View Full Version : Pet Hates........or FFS
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Yup, but I always found that they tainted the contents, and gave tea or coffee a 'metallic' taste. Better than nothing, though!:)
Marco.
Mine is similar to this
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180902/1e412c8f15c31e29e5e518a0361b25ea.jpg
I took a flask of soup to work or fishing or even a picnic. Tomato soup. It was traditional lol. Stewed coffee wasn't my cuppa
Yup, that's a far better use for it!:)
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
02-09-2018, 09:40
I'm fine with coffee from a flask, but never tea. That's just wrong.
Never need to use one these days, as I'm either at home, and do my own, or if I'm out, I'll have coffee in a restaurant/cafe:)
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
02-09-2018, 14:00
I tend to rely on the kindness of strangers (customers) to keep me in brews. Tip: never refuse the first brew offered, as this can set a precedent for the rest of the day.
If I know that there will be no refreshments offered where I am working, I'll use local butty shops. One I regularly use is just 80p a cup and it's not bad either. I only use a flask for soup in the colder months. Mrs. P's leak and potato soup a favourite. With some buttered crusty French stick. Simple tastes.
Minstrel SE
02-09-2018, 15:56
Flasks can be good especially the short ones with a wide opening for chunky soups. I have some smaller ones for a couple of brews and they are quite handy. I was on a training course and it was way better than getting the rubbish tea and coffee they offered on site.
Its just a case of getting a good flask and knowing its limitations. Ive found they generally work well and Ive been on many family car journeys where the tea is still hot enough when we get well on the way to Aberdeen
We use a huge filter coffee machine at the hotel which makes a reasonable brew. I replace the filters and a couple of packs of filter coffee in each side...There is a cappacino machine but nobody has shown me how to use it yet.
There is a lot of coffee snobbery and I like an instant coffee which does the job for me
Pigmy Pony
02-09-2018, 18:27
A "posh" coffee in our house comes from a Delonghi "Dolce Gusto" contraption that's shaped a bit like a penguin. The cappuccinos it makes are plenty good enough for me, although the coffee police would probably be horrified.
walpurgis
02-09-2018, 18:28
Brace yourselves. We will no doubt be deluged with the annual flood of Christmas crap at any moment.
Pigmy Pony
02-09-2018, 18:31
A tip someone once gave me was to fill your flask with boiling water and leaving it like that for a few minutes before emptying and immediately filling with your drink. Supposed to keep your drink hot for longer. Seems to help.
Pigmy Pony
02-09-2018, 18:38
Just an hour ago we passed on the M6 a Land Rover towing a trailer loaded with Christmas trees. They didn't even have any roots, they'd just been cut down. What use will they be?
Just an hour ago we passed on the M6 a Land Rover towing a trailer loaded with Christmas trees. They didn't even have any roots, they'd just been cut down. What use will they be?
Cut down all the trees now then when Xmas comes your trees will be worth a fortune because there'll be none anywhere else. A bit like Goldfinger's plan to irradiate all the gold in Fort Knox.
I can't see the point in carting them away after they were cut down though. The bloke probably needs to watch the film again.
There is a lot of coffee snobbery and I like an instant coffee which does the job for me.
It's not about "snobbery" though, Martin. It's simply about standards, and some of us appreciate really good coffee (made with freshly-ground beans), the same as we appreciate nice food or fine wine. Are you a 'snob' because you listen to music on a 'posh' hi-fi system, rather than on a mini-system, bought from Tesco?;)
I think not.
Marco.
Used to have a baby heating system. Might have been a milk heater or steriliser. It used little gas tanks. I used that for years. Took stories and lots of meals with me. The lads were always dead jealous while the tucked into cheese sarniez. Lol
Pigmy Pony
03-09-2018, 09:37
It's not about "snobbery" though, Martin. It's simply about standards, and some of us appreciate really good coffee (made with freshly-ground beans), the same as we appreciate nice food or fine wine. Are you a 'snob' because you listen to music on a 'posh' hi-fi system, rather than on a mini-system, bought from Tesco?;)
I think not.
Marco.
There used to be an amount of hi-fi snobbery in the seventies/eighties for some reason, I used to hear people say how good their new stereo was, and then they'd finish the sentence with "nothing like as good as yours though", as though they felt I would be judging them. I never did, it was just a perception people had.
These days hi-fi systems don't seem to any kind of status symbol, as there's so much other stuff to spend your hard-earned on. Hi-fi enthusiasts are regarded as being perhaps a bit eccentric, like your uncle Colin who saves all his toenail clippings.
Ah, so you've met him? Those crunchy bad-boys sure add a unique texture (and unmistakable 'savoury tang') to a boring cheese sandwich!
I hear you, though... For me, it's simply about being discerning and enjoying the finer things in life (good coffee, hi-fi, food or whatever), and unless you've no other choice, not settling for something that's obviously inferior:)
Marco.
Beobloke
03-09-2018, 14:08
I think you’re all a bunch of grumpy gits.
I generally drink my coffee black, but I like a cappuccino now and then, or a latte if the mood takes me. Hell, I’ve even been known to partake in a caramel macchiato and thoroughly enjoy it.
Widen your horizons - you might enjoy it! ;)
Widen your horizons - you might enjoy it! ;)
Indeed! It often shocks me how some folk can be so boring and unimaginative, and worst of all, seemingly uncaring/uninterested in the quality of food and drink that they consume.
In that respect, I don't believe in the concept of 'It'll do' - I insist on having something that I *really* enjoy and look forward to having!! My motto? Shun mediocrity, in all aspects of life, and embrace QUALITY:)
Marco [currently grinding some coffee beans for tomorrow's breakfast cappuccino].
I think you’re all a bunch of grumpy gits.
I generally drink my coffee black, but I like a cappuccino now and then, or a latte if the mood takes me. Hell, I’ve even been known to partake in a caramel macchiato and thoroughly enjoy it.
Widen your horizons - you might enjoy it! ;)
No ta. We fought two world wars on nothing but stewed tea and Capstan Full Strength to keep that poncey muck on the other side of the Channel where it belongs. If you'd gone in a railway caff 30 years ago and asked for a double tall choch mocca or whatever you'd have got beaten up. And rightly so.
:lolsign:
I think I'll stick with my poncy muck and "double tall choca moccas", thanks:D
And if those don't already exist, then they should do!!
Marco.
Think we fought the war so we were free to choose a double tall choca mocca, or stewed tea. ;)
Minstrel SE
03-09-2018, 16:49
It's not about "snobbery" though, Martin. It's simply about standards, and some of us appreciate really good coffee (made with freshly-ground beans), the same as we appreciate nice food or fine wine. Are you a 'snob' because you listen to music on a 'posh' hi-fi system, rather than on a mini-system, bought from Tesco?;)
I think not.
Marco.
Yeah Im being a bit silly Marco. Im a bit lazy to be grinding beans. I am getting used to a hotel breakfast set up though and I now want walnuts, dried apricots, yoghurt, danish pastries and a proper fresh fruit salad for breakfast ...... plus a full english with giant mushrooms and all the trimmings :)
As you say its about standards and enjoying the finer things in life.
Think we fought the war so we were free to choose a double tall choca mocca, or stewed tea. ;)
We did but you're still expected to make the right choice :)
Yeah Im being a bit silly Marco. Im a bit lazy to be grinding beans. I am getting used to a hotel breakfast set up though and I now want walnuts, dried apricots, yoghurt, danish pastries and a proper fresh fruit salad for breakfast ...... plus a full english with giant mushrooms and all the trimmings :)
As you say its about standards and enjoying the finer things in life.
Lol - indeed... Quite simply, *if* you can afford to eat and drink well, why consume shite, especially out of some daft notion for being stubbornly anachronistic?:D
Marco.
You got to eat shite sometimes otherwise you won't appreciate the quality stuff. These things are all relative. It's why so many rich kids top themselves. No sense of proportion.
Ha - I don't know... For me, there's enough variety of quality stuff around to keep things interesting!
Marco.
I always insist on Birds Eye potato waffles
Now *that* is what you call class:eyebrows:
It's obvious you've been brought up well... No doubt you'll also insist on nothing else but genuine Cadbury's Smash.
Marco.
class
Even get out of the bath to have a p**s
Fukkin' hell, you must be high maintenance!:D
Don't tell me you lift yer arse up too, to have a fart?
Marco.
Don't tell me you lift yer arse up too, to have a fart?
Normally just lift one leg a little
It's very discrete & produces a more pleasing note (usually middle c)
Quality. Does it generate some good bubble action?
I find that when the bubbles burst, it seems to accentuate the pong:D
Marco.
A tip someone once gave me was to fill your flask with boiling water and leaving it like that for a few minutes before emptying and immediately filling with your drink. Supposed to keep your drink hot for longer. Seems to help.
It will do, as you are pre-heating the flask not and using the contents to heat it up. Also if you want to avoid any 'metallic' taste, use an old-fashioned Thermos with a silvered-glass vacuum vessel.
Yeah Im being a bit silly Marco. Im a bit lazy to be grinding beans. I am getting used to a hotel breakfast set up though and I now want walnuts, dried apricots, yoghurt, danish pastries and a proper fresh fruit salad for breakfast ...... plus a full english with giant mushrooms and all the trimmings :)
As you say its about standards and enjoying the finer things in life.
AKA 'Heart attack on a plate'.
Pete The Cat
04-09-2018, 15:03
As it happens my personal treats are Ethiopian as a morning brew and Sumatran on an occasional weekend evening. But I'm happy enough with any source just as long as it's black, hot and nothing else since coffee inherently has plenty of flavour. What can be so difficult that the chain coffee shops struggle when you ask for black coffee ?
Denis Leary pretty much sums it up for me...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-f_dxLiuXuw
NB the language isn't for the sensitive but it's all in context.
Pete
I used to simply ask for an 'ordinary cup of coffee' and let the staff of Costa or Starbucks sort it out. Now I know to ask for a "flat white" if I want an ordinary coffee, and an "Americano with milk on the side" if I need a real caffeine hit.
Now I know to ask for a "flat white" if I want an ordinary coffee...
When you say an ordinary coffee, I presume you mean an ordinary white coffee? What language is necessary then to request an ordinary black one?:hmm:
Personally, I wouldn't entertain such nonsense, so thankfully I rarely frequent coffee shop chains. In reality, only an imbecile, or someone being deliberately obtuse, would claim not to know what an ordinary black or white coffee was.
Marco.
Americano = black coffee
Flat white = white coffee
Latte = extra milky coffee
an americano should do the trick
Americano = black coffee
Flat white = white coffee
Latte = extra milky coffee
Lol... Well, coffee types such as 'Latte', 'Cappuccino' and 'Macchiato' are well-known to me, and accepted, as they derive from the Italian language, and have been widely understood in Europe for years.
However, I'd refuse to get too silly about it, if all I wanted was a plain black coffee, which is *exactly* what I'd ask for. And if here in the UK, the person serving me adopted a bemused face, acting like they didn't understand, then I'd simply ask them why they were behaving like an idiot....! :doh:
Marco [refuses to pander to some of today's ridiculous trends].
an americano should do the trick
So would a slap!;)
Marco.
caffe americano is Italian.. its an espresso and hot water... a caffe all'americana is a filtered coffee(black)
Yes, and if I were in Italy and wanted a plain black coffee, that's what I'd ask for, as they wouldn't necessarily speak English. In the UK, however, there is no such excuse!
Marco.
Lol... Well, coffee types such as 'Latte', 'Cappuccino' and 'Macchiato' are well-known to me, and accepted, as they derive from the Italian language, and have been used in Europe for years.
However, I'd refuse to get too silly about it, if all I wanted was a plain black coffee, which is *exactly* what I'd ask for, and if here in the UK, the person serving me adopted a bemused face and acted like they didn't understand, then I'd simply ask them why they were behaving like an idiot....! :doh:
Marco [refuses to pander to some of today's ridiculous trends].
As I said: asking for an ordinary (white) coffee always seemed to work. I never wanted to drink black coffee, or drink cappuccino nor a 'Macchiato' (I don't even know what that is!).
The only new, hybrid (or bastard) drink that I have discovered is the 'mocha' (or various spellings thereof) which Happy likes and is something we can make ourselves.
Yes, and if I were in Italy and wanted a plain black coffee, that's what I'd ask for, as they wouldn't necessarily understand English. In the UK, however, there is no such excuse!
Marco.
Just how they are taught mate. Not their fault. A good professional barista would know and just do it but in places like Starbucks and costa it's all the staff know is what is drummed into them. These companies don't want free thinkers. Most companies don't actually.
I know where you're coming from, but I'm sorry, I simply don't buy the notion that they don't understand what a plain black coffee is, i.e. one without any milk. You don't need to be a 'free thinker' to understand plain English.
I must make a point of going into one of these places and asking for a plain black coffee, and see the reaction I get! I shall do it soon and report back.
Marco.
As I said: asking for an ordinary (white) coffee always seemed to work. I never wanted to drink black coffee, or drink cappuccino nor a 'Macchiato' (I don't even know what that is!).
The only new, hybrid (or bastard) drink that I have discovered is the 'mocha' (or various spellings thereof) which Happy likes and is something we can make ourselves.
Lol... A Macchiato is simply an espresso, with a shot of hot-milk foam. It just adds a little creaminess to the finish.
It's rather nice and would be my coffee of choice, if I wanted a small strong coffee, but one that was a little 'longer' than an espresso. You should try one, as I think you'd like it! I'll make you a Macchiato next time you visit:)
A 'Mocha' is simply a milky coffee, made with chocolate, and often topped with whipped cream. Not really my thing, as it bastardises an otherwise good coffee! It's a bit like having cheese with fruit in it. However, each to his or her own.
Marco.
I'm a latte lover but homemade and a dash of liquor in. Vanilla or gingerbread. Usually the latter of late. Getting the milk right is the trick to a latte. It shouldn't be foam. It should be closer to a light double cream or a partial whipped cream
Thing is, as good as your coffees are, and I've tasted them, so can vouch for that, what you've given me or posted pictures of isn't a genuine latte, certainly as an Italian would expect, if he or she ordered one in a coffee shop in Italy.
What you're making is essentially a very high-quality, strong milky coffee, which produces a distinct crema/microfoam, and as such is something largely of your own creation:)
A true latte, is much longer and weaker (made from a significantly smaller coffee to milk ratio), and served in a long, tall glass, such as this:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/ILgEte.jpg
...topped simply with frothy milk (and sometimes whipped cream, which in fact is wrong), and/or chocolate. There would be no real crema or microfoam. However, that certainly doesn't detract from what you're producing, which I'd actually much rather drink than a true latte!:cool:
Marco.
Yup I agree. Mine is more a large macchiato
Yeah, but it's much more intense than that. You'll need to give it a personalised name!:eyebrows:
Marco.
But I'm happy enough with any source just as long as it's black, hot and nothing else since coffee inherently has plenty of flavour.
Like anything else, it only has plenty of flavour if it's inherently good and treated right. Often that's simply not the case, and so there can be plenty of bad flavour, as well as good!
In reality too, no discerning coffee drinker, used to the uniquely rich, 'clean' flavour of freshly ground coffee, would touch the filter or instant variety with a bargepole (as it tastes artificial in comparison), just as a tea connoisseur would be unlikely to use teabags. Both are pale imitations of the real thing.
Nor indeed would either consume their chosen drinks from a thermos flask (of any description), which would be akin to drinking claret from tumbler.
Marco.
Mine is more latte art. Just I'm not very good at it but like trying for ferns and roses etc
This sort of thing
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180904/c4f20fd88d445d865bd7421087946033.jpg
Fancier than I can do
Yeah, that's cool. I may teach myself to do that, once I'm more experienced in simply producing good coffee, and getting the results consistent!
Marco.
In the States, there is a convenience store that’s been around for 50 years called “7-11”. And they have the best plain coffee! I worked construction for 18 years and most every day included a tall cup of 7-11 coffee. Really hot, Black, and strong! It would really wake you up in the early AM. I took mine with sugar.
The only fancy coffee drink I’m familiar with is espresso. I used to take my ex wife to a small shop near the mall for a double espresso, always seemed to make her horny! Go figure. The closest thing to taking it straight in the arm!
Russell
In the States, there is a convenience store that’s been around for 50 years called “7-11”. And they have the best plain coffee! I worked construction for 18 years and most every day included a tall cup of 7-11 coffee. Really hot, Black, and strong! It would really wake you up in the early AM. I took mine with sugar.
Even the shop at the end of my street has a coffee machine now, although I've never tried it. No 7-11 here but we did use to have Circle-K for a while just like in 'Bill And Ted.'
America a very strange place to go if you are British. A lot of things are familiar but some are downright bizarre. Like being able to buy beer in the chemist's.
The only fancy coffee drink I’m familiar with is espresso. I used to take my ex wife to a small shop near the mall for a double espresso, always seemed to make her horny!
Ha - I bet you marched her into that joint every day!:D
It's funny how, as an American, you'd consider an espresso as a "fancy coffee drink"... I'd have thought over there that espressos, and such like, were pretty standard and not considered as 'trendy', as they stupidly are here?
As an Italian, I've been drinking espressos (cappuccinos, lattes, macchiatos, etc) for more than 30 years, so it's just normal, and not in any way "fancy":)
If you gave one of us an instant coffee, you'd just get a filthy look!;)
Marco.
Like being able to buy beer in the chemist's.
Why not? Add a packet of condoms, and you're sorted for the perfect Saturday night 'fun pack'!:D
Marco.
Beobloke
05-09-2018, 09:14
Bizarrely - and I can’t believe I’m writing it, but I promise you it’s true - one of the best places on the high street to get a really nice, simple black coffee is.......McDonalds!
You could be right, but what's rather worrying is that fact that you know!:eek:;)
Marco [wouldn't soil himself, by entering such establishments].
Ive had a coffee from there.. its not bad at all ... their food tho isnt so good.... chips apart...... oh and their ice cream is very nice.
Beobloke
05-09-2018, 09:52
You could be right, but what's rather worrying is that fact that you know!:eek:;)
Marco [wouldn't soil himself, by entering such establishments].
Oh god, no, neither would I! I just found myself in a motorway services very late at night a while back, in dire need of a coffee and McDonalds was the only place open.
I figured the plain black coffee would be the ‘least worst’ option and was quite shocked by how good it was. When the options in these places generally boils down to Starbucks (which don’t serve coffee - they serve burnt muddy water), or a dodgy machine in the cafeteria area, it’s quite nice to know that there is a place that can be relied on for a decent brew.
Even if I do have to don long coat and dark glasses in order to go in... ;)
Ive had a coffee from there.. its not bad at all ... their food tho isnt so good....
That's the point, though. Why would you go there, just for a coffee, when in most towns there are plenty of proper coffee shops, where in theory, the coffee *should* be much better?
The fact that in Adam's case it isn't, says more about the quality of the coffee, sold in said 'proper shops', than the stuff in McDonalds!;)
Marco.
Oh god, no, neither would I! I just found myself in a motorway services very late at night a while back, in dire need of a coffee and McDonalds was the only place open.
Ah, alles Klar!!:D
Marco.
That's the point, though. Why would you go there, just for a coffee, when in most towns there are plenty of proper coffee shops, where in theory, the coffee *should* be much better?
The fact that in Adam's case it isn't, says more about the quality of the coffee, sold in said 'proper shops', than the stuff in McDonalds!;)
Marco.
my son used to like their chicken, and the grandkids like the food....so as a dutiful parent/grandfather, i take them ;)
Beobloke
05-09-2018, 10:04
Unfortunately, I have developed a theory through experience when it comes to high street coffee chains - simply, and sadly, if they use Fairtrade coffee, their product will be rubbish - a cup of burnt tasting unpleasantness ( Starbucks, M&S cafe etc)
That’s why I generally only go to Costa or Caffè Nero in these situations - they use Rainforest Alliance products instead.
I have no idea why this is, except for the suggestion that the cheap Fairtade stuff might not be very good. Mrs. B’s workplace has a fantastic all-singing and dancing coffee machine and a few years ago the sandal-wearing, yoghurt-knitting fraternity of the company insisted they changed to Fairtrade beans. The new coffee was dreadful and they had to change to higher quality, dearer Fairtrade brand as there were so many complaints from the staff! I did try the first stuff and it was truly awful - it’s quite decent again now after the bean upgrade, but still not as good as it was.
my son used to like their chicken, and the grandkids like the food....so as a dutiful parent/grandfather, i take them ;)
I can understand that, but in any other circumstances I doubt you'd go.
Marco.
Unfortunately, I have developed a theory through experience when it comes to high street coffee chains - simply, and sadly, if they use Fairtrade coffee, their product will be rubbish - a cup of burnt tasting unpleasantness ( Starbucks, M&S cafe etc)
That’s why I generally only go to Costa or Caffè Nero in these situations - they use Rainforest Alliance products instead.
I can certainly vouch for Costa, as I use their Mocha Italia beans, for making cappuccinos and macchiatos, and they're excellent. It's the quality of the beans being used that's ultimately making the difference, not necessarily anything to do with the Rainforest Alliance.
Mrs. B’s workplace has a fantastic all-singing and dancing coffee machine and a few years ago the sandal-wearing, yoghurt-knitting fraternity of the company insisted they changed to Fairtrade beans. The new coffee was dreadful and they had to change to higher quality, dearer Fairtrade brand as there were so many complaints from the staff!
Lol..! However, as I said, ultimately it's about buying a better product, Fairtrade-related, or not:)
Marco.
Ive had a coffee from there.. its not bad at all ... their food tho isnt so good.... chips apart...... oh and their ice cream is very nice.
What's that peculiar 'varnish' they coat their chips (sorry 'fries') with. I don't like it - but then I don't like anything that comes out of McDonalds.
Even the shop at the end of my street has a coffee machine now, although I've never tried it. No 7-11 here but we did use to have Circle-K for a while just like in 'Bill And Ted.'
America a very strange place to go if you are British. A lot of things are familiar but some are downright bizarre. Like being able to buy beer in the chemist's.
Yes things are different here, and as you say, don’t always make sense. America was a county of black coffee! That’s all that was served for many years, nothing else. If you want cream and sugar, you put that in yourself. Until Starbucks came around about 15 or 20 years ago, only a fancy restaurant would have such things as cappuccino or latte. And espresso is only available at these upscale coffee shops like Starbucks, or, an Italian restaurant, which is where I get one from time to time after a nice Italian meal.
McDonalds is pure Americana, hamburgers and fries, there are dozens of chains here that sell the same, but one thing about McDonalds is that it’s always the same. No matter what city you are in world wide, you see the big arches, and you know what they serve. And they grow all of their own ingredients, the beef, the wheat, the potatoes, even the tomatoes that the catchup is made from, they own their supply chain, except perhaps the coffee Farm? But maybe they do?
Here we call it the Drug Store! Because there is no chemist there. There is only one shop in all of Richmond that actually mixes compounds. The rest only push pills. And it is strange how they’ve evolved to be a small department store, I have to walk a tenth of a mile just to get to the prescription counter!
One drug store chain recently stopped selling cigarettes! It was all over the news! Beer and cigarettes are the main staple of many businesses. But who goes to the drug store for cigarettes? Apparently someone.
Russell
I was thinking of Rite-Aid because that's very close to the UK's 'Boots the Chemist' which are/were also department stores with a pharmacy counter. Just surprised me the first time I went in Rite-Aid that they had massive piles of beer everywhere. You wouldn't see that in Boots but otherwise they are very similar.
This sort of thing
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20180904/c4f20fd88d445d865bd7421087946033.jpg
Fancier than I can do
Sadly such 'artistry' means absolutely nothing to me. It doesn't add anything to the coffee drinking experience IMO. :rolleyes:
Sadly such 'artistry' means absolutely nothing to me. It doesn't add anything to the coffee drinking experience IMO. :rolleyes:
First taste is with the eye Barry
Sadly such 'artistry' means absolutely nothing to me. It doesn't add anything to the coffee drinking experience IMO. :rolleyes:
It probably does, about three quid
WRT someone saying Starbucks coffee is dreadful.
It is.
How then is that chain so huge? I am amazed by that fact.
Costa beans are OK Marco but there is better out there. You will find them.
The trouble with some really high grade small producer coffees is they can taste amazing, only to find that when you.re-order the same, it sometimes isn't. Quite a lot sometimes it isn't.
In other words, small producers seem to come up with some amazing beans, but they seem to have trouble being consistent at it.
Annoying I find.
First taste is with the eye Barry
No, first taste is with the nose - the smell.
Crackles
05-09-2018, 20:03
It probably does, about three quid[emoji16]
Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk
WRT someone saying Starbucks coffee is dreadful.
It is.
How then is that chain so huge? I am amazed by that fact.
Costa beans are OK Marco but there is better out there. You will find them.
The trouble with some really high grade small producer coffees is they can taste amazing, only to find that when you.re-order the same, it sometimes isn't. Quite a lot sometimes it isn't.
In other words, small producers seem to come up with some amazing beans, but they seem to have trouble being consistent at it.
Annoying I find.
Yup, dude, it's often the same with wine! Hear ya about the beans... No doubt, as I'm just starting out in this game, so have TONS to learn!:)
Marco.
Sherwood
05-09-2018, 20:11
WRT someone saying Starbucks coffee is dreadful.
It is.
How then is that chain so huge? I am amazed by that fact.
Costa beans are OK Marco but there is better out there. You will find them.
The trouble with some really high grade small producer coffees is they can taste amazing, only to find that when you.re-order the same, it sometimes isn't. Quite a lot sometimes it isn't.
In other words, small producers seem to come up with some amazing beans, but they seem to have trouble being consistent at it.
Annoying I find.
Location, location, location! Well explained in Tim Harford's book. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Undercover-Economist-Tim-Harford/dp/0349119856/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1536178174&sr=8-1&keywords=undercover+economist
Geoff
Costa have nailed it and I love the fancy designs on top - sometimes I can't bear to stir my sugar in and spoil them. Nespresso are not far behind for an easy home brew capsule option. Don't fall for their one-off designer offers though, I order the exact same caps every time.
mightymonoped
06-09-2018, 11:30
Bizarrely - and I can’t believe I’m writing it, but I promise you it’s true - one of the best places on the high street to get a really nice, simple black coffee is.......McDonalds!
+1
A long time ago now Maccie-D's did a survey and found that people's main complaint was that their coffee was appalling. Which it was. So they got in experts and sorted it out. Must be going back 15 years here at least.
When I worked in KFC back in 1990 people would often come up to me and complain that the coffee was disgusting. Not sure what they expected me to do about it given my job was bussing tables and mopping the floor. I just used to agree with them which took the wind out of their sails a bit.
A long time ago now Maccie-D's did a survey and found that people's main complaint was that their coffee was appalling. Which it was. So they got in experts and sorted it out. Must be going back 15 years here at least.
When I worked in KFC back in 1990 people would often come up to me and complain that the coffee was disgusting. Not sure what they expected me to do about it given my job was bussing tables and mopping the floor. I just used to agree with them which took the wind out of their sails a bit.
Yeah its a bit like when someone pulls alongside you at the lights and says your driving s terrible mate, best just to agree and that normally stuns them into silence.
Minstrel SE
06-09-2018, 14:56
It sort of annoys me now that people eat at Muckdonalds etc. Talk about getting what we deserve FFS :)
I just think taking the kids for a happy meal sets a bad and lazy example. Cant see any positives to it as kids will eat anything and think its ok. Bung them a few undercooked fish fingers and they think its ok
Its just brainwashing to me and its not particularly cheap. I would rather find a local cafe or something similar. They seem to be dying out and perhaps its because people go to the American owned chains.
Did we ever neeed them or are we just being Americanised in that lazy way?
It sort of annoys me now that people eat at Muckdonalds etc. Talk about getting what we deserve FFS :)
I just think taking the kids for a happy meal sets a bad and lazy example. Cant see any positives to it as kids will eat anything and think its ok. Bung them a few undercooked fish fingers and they think its ok
Its just brainwashing to me and its not particularly cheap. I would rather find a local cafe or something similar. They seem to be dying out and perhaps its because people go to the American owned chains.
Did we ever neeed them or are we just being Americanised in that lazy way?
for a treat, there's no harm. its when you start living out of them when your in trouble. food isn't poison or anything, just high in calories and fat.
its like saying i don't give my kid ice cream coz its bad for you.
It sort of annoys me now that people eat at Muckdonalds etc. Talk about getting what we deserve FFS :)
I just think taking the kids for a happy meal sets a bad and lazy example. Cant see any positives to it as kids will eat anything and think its ok. Bung them a few undercooked fish fingers and they think its ok
Its just brainwashing to me and its not particularly cheap. I would rather find a local cafe or something similar. They seem to be dying out and perhaps its because people go to the American owned chains.
Did we ever neeed them or are we just being Americanised in that lazy way?
If I walk home from work I go past one and I sometimes nip in and get a cheeseburger for a bit of fuel as it's a long trek. Place is always rammed full of children ages 2 and up. All glass and tiles too so you can imagine how the noise bounces around, and I hate the noise of children anyway, probably still annoy me in an anechoic chamber. I just grab my burger and eat it on the march. But you have to wonder at these people taking infants there to eat. Pretty sure I wouldn't do that if I had children.
Minstrel SE
06-09-2018, 21:27
Yes But I challenge anyone to say its a good burger.
I have a family member that took me and I couldnt back out of it. He is a strange one because he has eaten fine foods all over the world but thinks the first thing I would want to do is get a big mac or something. I couldnt get out of it without causing offence
To me its just paint by the numbers highly processed food...the meat tastes bland and full of fillers. Its nothing like the better burgers you can get.
I remember nipping in for the breakfast mcmuffin in London but I felt cheated on the satisfaction front. Hunger and availability leads to some strange decisions
Ok it fills a hole but very little more than that. Again I dont wanna sound like a snob but I just dont see the appeal.
I rate burgers on a scale of one to ten. The best burger I have ever had was at The Explorers Club in Northern Province, RSA, which rated a 10+. Second best was at a mom & pop owned burger bar in San Francisco, near Fisherman's Wharf which I rated 9+. I rate a "Big Mac" a minus one.
I usually make my own burgers if having one; same with meatballs, and they are pretty similar in construction. much better for you too..
I usually make my own burgers if having one; same with meatballs, and they are pretty similar in construction. much better for you too..
I get the basic patties from our tame butcher, who uses Aberdeen Angus steak. I re-shape them myself because they are too thick and small in diameter as they come. I learned how from The Spaniard in NYC.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B000XB45DO/ref=sspa_dk_detail_0?ascsubtag=bst-13-1610944085482341479&linkCode=g12&creativeASIN=B000XB45DO&tag=offerscomuk-21
one of these is a handy thing to have
If the burger is not char grilled it's a waste of time to begin with.
Eat them how you will, its whats in em that counts.
Yes But I challenge anyone to say its a good burger.
I have a family member that took me and I couldnt back out of it. He is a strange one because he has eaten fine foods all over the world but thinks the first thing I would want to do is get a big mac or something. I couldnt get out of it without causing offence
To me its just paint by the numbers highly processed food...the meat tastes bland and full of fillers. Its nothing like the better burgers you can get.
I remember nipping in for the breakfast mcmuffin in London but I felt cheated on the satisfaction front. Hunger and availability leads to some strange decisions
Ok it fills a hole but very little more than that. Again I dont wanna sound like a snob but I just dont see the appeal.
I completely agree with that, Martin, and also your previous post. I guess that these commercial burger chains fulfil a purpose, but not one I'm remotely interested in. For me, they also send out the wrong message to kids (by how their marketing is targeted at them), who are already addicted enough to junk food...
As Grant says, as long as they're used as a "treat", should they be perceived as such by those who go there, and not frequented regularly, then I guess they're ok:)
I'll stick with fresh Aberdeen Angus (or Welsh Black) patties, from our local butcher, chargrilled in our BBQ, with Del's lovely homemade relish!
Marco.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B000XB45DO/ref=sspa_dk_detail_0?ascsubtag=bst-13-1610944085482341479&linkCode=g12&creativeASIN=B000XB45DO&tag=offerscomuk-21
one of these is a handy thing to have
Nope, makes typical "E.U." patties. This is the proper thing: https://amzn.to/2NpmUSk
Nope, makes typical "E.U." patties. This is the proper thing: https://amzn.to/2NpmUSk
give or take a couple of mil, they are same diameter. 4.5"
Yep, but it's the thickness that counts.......
Yesh, that's what she said last night!:D
Marco.
Yep, but it's the thickness that counts.......
ah, but my one gets bigger and smaller at will:D
Is it far to compare a $6 to $9 restaurant burger to a $1 McDonny burger? For one buck, it’s fairly edible, and as with so many things today, it’s the convenience. You can grab a few $1.25 cheeseburgers without ever getting out of your car! I really don’t expect to be wowed by it. It is what it is.
My daughter when she was very little was so skinny, it was hell to get her to eat. I was always told, “they’ll eat when they’re hungry”. But with her she rarely got hungry. So, the one thing we knew she would eat was a Happy Meal. But! Only if she didn’t already have the toy. If it was a new toy, she would eat every bite, but let her already have it, and she would pick at her food. To this day she is still skinny as a rail. A blessing to not crave food as I do! But, I’m a different story, I had health issues years ago and almost starved to death, so I find it hard to deny myself some delicious food. Not that McD’s is all that great, but it fills a void.
Russell
The trouble with some really high grade small producer coffees is they can taste amazing, only to find that when you.re-order the same, it sometimes isn't. Quite a lot sometimes it isn't.
In other words, small producers seem to come up with some amazing beans, but they seem to have trouble being consistent at it.
Annoying I find.
That is an old drug dealers tactic! (Or so I’ve heard), they start you out with the good stuff! But as time goes on, the quality drops and the price goes up. Shady business practices, no doubt.
Russell
Is it far to compare a $6 to $9 restaurant burger to a $1 McDonny burger? For one buck, it’s fairly edible, and as with so many things today, it’s the convenience. You can grab a few $1.25 cheeseburgers without ever getting out of your car! I really don’t expect to be wowed by it. It is what it is.
l
More than a buck here although I can't remember how much they are. About a quid fifty I think so two dollars about.
The beef is good quality it's just they don't char grill so without all the stuff they put on them they are pretty bland. Their ketchup is too sweet as well.
Another fast food place called Burger King has the flame broiled burgers, very good too I may add. Their “Whopper”, is a big sandwich! It was recently on sale for $3 each. It’s been a while since I’ve had one, I may have to seek one out and see if it’s as good as I remember. They’ve got a new product called “Chicken Fries”, and are exactly what you think they are. I’ve been wanting to try them.
Russell
Burger king started here in the UK. They're okay. Used to live opposite a burger place called 'The Superbowl' - he did good burgers, made them himself with minced steak. Not char grilled though but you can't have anything. Lived there for a year and had burgers for tea almost every night. Got really good on his 'Terminator 2' pinball machine while I was waiting too. :)
Burger king started here in the UK. They're okay. Used to live opposite a burger place called 'The Superbowl' - he did good burgers, made them himself with minced steak. Not char grilled though but you can't have anything. Lived there for a year and had burgers for tea almost every night. Got really good on his 'Terminator 2' pinball machine while I was waiting too. :)
started in florida i think; way back... the wimpy bars here became burger kings at some time in 80's.. wimpy and burger king were both owned by same company... think it was grand met.
started in florida i think; way back... the wimpy bars here became burger kings at some time in 80's.. wimpy and burger king were both owned by same company... think it was grand met.
You're right, Florida.
Was offered to run the local one at one time but I took something else. Fortunately as it went bust soon after
I think one of the biggest fast food chains in the world, behind McDonalds, is Kentucky Fried Chicken. I remember seeing their logo in Beijing during the Olympics, and even in Baghdad after the war, and in a recent show about New Deli, India. Seems everyone loves the yard bird?
Russell
Yes they are second... same folk have Pizza Hut and Taco Bell.
stairpost
10-09-2018, 21:44
started in florida i think; way back... the wimpy bars here became burger kings at some time in 80's.. wimpy and burger king were both owned by same company... think it was grand met.
I haven't had a wimpy for about 30 years, they used to be a regular treat when I was working in Bristol Dixons as a teenager. I have just found out there is actually one still open just along the coast in Porthcawl, needless to say I'm pestering my other half to take me :)
Worst thing is that we were there a few weeks ago on the way back from the botanical gardens, but I had no idea there was a Wimpy there at the time.
I used to go to the one at Sandbach Services on the M6 but it's gone now.
We have Hungry Jack's in South Australia, which is Burger King, even has the same logo.
I very rarely have takeaway, I do have the occaisional Subway though.
KFC mash and gravy is diabolical, but my wife likes it.
As kids a Wimpy special grill was seen as a major treat, always remember the round sausages.
24164
Beobloke
11-09-2018, 09:18
As I’ve mentioned, apart from their coffee, I don’t like McDonalds, with the one exception being when I’m at an airport at 6am and I get an inexplicable craving for a Sausage and Egg McMuffin. In my defence, I do feel dirty afterwards, though...
Burger-wise, I also much prefer something from the local butchers or home made, but I have recently discovered that Costco’s Aberdeen Angus Quarter Pounders are spectacularly good!
However, on the High Street, you’ve got a long way to go to beat a Burger King Double Whopper with Cheese as an occasional treat! Hmm, Mrs B. is away this weekend. I can feel one looming in my near future...
As kids a Wimpy special grill was seen as a major treat, always remember the round sausages.
24164
That brings back some memories. Good to see they had the full 'Bender' range on offer... And just 42p for the full English.
Pete The Cat
30-09-2018, 12:54
Driving habits are a great source of pet hates, eg middle lane hogs. But my own personal dislike is people who can't simply pull up neatly at the end of a queue and apply the handbrake.
So imagine there are red traffic lights and a queue has already formed. My bete noire is the car in front of me which comes to a pause a leisurely 15-20 feet from the end of the queue and I stop right behind them, as does the car behind me and so on. The car in front of me then rolls (not having applied the handbrake) 3 feet forward and pauses. Then again. Then again. And so on. Each time everyone behind then has to decide whether they correspondingly shuffle forward in stages. Further back there is usually someone trying to turn off or onto the road who could really do with the queue being shorter to make their manoeuvre but they can't because the g1t in front of me is mindlessly edging forward a few inches at a time.
I'd like to propose burning at the stake as a suitable deterrent.
Pete
Completely agree.
My proposal is driving squads. They patrol the roads in body armour and equipped with batons and tasers. Any idiocy like you describe and they are straight over to it, smash the side window, taser the driver, drag him out of the car and give him a good beating at the side of the road whilst the other motorists in the cue applaud and toot their horns in appreciation.
They're the same @rseholes who don't bother stopping at mini roundabouts so you have to, oblivious to other road users :rolleyes:
Pulling up at the traffic lights and the nob in front sits there with their foot on the brake pedal, scorching your retinas with the laser blasts from LED brake lights, ten times worse if it's dark and raining.
Also on a personal level the waste of skin who lives opposite me who seems incapable of turning down her car stereo when she leaves or comes back, whatever time of day, she also needs tazering.
hifilover
30-09-2018, 15:37
Fecking nosey cockwomble miserly old fart neighbours that feel they need to stand in their window and stare when I’ve lit the fire and smoke comes out of the chimney.. I mean, my god, what next? Rain from the sky...?
Arsehole...
Driving habits are a great source of pet hates, eg middle lane hogs. But my own personal dislike is people who can't simply pull up neatly at the end of a queue and apply the handbrake.
So imagine there are red traffic lights and a queue has already formed. My bete noire is the car in front of me which comes to a pause a leisurely 15-20 feet from the end of the queue and I stop right behind them, as does the car behind me and so on. The car in front of me then rolls (not having applied the handbrake) 3 feet forward and pauses. Then again. Then again. And so on. Each time everyone behind then has to decide whether they correspondingly shuffle forward in stages. Further back there is usually someone trying to turn off or onto the road who could really do with the queue being shorter to make their manoeuvre but they can't because the g1t in front of me is mindlessly edging forward a few inches at a time.
I'd like to propose burning at the stake as a suitable deterrent.
Pete
If I'm in a long queue, I'll wait until there is room for me on the other side of a road junction, so as to let people in or out of the side road.
Fecking nosey cockwomble miserly old fart neighbours that feel they need to stand in their window and stare when I’ve lit the fire and smoke comes out of the chimney.. I mean, my god, what next? Rain from the sky...?
Arsehole...
S'ok mate, it'll soon be bonfire night, so you can light a wee fire for them in their garden. That way, they won't have to look at yours. Nice being neighbourly, innit?;)
Marco.
hifilover
30-09-2018, 18:54
S'ok mate, it'll soon be bonfire night, so you can light a wee fire for them in their garden. That way, they won't have to look at yours. Nice being neighbourly, innit?;)
Marco.
Ah piss on their feet; I'm gonna light the bugger every night next week; the forecast is bleak enough ;) :lol:
Its not as if he's going to say much; I've already spoken to other neighbours and he's a nosey prat that knows everything apparently. Also; he's not keen on 'youngsters' in the cul de sac; hell; we bring the age gap down 2 generations :lol: :rolleyes:
Apparently; he wasn't impressed when I'd started doing some of my stone lifting on the drive too; he could 'feel' the vibrations of me dropping my 110kg atlas stone off my shoulder...! Really?! #howtobeaknob101
Driving habits are a great source of pet hates, eg middle lane hogs. But my own personal dislike is people who can't simply pull up neatly at the end of a queue and apply the handbrake.
So imagine there are red traffic lights and a queue has already formed. My bete noire is the car in front of me which comes to a pause a leisurely 15-20 feet from the end of the queue and I stop right behind them, as does the car behind me and so on. The car in front of me then rolls (not having applied the handbrake) 3 feet forward and pauses. Then again. Then again. And so on. Each time everyone behind then has to decide whether they correspondingly shuffle forward in stages. Further back there is usually someone trying to turn off or onto the road who could really do with the queue being shorter to make their manoeuvre but they can't because the g1t in front of me is mindlessly edging forward a few inches at a time.
I'd like to propose burning at the stake as a suitable deterrent.
Pete
Why not pull up in front of the culprit and reverse into the gap?
I’m coming back from the city at rush hour on the interstate, and half way the traffic stops. It starts to inch along, people swapping lanes, hoping to gain a space, it took two hours to drive a 30 minute trip, and when I got to where the traffic jam let up, and cars started moving again, I find that the accident that caused it was on the OTHER SIDE of the highway! There was NO accident on my side! People rubber necking to see the accident on the other side had brought traffic to a standstill!? What the hell is wrong with people? It just gets harder and harder to remain calm.
Russell
I’m coming back from the city at rush hour on the interstate, and half way the traffic stops. It starts to inch along, people swapping lanes, hoping to gain a space, it took two hours to drive a 30 minute trip, and when I got to where the traffic jam let up, and cars started moving again, I find that the accident that caused it was on the OTHER SIDE of the highway! There was NO accident on my side! People rubber necking to see the accident on the other side had brought traffic to a standstill!? What the hell is wrong with people? It just gets harder and harder to remain calm.
Russell
'Rubber necking' is a well known phenomenon and is often stated to be the cause of a slowing down of traffic and of delays in traffic reports. But it is also well recognised that people drive more carefully after seeing an RTA. Sadly the improvement in driving doesn't last long.
People always slow down and drive more carefully when they see a cop car, they stop talking on their telephones, start indicating and observing lane discipline so maybe have fake cop cars all over the place? I mean it's the 21st century, can they not have holographic cop cars that they can switch on and off at will?
Pigmy Pony
02-10-2018, 18:57
Plenty of times on the motorway I find myself in slow moving, sometimes almost stationary traffic, only to find further up the road that there was NO REASON for it!
So many drivers won't leave a sensible gap between themselves and the vehicle in front, either because they're determined to prevent anyone nipping in front of them, or because they think that by tailgating they can bully the car in front into getting out of the way. the result is that they are riding their brakes, and this usually causes the following traffic to brake too. By keeping a bit of space in front of me, I hardly ever need the brakes on the motorway.
More haste less speed for sure.
Minstrel SE
03-10-2018, 03:57
Too many cars on the roads now FFS and I wonder why its not being dealt with for the good of all.
I cycle home and near the hospital there is half a mile of queuing traffic in the opposite direction. This makes it extremely difficult if not impossible for people to pass me for well over half a mile so I get on the pavement.
I had to apologise profusely to one lady this morning after she came out of a side gate. She was ok with it and Im going to have to stick to the roads.
Its the school runs you know because the traffic suddenly got far worse when the schools were back. Why do people drive like lemmings in rush hour traffic. Its seriously crazy to me and a huge FFS!
Crackles
03-10-2018, 04:40
Too many cars on the roads now FFS and I wonder why its not being dealt with for the good of all.
I cycle home and near the hospital there is half a mile of queuing traffic in the opposite direction. This makes it extremely difficult if not impossible for people to pass me for well over half a mile so I get on the pavement.
I had to apologise profusely to one lady this morning after she came out of a side gate. She was ok with it and Im going to have to stick to the roads.
Its the school runs you know because the traffic suddenly got far worse when the schools were back. Why do people drive like lemmings in rush hour traffic. Its seriously crazy to me and a huge FFS!It's not just school runs it's also because people take time off work during school holidays. I agree though, there are far too many cars on the roads.
Sent from my SM-G920F using Tapatalk
WESTLOWER
03-10-2018, 08:52
Bicycles on the pavement...FFS!:steam:
mightymonoped
03-10-2018, 09:02
My own personal dislike is anything on the road, bicycles, motorbikes, cars, trucks, horses, mobility scooters (don't get me started on them), buses and coaches. What are they playing at? Getting in my way and ruining the often scenic routes I could be enjoying, not to mention ruining the general ambience as I'm trying to enjoy some decent tunes on my way to wherever I'm going (which by definition is more important then their questionable mission). :lol:
Want to know how to avoid most of the pish you're all moaning about?
It's dead simple... Abandon life in big towns and cities and move to a quieter, less congested area of country, where there's less people and a more relaxed, slower pace of life, such as....
....lovely scenic, miles from the rat race, beautiful North Wales :sheep::sheep:
:thumbsup::D
My advice for a happy, stress-free life? Divorce yourself, as much as you can, from the hustle and bustle of modern existence. Ees de only way, amigos...
Marco [10 mins outside Wrexham, gets the roads largely to himself, where the only numpty on the road is him:eyebrows:].
mightymonoped
03-10-2018, 10:49
My advice for a happy, stress-free life is to remember that the Universe is inexorably expanding and that eventually any remaining life will exist in a vast, starless void of empty and meaningless solitude.
There, that's made our day feel a little more cheery, hasn't it? :-)
Beobloke
03-10-2018, 10:56
Too many cars on the roads now FFS and I wonder why its not being dealt with for the good of all.
I don’t think the problem is that there are too many cars on the road per se. I think the main problem is that many of them are driven by mouth-breathing cretins with the intellectual capacity and spatial awareness of a bottle of tomato ketchup.
WESTLOWER
03-10-2018, 10:59
Want to know how to avoid most of the pish you're all moaning about?
It's dead simple... Abandon life in big towns and cities and move to a quieter, less congested area of country, where there's less people and a more relaxed, slower pace of life, such as....
....lovely scenic, miles from the rat race, beautiful North Wales :sheep::sheep:
:thumbsup::D
My advice for a happy, stress-free life? Divorce yourself, as much as you can, from the hustle and bustle of modern existence. Ees de only way, amigos...
Marco [10 mins outside Wrexham, gets the roads largely to himself, where the only numpty on the road is him:eyebrows:].
But we have to work! :(
My advice for a happy, stress-free life is to remember that the Universe is inexorably expanding and that eventually any remaining life will exist in a vast, starless void of empty and meaningless solitude.
There, that's made our day feel a little more cheery, hasn't it? :-)
my advice is become a hermit and live in a tree hermitage
But we have to work! :(
Lol... I'm not stopping you working, just do it somewhere quieter and less congested;)
Says he, semi tongue-in-cheek...
Marco.
Beobloke
03-10-2018, 11:55
Want to know how to avoid most of the pish you're all moaning about?
It's dead simple... Abandon life in big towns and cities and move to a quieter, less congested area of country, where there's less people and a more relaxed, slower pace of life, such as....
....lovely scenic, miles from the rat race, beautiful North Wales :sheep::sheep:
:thumbsup::D
.
I think I'd rather sit in a traffic jam... :D
Ha - you wouldn't say that mate, when you've got scenery such as this on your doorstep:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/921/BK9Pns.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/921/2vRIec.jpg
It's the country roads there I love driving around in... You can keep all the busyness and overcrowding of yer 'darn sarf'... :ner::D;)
Inhale the fresh air, tranquility and relative solitude of beautiful North Wales!
Marco.
Beobloke
03-10-2018, 14:47
Well I may be 'darn sarf' but I do live right in the middle of this, so it's not so bad! -
https://i.imgur.com/9TuFLa9.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/KwRnLjD.jpg
https://i.imgur.com/eonvxjo.jpg
:)
WESTLOWER
03-10-2018, 14:54
Ha - you wouldn't say that mate, when you've got scenery such as this on your doorstep:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/921/BK9Pns.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/921/2vRIec.jpg
It's the country roads there I love driving around in... You can keep all the busyness and overcrowding of yer 'darn sarf'... :ner::D;)
Inhale the fresh air, tranquility and relative solitude of beautiful North Wales!
Marco.
https://i.imgur.com/1zDv7vi.jpg
Beautiful!
Knockhill . formed 330 million years ago when we were at the equator...
https://visitwestlothian.co.uk/media/138051/bathgate-alps_Main.jpg
and from top
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4145/5023633628_989b35f032_b.jpg
The silver mines
https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7068/6813911510_b939dd1f8f_b.jpg
Cairnpapple henge and Burial ground. was a henge about 6000 years ago and later a burial ground
http://www.armadale.org.uk/cairnpapple01b.jpg
and inside
https://hesprodweb.blob.core.windows.net/cache/7/c/3/a/4/4/7c3a44613dc29e2704923ec3e0761cd3c58d7110.jpg
all within a couple of miles from me
Well I may be 'darn sarf' but I do live right in the middle of this, so it's not so bad! :)
Very nice! However... How busy are the towns and roads within the surrounding area? Is there much traffic congestion? And how easy is it to park in large towns in your local area?
For example, Wrexham is approximately the size of Basingstoke....
I could jump in my car and go into Wrexham town centre, at ANY time of the day, and *instantly*, without any effort, find a FREE car parking space for up to three hours, right in the centre of town [without having to worry about over-zealous clamping firms either].
And there would be zero traffic jams/congestion on the way there or back, even in the so-called 'rush hour'! :cool:
How easy is it to do that down your way?
Marco.
Knockhill . formed 330 million years ago when we were at the equator...
https://visitwestlothian.co.uk/media/138051/bathgate-alps_Main.jpg
and from top
https://c1.staticflickr.com/5/4145/5023633628_989b35f032_b.jpg
The silver mines
https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7068/6813911510_b939dd1f8f_b.jpg
Cairnpapple henge and Burial ground. was a henge about 6000 years ago and later a burial ground
http://www.armadale.org.uk/cairnpapple01b.jpg
and inside
https://hesprodweb.blob.core.windows.net/cache/7/c/3/a/4/4/7c3a44613dc29e2704923ec3e0761cd3c58d7110.jpg
all within a couple of miles from me
Nice, Granty. In Scotland, outside of Glasgow and Edinburgh, there's no real traffic congestion/excessive busyness or overcrowding - and as you've shown some of the scenery is stunning:)
I know some folks are stuck with it, or perhaps even like it, but there's no way I could handle living in somewhere like London, or any of the other overpopulated, crowded towns and cities, 'darn sarf'. The stress of forever being in some sort of queue virtually all the time would simply be too much:rolleyes:
And not exactly fun!:nono:
Marco.
https://i.imgur.com/1zDv7vi.jpg
Beautiful!
My worst nightmare, mate! You have my sympathies... How do handle it?:doh::)
Marco.
Minstrel SE
03-10-2018, 16:41
Bicycles on the pavement...FFS!:steam:
Well its a very quiet stretch of leafy pavement but I agree with you. For a moment I felt I had no other option because Im sick of over half a mile of standing traffic giving no room for a bike and a car to pass on my side.
We are talking half a mile plus here but you are right in that Im going to stick to the road and cars behind me will have to wait....trouble is they probably wont leading to all sorts of squeezing manoeuvres and agitation
It isnt actually me clogging up the roads...its all those people who think they can take a tonne of metal on any trip they like
The beginning of my journey is one of the most tranquil, beautiful country roads in Cheshire and its only when I get nearer to the main traffic routes
people are very adaptable. We can pretty much get used to anything.
come to brighton,bloody cycle lanes everywhere! lots of traffic jams,the shattered dreams of a 'green' council :doh::steam:
WESTLOWER
03-10-2018, 16:49
My worst nightmare, mate! You have my sympathies... How do handle it?:doh::)
Marco.
That’s the queue for the rush to leave Wrexham! :lol:
WESTLOWER
03-10-2018, 16:51
Well its a very quiet stretch of leafy pavement but I agree with you. For a moment I felt I had no other option because Im sick of over half a mile of standing traffic giving no room for a bike and a car to pass on my side.
We are talking half a mile plus here but you are right in that Im going to stick to the road and cars behind me will have to wait....trouble is they probably wont leading to all sorts of squeezing manouvers and agitation
It isnt actually me clogging up the roads...its all those people who think they can take a tonne of metal on any trip they like
The beginning of my journey is one of the most tranquil, beautiful country roads in cheshire and its only when I get nearer to the main traffic routes
Martin.. I’m just joshing! I’m sure you felt you had no option than to put that lovely ladies life at risk :D
That’s the queue for the rush to leave Wrexham! :lol:
:lolsign:
It's actually a great place to live mate, especially where I am, well away from the lower orders or riff-raff:eyebrows:;)
Marco.
Minstrel SE
03-10-2018, 17:29
Martin.. I’m just joshing! I’m sure you felt you had no option than to put that lovely ladies life at risk :D
yeah :) and I wished her all the best...nearly got her phone number but Ive fallen deeply in love twice this week already
mightymonoped
03-10-2018, 17:29
people are very adaptable. We can pretty much get used to anything.
You’ve obviously never seen me trying to use a ladder [emoji23]
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Pigmy Pony
03-10-2018, 17:40
But we have to work! :(
Yes, we can't all be male voice choir singing, daffodil picking, retired sheep farmers. There just isn't enough room, even in Wales :(
I'm not bothered about the universe expanding, I just want Britain to expand a bit so we'll have space to build some more roads.
Pigmy Pony
03-10-2018, 17:51
Very nice! However... How busy are the towns and roads within the surrounding area? Is there much traffic congestion? And how easy is it to park in large towns in your local area?
For example, Wrexham is approximately the size of Basingstoke....
I could jump in my car and go into Wrexham town centre, at ANY time of the day, and *instantly*, without any effort, find a FREE car parking space for up to three hours, right in the centre of town [without having to worry about over-zealous clamping firms either].
And there would be zero traffic jams/congestion on the way there or back, even in the so-called 'rush hour'! :cool:
How easy is it to do that down your way?
Marco.
Plenty of free parking in Leyland, too. Probably because there's bog all worth buying there (sorry Leyland, I'm sure you're lovely really). There'll be a reason why Wrexham doesn't have much traffic, you just haven't told us what it is yet :mental:
Pigmy Pony
03-10-2018, 18:21
people are very adaptable. We can pretty much get used to anything.
My thoughts exactly. We all play the cards we're dealt.
Marco, you say you couldn't handle the stress of living in a city. but you really could. Imagine living in another universe, where you were pressured to get a job, any job, straight out of school. You're not contributing to the congestion, because you can't even afford a car. And there's no chance of moving somewhere better. What do you do, walk until you reach the Clyde, then keep walking?
No! This is your life, and somehow you'll cope, no matter how shit the traffic jams get.
I bet you feel even better about Wrexham now, if that's possible! :)
Ha - you wouldn't say that mate, when you've got scenery such as this on your doorstep:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/921/BK9Pns.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/921/2vRIec.jpg
It's the country roads there I love driving around in... You can keep all the busyness and overcrowding of yer 'darn sarf'... :ner::D;)
Inhale the fresh air, tranquility and relative solitude of beautiful North Wales!
Marco.
These views look near exactly like vistas I’ve seen from the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia.
Russell
Plenty of free parking in Leyland, too. Probably because there's bog all worth buying there (sorry Leyland, I'm sure you're lovely really). There'll be a reason why Wrexham doesn't have much traffic, you just haven't told us what it is yet :mental:
Lol - there's a normal (manageable) amount of traffic mate, just not *excessive*, due to overcrowding, as there tends to be in similar-sized towns in the south of England, or even those in parts of England near me.
Also, you have to remember that, out with of Wrexham, the WHOLE of North Wales is just a collection of small towns/villages, and fields full of sheep!:D
Most of it equates to 'the land that time forgot' (a bit like West Wales, in that respect), and as such is sparsely populated. Urbanisation simply hasn't taken a grip and ruined things, as it has in other parts of the UK, which makes life here quieter (much less traffic), and consequently less stressful than it is in many other parts of the UK - and LONG may it remain that way!:cool:
Marco.
Marco, you say you couldn't handle the stress of living in a city. but you really could. Imagine living in another universe, where you were pressured to get a job, any job, straight out of school. You're not contributing to the congestion, because you can't even afford a car. And there's no chance of moving somewhere better. What do you do, walk until you reach the Clyde, then keep walking?
Yeah, I'd handle it if I *really needed* to, such as in the situation you've outlined above. However, thankfully, I've never been in that position.
I'm talking about not being able to handle it, if for whatever reason, I was forced to live in a crowded city now, having been used to living where I am in relative peace and tranquility, for nearly the last 20 years!:eek:;)
Remember that the only 'commute' I do daily, is from the bedroom to the lounge [getting through the 'traffic jam' of cats, to the kitchen, can be a bugger, though]!:D
Marco.
These views look near exactly like vistas I’ve seen from the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia.
Russell
Hi Russell,
I bet where you live is beautiful. It's a part of America I'd certainly love to visit:cool:
Marco.
I could jump in my car and go into Wrexham town centre, at ANY time of the day, and *instantly*, without any effort, find a FREE car parking space for up to three hours, right in the centre of town [without having to worry about over-zealous clamping firms either].
Free parking all day at Lakeside.
Want to know how to avoid most of the pish you're all moaning about?
It's dead simple... Abandon life in big towns and cities and move to a quieter, less congested area of country, where there's less people and a more relaxed, slower pace of life, such as....
....lovely scenic, miles from the rat race, beautiful North Wales :sheep::sheep:
:thumbsup::D
My advice for a happy, stress-free life? Divorce yourself, as much as you can, from the hustle and bustle of modern existence. Ees de only way, amigos...
Marco [10 mins outside Wrexham, gets the roads largely to himself, where the only numpty on the road is him:eyebrows:].
Come home to a real fire, buy a cottage in Wales!!
Pigmy Pony
04-10-2018, 07:57
Come home to a real fire, buy a cottage in Wales!!
:lol: I remember that one, Not The Nine o'clock News, I think
:lol: I remember that one, Not The Nine o'clock News, I think
It was.
The Sons of Glyndwr. Whatever happened to them?
Come home to a real fire, buy a cottage in Wales!!
Haha mate, quality... I remember the sketch well:thumbsup:
Will probably be lighting our real fire later, for the first time since May!
Marco.
Free parking all day at Lakeside.
clampers were chased out of scotland as far as i know.
clampers were chased out of scotland as far as i know.
It's illegal there unless the cops do it.
It's illegal there unless the cops do it.
thought that. and quite right too.
I don't know. Seems to me if someone parks their vehicle on my land without my permission I should be allowed to do anything I want with it. Not that I have any land, but if I did.
walpurgis
04-10-2018, 08:49
If you park in the wrong place here, they just slash your tyres. If that doesn't work it gets torched.
I don't know. Seems to me if someone parks their vehicle on my land without my permission I should be allowed to do anything I want with it. Not that I have any land, but if I did.
it was to stop folk conning people by inviting them in then clamping them, which was rife.. nothing stopping you calling the cops to get vehicle removed(next month):lol:
If you park in the wrong place here, they just slash your tyres. If that doesn't work it gets torched.
if you park in wrong place here your likely to get slashed.:D
When I was at university they had a big car park for students that was never more than half full until my final year when all of a sudden every new student seemed to own a car and it was impossible to park there. So people started parking on the campus roads. It was all private property of course, and, after issuing a few edicts with no result they introduced wheel clamping. Of course they skimped and bought really crappy, cheapo clamps. Somebody quickly acquired some industrial bolt cutters and pretty soon the verges were littered with the remains of the clamps.
Beobloke
04-10-2018, 08:57
Very nice! However... How busy are the towns and roads within the surrounding area? Is there much traffic congestion? And how easy is it to park in large towns in your local area?
For example, Wrexham is approximately the size of Basingstoke....
I could jump in my car and go into Wrexham town centre, at ANY time of the day, and *instantly*, without any effort, find a FREE car parking space for up to three hours, right in the centre of town [without having to worry about over-zealous clamping firms either].
And there would be zero traffic jams/congestion on the way there or back, even in the so-called 'rush hour'! :cool:
How easy is it to do that down your way?
Marco.
Well, Winchester is our nearest town and parking is OK but not free. However, our shopping mainly consists of Lidl (out of town, easy access, free parking) or jumping on our bikes and cycling 5 miles down the disused railway line to the local market town and farm shop!
The main attraction for us here, though is our house being on a private estate in the grounds of a former Manor House and being surrounded by fields. When we step outside, all you hear is birdsong and the occasional snort of a horse in the field next door. I can cope with a bit of traffic as long as I know I’m coming back to this.
And anyway, you’ve forgotten one important flaw in your suggestion. If we all follow your advice and move to North Wales, we’ll bring our cars with us - you’ll end up sat in traffic jams behind us and it’ll be your fault for giving us the idea!! :)
Pigmy Pony
04-10-2018, 09:04
I think it's been illegal in all of Britain for some years now, unless you're a copper or bailiff. Too many dodgy folk laying in wait for 'offenders' to get round the corner before pouncing.
The 'tow it away' crews in Bulgaria certainly know how to get a move on. We watched cars being removed on three separate occasions. Not unlike those events where you see sappers disassemble a big gun, carry it over there and re-assemble it. You could nip in the shop for 20 fags and a loaf, and come out to find your wheels gone - they're that quick.
one of the main problems is that everyone wants to use cars at same time..ie, rush hrs... staggered starting and finishing hrs would probably help this along with more working from home etc.
Even here, its busy at rush times, as our roads are not as big as Englands and motorways are nearly all 2 lane(not that we have many). outwith rush periods its not too bad here and this is the central belt where most of the vehicles are. The newer train link (that alas goes by my house instead of the nice cycle path)between Glasgow and Edinburgh has made a big difference as well.
clampers were chased out of scotland as far as i know.
That rule should be applied all over the UK, as it's just legalised extortion. A couple of these assholes tried to clamp me once, but I caught them before they managed it, and let's just say, things got a bit 'tasty'!;)
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
04-10-2018, 09:16
Tbh in Preston I don't see a marked difference these days between rush hour traffic and the rest of the day. It's stupid busy all day long, at least during school holidays, which thankfully seem to get longer every year (cheers Inset, whoever you are :)). Marked difference during term time though.
And anyway, you’ve forgotten one important flaw in your suggestion. If we all follow your advice and move to North Wales, we’ll bring our cars with us - you’ll end up sat in traffic jams behind us and it’ll be your fault for giving us the idea!! :)
Can't fault your logic there!:D
Love Winchester, btw. Great history and some lovely shops:cool:
Marco.
Tbh in Preston I don't see a marked difference these days between rush hour traffic and the rest of the day.
That's the problem with living in England, aside from perhaps some parts of rural Yorkshire and maybe off the beaten track areas in the Lake District, Somerset, Cornwall or East Anglia/Suffolk, it's hard to escape the 'rat race' and find anywhere truly divorced from today's frenetic existence.
Much easier to find such places in Scotland, Wales or Ireland:)
Marco.
walpurgis
04-10-2018, 14:27
I've always fancied living in Hambleton. It looks a brilliant place and there's certainly no through traffic.
Where's that, Geoff?:)
Marco.
walpurgis
04-10-2018, 14:42
Where's that, Geoff?:)
Marco.
It's on a peninsular that extends into Rutland Water in the East Midlands.
http://i68.tinypic.com/dmtnkh.png
Pigmy Pony
04-10-2018, 14:47
It'd be nice to live out in the sticks, but you would have to be careful not to pick somewhere close to a motorway junction - this is where most new builds are clustered. I feel sorry for those who pay good money for their rural living, then wake up one morning to a housing estate at the bottom of their garden.
I thought the idea of "Green Belt" was to keep areas of the countryside out of the clutches of developers, but someone, somehow, has got round this at the north side of Preston. I can only assume that Messrs. Barrett, Wimpey and Conlon hired someone to bum some councillors and video it for leverage.
There is a recently built "village" near us which has starter homes, family homes and a retirement village, and for some reason I find this all a little depressing. This village also includes a lot of industrial and commercial premises and warehousing, some of them are huge. Maybe we're going back to a time when people grew up, lived, worked and died all within walking distance. That would reduce traffic congestion.
one of the main problems is that everyone wants to use cars at same time..ie, rush hrs... staggered starting and finishing hrs would probably help this along with more working from home etc.
Even here, its busy at rush times, as our roads are not as big as Englands and motorways are nearly all 2 lane(not that we have many). outwith rush periods its not too bad here and this is the central belt where most of the vehicles are. The newer train link (that alas goes by my house instead of the nice cycle path)between Glasgow and Edinburgh has made a big difference as well.
This is why I start work around 6:30 am and finish around 3pm, just have to dodge the schools though.
This is why I start work around 6:30 am and finish around 3pm, just have to dodge the schools though.
wise man. When i was working self employed we left very early and got finished early. missed most of traffic and got into pub early :D
walpurgis
04-10-2018, 22:40
7am to 3.30 for me until I retired. Worked out just fine, as I missed the rush hour both ways. It was only fifteen minutes each way in any case and I had a company car or van most of the time. I did this for over thirty years.
7am to 3.30 for me until I retired. Worked out just fine, as I missed the rush hour both ways. It was only fifteen minutes each way in any case and I had a company car or van most of the time. I did this for over thirty years.
That was a nice arrangement, Geoff. I spent 15 years in cars [virtually living out of them], fighting through rush hours and traffic jams, when I was up in Glasgow [the Kingston bridge up there, on the M8, for example, was notoriously bad], when I was out selling to customers, building up my business, and so was out the house from 8am (sometimes earlier), and often didn't get home until 11pm.
I covered areas as far north as Dundee, and as far south as the Scottish borders, so I know all about heavy traffic, and the stress of having to battle through it, trying to get to appointments in time, especially knowing that if I missed any, and subsequently lost money, it could've been the difference between paying the mortgage or not that month, as being self-employed, I had no guaranteed salary. I did that from 1991 to 2006, and working those sorts of hours, often at weekends, too.
Overall, it worked well and I earned good money, which is why I'm in the fortunate position I'm in now, but it damn near killed me.... That's why now I don't miss that sort of stress and confusion one iota, and now enjoy a quieter, more relaxed pace of life! It's vital for your health and well being to get your work/life balance right, which sadly so many folks today haven't done.
For me, the nice thing now is no longer having to PLAN journeys in the car in advance, due to having to consider traffic conditions. I just come and go, as I please, knowing that wherever I go, the roads will be quiet and my journey will be relaxed and stress-free.
It's hard to put a price on that sense of freedom and relaxation, and having TIME to do what you want, when you want:)
Marco.
That was a nice arrangement, Geoff. I spent 15 years in cars [virtually living out of them], fighting through rush hours and traffic jams, when I was up in Glasgow [the Kingston bridge up there, on the M8, for example, was notoriously bad], when I was out selling to customers, building up my business, and so was out the house from 8am (sometimes earlier), and often didn't get home until 11pm.
I covered areas as far north as Dundee, and as far south as the Scottish borders, so I know all about heavy traffic, and the stress of having to battle through it, to try and get to appointments in time, especially knowing that if I missed any, and subsequently lost money, it could've been the difference between paying the mortgage or not that month, as being self-employed, I had no guaranteed salary. I did that from 1991 to 2006, and working those sorts of hours, often at weekends, too.
It worked well earned good money, which is why I'm in the fortunate position I'm in now, but it damn near killed me.... That's why now I don't miss that sort of stress and confusion one iota, and now enjoy a quieter, more relaxed pace of life! It's vital for your health and well being to get your work/life balance right, which sadly so many folks today haven't done.
For me, the nice thing now is no longer having to PLAN journeys in the car in advance, due to having to consider traffic conditions. I just come and go, as I please, knowing that wherever I go, the roads will be quiet and my journey will be relaxed and stress-free.
It's hard to put a price on that sense of freedom and relaxation:)
Marco.
you always want to avoid the kingston anywhere near peak hrs. terrible spot.
Yup, but it was often unavoidable, as I lived in the south of the city (and also near Paisley), so if I had been up in an appointment in the north side of the city or further up in that direction, at 5pm, and was making my way home, I'd have to cross the bridge and get caught up in the often HUGE jams.
Even during the day, at around lunchtime, it could be almost as bad, and that's not including trying to make your way through the city itself, especially up High Street and down to the Trongate, where you have to get through so many sets of junctions and traffic lights - and all the time looking at your watch, worrying whether you'll make it to your next appointment or not [as you've crammed as many in as you can, to make the money you need], so you can pay the bills and put food on the table...
Let's just say I don't exactly miss any of that!;)
Marco.
Yup, but it was often unavoidable, as I lived in the south of the city (and also near Paisley), so if I had been up in an appointment in the north side of the city or further up in that direction, at 5pm, and was making my way home, I'd have to cross the bridge and get caught up in the often HUGE jams.
Even during the day, at around lunchtime, it could be almost as bad, and that's not including trying to make your way through the city, especially up High Street and down to the Trongate, where you have to get through so many sets of junctions and traffic lights - and all the time looking at your watch, worrying whether you'll make it to your next appointment or not [as you've crammed as many in as you can, to make the money you need], so you can pay the bills and put food on the table...
Let's just say I don't exactly miss any of that!;)
Marco.
yup, worked the Glasgow route for a while... also Edinburgh is as bad, if not worse, or was... but at least if you knew the back streets there were ways round some of it. I dont miss it either. I used to do the great north run , sometimes every day and a round trip was about 450 miles, but it was more enjoyable than the city hubbub
Yup, don't get me wrong, I enjoyed it mostly, as generally things went well, especially when I'd secured a huge sale with a large company, which paid the bills for a whole month or more, and took all the pressure off!:)
Plus, as you say, going for nice long drives away from city centre congestion, especially when the scenery was nice, was great.
When you're in a sales job though, trying to reach appointments in time, especially when your livelihood depends on it, that adds even more stress and pressure than simply that of being stuck in traffic jams, if you're in no such rush to get anywhere, and you're being paid for your time, regardless.
Marco.
mightymonoped
05-10-2018, 10:17
I’m lucky enough to live on the border between Essex and Suffolk and have what is sometimes an achingly beautiful drive to work through ‘Constable Country’ and the back roads of Suffolk. Door to door takes me 30 minutes during rush hour as I am for the most part against the flow of traffic.
Hasn’t always been that way though, having served my time doing ten years of M25 Hell commuting in Herts.
The best drive to work I have ever had was a couple of years in California driving from Capitola to Santa Cruz along Highway 1 [emoji4]
I commiserate with those stuck in commuter hell though, we don’t always get the opportunity or choice when needs must.
Having said that, quality of life is a hugely important factor and shouldn’t be dismissed for the sake of a few ‘K’ more. I’d rather take home less than spend it on petrol costs, while missing family time.
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Having said that, quality of life is a hugely important factor and shouldn’t be dismissed for the sake of a few ‘K’ more. I’d rather take home less than spend it on petrol costs, while missing family time.
Nail > head mate, especially your last sentence! :exactly:
Yet, those sentiments seem to pass by so many folks these days, often to their great detriment, and perhaps without them even realising it... It's ALL about optimising your work/life balance and prioritising ultimately what matters MOST in life:)
Marco.
Minstrel SE
06-10-2018, 14:43
My thoughts exactly. We all play the cards we're dealt.
Marco, you say you couldn't handle the stress of living in a city. but you really could. Imagine living in another universe, where you were pressured to get a job, any job, straight out of school. You're not contributing to the congestion, because you can't even afford a car. And there's no chance of moving somewhere better. What do you do, walk until you reach the Clyde, then keep walking?
No! This is your life, and somehow you'll cope, no matter how shit the traffic jams get.
I bet you feel even better about Wrexham now, if that's possible! :)
A good point and traffic jams are just the biggest sign of the rat race for me. Ive owned cars but they dont appeal in the way that they used to and I dont follow the herd. I cant think of anything worse than taking the family on a shopping trip and queuing all the way there and back.
Ok there are times when a car is very handy but on a busy commuter route, its not my idea of freedom
I cycle to work and I love the serenity and freedom of negligible running costs and a journey that wont alter much in the time it takes unless something major goes wrong. However that is very unlikely as I service every part of my bikes. I have the gear if the weather gets tough but I will be half way home by the time people have de-iced and got out of a snowy car park
I do get pressure at work as to when I am buying a car but I feel they dont really understand. They are paying a significant amount to run a car and working the first hour or two just to cover that.
A good point and traffic jams are just the biggest sign of the rat race for me. Ive owned cars but they dont appeal in the way that they used to and I dont follow the herd. I cant think of anything worse than taking the family on a shopping trip and queuing all the way there and back.
Ok there are times when a car is very handy but on a busy commuter route, its not my idea of freedom
I cycle to work and I love the serenity and freedom of negligible running costs and a journey that wont alter much in the time it takes unless something major goes wrong. However that is very unlikely as I service every part of my bikes. I have the gear if the weather gets tough but I will be half way home by the time people have de-iced and got out of a snowy car park
I do get pressure at work as to when I am buying a car but I feel they dont really understand. They are paying a significant amount to run a car and working the first hour or two just to cover that.
You make a good argument but there are some issues with cycling, aside from the risks of cycling in rush hour and after dark in the winter.
Firstly if you live a fair distance from work (6 miles for me) that requires a fair level of fitness to cycle in (except in a rare situation where the terrain is flat all the way). Okay so that can be built up with time but not for someone already past it due to age, medical conditions or disability.
Secondly I've noticed that these days people bring all sorts of crap into work with them, women mostly. Some bring in more stuff for 8 hours at work than I would take if I was going on holiday abroad for two weeks. And I'm not exaggerating. How do they do that on a bike?
Thirdly if you don't have shower facilities at work then how do you deal with the personal hygiene issue? If I cycled into work I'd be steaming by the time I arrived, then I have to sit at a desk all day in a warm office with colleagues in close proximity. I'm not a sweaty bastard or anything but after cycling six mile (with some steep climbs) I'm going to have been sweating heavily. I just can't see a way around that.
Pigmy Pony
06-10-2018, 15:44
I agree, cycling to work can be a good thing for many, but not always practical. I need to be able to carry ladders, tools, sheet materials etc., as well as my butty box which is quite substantial, and a basket on the front of a bicycle ain't gonna cut it.
Also, I've been a lifelong sufferer of chronic lazyitis, so if cycling was a feasible option for me, I would go for something electric, like a scooter or longboard as advocated by Justin (user 211) elsewhere. And bollocks to the legality of it.
A good point and traffic jams are just the biggest sign of the rat race for me. Ive owned cars but they dont appeal in the way that they used to and I dont follow the herd. I cant think of anything worse than taking the family on a shopping trip and queuing all the way there and back.
Are things that bad where you are in Cheshire, Martin? Where exactly in Cheshire are you, as it's a big county?:)
The bits of Cheshire that surround me, even Chester city-centre itself, out with of weekends and a couple of key areas during rush hour, are blissfully quiet, and so shopping trips round here simply aren't (or don't need to be) as you describe. And if you organise yourself properly, owning a car can be a joy, especially cruising along some of Cheshire's lovely leafy lanes and gorgeous countryside!:cool:
As ever, whether you're able to enjoy certain aspects of life, driving a car included, is largely down to your lifestyle and the choices you make.
Marco.
I agree, cycling to work can be a good thing for many, but not always practical. I need to be able to carry my butty box which is quite substantial
https://i.imgur.com/iMHrwVi.jpg
I agree. You should probably try to cut down a little.
Pigmy Pony
06-10-2018, 16:35
https://i.imgur.com/iMHrwVi.jpg
I agree. You should probably try to cut down a little.
:lol: That's pretty damn close, apart from the cranberry sauce, as I'm on a diet. Tbh, my butty box is the last refuge for everything that's gone past its sell by date. I know come Monday there will be three or four Muller Rices in there, yaay!
Minstrel SE
08-10-2018, 12:18
You make a good argument but there are some issues with cycling, aside from the risks of cycling in rush hour and after dark in the winter.
Firstly if you live a fair distance from work (6 miles for me) that requires a fair level of fitness to cycle in (except in a rare situation where the terrain is flat all the way). Okay so that can be built up with time but not for someone already past it due to age, medical conditions or disability.
Secondly I've noticed that these days people bring all sorts of crap into work with them, women mostly. Some bring in more stuff for 8 hours at work than I would take if I was going on holiday abroad for two weeks. And I'm not exaggerating. How do they do that on a bike?
Thirdly if you don't have shower facilities at work then how do you deal with the personal hygiene issue? If I cycled into work I'd be steaming by the time I arrived, then I have to sit at a desk all day in a warm office with colleagues in close proximity. I'm not a sweaty bastard or anything but after cycling six mile (with some steep climbs) I'm going to have been sweating heavily. I just can't see a way around that.
My fitness has improved ten times over since I started and Ive lost about 2 stone in 2 months.
Yes I accept it takes a reasonable level of fitness but panniers can be fitted and I carry a full freshly washed uniform, shoes and soap bag full of metrosexual products :) I load up with everything I need.
The journey is short enough to be fully acceptable
The physical exertion is no problem and I shower every day taking a range of body sprays, deodorant and aftershave. One steepish hill I walk up so I dont sweat too much...I keep it to an aceptable level of sweating with the right choice of air flow and wicking clothing. I rub myself down when changing and its all good
You are right that the personal hygiene issue must be monitored closely and I could use any one of 59 showers at work :) It must be noted that one guy that came in his car stank to high heaven of BO, bad breath etc and it cost him his job... a crazy level of neglect
With confidence and good lights, cycling well after dark is no issue with much quieter roads
You are right that its not for everyone but I feel many people are just scared of anything but car travel
Hi Martin,
Did you miss post #4203?
:popcorn: :popcorn:
Marco.
Hi Martin,
Did you miss post #4023?
:popcorn: :popcorn:
Marco.
That's my post?
No daftee, yours (the earlier one) is #4204... At least that's what it says on my screen.
This is the specific post of mine I'm referring to and drawing Martin's attention to: https://theartofsound.net/forum/showthread.php?21429-Pet-Hates-or-FFS&p=1018950#post1018950
Marco.
Too many Martins and it's causing confusion. The rest of you change your names please.
At the weekends, I'm Matilda.
Marco.
.. and i'm Titania:eyebrows:
walpurgis
09-10-2018, 14:42
and I'm best avoided.....:)
and I'm best avoided.....:)
We do. [emoji23]
Beobloke
09-10-2018, 18:23
No daftee, yours (the earlier one) is #4204... At least that's what it says on my screen.
Marco.
You may have meant #4203 but you wrote #4023. Who’s the daftee now??!!
Ha - I've always gladly embraced my daftness, and this occasion is no exception!:D
That doesn't resolve the issue though, so it's still over to Martin.... I'm just curious as to what part of Cheshire is apparently so busy as to make shopping trips the nightmare he claims. It's no biggie, though.
Marco.
mad-moon
09-10-2018, 19:45
You may have meant #4203 but you wrote #4023. Who’s the daftee now??!!
Quote Originally Posted by Marco View Post
No daftee, yours (the earlier one) is #4204... At least that's what it says on my screen.
Marco
You are all mad...it says 4204 in the above quote......
Yesh, but you have to get the right Martin! Martin (Macca's) post was #4204.
#4203, the pertinent one in question, belongs to me, and was addressed to Martin (MinstrelSE). Do keep up!:ner::D
Marco.
Yesh, but you have to get the right Martin! Martin (Macca's) post was #4204.
#4203, the pertinent one in question, belongs to me, and was addressed to Martin (MinstrelSE). Do keep up!:ner::D
Marco.
called martin, macca...and martin martin.and if we get another, the marty
Only my father ever called me Marty.
"Who sent ye, son?"
"Boabby sent me." "Where's Boabby?" "Lyin' pished ahun the Tele! :D:D
Marco.
In any case loads of Cheshire is built up, you always get traffic jams in the towns at rush hour.
Answer: don't travel (or shop) during rush hour. Simples, innit?:eyebrows:
Marco.
If only that was an option.
I hate it when neighbours shuffle their cars around at stupid o'clock, especially when they have been there all day and must have known who was leaving first.
Answer: don't travel (or shop) during rush hour. Simples, innit?:eyebrows:
Marco.
Rush hour occurs from 07:00 to 09:00 in the morning and between 15:30 to 19:30 in the afternoon/evening.
Minstrel SE
10-10-2018, 07:22
Hi Martin,
Did you miss post #4203?
:popcorn: :popcorn:
Marco.
Hi Marco
No I was just thinking about putting details on here. I live in the best part of Cheshire :) where the Manchester footballers and ex Joy Division members live.
I saw Stephen Morris shopping the other day.
All the other areas of Cheshire are wannabe pretenders....... Playing at it :).... Im sure the "Real Housewives Of Cheshire" live round here :D
All the best
Martin
Pigmy Pony
10-10-2018, 09:35
I've seen those "Real housewives of Cheshire" on the telly - nothing about them looks real to me. And no doubt they contribute greatly to the traffic problems, taking little Fabian and Cressida to school in their giant SUV's.
I've seen those "Real housewives of Cheshire" on the telly - nothing about them looks real to me. And no doubt they contribute greatly to the traffic problems, taking little Fabian and Cressida to school in their giant SUV's.
school bus or walk ;) i had too; in fact i wouldn't have allowed my parent to take me or pick me up...what a red neck that would have been, not that my mum could drive(not many women could)
Pigmy Pony
10-10-2018, 09:46
No, up until the sixties, women drivers were something of a rarity. I remember my mum getting to drive us all to Blackpool Illuminations in about 1966 when she was learning to drive, and it was my first memory of actual fear. And I did some mental stuff as a kid.
Hi Marco
No I was just thinking about putting details on here. I live in the best part of Cheshire :) where the Manchester footballers and ex Joy Division members live.
I saw Stephen Morris shopping the other day.
All the other areas of Cheshire are wannabe pretenders....... Playing at it :).... Im sure the "Real Housewives Of Cheshire" live round here :D
All the best
Martin
Ha - lol.... So let's say you're unlikely to be a million miles from Wilmslow or Alderley Edge?;)
Yes, that area of Cheshire is rather more built up, particularly because it's not far from Manchester. It's rather different here, in the likes of Pulford, or my favourite Cheshire village, just outside of Chester, Eccleston:
https://www.google.co.uk/search?biw=1152&bih=622&tbm=isch&sa=1&ei=iQW-W5K6FM73kwWq_oegDQ&q=eccleston%2C+cheshire&oq=eccleston%2C+cheshire&gs_l=img.3..0.3206.4932.0.6150.10.10.0.0.0.0.177.7 16.9j1.10.0....0...1c.1.64.img..0.10.709...0i67k1j 0i5i30k1j0i8i30k1j0i24k1.0.rt43hlqdpF4
Love some of the houses there! Or the rural areas around Nantwich, all of which is where I love driving the Brabster, and where I get the road quite often to myself! No traffic jams or congestion in sight...:cool:
Marco.
I've seen those "Real housewives of Cheshire" on the telly - nothing about them looks real to me. And no doubt they contribute greatly to the traffic problems, taking little Fabian and Cressida to school in their giant SUV's.
100% correct, on both counts!
I can't stand those types of programmes or the people in them, as *everything* is false, from their orange faces, covered in fake tan/make-up and/or way too many sessions on a sun bed, to the impression of wealth they like to portray, which is nothing other than vulgar pretentiousness, often favoured by the nouveau riche.
They may have money but they're as common as muck, almost always dimwitted, and have no class!:spew:
I relate much more to the values and understated outlook/lifestyle of those brought up on the culture of 'old money', which is often reflected in the types of houses both they and the 'footballers wives' set would live in, and indeed in many other ways too, which I could go into...
A good comparison of such is made by comparing the respective Cheshire towns of Wilmslow and Knutsford: one is full of pretentious jewellery shops and ladies designer clothes boutiques, catering for bling and questionable tastes in fashion, and the other quaint little antique and book shops, clothes shops for the 'country set', and very good privately owned shops and restaurants, instead of overpriced chains, full of mass-produced (but expensive) crap, designed to superficially look good, but have little 'depth'...
I could go on!:eyebrows: Needless to say, I steer well clear of the pretentious shit and embrace what is much more 'real' and has true class. Maybe that's why I don't encounter the types of things others here moan about, simply because where I choose to live and/or visit is largely divorced from that sort of crap?:hmm:
Marco.
Minstrel SE
10-10-2018, 15:42
Yeah it looks very nice Marco and of course Im only joking. There are very nice areas all over the county and elsewhere.
Both those places you mention are full of pretentious crap. Indeed I had a "Wilmslow" credit card at one point but its all bollocks really. I dont particularly like either town now. I do look for women in Alderley Edge though. Ferrari... Porsche..... Ferrari...My bicycle....of course Im an airline pilot or business owner when in the bars there :)
I think that once it becomes all about showing off affluence, something important goes missing and it gets very superficial.
I was looking for a bit more soul and realistic prices so live in a town with a strange mixture of affluence and reality. Its not all about money now for me or maybe life is all about money ...I dont know. I look for really good people and try and cut through the B/S
Yeah it looks very nice Marco and of course Im only joking. There are very nice areas all over the county and elsewhere.
Totally agree.
Both those places you mention are full of pretentious crap. Indeed I had a "Wilmslow" credit card at one point but its all bollocks really. I dont particularly like either town now. I do look for women in Alderley Edge though. Ferrari... Porsche..... Ferrari...My bicycle....of course Im an airline pilot or business owner when in the bars there :)
Lol... I wouldn't thank you for those types of women. WAY too high maintenance!
Plus, most of them are airheads you simply can't engage in intelligent conversation. Any women like that, or those who obsess over the lifestyles of 'celebrities', fret about staying 'on trend', or who live on their mobile phones and/or on social media, I steer clear of, as they're just not my type.
In terms of 'Wilmslow vs Knutsford', having been in both towns I much prefer the latter. Just more my type of place.
Yes, there is some evidence of pretentiousness, but for me it's not as deep-rooted as it is in Wilmslow or AE. The areas of Cheshire I prefer are more rural and off the beaten track, where you're more likely to see the local women dressed in Barbour jackets and wellies than Dolce & Gabbana;)
I think that once it becomes all about showing off affluence, something important goes missing and it gets very superficial.
Absolutely, and I abhor such superficiality. Usually when you scratch beneath the surface, their "affluence" is courtesy only of their credit cards; there's no substance to it. Like you say, it's important for somewhere (especially where you live) to have 'soul' and be populated by REAL people, whether they're genuinely wealthy, poor or somewhere in between.
What I can't abide are the bullshitters and those who pretend to be something that they're not, simply to maintain an image!:wanker::rolleyes:
I'm fortunate to have not only bits of Cheshire near me, but Shropshire (which is arguably more 'real') and Herefordshire, and of course North Wales. I can assure you that driving around most of those areas in a nice car, surrounded by beautiful countryside [when you're relaxed and have plenty of time], well away from the rat race, is a joy, not a chore:)
Marco.
Another thing that annoys me is a strange driving behaviour that has started catching on here in Adelaide, indicating right at roundabouts to go straight ahead. What is that all about?
Roundabouts are quite rare in this part of the world and people just have no idea what to do when they come across one. Some wait for ever, some just drive through and hope for the best.
Roundabouts show up the UK immigrants here as we know how to use them.
Another thing that annoys me is a strange driving behaviour that has started catching on here in Adelaide, indicating right at roundabouts to go straight ahead. What is that all about?
Roundabouts are quite rare in this part of the world and people just have no idea what to do when they come across one. Some wait for ever, some just drive through and hope for the best.
Roundabouts show up the UK immigrants here as we know how to use them.
Well at least they drive on the right side there .... by which I mean the left of course.
Have you got any of those 'magic' roundabouts there with mini roundabouts on the circumference of the main central one, my wife was stuck on the one near us for a few hours the other day before I got on my bike and showed her a way out. She was giddy as hell!
A magic roundabout yesterday:
https://i.imgur.com/CsplVwO.jpg
A magic roundabout yesterday:
https://i.imgur.com/CsplVwO.jpg
Jeez - that would confuse the Hell out of me! Where is it (so I can avoid it)?
probably easier at ground level, but needless to say it would have been designed by some dick on a bike:lol:
Last time I used the one near Heathrow satnav told me to take the 43rd exit.
walpurgis
11-10-2018, 22:25
probably easier at ground level, but needless to say it would have been designed by some dick on a bike:lol:
More like some smartarse consultant engineer trying to be too clever by half.
There are a few very large single roundabouts near me with multiple entries and exits that work just fine (apart from the Chiswick North Circular one), so why complicate things.
Ninanina
11-10-2018, 22:50
Swindon I think.
It is indeed, this is the sign for it:
http://i.imgur.com/qm5qLz5.jpg (https://imgur.com/qm5qLz5)
When I first encountered it many years ago I actually stopped to marvel at the sign...
It is indeed, this is the sign for it:
http://i.imgur.com/qm5qLz5.jpg (https://imgur.com/qm5qLz5)
When I first encountered it many years ago I actually stopped to marvel at the sign...
I can't see the need for the five mini-roundabouts. What is the advantage in going through the middle, rather than going all the way around? It's not that large a roundabout.
https://i.imgur.com/CsplVwO.jpg
The sign looks better than the reality
It's actually quite an elegant solution when you consider the American equivilant would be a huge butterfly junction with overpasses and underpasses covering several acres. Of course they've got the space to do that and we haven't.
I believe they experimented with roundabouts in Florida but drivers couldn't get used to the concept. People were turning up with camping chairs and packed lunches to watch the chaos. Mexico does have roundabouts though and on a day trip to Tijuana we had the tour guide/bus driver point them out to us like they were some sort of spectacle: 'Check out this crazy thing coming up. It's called a ''roundabout.'' ' Cue much photography from the passengers.
Lol. Don't mind a rounder or two but some places just go nuts. East Kilbride is a point In case. Roundabout city that place
They call EK Polo Mint city, mate;)
There are quite a few roundabouts too here in Wrexham. They don't phase me at all, as I'm not a nervous driver, even the more complicated ones shown in the picture. As long as you remember the rules, and stick to them and take your time, whilst watching out for the bumbling idiots who haven't a clue, you'll be fine:)
The most 'interesting' roundabout experience I've had was when driving in Paris and unfortunately hitting the Arc de Triomphe at rush hour!:eek:
Trust me, the Parisian drivers are just NUTS!!:mental:
https://youtu.be/-2RCPpdmSVg
All for one, and one for all! CHARGGGE!!!!
:D:D
Marco.
the one at bannockburn at the services is one of the biggest in world. can take days to go round:lol: especially if the auld enemy are there
They call EK Polo Mint city, mate;)
There are quite a few roundabouts too here in Wrexham. They don't phase me at all, as I'm not a nervous driver, even the more complicated ones shown in the picture. As long as you remember the rules, and stick to them and take your time, whilst watching out for the bumbling idiots who haven't a clue, you'll be fine:)
The most 'interesting' roundabout experience I've had was when driving in Paris and unfortunately hitting the Arc de Triomphe at rush hour!:eek:
https://youtu.be/-2RCPpdmSVg
All for one, and one for all! CHARGGGE!!!!
:D:D
Trust me, the Parisian drivers are just NUTS!!:mental:
Marco.
Used to work in EK, so know them well. bloody thousands of the... think whirlies is still the biggest there
Yeah, I used to sell to customers a lot round there, when I was running the business.
It's not just the roundabouts, it's trying to find people's addresses, when you go into those mad housing estates, which are full of never-ending pathways you can't drive into, so you have to park your car miles away, then walk miles to the house you want, and then on the way back (especially at night) getting completely lost and forgetting where you'd parked your car!:doh:
I absolutely DETEST new towns, not just for that reason, but because they're so dull and utterly SOULLESS. Cumbernauld is the same. A big grey, depressing 'prison'....:rolleyes:
Marco.
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