Thursday 27th August 2009
Day 61
I can highly recommend a little hop over the Med to Morocco from Spain. OK, we were using the trip to spend a couple of weeks travelling around Morocco but it was an absolute doddle switching continents.
We were definitely not going to miss the ferry today and get to the port in time for the 9am (they run every two hours and take 35 minutes). The ferry ride was quick and painless and on the other side you are off the ferry and in Tangier before you can say Mustapha Hadji.
There are the hassles yhou come to expect with people wanting to be your tour guide, give you a taxi ride or sell you hashish but for us we were out of he port, found an ATM, found the coach terminal to book our onward journey to Chefchaouen which freed up three hours to stroll around Tangier.
Alternatives to our route would be a grand taxi which would cost a little more. There is also a nidday train that would take you to Fes. I would even consider driving if you are coming across from Spain. However, we found ourselves on a nice coach on a nice road after taking in the sites of Tangier which was extremely interesting and had a buzz about the place with cast and crew from a Universal Studios flick absolutely everwhere.
Chefchaouen is three hours south and is extrememy pîcturesque perched on the side of a mountain. The stroll into town from the bus station was an error as it was scorching. We then had problems finding accomodation. Well I did. Twice walking into the Medina, getting seriously lost and coming out a flustered, sweaty mess with nothing to show for my efforts. Needless to say it took Layla about 2 minutes and 30 seconds to find somewhere suitable when I was left with the bags.
After a shower and a relax we took a stroll around the Medina before finding a nice restaurant up in the stars where you could look down over the town.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Africa Here We Come......Here We Come Africa.....Were Coming Africa......Oh No Sorry Were Not
Wednesday 26th August 2009
Day 60
Day 60
The plan was to get the ferry today from Tarifa to Tangier in Morocco this morning at 11am. Unfortunately this plan didnt eventuate and I write this at the end of the day still in Spain.
The main reason was the amount of booze that was consumed last night. We were certainly in no fit state to do much let alone negotiate a ferry crossing to Tangier and an onward journey to Chefchaouen.
Casares
Tuesday 25th August 2009
Day 59
Today we visited Casares, a beautiful old white town set in the hills. Amazing to think just a short drive inland from the coast and you turn up at a place about as Spanish as it gets.
Layla and I were dropped off at the top where you can take the descent by foot into the township. We then walked up the other side of the town to the church and castle. Back down in the town we sat down with the old Spanish folk for a little while breathing it all in.
This evening we went for a final Spanish meal at a beach bar situated down the road funnily enough on the beach. Here we polished off a fair amount of booze which wasnt the smartist idea with us heading to Morocco tomorrow.
Day 59
Today we visited Casares, a beautiful old white town set in the hills. Amazing to think just a short drive inland from the coast and you turn up at a place about as Spanish as it gets.
Layla and I were dropped off at the top where you can take the descent by foot into the township. We then walked up the other side of the town to the church and castle. Back down in the town we sat down with the old Spanish folk for a little while breathing it all in.
This evening we went for a final Spanish meal at a beach bar situated down the road funnily enough on the beach. Here we polished off a fair amount of booze which wasnt the smartist idea with us heading to Morocco tomorrow.
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
How To Lose a Sand Wedge
Monday 24th August 2009
Day 58
It´s amazing what you can lose on a golf course. Today I lost numerous balls, a driver cover and a sand wedge but it was an excellent round nonetheless.
There´s no way you can come to this part of the world and not play golf. Golf rules down here with the sport arguably more important than anything else in terms of tourist dollar. We´re surrounded by a host of top class courses including Valderamma just down the road and Finke Courtisin where the next World Matchplay Championship will be played just spitting distance.
The old man and I got up coated ourselves in factor 50 and hit the local course. Dad, who is a once a week golfer looked the part where as I looked a part throwing together a random outfit that sort of passed for golfing attire.
We had a good round. Not score wise. But hit the ball sweetly enough times to entice me back to the game when we hit English shores.
Day 58
It´s amazing what you can lose on a golf course. Today I lost numerous balls, a driver cover and a sand wedge but it was an excellent round nonetheless.
There´s no way you can come to this part of the world and not play golf. Golf rules down here with the sport arguably more important than anything else in terms of tourist dollar. We´re surrounded by a host of top class courses including Valderamma just down the road and Finke Courtisin where the next World Matchplay Championship will be played just spitting distance.
The old man and I got up coated ourselves in factor 50 and hit the local course. Dad, who is a once a week golfer looked the part where as I looked a part throwing together a random outfit that sort of passed for golfing attire.
We had a good round. Not score wise. But hit the ball sweetly enough times to entice me back to the game when we hit English shores.
Octopussy
Sunday 23rd August 2009
Dy 57
We've come across some random foods during our travels so far - from ice cream toast to typhoon shelter prawns to suckling dog. But nothing was more amusing than watching Tom eat octopus and turn a whiter shade of pale. "Are there beans in it?" he asked. It was quite difficult to tell a boy already distrubed by what he'd just experienced that "no, there weren´t any beans in it....they were the octopus suckers."
Our day started with a trip to some pretty cool second hand markets where I picked up a pair of one Euro sunnies. It was bloody hot though and you could hear the sizzle and the smell of cooked meat when we jumped in the pool afterwards.
The afternoon was spent relaxing and listening to a combination of the footy, the F1 and the Ashes. Whilst it would have been nice to watch the English cross the line against the Aussies on home soil rather than listening to it on a radion in Spain it could have been worse as this time next week we'll be somewhere in the Atlas Mountains in Morocco and I'm not too sure how bothered the folk of the Ziz Valley are in Freddie´s retirement, Strauss' series strategy or Ponting´s excuses ; )
We hit a seafood festival in Estepona on the evening which turned out to be more empty hall with a few fish dishes rather than the fish fiesta lining the streets we would led to believe. Tom´s octopus experience more than made up for it though.
Dy 57
We've come across some random foods during our travels so far - from ice cream toast to typhoon shelter prawns to suckling dog. But nothing was more amusing than watching Tom eat octopus and turn a whiter shade of pale. "Are there beans in it?" he asked. It was quite difficult to tell a boy already distrubed by what he'd just experienced that "no, there weren´t any beans in it....they were the octopus suckers."
Our day started with a trip to some pretty cool second hand markets where I picked up a pair of one Euro sunnies. It was bloody hot though and you could hear the sizzle and the smell of cooked meat when we jumped in the pool afterwards.
The afternoon was spent relaxing and listening to a combination of the footy, the F1 and the Ashes. Whilst it would have been nice to watch the English cross the line against the Aussies on home soil rather than listening to it on a radion in Spain it could have been worse as this time next week we'll be somewhere in the Atlas Mountains in Morocco and I'm not too sure how bothered the folk of the Ziz Valley are in Freddie´s retirement, Strauss' series strategy or Ponting´s excuses ; )
We hit a seafood festival in Estepona on the evening which turned out to be more empty hall with a few fish dishes rather than the fish fiesta lining the streets we would led to believe. Tom´s octopus experience more than made up for it though.
Help Me Ronda
Saturday 22nd August 2009
Day 56
These weekly malaria tablets are ace. Strange, crazy dreams that dust the cobwebs off memories in the darkest corners of the brain and give them a cheeky twist. You wake in the morning very disorientated as I did this morning!
Today we visited Ronda, an hour inland through some of the most beautiful landscape I think I've seen in Spain. Old towns wedged into the sides of cliffs and roads winding up and around hills en route.
Ronda itself was stunning. Whilst you are advised not to walk around the old towns in the high summer months because of the heat. It´s what the Brits do best : ) And it was well worth it. Set on a huge gorge, that in itself was a good enough drawcard but the town is full of character - beautiful old buildings including the oldest bullring in Spain(and therefore I presume the world), amazing plazas and old slopped cobbled streets.
The restaurants are pretty special too. We went to a place just outside the city walls and ordered three lunch dishes - a goats cheese salad with apple, walnut and mango puree, a duck pate with caramelised goats cheese as well as the restaurant´s trademark which was ox with olive oil, garlic and parmasan.
Day 56
These weekly malaria tablets are ace. Strange, crazy dreams that dust the cobwebs off memories in the darkest corners of the brain and give them a cheeky twist. You wake in the morning very disorientated as I did this morning!
Today we visited Ronda, an hour inland through some of the most beautiful landscape I think I've seen in Spain. Old towns wedged into the sides of cliffs and roads winding up and around hills en route.
Ronda itself was stunning. Whilst you are advised not to walk around the old towns in the high summer months because of the heat. It´s what the Brits do best : ) And it was well worth it. Set on a huge gorge, that in itself was a good enough drawcard but the town is full of character - beautiful old buildings including the oldest bullring in Spain(and therefore I presume the world), amazing plazas and old slopped cobbled streets.
The restaurants are pretty special too. We went to a place just outside the city walls and ordered three lunch dishes - a goats cheese salad with apple, walnut and mango puree, a duck pate with caramelised goats cheese as well as the restaurant´s trademark which was ox with olive oil, garlic and parmasan.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
El Scorchio
Friday 21st August 2009
Day 55
Today was market day in Sabinillas, a smaller market than San Pedro but some nice gear nonetheless.
It was an absolute scorcher day bordering 40 degrees. Dad, Tom and I hit the supermarket to get some ingredients for another Brian Bowell BBQ. Back at base we were greeted with the great news that the Aussies had crumbled to 111-7 in the Ashes decider.
Day 55
Today was market day in Sabinillas, a smaller market than San Pedro but some nice gear nonetheless.
It was an absolute scorcher day bordering 40 degrees. Dad, Tom and I hit the supermarket to get some ingredients for another Brian Bowell BBQ. Back at base we were greeted with the great news that the Aussies had crumbled to 111-7 in the Ashes decider.
Market Day
Thursday 20th August 2009
Day 54
The sun had a real bite to it this morning. We could barely sit out on the balcony for breakfast (cue violins : )´
With markets always a great way to get to know the local area, after breakfast we head to San Pedro, a 10km drive where there were markets on today. A great big market was unexpectedly awaiting us with loads of bits and bobs on offer. Layla bought an olive bowl, a top, some saffron and smoked paprika. Tom bought some gerks (gerkins).
It was nice to get into some shade after the sun had been whalloping us all morning. WE found a lovely café for tapas lunch.A lazy afternoon with cocktails served around 5 before heading to the nearby town of Sabinillas where we found a tapas café overlooking the beach volleyball.
Day 54
The sun had a real bite to it this morning. We could barely sit out on the balcony for breakfast (cue violins : )´
With markets always a great way to get to know the local area, after breakfast we head to San Pedro, a 10km drive where there were markets on today. A great big market was unexpectedly awaiting us with loads of bits and bobs on offer. Layla bought an olive bowl, a top, some saffron and smoked paprika. Tom bought some gerks (gerkins).
It was nice to get into some shade after the sun had been whalloping us all morning. WE found a lovely café for tapas lunch.A lazy afternoon with cocktails served around 5 before heading to the nearby town of Sabinillas where we found a tapas café overlooking the beach volleyball.
léspàna
Wednesday 19th August 2009
Day 53
A monster lie-in like no other we’ve had on our travels was made to feel like the norm with Spain seemingly asleep until 11. We hurdled the swimming pool fence and did a fair few lengths before a lovely breakfast and onwards to Estepona, the closest, largest town. Here we settled in a lovely plaza where San Miguel was ordered. Back at base we took a walk to the closest beach before cooking for the Bowells chorizo cooked in grapes followed by shallow fried calamari and drunken potatoes.
Couldn’t resist MOTD to end the day in style.
Day 53
A monster lie-in like no other we’ve had on our travels was made to feel like the norm with Spain seemingly asleep until 11. We hurdled the swimming pool fence and did a fair few lengths before a lovely breakfast and onwards to Estepona, the closest, largest town. Here we settled in a lovely plaza where San Miguel was ordered. Back at base we took a walk to the closest beach before cooking for the Bowells chorizo cooked in grapes followed by shallow fried calamari and drunken potatoes.
Couldn’t resist MOTD to end the day in style.
Birmingham - Malaga
Tuesday 18th August 2009
Day 52
A desperately early start (4am) was on the cards meaning the two and a half hour plane journey to Malaga, Spain was done so in deep sleep. Unc John drove us to the airport where we got first class service from check-out to plane seat thanks to Tom. We even got this strange aero-lift contraption which took us from departures literally handing us like a parcel to the door of the plane.
At the other end we were chaufferred through immigration and released into the wild they call Malaga airport. Absolute carnage with panic-stricken Brits fighting for their luggage with faces like thunder. Their holiday-switches not yet turned on.
We got our gear and found our hire car before hitting the road for the one hour journey west along the coast to Casares.
We dumped our stuff and hit Puerto Ducessa, a nice port area where a San Miguel and salmon went down a treat.
A trip to the supermarket followed before a quick dip in the pool and a Big BB BBQ of prawns in the evening was a nice start to Spain.
Day 52
A desperately early start (4am) was on the cards meaning the two and a half hour plane journey to Malaga, Spain was done so in deep sleep. Unc John drove us to the airport where we got first class service from check-out to plane seat thanks to Tom. We even got this strange aero-lift contraption which took us from departures literally handing us like a parcel to the door of the plane.
At the other end we were chaufferred through immigration and released into the wild they call Malaga airport. Absolute carnage with panic-stricken Brits fighting for their luggage with faces like thunder. Their holiday-switches not yet turned on.
We got our gear and found our hire car before hitting the road for the one hour journey west along the coast to Casares.
We dumped our stuff and hit Puerto Ducessa, a nice port area where a San Miguel and salmon went down a treat.
A trip to the supermarket followed before a quick dip in the pool and a Big BB BBQ of prawns in the evening was a nice start to Spain.
Spanish Prep
Monday 17th August 2009
Day 51
A slow start to the day sorting stuff out for hitting the road again tomorrow. We made a debut at the Indian Lounge, the upper-end Coleshill curry establishment. A very nice curry turned a little sour with news that Shilo (Layla’s mum) had been mugged in Ecuador.
This certainly made Layla feel a long way away from her mum and a little helpless. Shilo’s a tough cookie though and I don’t quite think the muggers knew what was in store when they attempted to rob her. Needless to say they left empty handed with Shilo putting up a brave fight for her belongings.
Day 51
A slow start to the day sorting stuff out for hitting the road again tomorrow. We made a debut at the Indian Lounge, the upper-end Coleshill curry establishment. A very nice curry turned a little sour with news that Shilo (Layla’s mum) had been mugged in Ecuador.
This certainly made Layla feel a long way away from her mum and a little helpless. Shilo’s a tough cookie though and I don’t quite think the muggers knew what was in store when they attempted to rob her. Needless to say they left empty handed with Shilo putting up a brave fight for her belongings.
The Morning After The Day Before
Sunday 16th August 2009
Day 50
A left over rehydration sachet came to the rescue as we awoke after far from enough sleep. Down at breakfast everybody was up and about. It’s amazing how a fry up gets even the sorest head off its pillow.
Stories aplenty and cheerios to follow. Bride and Groom looked remarkably fresh with attention now on Maritius.
We hit the road and got home in time for Blues vs.Man Utd. Even the first televised game I’d seen this season wasn’t enough to keep the eyelids from falling.
We were then off to the Waggotts for Auntie Hil’s birthday and an amazing feast including chicken chasseiu, pork and the most amazing cheesecake desert. A perfect afternoon in the sun.
Day 50
A left over rehydration sachet came to the rescue as we awoke after far from enough sleep. Down at breakfast everybody was up and about. It’s amazing how a fry up gets even the sorest head off its pillow.
Stories aplenty and cheerios to follow. Bride and Groom looked remarkably fresh with attention now on Maritius.
We hit the road and got home in time for Blues vs.Man Utd. Even the first televised game I’d seen this season wasn’t enough to keep the eyelids from falling.
We were then off to the Waggotts for Auntie Hil’s birthday and an amazing feast including chicken chasseiu, pork and the most amazing cheesecake desert. A perfect afternoon in the sun.
Andrew and Ruth’s Wedding
Saturday 15th August 2009
Day 49
What a day!
The day started with a slap up breakfast before a morning briefing from Roache and Mark on what the Usher’s duties would be for the day. It was then up to the boy’s rooms where we changed into our glad rags. This was helped along thanks to a bottle of Bollinger and, after applying the final touches, we were all looking the part.
Downstairs to where the Pontiac Firebird was waiting in the wings and getting some attention from Premiership new boys Burnley who were sharing our hotel. A few photos and it was onwards to the church.
The beautifully petit church set in the countryside of Market Drayton was practically bursting at the seams with an excited, anxious and expectant crowd of close family and friends. The ceremony went like a dreamand as the happy couple said their vows, signed the register, got showered in confetti and drove off with the Firebird roof down they looked happy as Larry.
A good journey cross-county was worth the drive as the road led to a converted farm homestead beautifully set in the countryside complete with trout lake. Drinks on the front lawn and photocall aplenty was followed up with a group shot and meet and greet as we were led into the dining hall. Lots of lovely touches throughout the day for the guests with the Welsh whiskey as gifts for the gents my personal favourite.
The meal was delightful. BBQ’d food, salads and corn with fresh fruit desert. The speeches then followed and were spot on.
An ice cream van then arrived and guests departed for an ice cream and evening drinks. Entertainment comprised of Irish dancing lessons Michael Flatley esq followed by a discoteque with highlight being a dancefloor of inhebriation singing Queen at the top of their lungs.
The night was over for many but back at the hotel festivities continued with the bride and groom showing off their endurance still up in the early hours.
What a day!
Day 49
What a day!
The day started with a slap up breakfast before a morning briefing from Roache and Mark on what the Usher’s duties would be for the day. It was then up to the boy’s rooms where we changed into our glad rags. This was helped along thanks to a bottle of Bollinger and, after applying the final touches, we were all looking the part.
Downstairs to where the Pontiac Firebird was waiting in the wings and getting some attention from Premiership new boys Burnley who were sharing our hotel. A few photos and it was onwards to the church.
The beautifully petit church set in the countryside of Market Drayton was practically bursting at the seams with an excited, anxious and expectant crowd of close family and friends. The ceremony went like a dreamand as the happy couple said their vows, signed the register, got showered in confetti and drove off with the Firebird roof down they looked happy as Larry.
A good journey cross-county was worth the drive as the road led to a converted farm homestead beautifully set in the countryside complete with trout lake. Drinks on the front lawn and photocall aplenty was followed up with a group shot and meet and greet as we were led into the dining hall. Lots of lovely touches throughout the day for the guests with the Welsh whiskey as gifts for the gents my personal favourite.
The meal was delightful. BBQ’d food, salads and corn with fresh fruit desert. The speeches then followed and were spot on.
An ice cream van then arrived and guests departed for an ice cream and evening drinks. Entertainment comprised of Irish dancing lessons Michael Flatley esq followed by a discoteque with highlight being a dancefloor of inhebriation singing Queen at the top of their lungs.
The night was over for many but back at the hotel festivities continued with the bride and groom showing off their endurance still up in the early hours.
What a day!
Wedding Eve
Friday 14th August 2009
Day 48
Layla and mum set off for their spa day early doors which left me to potter and wait to be picked up by Roache early afternoon. It was a great journey up to Stoke with Roachey (Groom), Mark (Best Man) and Stu (Fellow Usher). On arrival we kitted out in our swimwear and went for swim, spa and sauna. A very civilised way to spend a Friday afternoon and good ‘chill time’ for the Roache.
Day 48
Layla and mum set off for their spa day early doors which left me to potter and wait to be picked up by Roache early afternoon. It was a great journey up to Stoke with Roachey (Groom), Mark (Best Man) and Stu (Fellow Usher). On arrival we kitted out in our swimwear and went for swim, spa and sauna. A very civilised way to spend a Friday afternoon and good ‘chill time’ for the Roache.
85 Squid Shirt
Thursday 13th August 2009
Day 47
A solo expedition into town was in order today and maybe this wasn’t the best idea as I came back armed with a plain white shirt and 85 quid worse off. Damn you Thomas Pink : )
Also caught up with Brother Tom at the Beeb for a coffee. Back at base had a chat with groom-to-be Roache before heading off on a walk to Maxstoke with Layla. A nice evening under the patio heater.
Day 47
A solo expedition into town was in order today and maybe this wasn’t the best idea as I came back armed with a plain white shirt and 85 quid worse off. Damn you Thomas Pink : )
Also caught up with Brother Tom at the Beeb for a coffee. Back at base had a chat with groom-to-be Roache before heading off on a walk to Maxstoke with Layla. A nice evening under the patio heater.
Layla’s Birthday BBQ
Wednesday 12th August 2009
Day 46
LC
Hi there….Layla here and thought I’d get a word in edgeways on this blog : ) The girls head off to Solihull whilst Matt and Brian stayed at home ticking things of the things to do list.
As per usual Brian and Sheila put on a great BBQ. Lots of beef burgers, sausages and chicken kebabs. All of Matt’s mates were there including all the boy’s new ladies. Also a sprinkling of Brian and Sheila’s friends. It was lovely to see everyone. In typical Brian style there was the full range of beer, wine, sparkling, rose, red and whiskey.
It was fantastic to catch up with everyone. Matt seems very happy to be home.
I made cherry tomato, basil and mozzerrella sticks with cocktail umbrella sticks.
Day 46
LC
Hi there….Layla here and thought I’d get a word in edgeways on this blog : ) The girls head off to Solihull whilst Matt and Brian stayed at home ticking things of the things to do list.
As per usual Brian and Sheila put on a great BBQ. Lots of beef burgers, sausages and chicken kebabs. All of Matt’s mates were there including all the boy’s new ladies. Also a sprinkling of Brian and Sheila’s friends. It was lovely to see everyone. In typical Brian style there was the full range of beer, wine, sparkling, rose, red and whiskey.
It was fantastic to catch up with everyone. Matt seems very happy to be home.
I made cherry tomato, basil and mozzerrella sticks with cocktail umbrella sticks.
First Day Dayze Back in Brum
Tuesday 11th August 2009
Day 45
Wide awake at 6am. The lag was expected. Mum couldn’t quite believe we were here and kept prodding us. A busy schedule with suit fitting at Debenhams for wedding on Saturday. A beard trim was in order – David Bellamy eat your heart out. Suit fitting was a family affair with the Bowells in the Bullring. A haircut had been booked at Andy Wags that evening. A nice evening but we were spent.
Day 45
Wide awake at 6am. The lag was expected. Mum couldn’t quite believe we were here and kept prodding us. A busy schedule with suit fitting at Debenhams for wedding on Saturday. A beard trim was in order – David Bellamy eat your heart out. Suit fitting was a family affair with the Bowells in the Bullring. A haircut had been booked at Andy Wags that evening. A nice evening but we were spent.
KL – London (well Stansted)
Monday 10th August 2009
Day 44
Excited!
Layla was off early doors back to Times Square with the intention of covering the final five floors.
A nice lunch and we were on our way to the airport with an irate cab driver for company.
Compared to the sixteen hour rickety bus journey from Toba to Bukittinggi this fourteen hour flight was going to be a relative breeze and Air Asia did it again. The flight was as smooth as can be and we arrived albeit a little dazed and confused into Stansted straight through customs and into the arms of dad who was peppared with treats – sandwichs, crisps and a thermos flask full of God’s medicine (tea).
Back at base we had a cuppa with Mum and Tom. It was good to be home!
Day 44
Excited!
Layla was off early doors back to Times Square with the intention of covering the final five floors.
A nice lunch and we were on our way to the airport with an irate cab driver for company.
Compared to the sixteen hour rickety bus journey from Toba to Bukittinggi this fourteen hour flight was going to be a relative breeze and Air Asia did it again. The flight was as smooth as can be and we arrived albeit a little dazed and confused into Stansted straight through customs and into the arms of dad who was peppared with treats – sandwichs, crisps and a thermos flask full of God’s medicine (tea).
Back at base we had a cuppa with Mum and Tom. It was good to be home!
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Bound by a Contractual Agreement
Sunday 9th August 2009
Day 43
I don't know why I did it. It seemed like a good idea at the time. One of Layla's birthday presents had been a contract I'd drawn up giving myself up on 9th August for a day of 'lady shopping'. As my legs nearly gave way at 6:30pm after a full day of it I was fit for the skip and furious at myself. But the smile on her little face as she clutched her many many bags of shopping made it all worthwhile : )
This morning our breakfast was made up of muesli we'd been carrying around since Kuching and teabags from Mulu. We then set off to Chinatown for a stroll and a shop before heading to Times Sq which boasts the largest shopping mall in KL.....and that is quite a claim. After reaching floor five of 10 Layla had done very well for herself and I was about to pass out. A bite to eat and it was round three this time at the more high end Pavillion. Here we stayed all afternoon/evening lady shopping.
Another fish supper and the Community Shield at The Green Man was just what the doctor ordered on this, our last night in Asia. Tomorrow we set off for England are very excited.
Day 43
I don't know why I did it. It seemed like a good idea at the time. One of Layla's birthday presents had been a contract I'd drawn up giving myself up on 9th August for a day of 'lady shopping'. As my legs nearly gave way at 6:30pm after a full day of it I was fit for the skip and furious at myself. But the smile on her little face as she clutched her many many bags of shopping made it all worthwhile : )
This morning our breakfast was made up of muesli we'd been carrying around since Kuching and teabags from Mulu. We then set off to Chinatown for a stroll and a shop before heading to Times Sq which boasts the largest shopping mall in KL.....and that is quite a claim. After reaching floor five of 10 Layla had done very well for herself and I was about to pass out. A bite to eat and it was round three this time at the more high end Pavillion. Here we stayed all afternoon/evening lady shopping.
Another fish supper and the Community Shield at The Green Man was just what the doctor ordered on this, our last night in Asia. Tomorrow we set off for England are very excited.
KL
Saturday 8th August 2009
Day 42
The coffee here is potent! I don't know how we are ever going to be able to make do with a normal caffine hit after a month of drinking the caffine sugar explosion which is serves as coffee here in Asia. It certainly gets you going in the morning.
This could well be our last though as we sipped on one at 6am before getting a lift to the airport to fly to KL.
We arrived at KL LCCT in no time at all checking a couple of places for accomodation before scoring a smart little boutique hotel with no windows. We then took a stroll in the general direction of the Petronas Towers which, when built, was the tallest building in the world. It has since been overtaken a number of times but still boasts the highest walkway which you can walk across for free. The catch is you normally have to get up at the crack of and queue for a ticket and a timeslot. We cheekily asked the doorman if we could sneak into the next timeslot and he kindly let us through.
We then walked back to our accomodation via a park, a bar and a bucket of Tiger, a shopping mall, an amazing eatery at a streetside seafood set up and an Irish bar showing the Ashes.
By Any Means
Friday 7th August 2009
Day 41
The different modes of transport we have encountered over the last 40 days has been quite staggering but mainly down to the reliance different countries place on their different modes of transport. So far it goes - plane, bus, coach, train, car, scooter, campervan, truck, jeep, taxi, minivan, longboat, fisherman's boat, opelet and ute.
We paid Carlos our dues....and our cash this morning and hitched a lift in the back of a ute to Padang. We then switched modes of transport into a suped up opelet complete with spoiler, lowered suspension and go faster stripes which took us north of Padang. A small truck then took us the final 5km over dirt road to our accomodation by the beach.
Once here we quite frankly had the laziest day on record. We both felt a little knocked sidewards and knew the next couple of days in KL would be full on.
Day 41
The different modes of transport we have encountered over the last 40 days has been quite staggering but mainly down to the reliance different countries place on their different modes of transport. So far it goes - plane, bus, coach, train, car, scooter, campervan, truck, jeep, taxi, minivan, longboat, fisherman's boat, opelet and ute.
We paid Carlos our dues....and our cash this morning and hitched a lift in the back of a ute to Padang. We then switched modes of transport into a suped up opelet complete with spoiler, lowered suspension and go faster stripes which took us north of Padang. A small truck then took us the final 5km over dirt road to our accomodation by the beach.
Once here we quite frankly had the laziest day on record. We both felt a little knocked sidewards and knew the next couple of days in KL would be full on.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Eaten for Lunch, Dinner and Breakfast
Thursday 6th August
Day 40
I'm sorry to sound ungrateful but sleeping on the sands of a tropical beach isn't all its cracked up to be I'm afraid : )
I think you need to be inhebriated to get a wink and avoiding the dreaded mossies is pretty much impossible. I got eaten alive! OK witnessing the sunrise from out here somewhat made up for it and the morning swim was amazing but soon the war wounds from a beach battle against a tribe of mosquitoes became clear. The slightest piece of Bowelly flesh that was on show had been chewed up and spat out by the buggers. Layla was relatively unscathed but a sleepless night meant today was about beach, swim, read, sleep which was absolutely fantastic.
Before we knew it the day had passed and we were on the boat back to Bungus. It's amazing how quickly one can lose the memory - I'd have given anything (even another pound of flesh to the mossies) to have another night and day out there.
Full Moon Party
Wednesday 5th August 2009
Day 39
I'm writing this from a desert island an hour of the west coast of Sumatra deep into the Indian Ocean where we are standed Hanks-style on Pagang Island.
Our next door neighbour, Sydneysider Derek, had snorkelled yesterday and was positively bursting with joy at the end of the day after he head out to the islands with a guy called Carlos who seemed to call the Bungus shots.
Carlos can only be described as 'a character'. Long black hair, Bob Marley Tshirt and tales of playing his guitar into the night....the guy had a presence but certainly had a shiftiness in his eye too. We shared the snorkelling trip with five Swiss and after a tour of the bay anchored next to a beautiful white sandy beack with turqouise clear water. Derek hadn't exaggerated either - the snorkelling was fantastic!
After generous servings of fruit and biscuits the day turned a little pear-shaped as within the space of around five minutes the weather turned from scorching clear blue skies to ferocious winds. This had Carols, who had donned some kind of jungle underwear and crown, discarding the leaf costume and running around frantically in his jocks. "I have never seen....I have never seen," he kept saying which put us somewhat on edge.
After a while, the wind hadn't subdued so, with the help of a local fisherman, we boarded his more powerful boat which took us to the sheltered Pagang Island. Once here it became pretty obvious we were here for the night which suited us down to the ground.
The night was a full moon and with a fire blazing and the staff banging out tunes on their guitars it made for a very pleasant evening.
Day 39
I'm writing this from a desert island an hour of the west coast of Sumatra deep into the Indian Ocean where we are standed Hanks-style on Pagang Island.
Our next door neighbour, Sydneysider Derek, had snorkelled yesterday and was positively bursting with joy at the end of the day after he head out to the islands with a guy called Carlos who seemed to call the Bungus shots.
Carlos can only be described as 'a character'. Long black hair, Bob Marley Tshirt and tales of playing his guitar into the night....the guy had a presence but certainly had a shiftiness in his eye too. We shared the snorkelling trip with five Swiss and after a tour of the bay anchored next to a beautiful white sandy beack with turqouise clear water. Derek hadn't exaggerated either - the snorkelling was fantastic!
After generous servings of fruit and biscuits the day turned a little pear-shaped as within the space of around five minutes the weather turned from scorching clear blue skies to ferocious winds. This had Carols, who had donned some kind of jungle underwear and crown, discarding the leaf costume and running around frantically in his jocks. "I have never seen....I have never seen," he kept saying which put us somewhat on edge.
After a while, the wind hadn't subdued so, with the help of a local fisherman, we boarded his more powerful boat which took us to the sheltered Pagang Island. Once here it became pretty obvious we were here for the night which suited us down to the ground.
The night was a full moon and with a fire blazing and the staff banging out tunes on their guitars it made for a very pleasant evening.
Maninjou Peep Show
Tuesday 4th August 2009
Day 38
Last night Layla found a peep hole in the side of our hut and rightly went a little beserk as she'd spotted the manager creeping around right around where the hole was located. Fortunately, or unfortunately for him, the only thing he would have copped a sight of was my lunchbox as Layla went to bed conservatively dressed. But that wasn't the point and to be honest the straw that broke the camel's back for Layla who has been hounded a little by the Indonesian men down here a little too much for comfort.
Whatever the case, heaven help whoever got in Layla's path today!
As it turned out we met some great guys today which served to damn our hasty judgments:
Top Bloke Number 1
Man from next door restaurant who not only organised our transport onwards to Padang (where we fly from to KL on Saturday) but met us armed with taco and banana pancake for our breakfast.
Top Bloke Number 2
Dr H Edi Hasymi, Mi Si Head of Padang Culture and Tourism Department who not only helped us decide on visiting the beaches to the south of Penang for the next couple of days but organised a driver to take us back to where we'd left our bags.
Top Bloke Number 3
Manager of our accomodation in Bungus, a bay to the south of Padang who was extremely friendly and nice to us after we'd checked into his accomodation which were beach huts overlooking the bay.
In fact the only nob we came across today was the taxi driver down from Padang to Bungus who tried to overcharge us and then short change us on arrival. By Jesus did Layla take him to the cleaners. He didn't know what had hit him. All of the onlooking staff from our accomodation found it highly amusing.
Day 38
Last night Layla found a peep hole in the side of our hut and rightly went a little beserk as she'd spotted the manager creeping around right around where the hole was located. Fortunately, or unfortunately for him, the only thing he would have copped a sight of was my lunchbox as Layla went to bed conservatively dressed. But that wasn't the point and to be honest the straw that broke the camel's back for Layla who has been hounded a little by the Indonesian men down here a little too much for comfort.
Whatever the case, heaven help whoever got in Layla's path today!
As it turned out we met some great guys today which served to damn our hasty judgments:
Top Bloke Number 1
Man from next door restaurant who not only organised our transport onwards to Padang (where we fly from to KL on Saturday) but met us armed with taco and banana pancake for our breakfast.
Top Bloke Number 2
Dr H Edi Hasymi, Mi Si Head of Padang Culture and Tourism Department who not only helped us decide on visiting the beaches to the south of Penang for the next couple of days but organised a driver to take us back to where we'd left our bags.
Top Bloke Number 3
Manager of our accomodation in Bungus, a bay to the south of Padang who was extremely friendly and nice to us after we'd checked into his accomodation which were beach huts overlooking the bay.
In fact the only nob we came across today was the taxi driver down from Padang to Bungus who tried to overcharge us and then short change us on arrival. By Jesus did Layla take him to the cleaners. He didn't know what had hit him. All of the onlooking staff from our accomodation found it highly amusing.
A Night on the Lake
Monday 3rd August 2009
Day 37
Let's just put it this way - I wasn't farting with confidence today.
It was a strange night all round really. The main man at our accomodation was freaking us out a little springing up on us and creeping around our hut a little too much for comfort. Also, I started getting stomach cramps around 3am and went to the outside loo for a fair while. Meanwhile the moon was reflecting off the lake and Layla took a look outside the hut. A fisherman spotted her and started paddling frantically towards her. Layla retreated back to the hut but the guy just stook outside staring in on her. He'd disappeared by the time I came back from the john.
Then at 5am, as if on cue, the pre-dawn prayers kicked in. Not as loud as Bukittinggi but amplified all the same.
A lie in was much needed and enjoyed. We then picked an excellent breakfast spot, brought some honey and cinemon and went for a ride all the way around the lake.
Lake Off
Sunday 2nd August 2009
Day 36
We've been pretty spoilt when it comes to lakes. In particular those in New Zealand (Wanaka, Hawea and Tekapo) and Sumatra (Toba and now Maninjou).
All have their individual traits and distinguising characteristics with Maninjou's surely the fact that it's situated in a volcanic crater which is worth its weight in gold alone but there's more. The descent into Maninjou is like no other we have experienced.
We started out early after the pre-dawn call to prayer which blasted out of speakers all around us at 5am and followed up with an aerobics class across the street from us which started up seamlessly after the call to prayer, this time hitting us with Indo pop tunes.
We started out early after breakfast and the news from Menau that the Indonesian lady from last night turned out to be the 'town lunatic with long fingers' as he put it meaning you had to watch your pockets. We then get a oplet to the bus station and a public bus to Maninjou with us the only non-locals taking the ride in the bus which was bursting at the seams with people.
The descent to Maninjou was a 44 hairpin bend road counted down for you roadside with the view of the lake staggering. Down in the town we grabbed out packs and elbowed off the bus. Here some kind chaps took us on the back of their scooters to our accomodation 3km out of town, through pady fields and were put in a hut in prime location lakeside.
Whilst no food was served at our place we went to a roadside eatery and I got a little too cocky and greedy here which I would live to regret later. We then walked into town where we fell upon a nice little restaurant owned by a chap called Mr Porcupine who was full of local knowledge. We rented a scooter from him for two days and went to explore the island.
Day 36
We've been pretty spoilt when it comes to lakes. In particular those in New Zealand (Wanaka, Hawea and Tekapo) and Sumatra (Toba and now Maninjou).
All have their individual traits and distinguising characteristics with Maninjou's surely the fact that it's situated in a volcanic crater which is worth its weight in gold alone but there's more. The descent into Maninjou is like no other we have experienced.
We started out early after the pre-dawn call to prayer which blasted out of speakers all around us at 5am and followed up with an aerobics class across the street from us which started up seamlessly after the call to prayer, this time hitting us with Indo pop tunes.
We started out early after breakfast and the news from Menau that the Indonesian lady from last night turned out to be the 'town lunatic with long fingers' as he put it meaning you had to watch your pockets. We then get a oplet to the bus station and a public bus to Maninjou with us the only non-locals taking the ride in the bus which was bursting at the seams with people.
The descent to Maninjou was a 44 hairpin bend road counted down for you roadside with the view of the lake staggering. Down in the town we grabbed out packs and elbowed off the bus. Here some kind chaps took us on the back of their scooters to our accomodation 3km out of town, through pady fields and were put in a hut in prime location lakeside.
Whilst no food was served at our place we went to a roadside eatery and I got a little too cocky and greedy here which I would live to regret later. We then walked into town where we fell upon a nice little restaurant owned by a chap called Mr Porcupine who was full of local knowledge. We rented a scooter from him for two days and went to explore the island.
Volcanic Fury
Saturday 1st August 2009
Day 35
The sunrise was smashing as we drove uphill towards Bukittinggi (930 metres above sea level).
We eventually arrived around 9am and hopped on an oplet (minivan taxi) into the city. Our hotel had a terrace overlooking one of the three volcanoes that are visible from the city - Gunung Merapi, Singgdang and Sago. In particular, Gunung Merapi looked pretty intimidating and, is apparently, one of Sumatra's most active volcanoes.
The city itself is famous for its Pasa Atlas Markets, a seemingly endless market selling everything from second hand Converse to skinned chickens done on the spot.
Bukittinggi appeared severely lacking in travellers. We therefore stuck out like sore thumbs and were heckled, high-fived and hello mistered all the way through our market assult.
That evening a Friends of the Earth couple from Oz and the Dutch guy from the coach head to Taman Panarama where you get sensational views of the canyon that the city overlooks. You could also go down the Japanese caves built through slave labour during World War II.
For dinner we decided to get a tradition Panang feast where a table full of dishes are put in front of you and you eat the ones you want. Layla and the Dutch guy both had dicky tummies so eyed up the dishes anxiously but the food turned out to be fabulous. "All thish for jusht one Euro" proclaimed Menau, our Dutch friend.
A strange lady with a speech impedement then tagged along as we walked back to town. We were cream crackered so said our goodbyes and hit the sack.
Day 35
The sunrise was smashing as we drove uphill towards Bukittinggi (930 metres above sea level).
We eventually arrived around 9am and hopped on an oplet (minivan taxi) into the city. Our hotel had a terrace overlooking one of the three volcanoes that are visible from the city - Gunung Merapi, Singgdang and Sago. In particular, Gunung Merapi looked pretty intimidating and, is apparently, one of Sumatra's most active volcanoes.
The city itself is famous for its Pasa Atlas Markets, a seemingly endless market selling everything from second hand Converse to skinned chickens done on the spot.
Bukittinggi appeared severely lacking in travellers. We therefore stuck out like sore thumbs and were heckled, high-fived and hello mistered all the way through our market assult.
That evening a Friends of the Earth couple from Oz and the Dutch guy from the coach head to Taman Panarama where you get sensational views of the canyon that the city overlooks. You could also go down the Japanese caves built through slave labour during World War II.
For dinner we decided to get a tradition Panang feast where a table full of dishes are put in front of you and you eat the ones you want. Layla and the Dutch guy both had dicky tummies so eyed up the dishes anxiously but the food turned out to be fabulous. "All thish for jusht one Euro" proclaimed Menau, our Dutch friend.
A strange lady with a speech impedement then tagged along as we walked back to town. We were cream crackered so said our goodbyes and hit the sack.
Through The Eye of a Needle
Friday 31st July 2009
Day 34
OK, so overtaking on a blind corner is a given in this country. Whether you're a nifty minvan or a sluggish bus, overtaking is a given. Whether you're on a flat stretch of windy road or on a one-car wide hairpin bend on the edge of a mountain overtaking on a blind corner is a given : )
Today didn't start to well. Layla had a fever and felt really rough. Her stomach was in all kinds of mischief and we had a 16 hour bus journey ahead of us. However, she started perking up a little and decided to hit the road.
At the bus station she was cheered up no end by a group of schoolgirls keen to learn their English. Layla took them under her wing talking and drawing pictures with them during the hour wait for the bus.
The bus itself was basic but actually really comfortable decorated India-style in flowers draped across the windscreen. The seats reclined right back which I discovered to my surprise when the guy in front of me's head was suddenly pretty much on my lap. The Indonesian tunes were also blasting out as we set off up the windy mountainous roads on a 16 hour haul south to Western Sumatra with Bukittinggi our destination.
The first stage of the journey was stunning as the sun set down below the mountains with paddy fields as far as the eye could see. An amazing green in that light. The bus driver was doing a sterling job threading the beast of a vehicle through the eye of a needle passed oncoming traffic on a one-car wide road.
Interupted sleep and a couple of stop offs later and the driver's music was still relentless and the toilets on the second stop easily the worst I have encountered. Picture an open room with holes in the floor all occupied by chaps doing their business, some even smoking on the job. An open urinal for number twos. A Dutch guy who also witnessed the scene said "Have you ever sheen Trainshpotting!"
Also on the second stop Layla heard noises all around us in this one horse town (or one bullock town). Strange, eery noises that turned out to be the pre-dawn call to prayer which the Muslims of Indonesia amplify out through speakers every day. It was around 5am.
Day 34
OK, so overtaking on a blind corner is a given in this country. Whether you're a nifty minvan or a sluggish bus, overtaking is a given. Whether you're on a flat stretch of windy road or on a one-car wide hairpin bend on the edge of a mountain overtaking on a blind corner is a given : )
Today didn't start to well. Layla had a fever and felt really rough. Her stomach was in all kinds of mischief and we had a 16 hour bus journey ahead of us. However, she started perking up a little and decided to hit the road.
At the bus station she was cheered up no end by a group of schoolgirls keen to learn their English. Layla took them under her wing talking and drawing pictures with them during the hour wait for the bus.
The bus itself was basic but actually really comfortable decorated India-style in flowers draped across the windscreen. The seats reclined right back which I discovered to my surprise when the guy in front of me's head was suddenly pretty much on my lap. The Indonesian tunes were also blasting out as we set off up the windy mountainous roads on a 16 hour haul south to Western Sumatra with Bukittinggi our destination.
The first stage of the journey was stunning as the sun set down below the mountains with paddy fields as far as the eye could see. An amazing green in that light. The bus driver was doing a sterling job threading the beast of a vehicle through the eye of a needle passed oncoming traffic on a one-car wide road.
Interupted sleep and a couple of stop offs later and the driver's music was still relentless and the toilets on the second stop easily the worst I have encountered. Picture an open room with holes in the floor all occupied by chaps doing their business, some even smoking on the job. An open urinal for number twos. A Dutch guy who also witnessed the scene said "Have you ever sheen Trainshpotting!"
Also on the second stop Layla heard noises all around us in this one horse town (or one bullock town). Strange, eery noises that turned out to be the pre-dawn call to prayer which the Muslims of Indonesia amplify out through speakers every day. It was around 5am.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
