. They had seen giant fish, with spouts of water and huge back tails, that could drown men if they weren’t careful, but looked wonderful, gentle creatures from where the birds soared, and the creatures of the water looked out at the world. Some other birds followed their people to another place, east, across seas and some mountains, to a grand, ancient land, where much trade with the east happened, and a large country was evolving. The people found cities of high standing, and the birds saw Kiev become a great place, and they came back to tell the birds of Sweden what they had seen, and birds they had met. And they came and went to these new lands and saw what men were doing. The gentle giants of the sea sailed on as great leviathans, and saw the travellers come and go, and saw the birds swoop and play, and feed off the generous sea.

And a new time came, and the birds saw new objects on the water around their lands. These were on the top of the sea, not under it. And there were travellers - not traders of fur and riches, but those taking pictures and waving, and admiring the lands, and the seas, and the birds that swooped, and the giants of the sea who blew water out, and splashed their great tails, and gently swam along, while the dolphins jumped and squealed joyfully to be in such a slip stream – it saved energy, and was great fun. And the birds loved this new plaything they found on the waters, there was warm air from its spout, not like the water spout of the whale, but a warm cushion that let them float and drift without any effort just above this floating box. And the fish were easy to catch in the wake of this box, and it was fun to glide beside it and look in at the people – looking out at them. They felt sorry for the people – they could not fly and swoop and enjoy the scenery from such a height, and move onto a new lands at a whim. And the birds knew they had friends and relatives in all those lands the early people had ventured, and perhaps those people in the floating box did too, and were trying to find them.

A town called Hammerfest, on a Saturday, at the top of the world

2011-07-02T05:15:00.000-07:00

It was a little drizzly, and not so cold – 10C, and we decided to walk into the little town – Hammerfest is very far north, and contests with Honnesvag for the title of most northerly town on the European mainland. A pleasant walk brought us to the few shops – mostly inside in a warm shopping complex the winters are so cold and dark, most shops are all in here together. The library was shut – it is Saturday, and this size town would not warrant opening. We spoke to a local who described winter in this northern part of the world. He described it as murkita (sic) or dark place – and this is more than the physical darkness for a couple of months, but the psychological issues of depression and sadness that can affect the locals and visitors.

A nice little place which seems quite content with its own quiet existence, where many are happy to spend their days and years .

We are now en route for Murmansk in Northern Russia – we have extensive directions on what paperwork we must have with us to go ashore – we do not have visas, so are limited to guided tours, which are strictly controlled – understandable and accepted.

More soon

The story so far - please read on

2011-07-01T02:19:00.000-07:00

We have been far beyond the satellite footprint, so I have been saving some thoughts to send when we returned to the modern world of instant communication - so please read this from the start - and it will bring any reader up to date with our northerly adventures.

BERGEN, NORWAY – Saturday 25 June 2011

It was a cloudy, and calm morning as we turned left out of the North sea into the islands and peninsulas that guide you to Bergen. We are now on the edge of troll country, so we approach it quietly , and the city greets us on a Saturday morning. The city already has two ships in before we are also disgorged into the streets and cafes, and tourist points. We took our time, and I even managed a sketch (not that good yet), before we took to the paths and streets. This is our third visit to this pretty place, so we have already done the main points - so we sought out the main public library, and found a lot of the same problems with old buildings and extension possibilities, and stock and expansion are common the world over. The staff of course had perfect English, and I could only respond with the hellos and goodbyes and thankyous in their Norwegian (very similar to Danish in these phrases), and felt very inadequate. Photos will be posted when we have better connection and speed.

Sunset this morning - 12.41am, sunrise – 5.41, so sleeping is quite strange – but it is getting more normal. Darkness will be significantly shorter from now as we go a long way north, on a sea day. We’ll see how what else there is to do while messing about in boats.

More soon

We are well over the ARCTIC CIRCLE, gliding past the most stunning scenery on our way to Harstad, a very cultural community in the north of Norway. There are snow capped mountains, and serious troll territory. Our daily news announces for today – the sun never sets, so we have made it to the land of the midnight sun. It is quite a surreal experience, the lack of darkness, it is so natural to us, that its absence is quite strange. Not necessarily missed, just different. We are waking very early – often around 4.00 – and there is the day already up and presenting itself in all the glory of Norwegian landscape. It is pretty cool – mild – with the gulf stream keeping the harbours warm all year. The seas are gentle – the sip is just gliding, so the ship’s company is very happy. The only unfortunate news at the moment – we may not get as far as we hoped to the polar cap – the ice is breaking up earlier, and significant drifts of ice are moving into the shipping lanes – and we are definitely not an ice breaker – we will have to wait till closer to the area. That is all part of the fabric of travel, and mother nature is in charge up here.

Have started classes again – the viking life and explorations – very interesting .I did not know how far east the Swedish Vikings moved – founding Kiev, and named by the Finlanders as the Rus – hence Russia comes to the language.

Breakfast and solid ground awaits.

More soon

Sailing through daylight all through the ‘night’, we are making our way towards Magdalene Bay, very near the Arctic ice barrier – we have been able to come further than first hoped. It is just after 6.00 am, and the sun is high and pouring into the cabin. We can already see the west side of Spitzbergen, with snow and little glaciers through the early clouds hugging the coast. Breakfast ensuite, while we get dressed in the warmest clothes we have – yesterday it only got to 6 C, pretty chilly, though the 13 laps of the track (equals 1 km) does warm you up nicely. The captain is predicting we will be in the ice flows by 8.00 – we are a very long way from home, and from much life at all. It is so amazing to see nature this raw, and pure beauty – Ill report more as we experience this incredible sight.

More soon

What an amazing day we have had. The captain informed us it was 3 C., we are 80 degrees north, 600 miles from the north pole. Incredible sights awaited as we sailed into Magdalene fjord and bay. The glaciers come down to the water, though there is quite a lot of morain – one of the speakers has noticed some comparative changes in the reach of the glaciers from a couple of years ago. The blues and greens of the sea, the ice with its subtle shades of blue at the edges – the quiet crunching of the little berger bits – (mini icebergs – these can be up to 30 metres wide – and only about 1/8 is showing above water.) It is hard to construct expressions to describe this beauty, the camera does not do it justice as the panorama is 360 degrees around us. It has to be seen and experienced. It is also very quiet – people don’t speak much, and with only a few hundred spread all round the boat – there is space for all. To know we are so far north – almost the top of the world is almost overwhelming – with a new admiration to the original explorers – even with all our modern fibres, it is still incredibly cold. How the Vikings managed in their open boats defies belief, but they did make it, and much further – all the way to Greenland and on the Canada.

Yesterday and today – the daily news announces – The sun does not set – The lowest point of the sun and the movement up the horizon coincided at 2.00am – I actually awoke around that time, to a cloudy but bright daylight, and a little fishing boat nearby – we were not quite a lone in this wilderness. It was the first sign of human life outside our vessel in over a day. The birds keep us company, and the quick ones (including us) have spotted a couple of whales (minki and orkas)

We sail on – to the edge of the permanent north ice cap. On the horizon , we saw the strange low white lines, with broken shreds of ice drifting around. That was the edge of the last stretch of ice leading to the north pole. The ship glided further. Closer till we got to the point where the ship could not safely go further – we stopped and drifted for a while, - we exclaimed how far away from the real world we were, a rubber inflatable was launched, and a couple of the crew retrieved a lump of this floating ice , a tiny gesture in this huge, demanding environment. This day has been an absolute highlight of the trip, and a memory that will remain forever. To be so far north, after such a long trip, is amazing, to be thought about long after our return. This part of the world is obviously so fragile, it does bring home the reality of what man is doing to this planet, and what may have already been irretrievably lost. Again, we find it hard to capture the scene photographically, it is beyond our abilty to capture and contain – that is how it should be.

Might go and thaw out some more –(only 3 C still) those layers do work, and I appreciate all the items that jumped into the bag.

There is still no internet – we are way too far north, (officially we are out of the satellite footprint) so all of this will be placed on the blog when the link is made again – in the meantime, the world goes on without us.

More soon

A visit to the most northerly city – with over 1000 inhabitants – Longerbyen in Spitzbergen . The first place we have visited which has warned you not to leave the city area without a guide – because of the risk of an encounter with polar bears – everyone of which you will come off the loser. So we played it safe, and found the library – and I have possibly made a significant library visit – to the most northerly public library in the world. The librarian was very helpful,(one of two members of staff) and interested in where we were from – I guess any visitors to this part of the world are welcome. It is also the first Library where I have had to take off my shoes - a common feature here – I guess due to the snow and slush everywhere –and that is fine – keeps everything very clean. All the Libraries we have visited have great lighting – in the rooms and also over shelves – a reflection of the long period of darkness in the winter months, and this one is no exception – a bright happy looking place – very clean lines and unfussy furniture.

We visited the local church – also the most northerly in the world –there they offered rubber clogs for your footwear swap (think croc style) – in various sizes in the entry porch . Photos will be attached when the links are better. Longerbyen has the feel of a frontier town – coalmining is the main occupation apart from some tourist activities, and the infrastructure of that industry dominates the town. We walked the main street – and checked out various sights and viewing points – very cold, though double the temperature from yesterday – a toasty 6 C – top temperature – a few layers are involved when dressing. ( I am feeling like the proverbial polar bear).

The daylight continues to provide curious activities - waking at 3 am – and wondering if you should really get up and make more of the opportunity. It is strange – we see night (aka darkness) as the completion of the day – it defines the boundary of each calendar day – I am still working on this one.

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Set the sails for all points north

2011-06-22T22:00:00.000-07:00

Our time in Copenhagen has finished, and our thoughts turn to the sea and boats and life on the ocean waves. This city takes you to her heart, and I am quite sad to be leaving so soon, but as it is at the heart of the northern European area, hopefully we will return one day.
We will sail out in the evening, but it is daylight till so late, it is not into the proverbial sunset - jetlag has kicked in very nicely and I am still welcoming the morning at around 4.00 - also in bright daylight - it is going to be quite an experience as we sail further north. Midsummer evening is being celebrated in Denmark tonight - with many festivities - it is worth celebrating as the winters are so cold and long.
The sea beckons, and so to bags that need to be contained so...
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When night is day, and thoughts turn to stories

2011-06-21T21:55:00.000-07:00

I woke at 4, and it was daylight - and beautiful, the city was still asleep but I was awake and out the window a snow white swan glided down the canal outside our hotel window - I wondered why it was also not sleeping - perhaps searching for food, a mate, or just enjoying the solitude before the cruise barges parade the tourists around this postcard pretty city. One can see how this lace has inspired so many stories and songs, and writings. As this trip progresses, there could be more on the question of day and night - and where it all starts.The land of the midnight sun beckons.
Exploring Copenhagen is easy - it is flat, and even with streets with extraordinarily long names, you are able to get around. The main thing is to keep to the footpaths - cyclists have their own lanes between the road and path - woe betide you if you step into their territory. We saw the royal yacht and the Queen leaving on a tour - this country dearly loves their royal family - . The Queen even left with her little royal dog - who seemed very at home with people and attention.

It is sometimes the simple things that mean a lot, and after a few months minus bananas, it is my treat for breakfast. Apologies to those still missing them.
Well, we are off to explore more and exchange the odd word in Danish, it is all part of the travel experience, and hopefully they dont wince too much at the Australian effort at just a few words - it is beautiful language when spoken (just very hard to learn!)
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Across the world to beautiful Copenhagen

2011-06-20T22:26:00.000-07:00

The trip gets longer, I am sure, but after a very hot transit in Doha, 35 at 6.00 in the morning, we arrived, a little jetlagged and happy to be on firm ground. The trip across the Middle East is amazing - so barren and inhospitable, yet the sad stories of some of those countries and peoples has so much impact on the rest of the world - you see how global impacts are becoming greater in all political and social arenas.
Copenhagen is a lovely as ususal - quite mild, and cloudy. I must confess to giving in to sleep early evening and after eight hours sleep feel almost human again, (and almost look that too - I hate to think what I looked like getting off after 22 hours!
Off exploring and meeting friends, and getting to reacquaint with the streets of this pretty city
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Happy anticipation

2011-03-29T18:22:00.000-07:00

2011 and another trip is being planned - it is all exciting and a little more adventurous - a trip up to the northern polar regions - Spitsbergen, Murmansk in northern Russia, some fjords, a little Copenhagen, and back to our beloved London. http://www.cruiseaway.com.au/special/oceania_insignia_-_lands_midnight_sun?sd=23/06/2011 This is a link to the itinerary, as it stands in March. It can always alter, but that is part of travel. The flights are booked, hotels arranged, so now it is the happy anticipation bit. I am even trying to learn a little danish, but that is another story. More soon

The owl and the pussycat went to sea, in a beautiful pea green boat.......

2010-05-09T07:36:00.000-07:00

...and then went to London to visit the Queen. Well, she is not here at the moment, as the politicians are trying to work out who will go and see her. So we are in London on our last two days. The time has gone so quickly, but it will be lovely to be home as well. We have done so much, seen so much, met some lovely people who will be friends. The holiday has seen us spend a lot of time with english folk,as the ship was principally UK passengers, and it has been an interesting expereince. I have a significant portion of english blood, so I can comment a little - they love activities in group format - the sailaway parties on the ship were group singalongs, they were usually in groups line dancing classes, lots of card games and bingo. Similar to what you imagine many will spend time in their home towns. Now everyone is waiting to see who will guide them out of the recession and slump which seems to be still pervading the country. I hope they get some perceptive leadership - they need it and deserve something better than before. I cannot say what has been the best highlight - there have been so many - sailing into and out of Venice in a ship which was taller than virtually everything in the city was a once in a lifetime experience, and every bit as amazing and jaw dropping as you hoped it would be. The sights and sounds of that city are spectacular, and even if I am never back, it has left wonderful memories. Croatia is a little gem, and I hope it never gets too commercialised. Gibralter was interesting, I never saw planes landing on such a tiny strip of land (they even have to stop the traffic on the main road from Spain, when planes take off or land! But the monkeys scared me rather, and I was pleased to be off the rock. England has been special as usual - even familiar spots have had surprises, and new vistas as the weather has been different. And it was wonderful to be back in Cornwall, the area of many of my ancestors. And to help fellow travellers with directions around this great, but slightly bewildering city is always satisfying. Tonight I will survey it from on high - the Eye, to be precise. I hope there will be a couple of photos to prove the experience. What an experience - sailing up over the sights of London as the dusk came, sipping a glasss of champagne, with two others in the capsule - and trying to absorb all the sights and record it as well. The photos do not do it justice, but I tried. There is a 3d film which you can see prior to the flight which was amazing in itself, sailing over the landmarks of London, and having seagulls appear , sprinkles of moisture, and dry ice clouds at your feet - it really gets you into the mood and ready for the flight. A thoroughly recommended must do in this city. It is time to come home, though, you get the feeling that home is calling, so ash clouds permitting we will soon be on our way, with wondeful memories, photos if any one interested, and which will remind us of special times forever. That is all

A walk in the park

2010-05-05T08:07:00.000-07:00

It is not as cold today, London has been freezing, but the sun struggled and showed a little, so we walked up through the Mall, to check on Buck House - the flowers in St James Park are still prety and make a lovely background to the Palace. St James park was full of french students on the regular field trip to London, must be a right of passage to all french children. But it is a pretty place, we spotted young squirrels, lots of ducks, and pidgeons, and some brave locals siting in the stripped deck chairs that adorn all London parks ( and you pay to use them)
The beauty of this apartment is that we were in front of the palace within around a quarter of an hour - allowing for photo stops all the way.
Earlier we walked up through the theatre district, then on towards The City - the lovely term used for the financial district, there is always something new to see, but at the moment, there is a lot of road work and city beautyfying going on - I think the Olympics is an excuse for a lot of city work now, but the sad thing is that that a lot of buildings are also getting permanent bollard structures in front of the for security, a sign of the times.
The only news is the election - it will be interesting to see the country wake up to most probably a new governement, of sorts, as it could well be a hung parliament. We are off on a train again tomorrow - Liverpool, so will have a lovely day through the midlands.
We wait with baited breath to see if the ash cloud develops again, some flights in the north were closed this morning, but opened again later - it seems to be a day by day issue at the moment.

A wet Sunday in London

2010-05-02T05:36:00.000-07:00

The forcast predicted it. And sure enough we woke to a cold , wet day - London has not forgotten about winter yet. But we rugged up (memo - always bring those warm clothes. I have worn every item of clothing I packed, only regret I took out the puffa jacket!). So we rugged up and after buying an umberella, we set off for a walk in London on a wet Sunday morning. It was lovely and invigorating, even if quite soggy. The city has quite another character, grey and a little sad, with lots of large puddles, evidence of nonexistant drainage in places. We walked the bordges - Lambeth to Waterloo, the Embankment, and admrred those going on the Wheel in the rain, not sure what they would see. We wandered back to our unit, a little damp, to change, and peruse the wonderful London Sunday papers - they are huge, with large plastic bags of extras (why dont we do that - stops them all falling out).
We spent lunch and a little of the afternoon at the Sherlock Holmes pub a minute from where we are staying - a wonderful example of the little English pub, with a glass of wine and fish and chips which only the Brits can do, and the best sticky toffee pudding ever. We felt just like locals, with the rain coming down, and all cosy and warm inside. For those here in the winter, the temps dont seem to have moved far!
So now I can catch up on the blog and emails, and regroup for the last full week, we will be home before we know it - I am missing my puppies badly now.
The trip to Penzance was lovely with the country so green, the lambs alll bounding round or snuggling with mum, and the little towns all inviting . ( I think I am off lamb for a while)
I will put some more photos to the trip[ reports as time permits,and add more thoughts to those put down in haste as the satellite permitted.
Even in the wet, London is full of surprises and some nice things
More soon

Some reflections from land and London

2010-04-28T10:57:00.000-07:00

The train whisked us through the 'green and pleasant land', away from Southampton, and back to the city. The fields were so green, and some blossom is still there. We had sailed into the Solent about dawn, and disembarked mid morning. It is hard to believe we seen so much, travelled so far in a few days, and as I write, the ship is heading out again to the Canaries. It was a wonderful trip. One of my special ports was Korcula, a little island and port on the Dalmation coast, part of Croatia. It was a pretty place, with a wonderfully preserved historical town, reflecting the many nationalities who have conquered the country over the centuries, Italians, Greece, Romans. The people still seem to live very simple, happy lives, very welcoming and proud of their country. They are so pleased to show you their history, but you are just welcome to see how they live day to day, and I loved it. The scenery is beautiful, you can see why it is becoming so popular as a holiday destination for people from all over Europe.
There have been soo many highlights, sailing into Venice on a sunny spring morning was something we will never forget, the photos hardly do the experience justice, all I will say is that the pictures in travel books and brochures do not lie, it is every bit as beautiful and amazing as is said. That said, it was also very crowded, and it must be pretty hard going in the summer months. It is VERY expensive, the cups of coffee were commented on - we just walked and, looked. The handbag salesmen on the street are pretty intimidating - they come right into a group, and stand in front of you. The rules in the city are that the person buying the bag can be fined heavily (thousands) if caught buying - in an effort to get rid of the trade. It is not nice when they are right in your face. (Should have bought a mask). We saw gondolas, though a lot were waiting for customers. They are very expensive - I just did not want more swaying, so was happy to just look. The hundreds of bridges are wonderful, they are everywhere, and turning 360 degrees can show several in sight. It is very easy to get lost, but in a nice way. It is weird to be in a city with no cars. We saw the floating trucks - barges with a semi trailer on the back that go along the canals delivering - I wondered how they got goods in.
There was so much to see, and so little time, but the sail in and out of this fairytale city was just stunning. We seemed so big and brutal beside the delicate features of the city sitting so precariously in the water.
We had a pretty easy time on the water - very few very rough days, the worst being when we could not get into Malaga - so we were lucky. The ship had a few Australians on the crew - shop crew mainly, and they appreciated having a little Anzac service. There were a few tears after, as homesickness hits a little. We did not find any other Australians in the passengers.
Now we are back in London, with the news all about the election (with the odd gaff from the Prime minister being played over continually). Voting is not compulsory, but there seems to be a feeling that there could be changes afoot here in the govt. Greece is causing huge economic problems, and I am pleased we dont have too many euros - the currency is having a few problems. That is the end of the news bulletin
I still feel as though I am on the water a little - feel as though I am going up and down, so we will go and walk the embankment, and absorb the ambience of this city that seems to pull us in. It is hard to explain.
More soon

Sailing home

2010-04-26T00:40:00.000-07:00

There was a band, a lot of people waving the union jack as we sailed from Gibralter, that little UK outpost. As "highland cathedral' was played, the tears came to my eyes, and we waved farewell not only to the Rock, but the last port of call before Southampton. It is hard to think it is almost all over, and it has been wonderful. I will report about Korcula, a pretty little island and town on the Dalmation coast later (wireless is about to run out), I think Croatia is my new favourite place after Northern Europe.
R became the first chaplain to take an Anzac day service on Azura, with over 100 people coming to support the aussies - I will write more from London - losing the wireless all the time, speak from London
More son

A new Dunkirk for travellers

2010-04-22T05:32:00.000-07:00

The headlines all say - bring us home / the ships are coming
It has been interesting to be on this side of the world in the middle of the results of the ash cloud and consequent airline problems. Ther were huge issues here, with so many trapped in counrties and ports and airports with no chance of getting out soon. Apparently they will take a week or more to clear them all. The shiip had problems with staff unable to get to the ship for duties, and others with no way to get home. The navy has ships going to Spain, and Calais has so many they cannot cope with the numbrs for the ferries. You soon realise how reliant we are on various transport methods, and when it goes wrong, we are marooned, physically and perhaps mentally. There must be huge numbers of Australians who will have trouble getting back to Australia - the flights are full usually anyway without extras. It was an odd feeling knowing that in an emergency we could not get home for a few days at least. Another piece in the travel patchwork.
More soon

Venice - words are not enough

2010-04-22T05:22:00.000-07:00

I had been afraid to think that it may not be as beautiful as portrayedin photos and travellers tales, or the weather may fail us, but as we sailed into this magical city, it all became wonderful. The canals opened up a wonderful scape of the old buildings, we saied past St Marks square, with the famous pillars at the waterfront, past numerous bridges, to a berth up near the train station (for those familiar with the city layout). We got a boat to the main area near the sqaure, and wlaked, saw Doges Palace, and St Marks, saw huge crowds, gondaliers waiting for their fares - not too many, thewy charge at least $80 per passenger for 30 minutes - very expensive, and they rock quite alarmingly. The sun shone and we saw this wonderful city at its best. the doges Palace is partially covered with huge advertising bill boards now - the only way they can raise the money to repair the buildings. The crowds were huge, and I must say we were pleased we did a guided tour - very intimidating to confront such a city layout with no experience, and no language. It is an amzing place and we are thrilled we saw it in such a way, and to sail in and out - as I said words are not sufficient, it an experience like no other in travelling, and I will compose more words later.

More soon

The postacrds do not lie

2010-04-20T11:43:00.000-07:00

We sailed into a glorious dawn and found Dubrovnik waiting. There was a large part of the official city band up early to greet us, and then we were off. They are the first to have physiaclly checked the passports, but I did not get a stamp. I like a stamp to prove I am here.
It is a lovley city and we waked the old town, investigating the tiny lanes off the Placa, a main thoroughfare through the old wall. There were market areas, and naturally a lot of souvenier stalls. Many commented on the high price of everything from goods to refreshments. There is also a tax for rebuilding Dubrovnik built into all purchases. Little mention is made of their past troubles of some years ago, and they seem a very strong people committed to a new country and time. We loved the little and not so little vegetable gardens every house seems to have, the laneways where the washing is hanging above people siting at tiny cafe tables having their morning coffee and a chat. It was a lovely day wandering the streets in the balmy sunshine, the water had an azure quality to the colour and it was very much the postcard look we had hoped maybe there. The streets are clean, and there is a sense of pride, even in the officials checking buses as we left the Port, the ban dwho played, and the street vendors. Andthere was a lady I watched from the our deck alcony, as we sailed off - putting the washing out on a line from her front window. The house looked old but so cared for, and I could imagine the simple things that made he life. She seemed

A day in Greece

2010-04-19T03:10:00.000-07:00

Corfu appeared out of the mist.It wasnt sunny and postcard perfect, but an early exploration of the pretty town revealed a lovely sojurn - especially before two ship loads of tourists a ppeared. (The cecret is to be on one of the early shuttle buses and beat them all)There are tiny lanes with 3 and four story buildings revealing a glory of past times, holding hands with clothes lines strung between, and weather beaten shutters. The elderly men are out greeting one another and the shops putting out their wares,(I wonder how much is genuinly local or from China), but they add colour to the streets.
The laneways reveal all sorts of treasures, tiy apothacaries, little barber shops, where the barber must know all the locals and spend more time chatting than cutting, and it will all be good.The local priest wanders down the street, in his big black hat and black robes greeting so many he knows, and there are the carzy vespa riders, weaving everywhere.
The bus drivers who ferry us form the ship to town are amazingly silled. The parking is chaotic, driving worse than Paris (though apparently better than Naples!) ad we are amazed how he weaves the bus down tiny streets and did not scrape a single car. The nonchalant look on drivers face revealed this is apparently the norm Corfu welcomes you in its cosy casual way, and invites you to accept their ways as special and good for them and visitors while you are with them. It was lovely, even without the sun
More soon

A Saturday at sea

2010-04-17T03:35:00.000-07:00

Sailing off the coast of Tunisia, beauitful blue sea and sunny day - a perfect day to be at sea.

If anyone is interested and checked the itinerary, there will be noted a number of sea days - travelling days -no docking, just sailing from one point to the next. So what do we do on these days. After six days at sea and solid tuition from R, I can get myself around the ship, just about. 'Ill see you at breakfast' initially meant I'd find him the next day. But it is sorted now, and the big ship allows for a lot of exploration, many laps of the promenade deck. Today we are in class quite alot. R has discovered a great lecturere on history, especially naval, so they already kindred spirits. I am going to one on Venice, and then one on MArco Polo (born in Venice)Together with reading, doing some emails,and the blog when possible, the time is flying. Which is not what is happeneing in Europe - the news is taken over with the dramas of teh volcanic cloud and huge no fly zone now over Europe, -as of now, all UK air space is closed and getting worse.
We are sailing off Tunisia, enroute to Greece. It is a huge shipping lane - at one tme we noted 13 ships in our sights.
More soon

A different port to expectations

2010-04-17T03:20:00.000-07:00

We have come to Palmo on Majorca> It has been a destination of choice for many British to retire, though the GFC has apparently seen an exodus of some who cannot financially manage in this little tax haven. The seafront is lined with those unfortunate bland high rise condominiums that dictate the personality of such retirement areas. However we have done a walk around the area, seen the huge Cathedral which dominates the city skyline. It is a gorgeous day the sun is shining and the balmy temperature has bought many passengers to their deck chairs. We may dine 'en suite'for lunch! It has dramatically changed for the better since the wild weather that drove us off from Malaga.Majorca was quite mountainous and the city quite hilly to walk.In the perfect weather it is easy to see the attraction of Palmo for retirement. And the port has some seriously equipped yachts, the playthings of the rich and famous.
I sounded a little cynical or sarcastic of Palmo, and I must do it justice in its architecture and history. There is obviously a big Moorish influence in style and colour and the old castle and towers bear testament to the old ramparts which fought off the hoards in ages past. These structures sit boldly beside the modern blocks of housing and holiday lets. More soon

In port and sea

2010-04-15T00:47:00.000-07:00

We are sitting off Malaga as I send this, wallowing in a big swell. Naturally the Captain does not want to bang up his new ship, and the port is closed so it may well be that we move on elsewhere. The sea was really rough coming through the Straits of Gibralter. But we have adopted the Sailor's swagger quite nicely, so all is well with us. The Captain is currently telling us that we will not be going in - so will turn away and will go in to Palma tomorrow morning - a half day call - but it is all new,and these things are part of the fabric of travelling.
Have raided the Library naturally, and got some light reading - Jane Green, Michael Dobbs, and the Queen Mothers official biography! Will go back for more today. The IT man in the Library is great, and spent a couple of hours getting us running on wireless. All good now.
Will report on another day. More soon

Off to sea in a beautiful pea green boat

2010-04-13T00:52:00.000-07:00

There was a band, a blessing, everyone waved the Union Jack, and we were off. A rousing rendition of Land of hope and glory saw us leaving the wharf and waving to people who had lined a pier to watch the ship off on its maiden voyage. It was lovely to be gently rocked to sleep at sea, and this morning we are off the south coast of France heading towards the Bay of Biscay, which can be temperamental at the best of times.
We are in the lower demographics of the ship by quite a long way, which is nice for a change, with very few children and young people. The majority are very much in the retirement phase - a couple were surprised we had come such a long way on annual leave.
Off to explore the ship - I have already checked out the library. The wireless is having problems finding our pc, so we wont get any photos attached till London, probably. We will log on every couple of days to check and keep taking notes of all our experiences. So far so good. The sea is quite pleasant, though a force 8 gale is predicted.
More soon.

Our 2010 Holiday - Afloat!

2010-04-11T23:46:00.000-07:00

My heart skipped a beat as the plane did the last hard bank on approach over London and you get a wonderful view of the noted landmarks as landing approaches. It is wonderful to be back, and the city and counrtyside has put on a beautiful spring gown of yellow daffodils, jonquils and buebells in the gardens and parks and verges everywhere. After the grim winter , nature is showing off.
The flight was fine, and now we are in Southampton about to board Azura. She was officially named on Saturday night and we had a spectacular fireworks display over the city as she was welcomed. We have already done a couple of train trips - went to Salisbury, and the cathedral yesterday - it is the first time we have seen the front of it without scaffolding and it is a wonderful sight. We were in time for the Eucharist and saw the procession of choir and clergy all very grand. The font is huge , and is a water feature in itself. The larger version of it is in Prince Charles garden at Highgrove.
The countryside is so green now after all the snow, and more recent rains, the creeks are very full and there are lots of little lambs.
Photos are of landing in Doha and two from Salisbury on a beautiful spring sunday morning.
We are packing now for the ship, and as I send this, the ship is sitting in the harbour right in front of us.
Off to some more adventures. More soon.

Two days, three countries, four trains, and sign off

2008-09-07T07:43:00.000-07:00

We set out at dawn on Saturday, and by mid morning we were out of Brussells, on the way to Amsterdam. It is fascinating to see the countryside unfold, and the different styles of farms between UK, France, Belguim and Holland. The last of the hyacinths were still in bloom in the fields, and the flatness of the dutch landscape intrigued us. There were little boats moored in canals between the fields, and looked as if they were on the same level, a brief shower of rain enough to flaot them into the field. It looked so neat and prosperous, a very pretty landscape.
Amsterdam on a Saturday afteroon was quite another experience. The streets were a sea of people, and bikes. They are a bike people. The photo to the left is the three level parking area in just one point for the bikes - it tells the story. They seem to coexist quite happily with the trams, which zip around everywhere, and cars and pedestrians. It was a most hectic and eyeopening city. Ofcourse the water ways and canals have such a charm, they are the personality of the city.
We felt we needed to be careful as to which streets we wandered into at night, and still saw some interesting sights! The hotel room even had a note that the use of drugs will incur an extra housekeeping charge - not something we you regularly across . But there seemed to be a wonderful spirit of acceptance in the city, - everyone is accepted.
The trip involved a change of train both ways, but they were both high speed intercity trains (one was the Eurostar), and a great way to travel The announcements on the train were made in french, dutch, and english. Never was english first - it puts you in your place .It is a fun way to see the countryside and have a meal as well. For Australians travelling, a Britrail pass, and the consequent discount on Eurostar, first class travel is quite feasible without stretching the budget, and meals and drink are all included. A couple of small bottles of french wine were appreciated as the countryside and cities flew by.
The trip is just about over, this will be the last posting,as we attempt to compress our worldly goods into the cases again. It has been the most amazing and enlightening experience. We have seen so much, done so many things, and have enjoyed being back in our beloved London. I have just returned from a wander up to Covent Garden, and come back through Trafalgar Square, and thought how lucky I am to have had this time here.
I think there must be a notice issued somewhere that I am coming over, as each time there have been awful storms and flooding. The first time, ten years ago, they called them the forty year floods. And they have arrived each time. This weekend, they are mopping up again, so it is time I left the country.
We have been mistaken for British, and New Zealanders, never Australians, but when we say where we are from, everyone without exception says either how lovely they found the country when they visited, or how lovely it looks and they would love to go. (Usually the reason is - just too far on the plane) And we agree and know, even after all the beautiful and amazing sights we have seen, and interesting things we have done, Australia is the best place.
Thank you to anyone who has visited my blog and especially to those who left such nice comments. It is much appreciated.
We know it is time to come home.
See you soon

It's London and its raining

2008-09-05T06:39:00.000-07:00

Poor Londoners have really missed their summer this year - it is pouring - over pretty much the whole country, and not much warmer than home. It is rather humid - it could easily be Sydney. Not to worry, umbrellas up and set off to check out a couple of favourite shops in Oxford St, after refreshing the use of the London Underground and my trusty Oyster card. Why Melbourne cannot adopt a similar ticketing system is beyond me - it seems so easy to use. I felt quite the local when I was able to give directions to someone else as to which line they needed .
For most of the 'High St' shops, I think we are very well served at home. There are some common names, but Gap and Zara are popular sources of some good items if your are not able to move into top end shops. It is all fun just checking out a few, especially as the Autumn gear is now in ( and plenty of summer goods on special!). Colours are the predictable grey, black with a few highlights of cherry and red/orange. Ofcourse, there is a big emphasis on heavy coats which are not on the radar for Australians.
The UK economy seems to be really slowing - headlines abound as to what is happening. Between that and the weather, the general attitude appears to be in the doldrums. Public transport costs are going up about 6-10% next Jan.
I am back to cooking and shopping so it is a gradual drift back to the real world now. The weekend will be a couple of fast train trips as we check out Amsterdam. It is just a quick trip and as much for the travel as the destination. Rain is predicted, so brollies on board! We are only away 24 hours, it is amazing how easy it is to get into Europe, without getting involved with airports.
This time next week, it will all be over bar the jetlag
Round up later

Almost back where we started

2008-09-04T03:49:00.000-07:00

The morning leaving Dublin spectacular, pink and yellow sunrise as we headed for the ferry port to cross the Irish Sea. The ferry was quite big which was fortunate as the weather turned on us fairly quickly (that old saying about the pink sky in morning was 'bang on!'
We set sail and almost immediately the wind and rain set in - it was far rougher than we had the whole cruise and that includes the notorious North Atlantic. Still, we are old sea dogs now, and managed well except for the drunken sailor walk. The sea wall was been pelted with high waves as we came into Holyhead.
The train back to London was a more stable mode of transport and a nice relief from the tossing on the waves. The was intermittent sun and heavy rain against the lovely English countryside. Some of the fields of hay and lucerne have been harvested, and the fields resembled draught boards with giant round chequers of hay bails all upright and perfect. There were rainbows, and pretty villages and those typical lanes and hedgerows as we passed by.
As is always the way, plans came a little adrift with travel, and we had to change trains at Crewe. It is a huge station, and in the pouring rain not the easiest when you have to drag your worldly goods behind you. Still, in typical railway style, we managed to get an earlier train than we thought as it was running an hour late!
London waited at the exit of Euston, and back to our Trafalgar Square temporary home. It is quite a treat to go round to shops and get the groceries like a local - a little dose of reality is needed now - we are on the homeward treck.London needs to be checked out though, before the rain sets in again tomorrow, so off we go.
More soon

We cross the water again, and find Dublin

2008-09-02T07:56:00.000-07:00

It was a very warm afternoon as we flew out of JFK. We had managed to negotiate it succesfully - terminal 4 is very new and sleek, with lots of light. It is very much self help in check in - you do the lot, and dont need to see anyone at the desk if you only have carry on pieces. Needless to say, we didn't. The security check is the usual humerous scene of everyone stepping out of shoes, holding up pants which are minus belts, and even scarves are removed. The the process slows while we all pause to reattire ourselves with a little dignity.
We thought we would have a quick takeoff as we left the gate early. No way. We were still in a queue on the tamac three quarters of an hour later - this is quite normal, so you just have to go with the flow. We smiled as the pilot described the route to be taken - up the coast past Nantucket, Martha's vineyard, and up over Nova Scotia - and leave the coast around Halifax - a repeat of our trip south. There was a stunning sunset as we flew from the dusk into dark, always a sight that catches your breath.
I love Dublin. It looked so pretty in the half light that we landed in, a fast check in , and we were on our way . We have seen Trinity College,the Long Room of course - the old library where the books were ordered - by size - largest on the bottom - to the tiniest on the impossibly high top shelves. The Book of Kells, in its atmospheric controlled room and display is a real wonder. The work in it is so detailed, the more you look at it, the more figures and details are revealed. And when you think of its age, it is an incredible survivor.
The streets of Dublin seem busy the whole day - a huge number of buses provide an extensive public transport system, together with trams, and little green trains. It is not that hilly, and very English, of course in much of the architecture. The people seem very friendly, and the lilting irish brogue is lovely to hear. It rained quite heavily on and off, so we dodged some showers, and did what we could in the few hours we are here. The pace of life is what you make it here, but it looks quite prosperous considering the economic slowdown everywhere.
We walked through St Stephens Green, a green oasis with water and pretty gardens The River Liffey flows through the city, and has graceful bridges at intervals. And of course any English graduates think of the the novelists and poets who have emanted from this part of the world, let alone all the notables from Trinity College.
Dublin is a city I hope we can get back to one day, and we can see it at a more leisurely pace.

More soon

New York in retrospect

2008-08-31T11:26:00.000-07:00

New York on a Sunday has a different feel. Central Park is full of people walking and riding and picnicking, and sleeping, doing yoga – it is the real lungs of the city and the playground for people and their pets. I never realised how big it is. It is very warm, though the humidity has eased so it is easier to be outside.

I did say previously we had managed the metro. A little premature – we set off for Wall St and the ground zero area. We ended up over in Brooklyn as we could not follow the announcement on the train, which normally went downtown. Not to worry, we regrouped and got back to where we meant to be. Wall St is just as it looks in the press. A lot of the buildings have pavement barricades so you cannot get close, and a lot of police seem to be evident. The photo is just beside the NY stock exchange, looking towards Trinity Church which was a focal point for the locals on 9/11

The World Trade area was quiet – they have started to rebuild – people in the area were not talking, just moving quite respectfully past. Photo taking seems too disrespectful. It is indeed sacred ground, no matter what is constructed in the future.

There was Second St market on yesterday – street stalls on both sides of the road for a number of blocks, today it is our street – Avenue of the Americas, or 6^th st. Stalls everywhere selling the same things they do the world over. Only difference is the wording in the T shirts.

The hotel room is 43 floors up, so I guess we are a little far to hear the sirens at night, but apart from the odd fire truck, I am surprised at not hearing more police sirens particularly. There are signs in the streets – no honking – you are fined quite heavily. An effort in reducing noise pollution I guess.

We leave tomorrow and I will not be teary the way I am when flying out of UK. New York has been a fascinating, eye opening experience, but I have to admit I haven’t got attuned to its character. I am doing it a great injustice, I guess. You would need to spend a long time here to get the personality and rhythm that is this unique and fast moving city. It would need a great deal of energy to handle that. There are world class art galleries and museums , theatre and style to be explored, but three days does not permit that level of exploration. (particularly when you hit the city on a holiday weekend, and the US Open being held. This hotel alone is probably the biggest we have ever stayed in and is full – the lobby is packed all the time with people coming and going.

So we will pack and move on for more adventures

More soon

Blog -New York and how we have walked

2008-08-30T13:36:00.000-07:00

It was raining as we woke this morning, but by the time we were ready to go , the weather was clearing and it has become a very warm, sunny and very humid day. You have to admire the tennis players at the US Open, a few miles away. We launched out armed with maps, not too visible, good walking shoes, and some determination to see as much as we could without stressing that you will never see it all. In NY you seem to sight see by looking up a lot – the building s are so tall, and the variety of architecture and construction styles is incredible. A lovely art deco apartment block will be snuggled up to a huge modern glass construction that grazes the clouds. And the decoration on the older buildings is a fascinating juxtaposition in a mega city of bustle and modern life. We saw the Empire State building and discussed the films you know so well – An affair to remember and its modern partner Sleepless in Seattle,the Chrysler Buidling, a lovley art deco eample, with clever car features embedded within the toal structure; the United Nations building (North by northwest); the flags were not up though as they are not in session – the summer recess., we cruised through Grand Central Station – incredible in its decor inside – a feature in so many films, and the arrivals point for millions of immigrants and travellers. It is worth a visit for anyone in NY, not just train fans. The majority of long haul trains go from Penn station – not nearly so inviting – a purpose built structure – no character at all. Passed Radio City music hall, Madison Square Garden, checked out Macy’s ground floor - just like Myers, nothing of note. I dare not breath the air of the majority of the shops on Fifth Avenue – all the usual players, and really, not a lot that is not seen in Sydney and Melbourne. The fall clothes are in, girls, there still seems to be cropped jackets, and the colours in Gap were grey and a cherry red, good combination.
Some of the streets were quite empty for a Saturday morning. We mastered the Metro underground system). A little hesitation in trying to get the tickets, but after some guidance from a friendly local through the myriad of choices, we were off to the other end of Central Park on the train – fast, reasonably clean. The tracks are more doubles than the single way in London, and the tracks are quite close to the surface - so when changing from one line to another, you often have to come above ground, cross the road, and go down again. We went to visit to the huge Cathedral of St John the Divine. In the brochure, it is listed as the largest cathedral in the world – we were surprised, but it is massive, and we have seen some pretty big ones in UK. It is undergoing a lot of repair and continual building – it is no yet complete. In Dec 2001 it suffered a significant fire, and there is still evidence of that. But it is a beautiful, clean design and the soaring pale pillars and wonderful stained glass windows are awe inspiring.

Overall, we felt better about the city than we did yesterday; it is still huge, but I guess the locals get to know their little corner of it and that is that. It is fast, and very impersonal, pretty dirty in places, and there are the intriguing columns of steam that come through the gratings in the road, from the pipes and subterranean world of New York. It is a city that demands you ride on its terms, it will not bend to yours, so keep with the flow, or you will be left behind. Even the traffic signals are somewhat ignored in order to get where you want quickly. We will have to watch that when we return.

There will be more exploring tomorrow, down the financial end of town, so another venture on the metro. But first, rest the feet a little....and do the blog while the thoughts are fresh

More soon

The big apple and indigestion

2008-08-29T17:12:00.000-07:00

The alarm was on for 4.00 so we would not miss a moment of the arrival into NY. We sailed under the Narrows Bridge, an amazing site in the darkness, the buoys in the Hudson river flashed red, and have a bell that rings on them as well, quite eery in the stillness of the new day. The ship could hardly be heard - just glided through the morning. we then all gathered on the left (port/ side for the famous lady with the torch. You know what she looks like - in the half light the photos dont look great, but she still looked serene and proud. (Her index finger that holds the torch up, is over eight feet tall alone. It is an impressive site.
Then was the sad time to leave the ship, and the challenge of US customs. The finger prints were taken photos taken, passports checked and questions asked. And then we were through - the touts ready to pounce on the unsuspecing tourists fighting for taxis. My other half conquered it all, and we got into a famous yellow cab. The ride was something else -Im not sure how we got to the hotel, but we did.
It is a full on scary place, this city of so many diversities, and surprises. It is noisy and fast, and no one cares for anyone or so it seems. But we found Tiffanys, and Saks, and Times Square, and walked most of Fifth Avenue, and looked up a lot, to see how this city stretches its fingers to the clouds. (Photos were taken in Fifth Ave)
After a sleep, we will launch into the streets again, and see what the city wants to show us. I have to admit to feeling quite out of depth in this city. I guess after having spent time in London, I have forgotten it takes a long time to find yourself in a big city, and this one may be just too much for me. We'll see.

More soon

The bags are out

2008-08-28T15:26:00.000-07:00

All good things have to end, and so does this adventure. We have seen so much and done much. We have sailed past icebergs and walked miles through Scandinavia and Nova Scotia. We never thought we would see anything of Greenland, but we sailed the Prince Christiansen fjord and saw the most glorious glacier formations, and reflections, ice fields and mini icebergs in all shapes and sizes. We saw Bergen in the sunshine, and walked Copenhagen, and got to ride over the huge bridge to Malmo in Sweden. And now we start a new adventure. We are currently off the coast of Nantucket – suddenly all these names from novels and films come alive.

It is always a little sad leaving a ship. It has been your home, and safety, and friend in a foreign port, welcoming you back from a day exploring. And now we are being sent on our way.

New York – we are labelled (green luggage – disembark 10.30am). Then we are on our own in the big city. It will be exciting and a little scary at first, but I am sure we will get the hang it.

More soon

Halifax in the rain

2008-08-27T16:32:00.000-07:00

Yes, the rain followed us ,but it is still a warm, friendly city. We were met in the harbour by a little tug boat, appearing to have a hat on. A further check showed a little face, it was Theodore Too. Just as Thomas the engine has a following, Theodore is a character in a children’s tale, and is also an active escort in the harbour. There was a bagpipe band and the town cryer as well on the wharf. Quite a welcome. It might have rained for most of the day, but as I do this there is a gorgeous pink and red sunset over the water as we head south towards New York.

The rain was solid but we checked out the Maritime Museum – now I am not a big museum fan, but this had artefacts from the Titanic together with photos, and a huge model of the ship itself. There was another event in 1917 which had a much larger loss of life when an ammunition ship was hit in the harbour by another ship, and drifted towards shore when the crew realised what was to happen. The resultant explosion was the biggest manmade explosion on earth until the atomic bombs in Japan. Over 100,000 were killed and blocks of residential areas of Halifax were totally demolished. To my ignorance, I had never heard of this event. Some of the displays are amazing.

We checked out the main street, the Anglican church of St Paul, built in the Wren tradition, 40 years before the founding of Australia. It reinforces how young we really are.

We are on the homeward run, with the morning lecture on what to do for leaving the ship in New York. I can see a paper trail developing. The Canadians were strict, needing to check full passport or drivers licence as well as ship identity. But I can see the US being very strict, so we will sit at the front of the class.

I am going to miss the gentle rocking to sleep by the ship, not having to think about preparing meals (that starts again in London), the wonderful sunrise and sunset that happens outside our door, the ever changing vistas and the new experiences that happen as you travel in this style.

You may see ads for the lifestyle on the waters. I will tell you what I haven’t done on board – I did not use the spa – expensive, and they try to sell product all the time. I am too old as well – the girls are so young and pretty, it is too intimidating. I did not do the cookery classes – too much like work. I did not play the casino – I could not work a slot machine if I tried, though my other half tried to explain blackjack (21), and that was too much.

But we did walk the deck - 3 times round is a mile, so we mounted up the miles. We enjoyed the food, though we kept it simple. We enjoyed breakfast in our suite watching the world go by, waved to people waving at us a s we arrived and left the ports, drank wine on our balcony and thought we were pretty lucky to do all of this.

More soon

Anne’s Country

2008-08-26T10:09:00.000-07:00

I have always had a fondness for this part of Canada, though I have never been here. As an Anne of Green Gables fan, these places have featured in the tales, and were known from my childhood. Sydney may be mentioned, though I cannot remember, but the people of this city turned on a warm welcome, and all the locals seemed happy to see us. They gave way generously at traffic crossings, when we forgot to look the opposite way –left then right. The people in the street were friendly, and I even found the mobile library about to depart. She had a rotation of twelve different routes in a pretty old style bus (like a typical American school bus).And of course I checked out the Library – naturally, they were inundated with people off the ship all trying to get free internet. I felt for the Library staff –been there, done that!

There are pretty two and three story clap board houses, gently coloured in complimenting hues, but some also showing signs of the harsh northern winters, with quite a coat of moss on roof and northern sides. There are signs on the buildings at the wharf here - - beware of falling ice and snow. Says it all. The main street is nothing special, a strange feel almost of the Wild West or frontier towns of the past, very wide, and shops without many verandas – I guess due to heavy snow dumps.

I could imagine Anne Shirley feeling at home amongst these friendly people.

More soon

St Pierre and all that fog

2008-08-26T03:31:00.002-07:00

More correctly, the name of the little piece of France off the east coast of Canada is St Pierre et Miquelon. This tiny place appeared out of the fog this morning. We had been woken by the fog horn sounding a lonely call in the mist and half light of morning. After cancelling our organised tour, we took off on the path into the town on our own. Only a few meters away, the ship had disappeared in the fog. A tiny geography break – we are just beneath the Gulf of Labrador, the warm currents coming up from the south and the cooler water from the north a meeting, fogs are a huge feature for much of the year.

. Only 6000 people live here – speak French, use euros, a little piece of France. So we practiced our french again, replied to the usual greetings appropriately (I hope), and explored. I have some French blood, but I have to be honest and ask why they stop here. A pleasant enough little fishing town, with a big police station, and hilly streets, colourful weatherboard houses but little else we could see. I did smile over the cars, so many seem to drive (rather erratically, like all French drivers), those wonderful little Renault vans used in the Pink Panther movies. I expected to see Inspector Cleuseaut any moment.

We move on to Canada again tomorrow, Sydney and then Halifax (for Anne of Green Gable fans, a little highlight) so only a couple more days of the sea life. (The internet is still far too slow to get photos onto the blog, so will work on them in a day or so)

More soon

The Eurodam Waltz

2008-08-26T03:31:00.001-07:00

I mentioned in a previous posting how the ship develops a personality with the sound of the horn, and the operational sounds. Last night it was confirmed with the amazing departure from St Johns. We had been told about the departure music in the harbour – as we blew the horn three times which is normal as you leave the dock, all the other ships in the little harbour – freighters, local fishing boats, coastal traders and oil boats, and private vessels, all started sounding their horns in salute at the maiden departure from their port, of a ne ship. There were lots of people lining the wharf, and all along the cliff face as we again navigated the very narrow entrance to the harbour. The sound of the horns – others blowing, then our ship replying, was echoing round the cliffs and hills at the back of the city. This was called the Eurodam waltz. An experience that will not be repeated any time soon. I could imagine all the ships, big and small , all trying to outdo each other to call out their greetings and farewells. A tissue was needed.
More soon

Out in the blue, and we find Newfoundland

2008-08-26T03:30:00.001-07:00

We sailed 782 nautical miles straight, from Greenland to Newfoundland. That was another sea day. What does one do on a sea day? You catch up on blog writing (our technique is to put them as word docs, and then when we get to port, or a reasonable patch of internet availability, and then upload to the blog site. We had to practice our balance technique a little, as we encountered force 8 gales. Walking on the deck was a challenge, but you really felt you were at sea. This was coming down through the Labrador sea. These days are also handy to catch up on films you haven’t seen, with a dvd in your room standard now. We haven’t had outside tv reception for days, so the world could be in strife and little would reach us. The ship does download a news summary from various national newspapers. We receive Australian and US, but it always seems to be sports. The shops of course are open when we are at sea, to encourage duty free shopping – not really feasible for Australians who still have a long way to go.
We were told the entry in to St Johns would be very précise and delicate, the largest ship to ever enter their harbour. It was a glorious morning, and a soft warm wind, blowing off the gulf stream. A pilot had to be boarded, and there were people lining the cliffs of the cliffs lining the harbour entrance. The ship glided in through an very small gap, and we spun 360 to line up at the wharf, a street away from the centre of the city. (The ship can spin on itself and turn completely – it must be amazing to see from te shore)
St Johns is a hilly city, 150, 000 population, has its own university, ad a mixed industry, obviously fishing as part, but oil is a major player now, so is a very wanted friend with the mainland. The houses are very similar in style, several stories high, gables in the roof, majority in weatherboard, and many different colours. House owners are only able to change the colour, not the style, or take off shutters and other features. For those who have seen San Francisco, there is a great similarity. The locals seem friendly, though after a summer of ships, and tourist invasions, I guess a few are looking forward to their long cold winter a little.
I thank anyone who has read this little travel tale, and appreciate any comments.
Tonight as we leave there is to be a musical send off from the shore, so more will be said of this pretty and surprising little Canadian outpost.
More soon

Iceland to Greenland

2008-08-24T10:02:00.001-07:00

It was 5.30am and we were scrambling out of bed for icebergs – not what you expected, but this was quite surreal – light was just penetrating the gloom of night and there was a large iceberg floating just near the ship. It is one of those moments you remember, when you see one of these huge creations – yes, the colours are amazing – blue to aqua at the base and almost transparent in parts. Considering there is 70% under water, their size is significant. We glided through Prince Christian Sound at the base of Greenland as dawn broke, and proceeded through the fjords seeing glaciers, and more icebergs, and small floating ice pieces. Fog descended again, and as I write this, the fog horn is sounding again. We saw a small weather research outpost, where a couple of hardy souls came out on their little boat to see us. It was freezing and glorious all at once, and most of the passengers were out to absorb as much as we could.

I wrote of the sounds of the ship a couple of posts ago. I did not know of the sound of the ice. We glided so silently as we entered patches of floating ice, and there was the gentle but persistent sound of cracking – the ice, was whispering to itself. It was very gentle and special. The fog is still there and the horn sounds, and reverberates in the silence of the fjord.

As we left Bergen, the sound of our horn, plus those of the responding ships, all reverberated in the hills surrounding the city, making a gentle responding echo. In the greater space of the fjord and water as we emerge from Prince Christian Sound, it is a different music of exit, quiet, but for our final calls of the fog.

There is another sea day of gentle swaying and rocking, hopefully.

More soon

We sail heavy seas and find Iceland

2008-08-21T03:03:00.000-07:00

I am not sure what I expected Iceland to be like, but it is a very differ place to the fjords and scenery we left behind in Scandinavia. As we approached, it was flat and quite barren, then a few very rugged mountain peaks, savagely gouged through volcanic activity and glaciers. There are hardly any trees, if you were lost, I guess you just stand up.

Reykjavik is not a huge city, though it is spreading out as growth comes. Iceland has diversified from a mono economy of fishing, to a diversified product development including energy production. Thus it is a very prosperous city, and very clean, uncluttered and confident in itself. The locals speak generally three or four languages, English being mandatory at school. Icelandic is quite a guttural language with Germanic overtones, but also heavily influenced by the Scandinavian and the Viking past.

We walked quite a lot of the city, and saw thee beautiful Lutheran cathedral on the hill above the city. It is spectacular inside, so filled with light and space. There is very little adornment as is the Lutheran tradition, which adds to the drama of the building. We loved it.

We are now at sea for three days, high in the North Atlantic, so far from home. The seas ar a little lumpy (a sea term!), but we are fine, and having a nice time exploring the ship, and then coming back to the cabin to watch a dvd. The Library is quite extensive, with books on many subjects, very good fiction collection and a huge dvd range.

It is a hard fact though that these waters also saw some very heavy battles through the war, and the bleakness of the day reinforces how terrible it would have been. There are different realities going on as we sail these seas.

More soon

Drifting in and out of Norway

2008-08-17T05:57:00.000-07:00

I woke this morning to find a beautiful moon over the fjord as we cruised up to Bergen. It was so simple and wonderful all at once. Bergen on the previous visit was wet and cold and windy. Today has been glorious, sunny and quite warm. We left the ship early, and decided to try the funicular railway. We were the first on board, at 9.am, after working our way through automatic ticket machines in Norwegian.(Why cant Melbourne check out some of these systems. They are so easy to use) The ride to the top and back was amazing. Bergen is laid out before you and you can see for miles.

Norway has been lovely. Like Demark, it is a very clean, uncluttered, very well off though I guess there are poorer areas. We chose to wander on our own in the cities, and we have found pretty little side streets and views appear in unexpected places. Stavanger was so pretty. It was Saturday – people playing sports in the city square, eating out, a mini marathon was going on past the ship, and families were coming down to look at the sight. For most of these ports, it is the first time this ship has come in. We had a fire boat with water fountain in front of us coming into Stavenger.

The sunset as we left Stavenger was stunning. The photos hopefully will give a little indication.

Life on ship takes on a dreamlike quality after you get over the life boat drill and find your way around. Drifting in and out of ports takes on a surreal quality. Days blend in to each other, and time gets muddled. I guess that is part of the experience that is a holiday.

More soon

The Danes - their play and power

2008-08-13T07:39:00.000-07:00

After the rain of yesterday, the sun shone perfectly today. We have walked the length and bredth of this city, and it is so lovely. Melbourne has Luna Park, and Copenhagen has the Tivoli Gardens, over 100 years old. There are the most amazing rides, scary ones for adults, and miniature parallel ones for the children. All this set amidst pretty trees and gardens, and a lake. It is set right in the middle of the city, and seems to attract locals and visitors in droves. No, I did not venture on the rides, looking at them was excitment enough, just watching faces as they were being dragged to the top of a pole , only to plummet down again.

The wind is picking up, and it is interesting to see how the power generating windmills that generate power from their situation in the harbour, are spinning well. They are an accepted part of the cityscape here, you wonder if they will have to become more widely accepted as a power source.

The wind could well be a factor in our first days at sea. Predictions for very strong winds all through Northern Europe and Scandinavia.
I have enjoyed Copenhagen. The Danes have a clean fresh design and if you see their homes, it is reflected there, but equally they create a cosy feel which would be big factor for the long cold dark winters. But it is time to move on.

More soon.

We leave and arrive to leave

2008-08-12T07:04:00.000-07:00

It seemed surreal as we drove to the airport on Monday - it takes a while to realise you are actually going , after all the months of planning. But off we went, and the first evening over the red centre of Australia saw the most glorious sunset - stripes of dark blue and purple blending to crimson and red and pink and gold, as if repeating the colours of ochre and gold and red of the sand and desert beneath. It was a magnificent display. The flight itself was quite rough, with the crew having to cease service every so often.

Australians grow up knowing we have to travel a long way just to leave the shores to the north, and the time never gets shorter.Bangkok came and went in a fog of lack of sleep and that weird disorientation that comes with a long period of travel. We left the lounge for the Copenhagen flight with half an hour to spare - the terminal is so long : though we left with the flight listed as 'open', by the time we made the gate 25 minutes later, it was on 'final call', and we don't walk slowly.

Some sleep was had and we had terrific seats and staff, so Copenhagen appeared below us. It has rained all day, but we managed to negotiate the train system to get to the hotel on our own , and also a 20 minute train trip across the huge bridge to Malmo in Sweden. Copenhagen is looking rather tried in places but perhaps the weather doesnt help. Cyclists rule the roads it seems, the city is quite flat so it makes sense.

We walked past (and undernearth) the Royal Library/ The road literally passes under one of the reading areas and some of the walokways between the two buildings. It is very modern design and overlooks the main canal.

So the first day has been had, and we are about to meet our new home for the next two weeks. The ship will be in on Thursday, so we move from the air to track, to water, and hope for fair weather.

More soon.

In retrospect

2007-08-10T06:31:00.000-07:00

The time has come to pack. It seems so long since we flew out , but we have seen so much, and had so many experiences. Spending time in the Arctic circle to experience the midnight sun, gliding down fjords in the misty light of morning, a train ride in Flamm through the most wonderful country, managing to stay reasonably tidy in a force nine gale in the North Sea, wandering through little Norwegian towns, being quite overcome at the beauty of Coventry Cathedral, and the perennial excitement that is London. The highlights of the trip would be the fjords, they changed their unique beauty every minute, as the light and clouds changed. You wondered at who had their tiny cottage perched on the edge of these fjords, and when and how they came to be there. You imagined how they watched the enemy in the war hide their ships. Here we were, sailing down those same fjords in a huge cruise ship, towering over the harbor, and all we surveyed. I think they might have smiled quietly with relief when we departed, and left them with their silent , stunning beauty.
Hearing the bells of Big Ben as you lay in bed has been very special, as has been travelling through the gorgeous English countryside. It is so very green after a wet, and for so many, a very sad summer. As we leave, the foot and mouth outbreak seems to be on the wane, but still a worry.
But now it is time to pack the bags and come home. Hopefully the luggage will come with us; Heathrow is another story altogether. And even after all we have seen, you still realise how special Australia is. We have the droughts and floods and fires, but it is wonderful place to call home. See you soon.

the subject is planes and trains and frustrations

2007-08-04T03:26:00.000-07:00

We were waiting in Brussells Eurostar area, for our train back to London. Asked if we could go on an ealier train, we agreed. Apparently there was a problem and our sceduled on was very late. That was the start of a long trip back. There was an electrical problem in the tunnel. some car shuttles were stuck for hours. Fortunately, we were able to use another line, but it was one way only, so it took from 4.00 to 8.00 to make the trip. We were lucky compared to others. It is incredible to see whatever transport you are using , how many people are travelling at any one point of time. Since we left, we have been on 2 planes, approximately 15-20 trains, cars, including the wonderful London cab, 1 ship, and it's tenders,and shuttle buses: every one seems to be full. We are already dreading the trip home, Heathrow is the very worst of airports, straining at every seam. If your luggage arrives on the same flight as you do, you count yourself one of the lucky few. Travel is wonderful and enriching, but the mechanics of it seem to be getting worse by the month. So. when packing for the next trip, do not forget a large packet of patience, humour, and a good book or two. You will need those for check in alone. And check your clothes - easy to get off shoes, no belts(men and women), and no metal trims.

More later

Cologne and back

2007-08-04T03:04:00.000-07:00

Just back from a train trip to Cologne or Koln. It is a beautiful city, with the history of the war in your mind, it is interesting and arresting to see areas which were leveled in the war. The cathedral is huge, I was not prepared for the enormity of this gothic construction dating from the 12th C. It was packed when we got there, so revisited it the next morning, and it is beautiful with stunning stained glass. We found a lookout 28 floors up, which gave amazing views of the city. The weather was not brilliant, but it nevertheless showed the stretch of the city along the Rhine. The street scene is the city pedestrian mall. Huge crowds - summer in Europe

We then came back to Brussells for a couple of hours. (Midde photo)Very difficult to navigate yourself around on foot, the signage is dreadful. Eventually found the Grand Market, featuring the historical town hall, and other buildings, the total of which forms a square, and is on the world heritage register. Brussells seems to survive due to the EU, it is not a city on the 'must return to' list.

2007-08-01T00:35:00.000-07:00

Nordkapp (North Cape) the very top of Norway and of Europe.

This is a wild wind swept plce - freezing even in summer, and very popular with tourists - the place to be photographed - top of the world - next stop, North Pole.

Here are some photos of Nordkapp for you to enjoy.

The scenery we saw

2007-07-29T08:25:00.000-07:00

Norway was stunning. The fjords are so vast and dramatic, it is impossible to do justice to them in photographs. You feel so small when you are sailing beside these vast mountains soaring from the water, the depth of which is too deep to imagine. The weather was not brilliant at times, but the mist and clouds only added to the mystery and drama of the sights. The very top of Norway, at North Cape saw the worst of the weather, cold, rain and high winds. Standing up straight was an effort, and there was a high degree of camera shake. The country is barren and vast, the only animals sighted were deer.The towns and cities we visited were each different in their own way. Tromso is pretty, (with a great Library - more of that at another time), little streets, a lovely harbour, and wonderful views. Bergen lived up to its reputation of a rainy city - 300 days of rain a year on average, but we still got around. The Fenicular railway is amazing, the ride parallels something at Luna Park when descending, but it is worth the tummy lurch. Trondheim is a lovely university city, very hilly in places, and picturesque. Some of the towns, like Flaam had a population explosion, from the normal 200, to over 4000 in a day, which is hard for them, as there were two ships in the day we were there. But it was worth the whole trip for the train ride up the mountain from the town. This population rise is a similar problem the cities have, as in Bergen when we arrived together with the QE2 - the city is swollen with buses and groups of tourists faithfully following a guide with a pole! Woe betide you if you lose the group

The photo on the left is of the wharf area of Trondheim, the sunrise was in Geiranger fjord, picture taken around 5.00am. The bottom one was coming down on the Fenicular railway in Bergen.

The Norwgians are lovely people, tentative on starting a conversation, but a happy to tell you lots if you are interested. They speak very good English. Harry Potter is available in English now, but will not be in Norwegian for months, so they are all reading it in english. Usually, there is another language as well. Makes the traveller feel quite inadequate.

More later

St Swithun's day

2007-07-16T00:33:00.000-07:00

Well, it rained on St Swithun's day, so it does not bode very well for the next few weeks. Never mind, there will still be some stunning scenery. The rain is really affecting some retail areas - clothing, except for wet weather gear, festivals and concerts have been rained out, while the booksellers are happy as more books and mags are sold for rainy days. The British booksellers advertise titles much more here - posters all over the tube stations, and other public areas. I guess it has something to do with the huge rail travel, as well as the longer, darker winters, and poor weather. A number of booksellers are opening at a minute after midnight, just after the embargo for Harry Potter No. 7, on Saturday morning. I am not sure if the ship will have any copies, so I may have to try and avoid all reports on the news or papers, until we return, and can get a copy myself. It is huge deal here.
The ship has arrived, so we are off to sea
More later

London and beyond

2007-07-15T07:18:00.000-07:00

Saturday in London was cloudy, and humid. Went for a long walk on the Embankment - started out early to avoid the crowds. It is peak holiday season here, so there are crowds everywhere. The trick is to have jet lag and be ready to go around 6.00 am!

The recent problems dont seem to have affected the numbers at all - Londoners are out and about.So this morning, we set out early for Southampton - the trains can get crowded, and it is hard if you have luggage. Southampton is a pretty city - parts of the medieval wall surround parts of the city -they are cleverly incorporated into the rest of the town development. Over half of the original wall is still in- tact, and there are 13 original towers. The history goes back to Roman and Saxon times. It does make our history a little brief.

The weather has turned a little - poured while we were out - I gave a pretty good wet t-shirt impression by the time we got back.

We await our boat - it is in France tonight - sailing back overnight.

I have included a couple of sights from yesterday's wander, even a view of Hungerford Bridge - who said London was crowded?

More later

A crowded day in London

2007-07-14T21:40:00.000-07:00

Saturday 14th July 207

School holidays, summer vacations, tourists, locals all making London extremly crowded. We walked around Regent Street, Picadilly Circus, and Covent Garden and Soho, not so much a walk as being carried along by the crowds of people. Still some parts of London were empty - well, empty if you get up early with jet lag still, and go for a walk at 6am!

heading for the North Sea, Norway and the Artic Circle.Postings will resume upon our safe return to England - but we will take notes.

More later ...

Friday 13th July 2007

2007-07-13T07:36:00.000-07:00

Not unlucky day at all - a most enjoyable day of train trips throughout Kent and the south of England. Up early to see Trafalgar Square empty (see photo) and then breakfast and caught the 7.55am train to Canterbury down in Kent (this is jet lag kicking in having been awake since 5am!).

Canterbury is really beautiful, such ancient buildings everywhere (and not always perfectly perpendicular and some very low doors for a 6ft 3 husband!) An enjoyable walk through the old city (see photos - including the Canterbury Free Library in a very beautiful old building) then back to the train to Ashford International (and saw some Eurostar trains rush through at a huge speed - we will be on one in a few weeks too!). From Ashford the train to Hastings and along the coast to Brighton - a beautiful old city with row upon row of houses up the steep hills) Many tunnels on the train route to. Kent and the South Downs were looking very lush indeed. A lot of rain and little summer sun, although today was fine where we were. Fast train from Brighton up to London Victoria Station, then tube to Embankment, and thus to our apartment some 7 hours after we left. Who said holidays were for slacking. It is late Friday afternoon, and London stations are overflowing with people leaving for the weekend or holidays - it is an amazing sight. So many people dragging their luggage behind them. We might be alone in London tomorrow, though I somehow doubt it.

More later.

Alive and well in London, England.

2007-07-12T06:28:00.000-07:00

It is a great thing to have a Blog when you get to the other side of the world a find that the email access doesnt work!

We had a great trip over and despite all publicity to the contrary we managed to get through Heathow Airport with suitcases and into London by the Heathrow Express within an hour leaving the Thai 747 we had flown in from Bangkok ( a Thai airways 777 from Melbourne). The trip from home to the place we are staying in London took 28 hours. It is lovely to be back in London and already we have walked miles along the Thames Embankment . We will update our adventures as often as possible. Thai airways is the best way to fly!!

The place we chose to stay this time is in the heart of London, a minute from Trafalgar Sqaure and a great bookshop! They (Waterstones) have a great display at the moment entitled: "Books you know you should read". Memo Bayside Library readers Advisors - another list to construct and display to mount.

Weather is warmish and humid, nice to be in light clothes again - no real sun, overcast and more rain on the way - but it is warm rain!

Travellers signing of!

23 - A look back and forward

2007-05-21T02:14:00.000-07:00

These exercises have been well worth the effort in reinforcing what we learned at Information Online 07, earlier this year. The new web is the new point of interaction between users, the point where ' information and imagination ' - to take Bayside's outlook can really take on a new perspective. The private library can take on a fresh dimension, the photo album becomes a resource for fellow travellers, and a link to families across the world. For Libraries, as David Lankes, a keynote speaker at the conference, discussed, the web is now the other branch to a library service. This exercise has shown how much interaction there can be by Libraries as single units, or by connectivity to larger engines.
The private person has an online Library ready for downloading, in the form of books to his pc or ipod, broadcasts and music whenever the time is right. There are innumerable points of connectivity with like minded web users, or the opportunity to start a new trend, or float an idea.
For the Library of today, whether they be small or large, there is huge potential to harness this new aspect of the Web to their advantage, and make the collections far more accessible and flexible in content and delivery. Audio and e-content has become a parallel runner with the print.
It is imperative the library staff keep abreast of these developments, and this is where this programme has shown so many possibilities, and realities.

No. 14 - Technorati

2007-05-20T21:29:00.000-07:00

Whoops, I missed entering any ideas on this little item. Well, I choose not to tag my own blog - I have checked out the site, and links. As with some of the sites in this exercise, the blogs featuring as well linked and tagged, are primarily American based; I will have to find some local content on other blog sites. The little features you can add to the blog and extend its scope are useful if you are wanting your ideas to spread far and wide. On a local application, however, in an organisation, I can see useful applications, as subjects and areas of interest could be easily identified. Individual departments can utilise different tags for ease of information distribution. On a general interest level, the scope is endless, as are some of the blogs.

No. 22 - Audio books

2007-05-20T21:02:00.000-07:00

After having used audio books in the car and home for a long time, I was familiar with the concept. I do not own a portable player, but I did check out the web sites, and checked out a couple of other audio libraries. I listened to the Netlibrary tutorial, and can see procedure for downloading, after having the requisite software onboard. I checked out audible.com, which has a big listing, and the option of burning to a cd as an alternative - very clever if you require that format. Like so many aspects of this technology, there is a constant need to upgrade, as these technologies require particular capacities for successful operation.

21 - Podcasts

2007-05-20T20:09:00.001-07:00

I have already done the short course on podcasts, and had Juice loaded. I have used it for catching programmes from the ABC. The Podcast.net is a good search point. I found a couple of useful ones on London's Trafagar Square. Very useful for the ipod, ofcourse, and checking possible information for areas to be visited, if using the travel sites. The quality of the product varies quite a lot. Libraries in Universities and large institutions must already be using these for self guided tours of floors and collections. Art Galleries must be finding this technology invaluable.

No. 20 - My first visit to Youtube

2007-05-16T21:25:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9K4uq2dE8k

Yes, I now I am the last person on the planet to check this out. I must admit I am not a big fan of home movies. But this is a taste of the flight in a few weeks time - hopefully just as smooth.

No. 15: A couple of thoughts on web2.0

2007-05-16T16:46:00.000-07:00

It is a new future for us all in Web 2.0,and we will be left behind if we do not embrace it. We do need to acknowledge the integrity of our service while looking at what is on offer now for the library, both small and large, for the 21st century. I am showing my age, but for a librarian who had to learn the correct layout for catalogue cards, this time in our profession is wonderful. Web 2.0 is creating a new branch for ever library prepared to take the leap. I liked Rick Anderson's article, 'Away from the icebergs'. At grassroots level, he refers to the need to move away from the 'just in case' scenario we have all been guilty of. At a very basic level, in a small public library, Web 2 is enabling the large reference collections to be pruned to a small functional size, and giving the borrower the opportunity for borrowing the items so long seen as out of reach. Chip Nilges article has some very good points, too. The 'user adding value' concept has great possibilities for reader advising extensions. The concept of the borrowers adding value to the catalogue via blogs in booklists and subject lists is a whole new area. Library Thing has these concepts. There are also going to be great developments in Worldcat. (see previous blog)
I would only want to add a word for the generation of borrowers who do not have the need or want, to participate in the new Web2.0 world. We need to make them still feel part of the library community, help them at the point they are at, and assist them if and when they are ready for the new.

No. 19 - 2.0 Awards list

2007-05-16T15:16:00.000-07:00

I am sorry, but not all that impressed. Some awards were for links totally for the US market. As I have been checking a lot of travel and airline sites recently, I checked those links, and one retrieved the flight and fare we are taking. There were several not linking at all, may have been down for service. However, this service did not produce any sites I would return to. There could be ample opportunity for similar lists with a wider geographical scope. However, the site may be out there, and I have not yet found it.

No. 12 - Useful Rollyo

2007-05-16T15:05:00.000-07:00

A clever little concept, creating your own lists rather than just taking what the engines throw at you, in their selected order. It is handy for those of us on the other side of the world, to construct our own area relevant links. The starter kit is useful if you were devoid of ideas as to where to start. Library info desks could create some homegrown ones for very local issues, and demands.
I liked the worldcat link, and the quotes sites were easy to use. Some of the links did not function. (I checked these over a couple of days)
http://worldcat.org/

I chose not to start an account at this site.

No. 11 - About my bookshelf - looking at Library thing

2007-05-16T14:47:00.000-07:00

After many attempts, I finally got a password accepted. The site seems to have a few connection problems. It is a useful concept for readers who really want to share their reading and want to be continually updated with new titles. I prefer not to put my library out there. I checked a few of the titles from my personal collection, and there were no links. The listings , I presume, are heavily US biased. However, it is a handy tool if you are trying to confirm a title, as it searches a lot of huge d/b's at once. I searched 'Pride and prejudice', being a Jane Austen fan , and found over 100 titles. It is worth having in your favourites folder under Library tools. I just choose not to participate.

No. 18 - online word processing

2007-05-14T23:00:00.000-07:00

I have checked out Zoho a little. Will go back and have another play. The free templates look good, but are a little tricky to set up for yourself. The site could do with a little more on the help site.
This whole exercise is a real eyeopener as to what is out there.

2007-05-14T17:58:00.000-07:00

No. 16 - Wikis and all that jazz

2007-05-14T17:31:00.000-07:00

I loved looking around some of the library wikis and found so much for readers advisory work. I have listed a couple just for my own extra record, when I am not on my home computer

http://ricklibrarian.blogspot.com/2006/06/establishing-and-promoting-readers.html

http://www.kcls.org/pearlspicks/

Wikis have such a potential for inhouse training and updating of manuals and procedures. And I loved the concept of a wiki attached to an upcoming conference. So much can be added at one point rather than emails, and attendees an just check in the area of interest. Go wikis.

No. 13 - Librarians have always been ahead of the pack.

2007-05-14T16:33:00.000-07:00

I have just checked out del.icio.us. A lot of material from a lot of internet junkies. But I couldnt help thinking that librarians have been doing this sort of organizing forever, and the rest of the world can see how forward thinking we all are.
Referring to a previous task, the RSS feeds can be a bit of a trap, you check out an interesting site, and if there is a feed, you are constantly tempted. But where is the time to come back and check them all?
This project is a lot of fun.

No. 10 - Creating fun stuff

2007-04-17T01:48:00.000-07:00

This could get addictive. The potential to create fun emails and greeting cards is endless.

2007-04-17T01:45:00.000-07:00

No. 7 - All this technology

2007-04-15T21:58:00.000-07:00

This really relates to the previous week, but the incredible growth of technology is creating a demand for information that is forever at our fingertips. This AM on morning television, there was a new phone with a huge internet capacity - your emails, rss feeds, so much is available within a few seconds, virtually anywhere. This is such an amazing time to be in the information profession - there are so many possibilities for information provision in so many formats and systems.

No. 8 - RSS feeds and all that jazz

2007-04-15T21:34:00.000-07:00

I finally got the time to check out the RSS feeds. IF I had a lot of time, I could find myself subscribing to many interesting feed. I have limited mine to news, (I did browse the travel ones, but I saw a few listings about accidents etc, and with a trip coming up, I dont need that sort of information.
I can see this service being of huge assistance and vital link for anyone trying to keep abreast of world happenings, anything in any area of life, it is never ending. And the short the time limit you put eg - 1 hour update, the addiction to checking, just in case would be huge. I hate to think what would happen if I subscribed to a 'latest handbag feed' . Anyway, this has been a useful exercise to check how they actually happen.

No. 5 - Flickr

2007-03-14T22:40:00.000-07:00

I have put in a picture of the ship we cruised the Baltic in, Contellation. The photo was taken in the port of Tallin, the port for Estonia. This was a really beautiful city, well worth visiting.
I chose not to put more photos on this site, but can see how it is very handy, particularly for travellers, and those keen to share particular interests.

2007-03-13T20:55:00.000-07:00

I have had some fun using Flickr - and have listed a few photos from our trip to the Baltic ports in 2005. I look forward to putting in some of our next trip, through Norway, UK and parts of Germany.

second attempt at blogging

2007-03-13T20:52:00.000-07:00

This is the second attempt at creating a blog, the other one is there, but the passwords have disappeared in that big hole. Hope this works better,