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Our Scottish Highland Trip

Thursday & Friday – 1st & 2nd October

We drove to Fort William from home in Oxfordshire with an early start so that we could complete the journey during daylight. It took about 8.5 hrs with stops. We had stunning scenery over Glencoe, I never tire of those mountains and the stunning scenery. We were staying at the Cruachan Hotel in Fort William which was very comfortable and friendly with good tasty pub food and a cosy atmosphere. It was a very popular hotel. The next morning after a good breakfast we set off to the railway station with great anticipation to catch the Jacobite train part of the Great West Railway. Unfortunately we had been downgraded from 1st Class to Standard due to Covid distancing but we still had a great trip with a table for 4 between the two of us. All the passengers queued to take photos of the steam engine and I was no exception.

The sun came out about 20 minutes into the trip so we were fortunate with our photos. Going over the Glenfinnan Viaduct caused great excitement and I managed to get my camera out of the window to take a great shot of our train going over it. It was a really memorable trip and the scenery was spectacular all the way. I would definitely recommend it. For keen photographers If you want to take a photo from Glenfinnan up the road from the National Trust car park then you need to be in position by 1045 hrs in the morning or 1510 hrs for the returning train from Malaigh but the morning one from Fort William gives the best photos by far with the train coming towards you around the curve of the viaduct. I don’t think the train runs at weekends.

Later in the evening we drove back up to Glencoe to try and get some good evening shots.

Saturday 3rd October

Driving on to the Cottage the next morning we had time so we shopped in Fort William for extra food items then strolled through the town which is very nice, friendly with lots of good shops. We particularly enjoyed the Highland Bookshop, such a great selection of books and maps which we took full advantage of. Afterwards we discovered the Cinema Café which was lovely and clean, cosy and friendly just perfect for a coffee and cake before our drive to the Cottage in the Kingairloch Estate. We were in no rush as we couldn’t get into the cottage until 1600 hrs and it was only about a 90 minute drive from Fort William using the Corran Ferry. We arrived at the Cottage on time, it was perfect, so cosy and warm – we were really delighted with it. Just a little one bedroom with stunning views of the mountains and the Loch a’Choire. We unpacked and had our first meal here which I had kept fresh in a cold box which plugs into the cigarette lighter. With a g&t for me and wine for James – perfect. Cheers

Sunday 4^th October

We woke to an absolutely beautiful day and after a leisurely breakfast and a writing a few messages we decided to drive to Acharacle just beyond Strontian to visit the Garbh Eilean Hide. It was a beautiful peaceful walk – so quiet and full of colour. We reached the hide after about 30 mins – I stopped every now and then to take photos. I set up my camera and lens and a family in the hide kindly pointed out the seals sitting on some rocks out to sea. I took some photos of them – not the most photogenic of creatures. We had been hoping for otters or sea eagles but sadly not that day. After that we strolled back and ambled home in the car enjoying the scenery on the way. We were going to stop at the little café in Strontian for a Coffee but it wasn’t open on Sundays. So we were back early and I started writing my blog and sorting photos. James relaxed with a book. Another relaxing evening with a dinner made earlier and g&t etc. Very pleasant.

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Australia, Melbourne, Victoria, Photography

Melbourne

17-19 January 2017

Arrived Melbourne in the afternoon & used the Skybus to get to our hotel. It seemed cheaper but wasn’t quick. It was about $40 for the two of us both but you are only taken into centre of Melbourne (about 20 Minutes ride). Then you have to wait about 20 minutes for a free bus to the hotel. We stayed at Pan Pacific Hotel which was a decent modern hotel and very central view n Flinders Street. We had a very nice dinner across the river in Southgate Restaurant. Then a lovely walk around that area of Melbourne. Very relaxed & friendly with beautiful nighttime scenes.

Following day up sharp for breakfast again in Southgate Restaurant the we took the free tram to the Rod Laver Arena to have a day at the Australian Open 2017. What a treat. It was a beautiful warm sunny day, what more could one ask for. First on was Venus Williams. Then later that day was Roger Federer v We had great seats Section 18 seats C92 & 93 as you can see in the photo. We realised that Andy Murray was playing in the evening so we bought evening tickets for that too as we didn’t want to miss our UK player who I really wanted to win. What a contrast with buying tickets for Wimbledon where there is a ballot to determine whether a ticket can be purchased!! We thoroughly enjoyed our tennis day and it will live long in my memory.

Andy Murray AO Day against Andey Rublev

Andy Murray Day 3 of AO

Roger Federer v Noah Rubin USA

Following day Thursday 19th we used our time to explore the city of Melbourne before setting off to drive the Great Ocean Road. We walked through the shopping streets Bourne Street. Spent time in a park then took the No. 35 circle tram around the city which was free & came with a commentary.

Park in Melbourne

That evening we met up with great friends Robin & Becci. Robin is a GP worked in the UK with me when I was a Practice Manager a few years ago. We had a meal at The Press Club which is a smart Greek Restaurant in Melbourne. There was a tasting menu, which I don’t think any of us realised at the time of booking & due to the number of dishes this meant a lot of interruptions to explain all the dishes. I found this a little trying when all I wanted to do was hear about our friends life in Australia. However we had a laugh about it all & really enjoyed our night catching up with our friends again.

Australia, Malaysia, Uncategorized, Wildlife

Blue Mountains – New South Wales

We flew to Sydney, picked up a hire car & drove to the blue mountains. Despite dire warnings of terrible traffic (Friday evening) it took us about two hours to get to Katoomba the main town. Not pretty as I was expecting – an old mining town. However charming for all that. We had a walk around the town and then retired to our hotel. The Hotel was very old & had a lovely history of past glories, however the stay for me was a little marred by the unfriendly staff. The Mountain Heritage Hotel it was a very nice hotel, had a great piano player with dinner on Saturday night just slight shame about the atmosphere. That said this is the only negative reception we have received. All over Australia we have had such warmth & friendliness, it has been more than we could possibly have hoped for. Just great people.

View of Blue Mountains from Echo Point

Our first day we drove to the information centre at Echo point which is where a lot of the walks start. We did two walks from Echo point. One called the Prince Henry Cliff walk which was supposed to be about 35 minutes. It took us a little longer as taking photos. Quite an easy walk but it was hot so takes a bit more effort.

Blue tongue lizard

Goana seen on a Giant stair walk

The next day we got the bus to Echo point again & did a longer walk down the giant stairway which took us near the valley floor. This took about 2 hrs as we strolled & enjoyed the atmosphere. We were rewarded as we saw a lizard & later what looked like an Iguana. Just amazing. We ended up where the little train is which takes you back up the steep cliff so you don’t have to walk up!! A great day. The following day we drove to some amazing views as you can see from the photos. I will put some names in later.

Accommodation, Australia, Photography, Wildlife

Travels in Northern Territories

We arrived in Darwin late so stayed in a Mercure & picked up the hire car the following morning. The heat & humidity was like a damp blanket – a bit shocking after the cool plane. The hire car charged 30 cents a mile after 400 km driving which was quite ridiculous. Apparently because classed as a remote area.

We drove down the Stuart Highway for 4 hours to Katherine & Cicada Lodge which is in the Nitmiluk NP just outside Katherine. Roads are eerily deserted & a bit spooky, except for the occasional road trains appearing every now & then. So long with 3-4 trucks being hauled behind.

Cicada Lodge was a beautiful place and a welcome sanctuary out of the heat & flies of the outback. We were very relieved. Beautiful cool rooms & excellent gourmet dining from Tom the Chef & Karen the friendly & efficient manager.

Cicada Lodge Accommodation

Cicada Lodge

First day Norther Territories – We just did a short walk up to an escarpment about 4 miles. It was as still demanding as the heat at the top could reach 50C!! Then in the afternoon a welcome relax in our lovely accommodation.

Walking in Nintiluk National Park

Day two NT – The next day we took a two gorge river cruise. We were the only passengers so it was a great opportunity for taking photos. The scenery was stunning but sadly rainy season is not the best time to see birds. At the end of the cruise we stopped off & walked to a waterfall rock pool. I really regretted not bringing my swimming things. It was a heavenly place with such clear water. So we decided to walk back to the rock pool after picking up our swimming things. We were told 40 – 60 mins walk. We had plenty of water with us & I had drunk plenty before I left. However after 40 mins walking the heat was intense on the back of my head & neck. (I was wearing a hatI). I started to feel sick & dizzy & so hot there was no shade. It was cloudy when we set off. I knew I could not turn around, it was too exposed, so we had to go on. I drank but it didn’t help. It was pretty awful. Temp was about 40C or more up there. Eventually after about another 20 mins staggering along we made it to the pool & I threw myself in. What a relief. It was quite a scary experience & shows how quickly things can change. I was soon laughing the pool was absolutely wonderful. We walked home when the sun went down. It was a 3 mile walk each way!!

After the Gorge Ruver Cruise

Looking down Katherine River

Swimming rock pool & waterfall

Day 4 -NT. We drove back slowly to Darwin Airport. Stopping off at Pine Creek to photograph birds & bats!! Then took the scenic Adelaide river drive. It was really peaceful & very pretty, we spotted wallabies and eagles on the way. We have really enjoyed the Northern Territories finding it unspoilt & quiet as it is rainy season. No monsoons for us so we were very lucky.

Not sure what he is called? Sure someone can tell me.

Photography, South Australia

Perth & Margaret River

Day two & three – Fremantle & Margaret River

We took the Captain Cook Ferry to Freemantle. It was a very pleasant way to journey up the Swan River & see more of Perth. The river is an estuary with a mixture of fresh & sea water. Also has small colonies of dolphins residing in it all year round. We took the free bus to the famous Fremantle market area. The market was vibrant and varied with produce from all over the world. Some of the buildings were built in Art Deco style. The heat was immense, 38C we took every opportunity to take shade. We also visited Fremantle Prison – $20 each. The tour guide -Steve was obviously an ex prison officer. He talked in a very clipped no nonsense manner. He told us all about the prison history from 1880s when convicts arrived & first had to build the prison! It was an extremely hard regime in those days with no modern amenities like flushing toilets in cells. It was very thought provoking when you saw the conditions prisoners lived in less than 30 years ago. Back to hotel & sleep at 2030 hrs – still not over jet lag.

Swan River view

Fremantle Market

Relaxing in Margaret River

Day 3. – Picked up our hire car from Perth airport & drove south to Margaret River about 3.5 hrs and easy journey. Google maps was fab We stayed at The Edge of the Forest Motel which was delightful. Denise the hostess was a very helpful friendly lady. Giving us loads of tips & marking them on the map. We had a walk in the afternoon then a meal in the Margaret River Bistro. It was good food & friendly service.

Day 4 – Beautiful sunny day started with a trip to Cape Leeuwin where the Indian Ocean meets the Pacific. We took the audio tour around the lighthouse but we didn’t climb up it as we were quite hot!! Very interesting and in winter you would see Whales coming by Cape from the antarctic once the ice starts forming but it is summer .. We drove back stopping off at Hamelin Beach to see the Stringrays. There was a mother & baby. They really seemed to like people and kept swimming towards us. Really beautiful to see them. See my photo. Day 5 – We visited the amazing Lake Cave & walked in the Forest. Later we stopped off to see Kangaroos. It was so two of them kept fighting each other – hilarious to watch,they can be quite aggressive. Tomorrow – travelling to Darwin.

At Hamelin Beach

Fremantle Prison

Lake Cave lit up

Australia

Perth here we come …..

Had a very pleasant journey from Heathrow to Singapore. Didn’t sleep a huge amount but enjoyed it nonetheless. I adore Singapore due to living in Changi as a child so I enjoyed the landing and took a great video which with a bit of editing is something to treasure. Arriving in a Singapore is slightly confusing because BA don’t give enough information about the stop in Singapore. Hardly mentioning on the ticket that there is a stop in Singapore at all!! Leaving the plane we all looked around not knowing what to do & where to go. It would have been helpful to know that you had to go through security again even for a refuelling stop of 1.5 hrs. Then I could have prepared myself on the plane instead of being stressed at the last minute because all of my cosmetics were in disarray due to using them on the plane. Oh well the joys of travelling in 21st century. Note to myself – get a pair of pyjamas for home journey. Much more comfortable to travel in.

Second leg to Sydney was uneventful – very smooth & only 8 hours!! I tried to catch up on sleep and get myself into the Southern Hemisphere time zone quickly. Arriving at Sydney with fabulous views of Sydney Harbour was wonderful. We sailed through immigration and customs without any problems so that was a nice welcome.

Leg to Perth with Qantas (I love them) fabulous. Views of southern deserts were so alien, so flat and arid with hardly a settlement in sight. Along with the Great Australian Bight which was really spectacular. The friendly attentive service from the air crew made it a most enjoyable flight even if we were quite shattered by then.

After a quiet New Year dinner in Perth & missing actual New Year due to exhaustion we were wide awake 3 hrs later & able to celebrate British one. Happily the sunshine gets us moving so off for a visit to Kings Park botanical gardens on the free buses!!

Hope photos give a flavour of the day. At the tourist office I chatted to a lady about what to see. She said we had picked a good day as we were going to be “In for it tomorrow”. I politely asked in my British accent. “Oh is it going to rain”. No she said it’s going to be 38 degrees!!! We did laugh. It became our saying of the day. Parasols & suncream tomorrow I think.

I hope the photos give a flavour of the day

Ps The Clivia photo is for you Jon x

France, Uncategorized

Les Baux in Les Alpilles de Provence

This is an area I have yearned to visit and was not disappointed – having left the motorway we were soon surrounded by Les Alpilles. You can’t mistake them – strange & striking shaped hills made of limestone.

We spent three days in Les Baux de Provence which is in the Les Alpilles area of Provence. The town of Les Baux is famous for being one of the most beautiful hill towns in France. Mainly due to its stunning surroundings. Though I believe that Paul de Vence in the Côte d’Azur could certainly compete for that title as well. Hundreds of people flock to the town of Les Baux every day. It has an amazing history dating back to 3000 bc and still has the remains of the castle.

This area also grows some of the best olives in France due to the fertile soil in Provence. Extra virgin Olive oil can be more expensive than champagne here at 22 Euro per litre. The stunning scenery is further enhanced by the numerous olive farms.

The author Marcel Pagnol who was born nearby in Aubagne wrote about his childhood holidays in this area. There have been four films based on his books which I can’t praise enough & would urge everyone to watch them. My two favourites are full of nostalgia about a childhood in rural France about 100 years ago. La Gloire de mon Père & Le Chateau de ma Mère (The glory of my father & The house of my mother). I could watch again & again. Enough said hope you enjoy the photos.

Uncategorized

Côte d’Azur

Deux Pression silk vous plais — Deux Pression sil vous plais

Visited Theole sur mer just up the coast from Cannes. Very popular for lunches by the sea & beach activities. Quite beautiful with the red cliffs behind and the villas nestling in the hills. Had a tasty lunch of goats cheese salad with a delicious cold pression (draft beer). Had a walk after lunch & watched some novice surf boarders – which was entertaining. Later relaxed by the beach with our books. My idea of heaven.

Surf boarding lesson

Uncategorized

Discovering the Loire

We are staying near Amboise which is a charming pretty French town in the heart of the Loire. This is definitely Chateau country – a bit like Oxfordshire with a Manor House in every village

Instead there is a Chateau (castle) dans la Ville. We visited two today. The first Le Clos Luce was quite small but famous because Leonardo de Vinci stayed here in the last

Leonardo de Vinci's bed at Le Clos Lucė — Leonardo de Vinci’s bed at Le Clos Lucė

3 years of his life 1616 -1619. A very clever man ahead of his time with all his mechanical drawings of tanks, helicopters etc. The 2nd Chateau – Chenoncesu was 8 miles from Amboise on the River Cher quite spectacular with beautiful gardens & the Chateau spanned the river. Catherine de Medici lived there. I expect we will visit more Chateau tomorrow. Beautiful area, rural & pretty with many Caves (cellars) stocked with wine for sale.

We are staying in a very nice place called Relais du Silence Nr Amboise.

Uncategorized

Pangkor Laut

The hornbills are very common here. Sadly this is our last full day. We have had a wonderful and varied holiday and it feels a lot longer than three weeks. Would definitely like to return to Penang and this area. Wonderful climate even in the rain. It rains here quite a lot at night at this time of year because it is monsoon season. Sometimes in the morning too. Then the sun comes out and all is dry in seconds. The rain is warm so you could definitely sing in the rain!!!

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