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France 2019

Here we go again a group of us are about to embark on a trip to France towing our caravans.

The target is to visit a member of the Camping and Caravan Club who has moved to France, but prior we will be visiting another site and also a couple of others on our return journey home.

Night before and getting nervous of our impending adventure.

Checked everything twice, checked Destination Post Codes, arranged with everyone to meet on dockside

All met at the dockside as agreed and were well to the front of the queue when the gates were open but that did not help as we were the last ones to be loaded.

Parked up and off loaded to the cabins and straight to the Bar. The time by now was 10-45 pm a swift pint ( in my case a glass of wine, there was no decent beer on sale)and off to bed as we had a 5-30 call in the morning.

All to breakfast and back to the cars for embarkation.

Last on first off so we were lucky to get away quickly.

I followed Ian off and  through the town we drove in the rush hour and out onto the open road , we lost sight of the others  who all had various travel information, Sat Nav’s etc and the start of our 214 mile journey to a site Just South of “Tours” in the Region of Loire Valley towards the center of France

Kevin who had set off a day earlier contacted us to say the original site  would not accept Caravans longer that 7 Mtr  so he arranged another site locally and would we all change details of our destination.

I was following Ian and using my Sat Nav, soon he decided to bare to the right, my Sat Nav thought otherwise so I carried on in the direction I was following.

It later transpired that Ian was Lost, took directions from where ever and went over the same bridge Three times and got quite friendly with the Toll Lady, each time having to pay the toll plus another toll trying to get on the right road.

It all ended well

I decided to get some fuel and called into a Fuel station and tried to use a Non manned fuel pump, all information was in French, the Machine was old and I had great difficulty in getting an Fuel. Eventually a Van pulled up on the other side of the Pump and the driver a rather large Frenchman helped me. The Credit card that I had loaded with Euros could not be used at non-manned fuel pumps.

He filled my car with fuel using his own credit card and I compensated him with the money.

Wow what a gentleman.

 Continuing my journey mile after mile we came upon a Non -manned toll station, attempting to use my credit card that refused to be recognized and trying to pay with notes with no success trying to use other credit cards did not work

The queue’s of traffic built up very quickly making me more anxious.

Suddenly a very bad Monsieur Cluso spoke via a speaker.

I am not very good at hearing, with the road traffic noise I was having trouble understanding him.

After several minutes of heated conversation another card slot started Flashing into that I tried my card and all was well it accepted my card and Off we went trying to recover from my frustration.

We continued our journey, this time without any problems until we reached our Site.    The reception had gone to lunch and would not be back for another 90 minutes and the barrier was down

Mark decide to arrive and then Ian all blocking the road and entrance.

Some confusion and annoyance from other cars and Kevin (He was there from the night before)had the bright Idea to use his entrance/exit card to raise the barrier.

Problem solved onto the site and park up.

Spent evening relaxing with a few drinks and planning on tomorrows adventures

The sunset promises s a good day tomorrow

Visit it to ‘Tours’

After that lovely evening sunset  we arose to a lovely day, sun shining  giving promise to a lovely day.

We split into natural groups, Tony, Elaine Mark & Sue decided to walk into “Tours”, Sandra and I  decided to catch the Bus and Julie, Ian and Julie had a late start and decided upon Carrefour

Oft we went.

Confused about the Bus we waited on the wrong side of the road but then realised we should be on the other side crossed the rod and entered into a conversation with some of locals that got even more confusing until a young lad who wanted to improve his English language skills engaged us in conversation.

What a lovely young lad, very helpful explaining with limited language but enough for us to understand about the return journey.

When we alighted the bus organised a on/off/ return ticket for us at 1.74 euros each

What good value!

Done the usual thing, boring for me , Happy for Sandra in and out of shops trying to replace the coat she lost on board the Ferry(left it on the back of the chair in the bar when we retired Nowhere to be found and not handed in at reception)

I thought the prices were expensive in Carrefour compared to UK.

 In the mean time I arranged to meet the others at a pub/café to break up the day while Sandra was in a shop I Communicated with Mark & Co who were nearly in a Pub/Bar.

We shall be in there approx 30 mins. Ok will see you there, now bearing in mind we are in a foreign city don’t know where we are or where they are it was a profound statement.

Resorted to Goole Maps.

I forgot to tell you I had for gotten my Glasses and Hearing aids and that’s not help full when you are consulting your  mobile on a sunny day.

I could not hear or see the map instructions, my estimated time of arrival was getting bigger and bigger, I was walking in the wrong direction and farther away from the Bus stop, so I contacted Mark and cancelled the meeting.

It resolved into a good decision, they had Mussels and Frites for lunch and could not stand looking at all those Fanny’s looking at me while eating.

Centre of Tours
You can see the tram lines going off into the distance, most of the central area is pedestrianised

 We decide to call into Carrefour on the way back to Site to try to replace the coat Sandra had lost, but the prices (In my opinion) were silly for what on offer and thankfully her size was not available

So we bought some meat caught the bus back to site for a Barbecue.

We spoke to numerous people during the day who were all quite friendly and helpful.

The city was very clean, most of the area was pedestrianised, and a tram ran through the centre It was very quite, I suppose it was siesta time. Photo of tram lines.

Back to site , Barbeque time and a few beers.

I retired and left the other discussing their day time activities.

Checking all the route details for the following day’s journey to see our Friends Simon & Val.

Got to sleep well after all the day’s excitement .

6.15 in the morning we were all awakened by Thump, Thump bloody Thump music from across the water, and big mouth on a microphone shouting in a foreign language( I think by the Law of averages it must have been French)

We could not see the disturbance because of  a high defence wall of earth keep the water at bay.

It woke all the site

It later transpired to be a Triathlon, the first stage being the swimming.

That was it we were all up early, I started with a shower, breakfast and a steady pack up ready for the road

All departed separately, Simon did not want us all arriving together up setting the neighbours in this sleepy Village of St Leger Magnzeix.

Bob Weeks had already flown in previously, he was standing in the Lane waving his arms directing us into site.

What a relief after travelling along the ‘D’ roads, that were a poor version of our ‘A’ roads road widths from narrow two lans to single track hoping there’s nothing coming the other way.

Through sleepy French villages (it was Sunday) that were not designed to take caravan’s, ridiculous bends into narrow roads, and out into the country side again

Our hosts were ready to greet us to the homestead

To their plot of land way into the country side with crickets croaking, birds humming, butter flies in abundance, frogs croaking, peace and serenity difficult to find in the UK.

Chickens producing too many eggs that no doubt be consumed by the visitors.
 Was sad to hear they had to get rid of their Cockerel named Terry, said he made too much noise upsetting the Neighbours.

Brilliant sunshine all day, too hot for me.

We all settled in to site quite easily  a standard Communal Barbecue  was had a few beers

and over to Simons Gazebo to finish a very pleasant day.I retired from the Hullabaloo of the excited conversation, I need my beauty sleep also to keep up to date with my “Blog”

To Ballac

I teamed up with Mike, he like driving and Off we went to  a local town of Ballac.

It is very strange to drive along roads with hardly any traffic, this has been the general situation since driving on the “D” roads in France.

We met up with others there, the general idea was to have drink at a café/bar near an ancient bridge on the banks of a River

We parked the car (No Parking limitation or cost)and proceeded to walk down a steep hill towards the river observing the various style’s living accommodation.

Still downhill we eventually were greeted by the others who had discovered the Café/Bar was closed on Tuesday’s and Wednesday

After a quick look around this lovely well kept area walked back to the cars up a 40% hill that really was trying on the lungs and Heart to retrieve the car and go back to collect our wives. In the meantime others found another café/bar and we joined them.

Sat relaxing after the stiff walk up a very steep hill

Suitable refreshed we returned to site via  Super Marche to collect additional items for the barbeque. Not a very inspiring day but there was more to come.

Ian Willis our Chairman was celebrating his Birthday , It was decided to surprise him with a

 Meal at a local Restaurant to which all 15 of us will attend.

A noisy crowd of English descended up on this other wise quiet Restaurant, much to the smiling proprietor. Mr Willis showed his surprise and appreciation and stood the first round much to the surprise of all. (Cheers Mr Willis from all)

 Great time was had by all munching through  their choice of the Menu.

Unfortunately the evening came to an end and the appointed chauffeurs took up their positions for the ride home.

I think this was about 11.00pm, most joined Val & Simon on their Patio the drinks(in the case of some a little more) I decided to leave this happy throng and make for my Bed.

There’s more, Sandra followed me shortly,   it was a warm night after the temperatures of the around 30C  so all the windows were open and the roof lights.

I seem to remember looking out of the widow and saw flash of lightening and put my head upom my pillow and off to sleep I went.

Apparently the storm grew closer and closer with greater flash’s and more thunder until it awoke most of the camp except me and Kevin who wears ear plugs for some reason.

Thankfully I slept through the storm and awoke fresh in the morning

To Orandour Sur Glane

We were late off site on our decision to take up the recommendations to visit this Historical Site.

 The site was as listed above a notorious site during the second world war.

France as you know was occupied by Germany, France put up some resistance in various areas.

The Germans/SS thought that this was an area of resistance and decided to make an example of the people and the village.

In short they rounded them up in various area’s after surround the village and massacred most of the residents apprx. 1500 in total.

Then tried to hide the bodies by burying them, a few escaped to tell the tale.

The village was then destroyed, the irony of it all is there were no weapons found at all, this was not a hot spot of resistance.

It was after the war that the locals decided to make this village a memorial with an illustrated museum that now attracts visitors.

For Sandra and I it was rather a morbid day, difficult to understand Man’s inhumanity to man.

This is the museum, constructed from 6/8mm steel plate, built into the side of a hill

I found it difficult to understand the Architect who designed exterior in 6/8mm steel plate welded together.

That evening we gathered on the field for the last time to say our goodbyes to our Hosts for the 4 day’s we had spent with them, parting is but sweet sorrow as we gradually returned to our Vans for the night .

Now oft to a site at Saint Jean De Monte

Val furnished ever one with a supply of eggs from her supply

And we left in a staggered order for our 200 mile journey to the northwest coast.to a site called Camping Yole, one of many in this area and not far from the beach.

An uneventful journey across France some deviating depending up on their navigation system.

We arrived booked in Tony and Mark had laid the foundation for our visit, so we were expected.

Onto our pitch, Tony and Mark unhooked my van and pushed into position, they never had time for me to reverse it on

Suddenly the van was on the move again being pulled but this time including Ian.

Sandra had expressed displeasure of the pitch because it was in the shade of some trees.

Down the road and around the corner to a more suitable site, Sandra and Elaine marched off to office to inform them of the pitch change.

Thankfully there was no objection.

The same happened to Ian and Julie so we were all set up close on the cross roads.

News spread around the site of this band of Caravan’s arriving causing some entertainment or otherwise, of this once quiet site with all the loud communications.

This turned out to quite a good position, we were on route for a large section of the camp who had to pass by for all the amenities so we became familiar to lots who cared to pass the time of day (Bon Jour/ Hello depending upon their nationalities.

It was remarkable the no of Brits who were here, Gloster, Cheddar, Axbridge and so on including a Rally from CSMA.

Our Pitch had it’s own water & Electric and close to all the amenities, freshly Baked Baggett’s were available from reception

In all a pleasant clean and friendly site.

We all settled in and drifted off to the bar/restaurant in various stages where there was entertainment, a “Beetles”  tribute group.

 We were sat outside, after a lovely sunny day it got cold outside and some drifted off home.

The following day Sandra and I decide to investigate the area and decided upon a walk to the Beach, it was a little further that originally thought but the Sun was shining again.(we have been lucky, Sandra and I normally take our own rain cloud when we go on holiday)

 Strolling along the promenade we came across Mark Tony and their girls have Bite to eat, and soon after Kev and Julie arrived,

We parted and the others made plans to hire some push bikes for the following day to explore further along the coast.

There were plenty of cycle paths to choose from.

We returned home for another barbecue and finished the night with Julie Dewfall.The poor girl was suffering from “Bingo” withdrawal symptoms, so we engaged her in a few games but did not let her win.

Oft to bed ready for the next day

To the Markets today

Croix De Vie was the destination today to have a look at atypical French Market.

Situated on an estuary, it was a pleasant short journey the boats were moored along the banks, the tide was out.

Seeking instruction on the location of the Market we were directed towards a Super Market, redirected we retraced our steps to the one we required.

The sun was shining yet again it was tiresome for us men, all female oriented shops, into the market square, reserved for the market on Saturday, was the food, flower, fish bread and other local produce on sale.

We decided upon some refreshment after our tenuous stroll around the market in the sun again

We moved on to Saint Jean De Monte another modern village one of a few along this stretch of the coast all connected by the D38 that made it easy for travel.

Usual around the town clothes shops eateries etc

In the town Square they were preparing for celebration of ‘St Jean”

A professional set up with a large stage and sound desk set in the centre. Looked really good and sounded excellent on the pre run.

They whiled away the time with food and beer.

We did not fancy hanging around and getting mixed up with jumping / mad crowd( being the miserable sod I am)

We returned home to site

Can’t remember when this was took, but a typical gathering after the Barbecues, A bit limited on space that’s why Mark is sat in the road

Spain Here We Come

 

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Well it’s that time of year again when 5 couples have decided to leave their Caravans behind and have an early holiday.

I will not list them all at the moment, you will recognise them from the photographs that I Hope to upload in due course, that is of course depending upon the Quality of the Internet connection available. (It’s the same crowd that went to Cyprus in 2016)

Apparently there are a few Fans of my Blog so this Tale is for them and also for the Nosey one’s who like to know what’s going on, also for those who like a really personal read.

What ever, enjoy and keep the Comments and Questions coming in

This year we have decide to go to Torremolinos, Malaga.

No doubt many of you have been there before, personally I have not, apparently it comes well recommended.

Follow this link for more photographs of the hotel:(https://www.riu.com/en/hotel/spain/malaga-torremolinos/clubhotel-riu-costa-del-sol/#

 

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Not many there at moment bars must be full

Pass Ports and Insurance (That was a bit tasty with my 3 TIA’s) checked,  EHIC renewed. All I have to do now is to make sure we are up and waiting for Tony Coles to collect us at the silly time of     2-30am Sunday morning.     Till  then!

Finally on our way.

Nothing unusual with our luck and the weather, it is snowing.

Tony Coles collected us at 3.00am and we made our way to  Bristol International Airport.

Made our way through security into the departure lounge and then to the departure gate only to be told due to the snow we have a 2 hour delay then they will update the situation.

Never mind gave us the opportunity to sample the range of expensive crap food they have on sale.

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This delay became a joke, every couple hours the departure time extended

We received vouchers for the sum of £10.00 to be spent on food available in the airport that in my estimation was a load of crap Fast Food.

Complaints to the staff were met with statements on ignorance they are airport staff not Air line Representatives

Frustration and anger was mounting amongst those that were affected.

Aircraft were landing and taking off where was ours that was outside of the terminal but eventually disappeared

It then became apparent that our aircraft had been reallocated for a flight to Turin.

Disabled passengers who had boarded prior to the general public were asked to leave the aircraft and wait again in the departure lounge after sitting on the aircraft for two hours along with every one’s luggage.

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Of course news of this spread amongst the passengers and situation became very tense.

There was nothing anyone could do, there were no representatives of Tui to complain to, ever one was simply left in the dark.

We just had to sit wait and hope that the departure time was the real one.

We were not the only ones.P1010384P1010381

Eventually at 2230hrs we eventually took off.

Great but that was not the end of it.

Remember this was a short hop flight of 2 5 hours approx. so the seats were adjusted accordingly, too short for my legs. I was allotted a window seat, Sandra next and a strange women on the isle, my bladder was ok, but my legs were not and my feet were twitchy and no where to go.

That was my situation for the next 2.5 hours bearing in mind 18hrs of sleepless stress and a couple beers, I was not comfortable, I am sure there are a lot of sympathizers who have had similar situations.

After struggling to sleep a welcome sound form the pilot, were are approaching and to fasten your seat belts

The lights of Malaga were apparent and eventually we landed and the familiar process of hoping your luggage was on the same flight as you and not in Turin.

Now to find the Transfer coach to the hotel and make sure you do not end up in the wrong hotel. Fortunately this part of the journey was efficient.

We ended up all together in the correct hotel but due to the large numbers there was an unwanted queue, and after along, long day it was not wanted.

Signed in with our all inclusive identity band secure around our wrists Sandra and I made our way to our rooms.

Due to the size of the hotel I had to drag our suitcases another 1/4 of a mile to our room. Some others who had more stamina agreed to meet in the 24hr bar afterwards

I just about made it to my bed, what a day

Sandra said bad start good finish , I hope she is right.

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Above is a view from our bedroom.

It is a hugh Hotel, the tall building is where the reception and all the restaurants are situated and the view we were greeted with when we emerged in the morning after our arrival.

We finally arose in the morning around 11′ ish after getting to bed at 3.00am .

I was still jaded and knackered after the turmoil of the previous day.

Met in the Foyer  around 12.00 and decided to have some wholesome food, in one of several Restaurants.

Wow what a selection of food it was certainly a 5* hotel, following on from our Hotel room that was designed to perfection with great thought to detail.

Apparently open quite recently

A few of us decided to take a stroll along the beach road. The sun was shining with a NW wind that was chilly

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Surprisingly most of the restaurant menu’s were predominantly in English if that is due to the number of British attending this part of Spain on that English is considered to be the International language remains to be determined

We investigated the area and low and behold came across this Irish bar that advertised some good entertainment.

This was noted and we carried on our way

Any way our stroll ended and we returned for a chill out evening in the restaurant and entertainments area.

 

 

 

 

Cyprus in September

You Must be Joking

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First time to Cyprus with a few friends, not really my style of holiday, but persuaded.

Temperature, forecast to be the normal 25 – 30° c  which means I shall either be in the Sea, Bar or Shade.

May even be in the shade of a bar by the sea.

On Reflection, how wrong can one be.

Of all the holidays that one has during your life time, some stand out, and this was one of them.

I will do my best to take you with me on this enjoyable holiday. By the way I was going to celebrate my 78th Birthday in Cyprus.

As normal we had to be at the Airport early in the morning, all excited but knackeredp1000296

Oh! by the way as normal I am there but as usual taking the photographs.

This was not all of the party, we were meeting two others who were already in Cyprus, two other swere following by another flight

The flight was ok but we nearly touched down when the Pilot raise the undercarrige and accelerrated back into the sky.

Bit unknerving, taking a large cicular flight towards Turkey. No information was offered by the flight crew

We continued to circle and eventually landed, boarded the transport and headed towards our hotel in Asia Napa.

Nice hotel,  clean all that one would require, drinks package that was included and full board.

Food menu was great and extended, self service with good helpful staff.

Tony and Elaine were staying at another local hotel where their son had got married a few day’s previously. Mark and Sue arrived shortly after and that completed our gang.

It prooved to be a happy gang also with out any of the Nit picking individuals that often populate gatherings of this nature.

 

Rainy Day In Wotton U Edge

We were camped in a field not far away, it was a gathering of friends of Elaine Cole to celebrate her 60th Birthday. Considerable efforts were made to gather friends and relations.

Some in their caravan’s others in tents; Campervans and visitors arrived both Friday and Saturday evening to be entertained with Music in the Barn.

Barn may be harsh word because it was decorated with coloured lights, curtains around the walls, Suits of furniture and Standard lamps, tables a good concrete floor adding up to a total nice atmosphere.

Saturday was true to the weather forecast, pouring with rain keeping most people undercover

Sandra and I for some unknown reason had a long sleep and woke at 11.00am.

After breakfast decided we would go to the local town of Wotton U Edge, Sandra had never been there, we arrived parked easy, it was 2 O’ Clock, drizzly and not many people around.

Walked down the high street and thought I would take a few photographs with my new camera for practice.

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Long Street W-U-E     on a Rainy day

The first shop was displaying a range of items for sale

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Giving Plate

A flower shop was displaying bunches of flowers. This one was swaying in the breeze.           I am surprised it was not blurred

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Reflection through the window, these boy’s were waiting for their girlfriend to finish

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Cake Shop

Beautiful Lardy Cake for sale  knew that Kevin adored it so we bought him a present

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Lardy Cake

This is my version of a ‘Selfie’ taken in the window of a Carpet Shop

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My ‘Selfie’

We came across the local Alms’ House’s. I did not have time to discover who the Benefactor was. They are well maintained and house 6 women and 6 men. we were welcome to visit

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The were situated in the lower end of town

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Well kept lawns and flower beds, showing what was original the water

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There was a Chapel situated in the corner of the Court Yard with two services a week. one on Sunday the other no a Wednesday. I entered and signed the guest book, but ‘Marley’ my dog was very uneasy and could not wait to get out.

p1000103This week is’ Pink Week’ in Wooton under Edge in support of Brest Cancer, all the shops had to display something Pink in their shop window. This Lady Won in my opinion for her idea and effort.                                                                                                                                                    This was just an ordinary Mannequin, she decorated it with her own range of paints.p1000097

The streets were decorated with hanging baskets

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Time has come for us to return to our car in this sleepy town and return home to continue the celebration of this lovely Lady Elaine,  Can you believe it she is 60 years old. (I don’t believe it)

Parley Glade 3

Bank Holiday Monday at Parley Glade

 

Got up and out early today,   well 11 O’clock ish.

Could not get to sleep last night, kept thinking about the Horse’s Ass sticking out of the bushes yesterday and also my Camera that I ordered earlier in the day.

Ordered the wrong one, wanted one with higher specs. So went back to John Lewis’s and spoke to the same guy I ordered if from yesterday.

He advised to leave it until I receive it then return it to the Bristol stores and order the one I wanted.

We decided to go back into Poole, Parked up and Sandra Purchased yet another Pair of shoes  from that famous shop ‘Pavers” to go with the other hundred’s she has at home.IMG_1478

 

 

Plenty of people all in a happy mood, milling around the Quay area. Ambled along the quay and time for Sandra’s chips. Waited 25 mins to get served in this recommended chip shop.

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Sat on the wall and I must admit the fish was far superior to that from The world-famous “Harry Ramsdens” we had recently at Bournemouth sea front, he even included a free Home made fish cake that was delicious.

That over with strolled along the quay in the opposite direction and surprise we came across one of the many Pubs, all full with visitors on this lovely sunny day, many Hydrating with water or Alcohol.

We decided to join them.

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The young girl wanted to take Marley home..

After an enjoyable beer and my toes burning in the sun continue our stroll,

Motorbikes were in fashion as they passed through a lot stopped and paraded their lovely possessions.

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Loads of visitors were crowded outside the pub with entertainment and a good singer that went down well, with applause at the end of each number.

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It was a glorious happy holiday atmosphere, but it became too hot for Marley and us, we decided to leave all the jollifications and head home.

Back at the caravan blinds pulled down for coolness we had a nap, then gradually packed up, took the awning down, tomorrow we will be going back to reality.

To sum up our holiday, it has been really enjoyable, the traffic was a lot easier than I had anticipated, the concentration of towns, houses, shops and population was continuous and something I was not expecting to experience.

There seemed to be little green space except on the field we were camping on.

The field is large and open frequented by heavy overhead  traffic at                7 O’clock in the morning Airoplaneand several times during the day, being situated at the end of Bournemouth International Airport, but that did not bother us.

The various Stewards of the New Forest DA have all been a very friendly lot. They hold several “MEETS” . They have a new one next year situated in a Private School grounds the other side of Bournemouth, the location seems to be attractive with all local amenities nearby. One for consideration next year.

Well that’s it folks if you did enjoy my Blog to any extent it would be nice to get at Least a “Like” If you do have any thoughts or comments please leave them also

Parley Glade 2

Saturday 27th

Late start to the day today, no rush, late breakfast, lounged around and finale left site in my Car around Midday.

Decided, (Sat Nav) willing, to drive to Christchurch, people telling us it is a lovely place.

Arrived at a place called Southborne a small village on a 14-mile stretch of sandy beach near Bournemouth. Strolled onto beach stretching miles in either direction. Not many people around on a Bank Holiday Saturday, probably due to weather being cloudy, packed out yesterday so we were informed.

Back into car and along coast to Boscombe Pier.

Walked along the pier etc and back into car and returned to Christchurch. Traffic was surprisingly light.

Headed towards the Priory.

Easy parking.

Entered The Priory Church, my mouth dropped open in appreciation and surprise of the Interior, the quality, grandness, the size, I am sure you all have felt the same when entering a grand Cathedrals etc. The lighting and general presentation of Christ on the Cross in the Lady Chapel was fantastic. There were so many places of interest within the priory, the Tower, The Loft museum and other places time did not allow us to investigate.

Onto the Quay side with all the various Yachts and other vessels, Swannery, pleasure trips, it was truly a very pleasant experience. We sat and had our compulsory bag of chips while studying all around us.

Time to go, back to the car approaching through a Door in the wall, I became aware of gushing water, Sandra beckoned me to look.

I could not believe it, a women with her pants down, head in the bushes and her bare bum sticking out for all to see like an Ostrich, she must have had a few years under her belt by the size of her rear end, she was peeing like a horse with steam rising like a cloud, she must had a few pints during the lunch hour. I only wish I had my camera handy, being embarrassed we moved on swiftly

Changing our mind we walked in the direction of the Town (Christchurch) very old, quaint and small.

Up and down the high street and back to the car and home feeling weary.

While I was cooking the Barbe-que another Motor home arrived on site, stewards parked them near to us.

A while after a raised voice came from the direction of the Motor Home, an elderly guy in the caravan behind him was giving the Motor Home couple a roasting stating why had they put the motor home there, they were blocking the sun from his LED Panel.

It was mad because it was 7 O’clock in the evening, the sun was very low in the sky and at that time no charging power for his Panel.

The couple in the motor Home were a mild timid couple and did not know what to do. They walked in our direction looking for somewhere else to park. Sandra was livid went to console them, apparently this was the first DA Meet they had attended.I suggested they speak with the stewards who came across and discussed the situation with all the Parties.

Unfortunately the Miserable Bast**d won, they changed their pitch and left site first thing in the morning after planning to stay for 4 days.

I don’t expect they will be DA camping again.

Sunday 28th

 

Lazing around in the morning I phoned my son to ask his advice on a camera, He said I cannot speak now, asked him why he said he took an early start to get home and was traveling along an ‘A’ road when a Wheel overtook him, he instantly recognised it was from his van and slowly came to a halt. They were in the process of waiting for the RAC to tow the van back to HighBridge Caravan.

As recommended have you checked your wheel studs recently, I certainly have

Left site around Midday, rain periods with cloud, headed towards Poole.

Wanted a few item and we stopped in a Shopping complex with the usual National Out Lets.

I spent some time in John Lewis’s deciding and discussing what Travel Camera I should buy and decided upon Panasonic Lumix that seemed to suit my requirements.

I was a Happy Chappie, continued for time and then left for Poole

Parked along the Quay area, there was a brisk onshore wind the temperature was ok and the rain had ceased.

That was it, the dog had a good run and we decided we would return home with help of the Sat Nav again.

That’s it for the rest of the day, sat in tonight watching ‘X’ Factor WOW.

Parley Glade

Thursday 25th

Took the bus into Bournemouth, weather cooler today, but some clouds.

Usual thing walking around the shops and the beautiful park. Well looked after

Wish Bristol City Council looked after the City Docks in the same manner.

Raining on and off but not enough to cause problem, Sandra not fussy on shops so we took a stroll along the  Beach.

Called into the World famous “Harry Ramsden” chip restaurant for a takeaway. Purchased one  Lot. a lot each, as we proved recently is too much for us.

Typically what a load of crap, Fish and Batter is a better description, very minimal fish.

We sat watching the Muslims crowding the Beach Shower, Mothers Covered in their Black bed sheets, directing all all, all, their children. Why is that they only wade into the water only Waist high, never seen any of them swim.There were a few  Jews around but no Punch up’s.

It started to rain heavily so we decided we had seen enough of this hustle and bustle and returned to the Bus stop. Returned home and the rain had stopped and the sun came out and reached 32 Degrees again too hot for me so in the van I stayed in the van and later took dog along side the river and then retired for the day.

All together not a very exciting day.

Friday 26th

Today decided to get some quality adhesive tape to patch up my Caravan after my accident.

Decided to go to an industrial unit 8 miles away, specialist in Adhesive tapes.

Used Sat Nav as one does in strange areas. Marvellous things if they operate in the way you expect. Reached our destination purchased what I thought would be OK. (That’s another story)

Returned to car , surprise the Sat Nav Had packed up so our planned journey to Christchurch was put on hold. Had a road Map but in this concentrated road system it was not good enough to Navigate.

Here we go, had to trust in y aged memory how to retrace my journey back to where I started and also my security of where I am.

Great yes, very pleased my memory served me well we arrived on site.

Decide to get some sun , but it was too hot for this old far, stayed in the shade and later ventured to the stewards who so happened to have one of those expert on everything guys, (Much like Russ)

He mumbled a few words of advice and took it away say he would return it later, but not making any promises.

Later when we having our barbe-que he arrived over the horizon with my Sat Nav in his hand and a confident smile on his face(I whispered to Sandra “He Has Fixed It”. Sure enough he had stated that it The Sat Nav was set to switch off when the power to it was removed?? expressing ignorance I thanked him and offered him a pint of my special beer, he refused stating he was on a die, any way it was working so I was a happy Chappie, he saved me a journey to Comet or Halford’s where they are.

I must do as Dave Seward has suggested, get myself a range of Paper maps as we used to do.

We decide to walk to ‘The Curlew’ the pub at the end of the Lane, Turned out to be  a 20 minute walk. Quite a posh Pub mainly, as they all are for eating, but they did serve a range of real ales and ‘Old Rosey’ for Sandra (£5.95).Very busy for food, studying the Menu I fancied the 7oz Fillet Steak @ £20.95, but We had already eaten.

Returned home after a couple of pints, may go To Christchurch tomorrow, but we will have to wait and see, that’s a long way off yet.

 

 

 

Parley Glade

Wednesday 24th August

On our way to “Parley Glade”at 10.45,  the   ‘Meet’ organise by the New Forest DA.

Slow start out through Keynsham and Saltford.                                                            Rubbish bins collections were due today.                                                                                            Guess what on each side of the road travelling in opposite directions were the BIN collection vehicles.

This is the main A4, lots of traffic as one can expect. They were causing hell with the traffic flow. Queues in the front behind and in-between. It was chaos. this must happen every week. One would think that the local traffic management would recognise the problem, Pollution, anger, frustration loss of productivity and all the other inherent problems it causes.

Would it not be possible to divert a  Vehicle to other round for that day, that would improve the problem.

Not only that delay, another loomed ahead, a Drain vehicle was in operation along the road with manual traffic control.

It is about time with the ever increasing traffic on our roads the local authorities started co-ordinating road repairs and potential traffic flows by employing a road and traffic Guru who would be able to organise traffic within the county to keep the traffic flowing. We have all been in a restricted traffic flow and passing it think “What was all that about”

The guy’s that repair the roads are there to do just that, they do not care about the inconvenience to the traffic, they just place the Cones where they think.                           An experienced guru would be able in many cases improve the situation.

Any way out onto the A36 Warminster Road and onwards it was quite good, the traffic kept flowing. 69 miles according to my SAT Nav. What a way, it took me, along narrow lanes some where passing was very difficult, it seemed to take hours, it was an arduous journey. Arrived on site 14.30 hrs.

Sun was really hot, all I wanted to do was get the legs down and get out of the heat, 32 C degrees in the caravan and that was with the blinds down.

Eventually it began to cloud over and then  started to rain making things a lot cooler. When the rain went off I decided to put the awning up.

Celebrated with a glass of cider and chat to the neighbours.

Nice flat site with short well maintained grass, toilets and showers (£1.50), £10.00  pun EU £4.50.Water points around site including Recycling bins.

The caravan started vibrating, a large aircraft flew over, apparently we are at the end of Bournemouth Airport.

Our Neighbours tell us we shall be up early in the morning as the 6 and & 7 O’clock flights will be going overhead.

We intended to walk to the Pub along the lane when it got cooler, after we had our meal of home made curry.It turned out to be too hot, I shall have to reduce the amount of Karachi Chili on my next.

We decided not to go out after, the meal feeling more relaxed, it started to rain again and opted to stay in. Perhaps a good decision after our tiring day.

It also gave me time to catch up on my Blog for the day

 

Day Trip to Bideford by Bus

Caught the bus to Bideford form Bude, arrived on the bus stop several were waiting and consulted with a few just to make sure our instructions were correct.

Spoke one gent who originated from Liverpool, said he had a brain injury and had to move to somewhere that was peaceful and serene and had not returned that was 11 years ago.

I think he was a cross dresser due to the fact he was wearing one high heel shoe and a boot(walked with a limp).

Another young lady was returning to New Zealand(South Island) she had been here to help her mother downsize her house due to the fact he Father was Ill.

The first part of our journey was to Holford, then to change to the bus to Bideford.

Walked around the market while waiting, quaint typical country village style.

Onto Bideford, around country lanes and quite a pleasant journey.

Fortunately the sun came out after a cloudy start,

 

Started to explore the town, most of the shops were on the hilly part of town.

Found a Wither spoons but not dog friendly so pass them by these days

Wandering around we stopped at a corner café with Chairs and sun umbrella’s

Special of the day, Large Bap chicken bacon, Stuffing, Salad, and two roast potatoes. And Cranberry sauce. Fantastic value £3.50. Wanted a drink, found a pub similar to wither spoons, dog friendly and sat with a retired gentleman whom I found out came from Blackpoll always had Jack Russell dogs like the one he had now. Lost his wife and moved here to be with his daughter.

Told the story that he was in a pub went to the toilet, while he was there the dog bite the hand of the guy who was sat next to him for some unknown reason, so the guy kicked the dog. The owner found this out went home taking the dog on the bus. Returned without the dog and thumped the other guy knocking him to the floor, consequently was banned from the pub. He did appear to have been a bit of a rough nut in his time but today a nice guy to me, anyway. Had  two large coffee’s and continued our day.

Lovely sunny day, returned to the Quayside to catch the bus home.

Along came a double decker bus and off we went not expecting the journey we had.

Remember the bus travels into the Rural parts particularly into and out of Holsworthy. The roads were so narrow is a way of life to stop and reverse to allow other vehicle to pass. The bus we were on reversed about 300 hundred yards along the lane in order to let a Large commercial lorry to pass.

Amazingly narrow lanes just the width of the bus with the hedge brushing each side. Went through a part where it became dark in the bus due to the denseness of the trees at the side and above, even on this sunny day. Passengers alighted along the route, I cannot imagine living in such a remote area.

After mile’s of slow moving , sharp narrow bends we eventual emerged onto a side road and then onto a main road.

Arriving at our destination I spoke with the driver saying this is a “Journey to write home about”, he replied he does this once in the morning and once at the end of his day, taking students into Bideford and taking them back home at night, the bus is normally full, today is out of Term Time!

In the evening we accompanied Julie & Ian to their Time share hotel along with others for an evening a female singer who was very good and will be appearing at Warner establishment’s Nationally.

Finally back to my awning for Cheese and biscuits and so so to bed after an enjoyable day.