Belto's Blog

Our Return Trip Back home

I have missed some part of our adventure out due to circumstances, but I will try to complete that at a later stage.

I wish to carry onwards and upwards at the moment.

This is the end of our two week Stay at Marjal, a campsite of approx. 1400 sites, superb Shower blocks with under floor heating, (here in Spain).

An internal road system and sited various styles and sizes Motor Homes you can Imagine.

There were also bungalows of all shapes and sizes that are available to purchase and rent.

The owners can then modify them as they feel only limited by the amount of money one has.

We had spent the last night at the club, getting there for happy hour at 6 o’clock, the prices are normally good but now they were ridiculously cheap.

But who was moaning.

The entertainer for the night was “Dutch Jonny” he certainly new how to manipulate the crowd.
We all (Sandra, Audrey, Tom and I) had a good evening with plenty of laughs.

Tom and Audrey had supported us well through our problems with my car, giving us moral help and also mobile help. (That’s another story)

Evening over, we said our good byes with hugs and kisses and promises to meet again soon.

We went our separate ways back to our caravans and so to bed.

Awake early to see the sun arise over the horizon, great a nice day to travel.

Breakfast, packed up said our goodbyes to our neighbor, an Englishman from up North, who now lives if France but come south for the winter to his Bungalow he Purchased for 45,000 euros when the site opened 4 years ago.

Also said our goodbyes to a couple that are Assistant Caravan Club Stewards on the clubs sites. They camped with the CCC Rally not wanting to be bothered by the CCC members.

They were also very helpful when we arrived.

Going back in March to Steward a site in Suffolk until November.

Tom and Audrey arrived said our goodbyes again, and we drove off into the sunrise.

Sat Nav set to the GPS fastest time for a site along the coast 180 miles away, had good reports about it and was in the right direction.

Bonterra Park on the way to Barcelona.

The road numbering system is quite complicated, with some roads having the two numbers, I never got to the bottom of that one but I suppose some one knows.

The problems with travelling in a country you do not know constantly thinking does the Sat Nav know where it is going, In my mind we were not going in the right direction, E-17, A31, numbers I had not been used to having travelled several times between Denia and some where near Torrvieja.

(These were the times I had my unfortunate experiences with my car)

Eventually I pulled into a filling station and checked, with the detailed map.

Yes we were on the right road but not necessarily in the direction I thought we might go.

I thought we would go along the coast road, on of several that ran in the same direction but of different quality and some road tolls, with road numbers E-15, N-332, A-7, AP-7.

We were going north, it was busy with loads of lorries so we were going in the right direct, but was it the direction I wanted.

My stop confirmed I should have had confidence in my Sat Nav; we were travelling along a road that was cutting across a sort of peninsula.

This road was constantly going up hill; there was industry on sides, some population, and some times greenery.

200 yards after our stop we took a road sharply to the right after 6 miles then took another turning to the right, sharply is probably the wrong word, all roads blended into each other via filter lanes, in effect these were quite a good way of joining the flow on busy roads.

This last on took us onto the A35, A7 road that took us back towards Valencia.

The scenery began to change, the landscape also changed giving it a more cared for appearance.

Industry was strewn around, fields of various types fruit, either gathered or starting their their cycle again, Oranges and lemons were very popular. Lorries with crates of them were moving them around the countryside to different locations.

Recently constructed houses were plentiful, an obvious higher economic area of Spain not reliant on the tourist industry.

All the roads again were recently built within the last 10 years, not to the same standards as the UK, road width seem to differ, the hard shoulders were definitely death traps if you stopped, not being wide enough for the vehicle, let alone offer some repairs

Miles rolled by; we were travelling at approximately 55- 60 miles an hour, giving lorries the opportunity to pass us by and also for me to relax and enjoy the scenery, time was on my side.

The area around Valencia was nice and I wished I would have had time to spend and explore more; it appeared to be clean tidy and well organize,

It was not to be.

The population became denser and Sat Nav said turn off, we nearing our destination as “Benicassim” appeared on the road signs.

We were now on local roads, turn sharp right, blimey that looks a bit steep, it was, for longer caravans that had bottomed out by the scars in the road.

Turn left; I had to turn the wing mirrors in to get through the rows of cars on either side.

Turn left and left again, there was a roundabout, and the left turning had gone.

I made the right choice.

We turned into a well-organized campsite, told to find our pitch and report back after leaving our passports with him.

10amp electricity was available, water on pitch suitable for washing etc., potable water available from a central source that I was not keen on due to my recent past experience.

England Vs. Italy available in the clubhouse tomorrow so I am sorted.

Out for a walk into Benicassim, Sandra’s compulsory visit to the local “Sell Everything Chinese shop, purchased a local large cauliflower for 1 euro, into Lidle’s for some bread and made our way back to the van knackered again but happy the Sat Nav brought right to the door without the previous hassles I’ve had.

Spain Here we Come

Awake at 6.30, decided to go back to sleep, no rush today only 185 miles to go.

On reflection of our tours these last few days and taking into account the bad weather we have encountered,

At the moment all these lovey profound names, ideas and dreams these places might conjure up, be very relaxed about it all, we in the UK have all and more to offer to the tourists of the world, easily compared to anything we have set our eyes upon so far. We only lack the weather.

So far Sandra and I have encountered that as well.

But we have chosen this time to tour.

Zaragoza is our target, for 2 days.

I eventually get up and decided to get some fuel locally, on the motorway they can charge what they like.

Secured a fill up for €1.04, back home for breakfast pack up and away.

Negotiating a left turn via Sat Nav where the road system was being changed into a round a bout, was successful. Continue quite happily, but around here was quite a few changes that confused Sat Nav and I.

Took a turning that caused Sat Nav to renegotiate the route, you know, you have all been there.

Ended with me taking a right turning that was wrong, down the hill that got narrower and narrower, turned left into a type of lane, like the one at the bottom of your garden. Continue (there was no where else to go). Turned left up the hill again, great made it 45 degree slope, only to get to the top, guess what the road was blocked off with huge white painted stones.

Reverse down the hill again, turn left and followed my nose to the top again. Only this time I stopped for while for Sat Nav to regain her composure.

100% away we go (all this time I remained in control without panicking, Sandra was not so confident).

We were on the road again, lots of turnings etc.,

Then Sat Nav says bare right in 97 miles, time to relax again.

But we did not take into account the number of Pay age or Autopistas what ever they are called into Spain.

We spent lots of money going through these Toll roads.

Anyway on we go and suddenly we start going up wards, this was not a short upward but a long one.

Miles and the temperature dropped, the scenery changed, the house’s that we saw reminded me of Switzerland, the hills changed to mountains on wards and upwards, no one told me I would be going over the Alps.

The engine temperature was going up, I was getting anxious.

Not only that I was worried where my wallet was.

I tried to pay at a Pay age and did not have my wallet with me.

Trying to think when I had it last at the Petrol station, could not think I had left it in the caravan, worried with all the consequential losses I did not speak for quite a while.

Snow on the mountains, long tunnels to contend with we carried on.

10 klm a fuel stop great I will be able to confirm or not where my wallet and all my money both £ & €, you can imagine.

We pulled in and stopped to let Marley relieve himself and also to look for my Wallet.

Hooray it was left in my caravan what relief.

Onwards now long way to go.

Scenery began to change as we progressed.

Again mile after mile. Traffic was exceedingly light; the motorways were totally unused built from EU funds total waste of our money.

As I travel I and being more educated and convinced the UK has a soft Government and not utilizing the Taxpayers money for the use of the taxpayer.

How ever I am getting myself wound up so I will not proceed on that subject any more (YET).

I am sat currently in my comfortable caravan was totally relaxed enjoying a glass of very nice and cheap Vino.

To continue, as we passed small towns and villages, remember we are travelling across the center of Spain, various crops (yet inactive) of wine vines, olive trees and others I cannot identify. A long range of mountains to my left and hundreds, yes hundreds of wind generators, including huge fields of Solar panels made of 15’ x 15’ panels.

But rather boring plain course countryside, sandy Spanish type.

Zaragoza now begins to be more apparent as we get close, with industrial units appearing.

Eventually we get into the outer limits when again I get confused with Sat Nav and miss the turning, straight into town, a care full and slow negotiation, we eventually reach site.

On the button, right to the desk.

This geographical coordinates are really something.

Clock in site produced, you No 111, follow the road.

This site recommend buy the CCC, is a municipal run site.

The whole area is a development site an extension to existing town as probably fund3d by the EU, and our money.

Well fitted with all the amenities but the design should have been designed by some one with Mobile Home and Caravan knowledge.

Good indications it was municiple site, it was poorly maintained

The room to manoveure is already showing signs of accidents, we had unnecessary difficulties getting onto a large site because of inappropriate trees planted, waste bins and road side kerbs etc.

Others parking at the time had to stop and think how they would approach their site.

There were mainly English on site approx. 12 units in transit, going to or leaving the coast of Spain.

A Motor Home user from Torquay, he was an Estate agent on the way south to warmer climes.

Another Bailey Pageant owner (Poor old Guy) on his way home to New castle area with two grey hounds, his first trip and fed up of driving going home via Bilbao Ferry.

I thought on our way we are going south and the weather would be warmer, how wrong.

When I got out of the car to sign in, the wind was gale force, i.e. lean into type.

Signed in showing passport, on to site, that’s when I have some difficulties, but not a lot.

Set up donned winter wear, i.e. artic gear, and went in search of Super Market that was supposed to be across the road, across the yet to be developed waste land.

Reaching the other side and into newly created blocks of 8 story blocks of secure gate entry flats.

Nothing found, eventually Sandra enter a shop and asked where ‘Carrefour’ was, an immediate response and pointe us in the right direction of this rather large development area.

Shopping done including 2 bottles of Vino (That later proved to be good wine and good value) settled in for the night.

After our evening meal (I don’t want to be posh and say ‘Dinner’)

I began to update my Blog.

There is an airport here and during the day aircraft take off without too much disturbance to the locals.

2000 hrs. that changes for about an hour there was continuous noisy Jet aircraft taking off, and then silence no aircraft at all.

We both agree that this is a one night stop only for transit reasons, there is nothing here for us, a newly developing EU funded town, as agreed by other more experienced travellers on site.

We shall be leaving for higher temperatures (hopefully) a day early hoping that our pre booked site can accept us.

We will not be returnng to this site again

I think that’s about it for today, sorry it’s boring but that’s my life.

Bayonne and Beyond

Day in Nantes

We had decided to go into Nantes, have a look around and maybe some therapeutic shopping.

Not very far from site at all again easily navigated.

I had selected the central part of Nantes with the aid of Google Earth

(That’s a fantastic piece of software if you study how to use it)

We drove in and there was a large car park near to where I thought we might go.

On getting out I had a brief look around and decided with the icy cold cutting wind it was not the correct area so we got back in the car and carried on with Sat Nav instructions.

Yes right into the middle of town, up and down narrow roads careful navigating regarding right hand driving was to be considered. The worst part approaching a roundabout with drivers coming from the left, but Sandra’s screaming kept me on my toes.

There was like any major city nowhere to park absolutely full. We continued driving around getting a feel for the place and generally agreed it was not worth stopping.

I don’t think I hit the real shopping area but Sandra was not that worried

I pulled over to discuss with my Sat Nav and we made a great decision of going to Carrefour.

The priced were not too dissimilar to UK prices, except that the diesel was €1.04 liter.

Topped up and ready to go, we returned to the caravan.

Tonight I had access to the Internet, it was very infrequent and slow, in fact it was crap, I had time to get up to date with my Blog

Woke up to crisp sunny day the grass was white with frost.

Took Marley on a morning walk, got back and started the car to defrost and warm up.

The young English-speaking girl was not around at the moment, so I had to revert to an APP that I had previously downloaded. It is called “SAY HI” available for Apple and Android based products

The elderly lady who did not seem to be very computer literate quickly picked up the system, and so we conversed.

I retrieved my €20 that I had placed as a deposit for my car entry card at the gate.

There were several others in the Office/shop; they were amazed at the software and our ability to converse

This App has the ability to converse in about 40 Languages, I used my I PAD, the screen is divided into two halves, one half can be reversed so the you and your conversationalist can respond to each other.

To start, you speak to the IPAD (you would already have decided what language to select).

Then responds in the language you wish to understand.

The other person can hear and also read what has been said,

He would then respond in his own language.

It is also possible to type in questions or information you required.

All ready for the off, Sandra checked my lights as normal.

The response was negative.

You remember when we arrived onsite in the dark, I was highly stressed and there was a noise as I drove forward.

This was the noise and problem.

All the pins had disappeared into the housing and a cable had been broken.

I had wanted to get away early so that I could arrive on the next site in the daylight in case of any problems locating the site again.I went into the office to seek information on where the nearest Caravanning/ spares shop was.

Bad news, caravanning is not very popular and there is not one around.

Great next move, try to use the current plug.

The site engineer was very helpful he can across and took the plug apart sorted the wiring and reinserted it without the housing that was destroyed on dismantling.

On testing all lights were working, all taped up and suggestions to be very careful when taking apart again we were on our way, He was happy with a €20 note in his pocket, I was happily on my way, relying upon my Sat Nav that I had checked and checked again.

This time with the use of Google Earth.

Negotiated all local road network, onto the motorway.

Sat Nav spoke, bare right in 74 miles.

Time to relax and reflect.

What will be the next hurdle I wondered

Onwards and onwards the miles were eaten up.

I decided to stop at one of these “Aerie’s” I had heard so much about where you can stop if you so wish.

Marley and I relieved ourselves a quick walk around this area provided for all who required a rest on these long journeys’ it was pleasant open with toilets and wash basins.

Back into the car and away again, mile after mile.

We followed Sat Nav off the A10 and onto the outskirts of a small town.

On our left there appeared a Motor Home sales area. Retrieving our steps I went in.

Made some enquires only to find I was in the Manufacturing side of this huge Motor Home manufacturing plant.

I ventured into the work shop unheeded, there were Motor Homes In all sorts of readiness. With chassis all over the place.

They obviously had a full order list.

Moving on I found the sales office, they were on their lunch hour.

In the mean time I browsed the limited stock of Spares they had.

I found a 13 pin socket and spoke to the sales person /manager who confirmed that the UK 13 pin was of a different specification that the French one and very doubtful in I could get one anywhere in France or Spain.

Thinking I will definitely require a new Plug, I text the guy who had fitted this one to my car and asked if he could post one to me and I would collect it at Marjal, The camp site I was heading for in a couple of days .

He came back shortly and stated, it was in the post.

Great, I then had a text from my son to state that an old fried of mine had finally passed away.

He had a long and lingering illness.

I texted his wife paid my respects and apologized that I would not be at his funeral and we would be in contact when we retuned.

Onwards with our Journey throwing up concerns about the Sat Nav and were heading in the right direction.

Several non logical turns on the roads when signs appeared re establishing my confidence .

Back onto the main road heading south again.

(What I did not realize at the time, the Sat Nav had taken us off of the main A10 and took a detour through or near a town, this had reduced our mileage quite considerably and took us back onto it at a later stage instead of following it in a large sweeping bend unnecessarily)

As we neared Bordeaux the traffic became denser and there were lots of “White Man Vans” zooming by upsetting my Caravan.

The traffic now was rush hour 5 o’clock on a Friday Night, traffic every where, not a wrong step to be made or else we were in proverbial Mire.

Bear to right, take the first turning left, 2 miles bear to the right and so on roads were jam packed, but it had slowed due to the volume.

Gradually as we left the central area the traffic concentration eased.

Taking a long sweeping bend the Sat Nav suggested we were approaching destination.

Bang we were there spot on, to the yard, into the site checked in set up.

Sat down to a well-deserved cup of tea.

Icy night last night down to -3 ish.

But the sun came up temperatures improved, we had decided to go into Bordeaux via public transport, we are a long way out of town, there was the buss terminus just down the road.

Getting a map from the site manager Me Sandra and the dog were marching on another day of adventure not knowing what was ahead of us, in a foreign country with no knowledge of the language only Mercie, Bonshure or something like that.

€3.5 each into central area we on the bus for 45 minutes it was a long way and cheap. Good transport system.

We got off in the central area and had to get a tram on line ‘C’ from the busy terminal.

After consulting with several lots of French people we determined we had to get cash to feed the machine to get tickets (€4.80 for a day ticket anywhere, great value, got us home as well as into the shopping area)

An enterprising man reasonably dressed was standing by the machine waiting for those in difficulty (like ourselves)to lend a hand and help us on our way, very good until he held out his hand, a couple of low value coins €1.5 we were both happy.

It is in situations like this that you have to be aware of pickpockets etc who are up to all sorts of tricks but not in this case,

Sandra had her wit’s about her.

Long tall buildings formed the shopping area that went on for ages, not any constructed Mall’s like in the UK, utilizing existing buildings.

I was taking notes of where we were so that we could retrace our steps.

Anyway being confident I could get back to where we started, “I got lost”.

Don’t know how, all the buildings were in block formation.

Walking miles trying to retrace our steps.

As normal I decide to go down the Rue de La something and it was not comfortable with the type of characters that were abound, some worst for the Alcohol, others homeless and begging and not wholesome .

Sandra moaning at me , stating I all ways do this , I away go too far.

We eventually emerged into an area where I thought I might be able speak with someone without getting “Mugged”.

Took thee of advice a young girl with a smattering of English, got on a tram on route “B” to meet up with route “C” but got off again couple of stops later not thinking the advice was logical.

Asked someone else and seems good advice remembering all the time there was great difficulty in communication, but at no time irritability.This time it seemed ok , Sandra enquired of a passenger this stop to get off he suggested the one after, he spoke good English.Sure enough off the tram across the road and on to another heading in our recognized way home.

At the terminal, off the tram again, across the road and onto our final bus journey in Bordeaux.

Marley shaking from cold and being wet, was very happy.

The transport system was very good, a bus system getting passengers from the outer districts into town, onto the tram system to transport them around the inner area, very efficient and regular.

Back home surprise , surprise the sun came out after surviving the rainy day in town.

When I booked these sites they advertised Wi Fi available, great I thought I can keep in touch with all that I wanted.

I must admit being an avid user at home I do get Internet withdrawal symptoms when not available.

This is the second site I have been on advertising WiFi, and again it is so limited to be practically useless.

I thought the sites are supplied with a certain Bandwidth and lack of access was due to the number of users reducing the availability and time Lag.

Not so I have tried late at night and early in the morning, when in theory users were at a minimum

It was so bad it gave me the impression WiFi is switched off.

I do not understand it and if there is any reader who has greater knowledge and understanding I would really like to Know.

As you all know I an a Newbie at this Blogging. I would like to make it more attractive add photo’s etc and not so boring to read.

There may come a time when I educate myself to change the layout so beware

Onto Bayonne Tomorrow

Boarding and First Day on Right Hand Side

We began our journey to Poole in Dorset, decide to go a day early not wanting to get up in the early hours of the morning and race to the port.

I had enquired before and it was acceptable to park in the departure area the night before and pay Seven pounds to the Coffee shop on the dock area.

It was a bright day when we set off mid afternoon.

As we approached Bush Hill the other side of Bath a car came down the hill at breakneck speed overtook a Bus, was on our side of the road I swerved and braked towards the left hand kerb side, Sandra screamed and I waited for the collision.

Suddenly it was all over he was gone.

How he ever missed us will remain a mystery,

Feeling rather shaken and Sandra feeling sick we proceeded with our journey to Poole.

On our arrival surprisingly there was no one there we just pulled up to the checking in Gates put our legs down, Oh! by the way the rain had started. My job to source some water for the night.

“Marley” and I made our way to the toilets and shower rooms, still open, nice and clean services provided.

Barrel full, Marley serviced we made our way back to the van.

The rain had increased along with the wind, it was not a night to be out and about.

Heating up to full remember that the caravan was freezing cold not being used since New Year.

TV set up settled for the night.

Boarding Day

I was up at 5.45 after having a restless night started packing.

Went to the car and Oh no, there was not any life in the battery, it was dead flat. Panic began to set in thinking of all the alternatives.

By now Checking In office was open, there had arrived a few other cars etc , they were allowed to go through to waiting to load area.

I enquired if there was any help available, negative response only here’s a Red sticker for your car to let the staff know there is a dog in the car.

I decided to ring the RAC, their response was we can get someone there by 8.15 when he had finished his other job.

The sailing was at 8.30 that did not give me enough confidence to wait but I agreed.

I then decide to get my long starter leads from the car, remember, it was still dark although the lights from the dock were on, it was hammering down with rain I was getting wetter and wetter and cold along side.

Everything out on the ground in the rain, starting cables out and onto the Battery leads, reloaded the car.

There were still a few cars coning in, I decide I would ask someone to assist me.

At that moment a car and a trailer pulled up , having trouble mate.

He went to his boot and out came one of these things that start engines,

He placed the contacts on to my battery all the while he was getting soaking wet.

What a hero, the car started and away he went in to night through the checking in office, with me shouting my thanks.

Engine still running I finally packed everything checked in and proceed to the waiting area. Soaking wet and windows steamed up, you know you have been there.

What a start to the day, what else is waiting for us.

On to the next check in, my caravan is inspected, mirrors used to check underneath the car, I said that’s a bit low for immigrants anyway you should check that on the was back.

Questioned about did I pack everything myself, do I have any explosives, Only the gas bottle and that’s turned off I replied.

I said you should be checking me on the way back when I’ve got all the wines

and Fags onboard.

I proceeded to board, parked up and put Marley in the van, kissed him goodbye and said will be back in a couple of Hours.

Pet owners were escorted once during the journey to inspect their pets.

The passenger list was very short and my dog was the only Pet on board.

There were only approximately 40 cars on board, I did not see any lorries or larger vehicles.

As I checked the car was secured, a gentleman was asking the transport deck attendant if he had a supply of water, apparently he had an old MG that his wife had borrowed some months previously and he was returning it to France. Problem was it had problems with the water system and was loosing water, he needed it to fill his radiator again.

I would not fancy driving a car a couple of hundred miles into France with that sort of problem

Any way I said I would be able to assist him with water I had on board.

He was a happy man and I was able to repay the good turn someone had offered me earlier.

Up to the lounge Deck, very few people around, nice and warm and I began to dry out and get warm.

I was feeling Knackered and it was only 8.30, walked around purchased a news paper sat and read for a short while when Sandra suggested we went for breakfast.

Restaurant was empty, full English was 4.95, I thought was very reasonable.

Sandra was laughing and Joking with the French steward, not understanding a word he was saying but making sure she got what she wanted, some extra toast included.

I asked for a couple of extra chipolata sausages, he grunted, I reminded him I was helping him get rid of all the wasted food, there was no one on board to eat it.

After we decide to lay down and try and get some rest, we managed to layout, there was plenty of room.

Had a kip, then went to buy a news paper.

Then started wandering around to see who was on board.

Came across the guy’s who Helped me.

His boss was in the car,

They had driven down from Darlington that morning, I put my Sherlock Holmes head on and hazarded. a guess and said they were going to collect a car .

Yes, they were MG restorers, of some repute I understand.

They were on their way to collect an old valuable MG that had been stood quite a few years in a Garage in France.

Their client moved to France 20 years ago and sought them out as Classic Restoration, “Simon J Robinson”.

We continued to discuss MG cars when along came the chap with the MG he was returning, the one with radiator problems. They soon started discussing the finer arts of MG’s In general which let me out of the conversation.

We then came upon 3 young men, covered in hair, haversacks and casual clothes, jeans and warm thick Tartan shirts.

I asked what they were doing and where they were going.

We are going to the Alps snow boarding, all self employed live just 10 miles away, they decided a few days ago to book and here they are.

They have a friend who lives over there, they were going to see him.

Sleep in his house I enquired, oh! No we will sleep in the van, crickey I hope the van is insulated, yes they replied.

Time is approaching to disembark, and finally the all clear was given to go to our vehicles.

Taking Marley from the caravan into the car, he was not very happy, he tends to get miserable if he is left too long, after all he is with us all day every day.

Into France

Here we go then first time on French soil on my own driving on the other side of the Road.

Russell’s suggestion of getting behind an English number plate went up the swanney.

I had to follow a large vehicle with a foreign number plate so I was on my own.

Luckily Cherbourg is a relatively small port, there was not much traffic and my Sat Nav was working OK.

Concentrating and not wanting to be one of the statistics you hear about being on French soil for the first time.

We eased out of the port up the hill and pulled over to give Marley a run and relieve himself.

That over with, back to driving on the right.

Approximately 215 miles to site and I wanted to get there before Dark.

This was pushing it.

I had to stop for Fuel some where, But where?

My worst scenario was getting to site in the dark, I was reasonably confident of my Sat Nav would get me there ( I have a bit to say on that subject, quite interesting but not at this precise moment)

Foot down and lets go we are all set up for the journey. It was surprisingly simple.

Get to a round about second exit and continue for 74 miles.

Well that was quite relaxing not having to make any decisions until then.

My confidence grew and my speed increased until I was overtaking lorries.

They do not appear to have the same speed restrictions as the UK because they were travelling at all sorts of speed.

I did have take care on overtaking.

My caravan is smaller that the previous one and has different handling characteristics.

The French duels carriageways are a little narrower than the UK so when overtaking there is less room.

If too close to a lorry when overtaking the lorry has the tendency to draw my caravan closer to it, quite unnerving at times.

Also because of it’s lack of weight when travelling on the inside, the French white man van hurtles by, the bow wave of frontal air pressure hits the back of my van causing it to lurch forward and to the right unexpectedly. Again unnerving.

Any way after a hundred or so miles we stopped for some Fuel.

I had heard that it was cheaper here in France, at €1.32 / liter I did not think so, however like the UK Motor services, they have a monopoly.

I was getting worried now dusk was approaching and we were still a long way from our destination.

The traffic had been quite light, but as we approached various cities the traffic increased and as we passed by it began to thin out again. We were now approaching our destination.

Following the Sat Nav implicitly ever nearer to Our Destination.

Turn left, turn right all on the right had side. Clever this Sat Nav.

It states you have now arrived at your destination.

I suddenly realized my worst fears.

In France, Dark, Caravan on back, lost and cannot speak the language.

After some discussion we move on circulating the area slowly looking for some sort of clue.

This was rush hour 6 oclock’ ish, thr French were rushing home from, there was some idiot in front with UK number plates in the way, irritability was rife.

I pulled over and took my chances,, the few people that were around at that time, all none English speaking, most sensible Frenchmen were in the warm watching President Miterrieon, on TV moaning about the English government and their stupidity.

Luck at last a gentleman walking his dog realized my predicament, called his wife over and she had a smattering of English.

I showed him the address, his eyes lite up and proceeded to wave his arms frantically in the air.

He obviously recognized it, again waving his arms in a directional mode told me to go around the block back onto the main road turn left by the garage and follow my nose.

We bade farewell and I declined his offer of a French kiss on each side of the cheek

Fortunately his directions proved to be correct and we arrived at the site out in countryside somewhere.

It turned out to be a forestry type of site.

The gates were locked and it was dark (can you imagine how I was feeling by this time, how could so much happen to me in one day)

Walking into the site I noticed a light far away, approaching there is was “The Office”

A pleasant young girl, English speaking greeted me, showed me my pitch gave me the entry pass card for a deposit of 20 Euroes

We set up during which period I drove forward there was some restriction and noise, it was the 13 pin pug had got caught on the ball some how.

It looked OK so I set up, the usual things, feeling knackered I sat back and let Sandra provide the Tea and food.

On refection I had not done too bad, 230 miles on the wrong side of the road, no angry Car horn blasts or angry Frenchmen, that I was aware of, only took one wrong turning, crap Sat Nav settings and here we are all safe and sound.

Tomorrow’s another day.

2 Days to Go

Quite a relaxing day today, after days of anxiety, lack of sleep, and worry on our trip to Europe and my organisation.

Remember it is only me that holds the whole responsibility of our forthcoming Holiday (I hope) the success or failure to France and Spain relies upon me.

Anyway today my son Paul invited me to watch Bristol Vs Yorkshire Carnegie rugby match.

What a day a few pints before during and after, resulted in a good win by Bristol after an uncertain start and managing a win in the dying minutes of the game.

Disappointing in the fact that Carnegie are 12 place lower in the league.

Anyway, details, I booked various stops with the club, the details were very precise and designed for Car and caravan great, most impressed.

But upon further investigation, the sites information recommend following, co-ordinates, great again indicating that sites in France and Spain do not have the postal code accuracy as we have in the UK and can be quite misleading

Who wants to arrive in France for the first time at Dusk/Dark,you don’t know where you are in a strange country, no one around and you cannot speak the language anyway.

The site coordinates are given as Decimal Points, but try entering them on the Popular Sat Nav’s.

They only accept Degrees and seconds, most inconvenient.

I wonder why?

Prior to this I had visited my well experience traveller of Europe and South Africa, Dave Seaward. He provided me with his post code, I entered into my Sat Nav.

Nearing the address I had a feeling that I was being directed a long way around Minchinhampton common to his address.

I arrived at site , Sat Nav stating “you have arrived at your destination”

Unfortunately we were in a road off a road and in small circular cul-de-sac, the curtains were beginning to twitch as neighbours were wondering what we doing in their community

I contacted Dave who said surprisingly, I was the second to arrive at that site in two years.

He decided it was best he came to collect me.

We enjoyed a nice lunch that Mags had prepared, then discussed my forth coming adventure, on top of that he offered to loan me his un used updated Sat Nav that I graciously accepted.

They were busy Packing for their departure to the EU so we left when convenient, bade our farewells until we meet again in March.Minchinhampton.

A few days later I paid a visit to Russell who had offered me some items that may be useful for my trip.

Those of you who know Russ, I left his house with an Electrical shop under my arm suitably equipment with all the knowledge to use, that I will only realise when on site when I encounter problems. So now I am suited and booted as they say.

My advisors have made it easier for me nearing my departure.
I think I am getting too involved with my adventures, I like to cross my “T”is and dot my “I”s leading myself to confusion and worries.

Others Just get up and go. Don’t know what is the best approach.

Today we have finished most of the packing, Sandra has to visit the dentist on Tuesday morning and after a bit of dinner we shall be oft.

Making our way to Poole Harbour to spend the night on the Quay side ready for departure at 8.30am.

Time is approaching

Time is rapidly approaching for our departure so I thought I would have a practice run and enter some photographs.

This photo was taken in December 2014 at the Gloster’s Christmas Party weekend.

The sun was just setting and a weather cloud was approaching from the South East.
The weather patterns at the time were very mixed

It was rather unusual due to it’s definitive lines and not a gradual sunset.
I thought is was rather unusual and nice, particularly the fingers of cloud preceding.

Click on the Photograph to enlarge and enjoy the beauty

Our Trip To France and Spain

24^th December 2014

Well that’s it, I have made the decision, done the planning and now paid for a Trip to France and Spain towing my caravan.

I have wanted to do this for a long time; now that we have a lighter smaller Caravan Sandra was quite happy for me to make arrangements.

Had to be quick to fit in with 2015 Caravan calendar, also wanted some winter sun.

After some considerations on the route I should take, decided upon Poole to Cherbourg Ferry and travel south along the West coast of France as far as Biarritz, then cross Spain via Zaragoza, onto the South Coast, stay on a CCC Rally for 2 weeks and move on after.

I tend to get bored after 10-14 days in the same place. (Conversely our trip to Australia was different, I could stay there forever, but we were moving around all the time.)

Total Journey length approximately 1300 miles.Those with greater experience may cast doubts, but I had to make decisions.

Taking the dog is an extra expense, e.g. Ferry, Camp sites, Dog Passport all charge.

Then there are the legal requirements travelling in France, a whole list of preparations and additional expenses too long to bore you with.

Exploring the various camp sites (Oh! by the way,we are stopping at Nantes, Bordeaux, Biarritz, Zaragoza on to the South coast for two days and moving on to our final site.)

Checking that the sites were open (Via the internet) at this unseasonal time.

All ok at moment but one site appears to be closed and I have not received information on the site In Zaragoza.

Will have to contact CCC HQ after Christmas.

Car has to have a service, not because of the mileage traveled but because, I have been told the oil in a diesel engine should be changed along with the filters.

My Tom Tom Sat Nav is old and needs to be upgraded to take European maps, that’s another expense, it’s plus, plus all the time adding to the total costs.

Well that’s about it to date, but I am suffering from Nightmares about what I have planned, it certainly is (to Me) an adventure of a lifetime.Still I thought that when we went to Australia.

To Be Continued !!

Amsterdam 2

Amsterdam today

As recommended we caught the shuttle bus into Amsterdam approx. 1 hour journey

Alighted in the center and arranged to collect the coach again at the same spot, so off we went just following our Noses.

First thing I noticed was the number of bikes that were being used bikes , bikes everywhere (Photo) if you step into the cyclist path you were in for some irritable noises and also sometimes undesirable language.

Surprisingly scooters were also using the cycle paths not only that they were not required to use any protective wear. (Photo)

Pausing for a while studying the traffic flow outside of the main station area was quite confusing as traffic including trams were Cris crossing in such a manner it was surprising there were not any accidents, at least not while we were watching.

Into town along the main drag a wide bus road, motorcyclist, cyclist with loads of tourists, shops cafes etc, a lovely sunny day.

We deviated towards the narrow roads and canals apparently towards the Red Light district.

The smell of cannabis becomes laden upon the breeze, with customers smoking whiffs (is that the correct terminology) sat in the windows of café/ bars. (Photo)

Tourist circulating the area to-ing and fro-ing gazing into unique individual shops

Prepare yourself for a long journey

Sandra and I left home full of anticipation for our 10 day cruise,

Arrived in good time at the Dock car park in Southampton.

Good transfer of baggage and personnel.

Clocked in and registered where we were each given a card that was our presence on and off Ship and also all transaction we made on board.

Our room would be available at 1700hrs, we decide to give it a try fortunately the cabin boy had prepared our Cabin on the 10^th deck.

The cases arrived shortly after and we descended to have an exploration of the ship.

We came across a one of the many bars so the exploration would have to wait till later.

We had paid an extra bounty to ensure we would have free drinks on board including tea, coffee, water and Ice cream etc. (I never got to taste the Ice cream)

We engaged in conversation with a very good English speaking Dutchman, (they all seem to have small beards)

He said he was a retired ships engineer of 45 years, was just getting to.

Know his neighbors

His wife wanted to go on a cruise (poor chap) so they could spend some intimate time together.

After a couple of cigarettes they decide to leave and unpack.

We took the hint and also retired to the cabin to unpack.

Sandra done the wifely thing, unpacked and organized our clothes in the wardrobe as this will be our home for the next 10 days.

The Cabin was the size of a small lounge at home, so the cases took up quite a lot of room.

A safe, mirror and an armchair, that got in the way, including a shower room, the type where you don’ want to drop the soap.

It was an inside cabin, without a window.

I did not feel the extra expense was worth it to view the horizon each morning, also did not intend to look at 4 walls for much of the day, we would be up and out living in the real world.

On booking the Cruise we opted to dine in one of the Restaurants seated on a table with 6 chairs.

I will digress a little at this point.

After boarding and securing our bearings it became apparent that the Ship “The Opera” was on a cruise like a bus route, on a continuous circuit calling at various ports with passengers embarking and disembarking, nationality depending upon the port.

Consequently when shown to our 4 seated table in the restaurant we sat in anticipation of whom our guests at the table may be.

The waiter appeared towing a couple in his wake and made his way to out table,

Proceeded to seat them.

The male guest said “Hello”,

a great rush of relief, (at least they are English).

When seated introductions were exchanged.

This was very important, as these were to be our Dining companions for the rest of the cruise.

Both slim in build, with a funny accent that later turned out to be local to Carlyle

In the North of England, near the Scottish Border.

He was an engineer of some repute, with an interest in Rally Driving being hired by the rich to prepare and repair their Rally cars at Meets UK wide.

Both turned out to be good company during our “A La Carte” evening meals.

We explored the ship, had a few drinks along with conversations with other couples, one in particular, Clive and his wife Dee, they had previous experience of Cruising to Amsterdam and advised us to catch the Shuttle bus into the City.

This we organized and retired to bed, ready for our overnight voyage across the North Sea.

On Board. Hooray!

I was a bit concerned, I know we had our tickets a little cheaper but when they arrived with a Paint & Wire brush. But all is ok and ship in fine fettle

Anyway we have bypassed the security and our cabin is ready ahead of time.

Sandra is ahead and unpacking her copious amount of clothes etc.

I will be happy when we are settled on deck with a drink

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