View Full Version : Roy’s on his travels again
Day 1 - St Lucia
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Looks like the Maltese Falcon in the first pic. Watch out for a fat man and Peter Lorre.
Yeah mate, enjoy and don't forget to take some pics of the grub!:D
Marco.
Audio Al
06-03-2020, 18:28
Windy ?
Pigmy Pony
06-03-2020, 23:25
Yeah mate, enjoy and don't forget to take some pics of the grub!:D
St. Lucia's one of the few places I haven't got my willy out in public :)
Marco.
I don't see how that's relevant. Besides, Anita won't let me expose mine, as she's too embarrassed for folks to see the shrivelled up little sausage that she has to settle for.
Pigmy Pony
06-03-2020, 23:29
Was it Manfred Mann who sang "Marco's on the road again, wearing women's clothes again"?
Besides, Anita won't let me expose mine, as she's too embarrassed for folks to see the shrivelled up little sausage that she has to settle for.
I understand and admire your honesty.
Marco.
RobbieGong
07-03-2020, 11:22
Nice one Roy,
Our honeymoon was in St Lucia - we loved it, it's a small and beautiful place with friendly people :)
Day 2 - St Kitts
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Having a great time all, limited time on line as I have to grab decent WiFi when I can, it’s shite on our ship. Cheers!
Nice one Roy,
Our honeymoon was in St Lucia - we loved it, it's a small and beautiful place with friendly people :)
We liked it, heading back there in September for two weeks at Sandals.
A visit to a rum distillery
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This was good stuff
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Nevis in the distance, Atlantic to the left, Caribbean Sea to the right
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Nice shot there, Roy... The rum looks rather 'interesting', too!:eyebrows:
Marco.
Nevis in the distance, Atlantic to the left, Caribbean Sea to the right
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Wow, beautiful!
RobbieGong
07-03-2020, 22:36
We liked it, heading back there in September for two weeks at Sandals.
Yep, Sandals all inclusive it was, had to be done - I only intend on getting wed the one time, so far so good, nearly 14 years wed, 23 years together ... :D (Will hopefully go back one day, to celebrate our marriage)
Day 3 - Antigua
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(Mainly closed)
Rum punch at Nelsons dockyard
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St Kitts is my favourite. Fantastic place.
What for you makes it fantastic, or better than other places in the Caribbean?:)
Marco.
Made in 1968
08-03-2020, 16:04
O dear just do not see the attraction to the Caribbean
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Vic Richards stadium
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Pigmy Pony
08-03-2020, 21:20
Viv richards.
Isn't she a cricketer?
Made in 1968
08-03-2020, 21:39
HE
Pigmy Pony
08-03-2020, 21:48
HE
I may be shit at sports, but I did know that! Reeled you in without even trying :)
O dear just do not see the attraction to the Caribbean
Terrible place Andre, don’t go there
Pigmy Pony
09-03-2020, 06:33
Terrible place Andre, don’t go there
Yeah, chillin for a couple of weeks with that sunshine, the food, the music, lovely scenery, sounds just awful...
What for you makes it fantastic, or better than other places in the Caribbean?:)
Marco.
It's not as touristy as the others. Although was last there in 2010 so maybe it is not as good now.
Ah I see. That would be a big plus point for me then, as I can't stand places that are crawling with tourists. I've never been to the Caribbean, although as you can imagine, Del's cousin and her husband have invited us many times. We will go at some point - I just hate long journeys on planes and all the bullshit at airports these days.
Marco.
The flight is miserable (10 hours to St Kitts) but it is worth it.
Or if you really, really want to get away from it all I'd recommend Barbuda. No cruise ships go there. Almost nobody goes there.
The flight is miserable (10 hours to St Kitts) but it is worth it.
Or if you really, really want to get away from it all I'd recommend Barbuda. No cruise ships go there. Almost nobody goes there.
"Worth it" is subjective. If it was that bad, I'd be dreading the return journey home, and that would totally spoil my holiday, including the thought of having to deal again with the stress of security checks and overcrowded airports, and possible delays. Just NOT my idea of fun...
I detest stressful 'holidays', or exacting long journeys in general, which often make you feel as if you need a holiday to get over the one you've just had - and that's how I'd feel after spending 10 hours cooped up in a plane, unless I was travelling first class! That's why, so far, I've only been on holiday to Europe, usually by car. I much prefer going on trains, boats and cars, to flying.
Holidays, for me, are to 100% relax and de-stress, from start to finish, experience something totally different from what I get at home, and to distance myself from tourists as far as possible. When abroad, I like mingling with the locals and embracing local culture (as does Del), which is why we'd never entertain going to resorts full of British tourists, no matter how cheap it was!:doh:
Each to his or her own, though... Barbuda sounds cool:)
Marco.
Beobloke
09-03-2020, 13:02
the thought of having to deal again with the stress of security checks and overcrowded airports, and possible delays.
This puzzles me - why do people get stressed about security checks? You join the queue, you take your coat and belt off, you empty your pockets' contents and put your hand luggage into the tray, remembering to extract any liquids, computers and phones. You walk through, collect all your stuff, then go and have a beer.
Why would anyone get stressed by this?
would stress the hell out of me... me no go places like that no more. this country will do me
Lol - that's easy, Adam... I thought you knew me:D
A) I don't 'do' queues, period!
B) Being in them, and standing waiting amongst crowds of rowdy assholes/kids, is massively stressful to me, as I'm simply not used to it. I'm used to peace and quiet and coming and going as *I* please.
C) I have almost no patience whatsoever for having my time taken up in such queues, or mingling with the 'great unwashed', unless there is NO other option.
D) Undressing, even superficially, and emptying my pockets, removing jewellery, etc, is a ball ache I could do without and simply doesn't happen when travelling abroad by car, where I'm cocooned inside my own private space, and undisturbed.
Plus, *I* like to be in control of MY journey, as much as possible, particularly when I arrive and depart from my chosen destinations. Oh, and you should hear me when I'm stuck in standstill traffic in that SHITEHOLE/glorified carpark, called the M25, or on motorways anywhere south of Birmingham!!:lol:
I could go on... Shall I?:eyebrows:
Marco.
It's not 'stressful' though, just a bit of a ballache. But if you want to go to these places there's no other option but to fly, unless you have lots of free time and lots of money.
would stress the hell out of me... me no go places like that no more. this country will do me
Indeed, although I do enjoy driving abroad on holiday or travelling on boats/trains to get there. I'd get bored just staying put in the UK all the time. However, if I take your statement and apply it to where I live, then if fits perfectly!
Quite simply, I'm too used to going around the place without having my movements controlled or impeded by the behaviour of masses of others (life outside of the 'rat race', and in particular, London), that when I'm forced to step outside of my chosen oasis of peace and tranquility, and enter the 'real world', it's a severe shock to the system!!!;)
Marco.
It's not 'stressful' though, just a bit of a ballache. But if you want to go to these places there's no other option but to fly, unless you have lots of free time and lots of money.
It is to some mate, including me. You can't judge how others become stressed. As soon I'm in situations like that, I can feel my blood pressure rising (and my mood changing, not for the better either), which indeed I'm sure would be measurable!;)
As for your second point, absolutely... However for me, if I chose to spend what was required, it would be money very well spent indeed, instead of on the pish some others waste theirs on:eyebrows:... Also, I have no shortage of free time, and neither will Del when she retires soon.
Quite simply, a holiday should, from start to finish, FEEL like a holiday!
Marco.
Not had a passport for years. Probably never have another either, especially as Europe is now going to be playing funny buggers.
Not that I'm really fit enough anyway. If I could manage a holiday in this country I'd feel I had been blessed. But that's unlikely either.
So, it's a drive in country for muggins [emoji23]
If I could manage a holiday in this country I'd feel I had been blessed. But that's unlikely either.
Well, if you can manage the drive, perhaps in stages, you know you'd be very welcome here ANY time, and you'd have your own comfortable downstairs bedroom, right next to the loo (and all the booze:eyebrows:), and you'd be very well looked after!:)
The food would be half-decent, too...;)
Marco.
rmcin626
09-03-2020, 14:06
We are heading to Lanzarote next week for a break in the sun, now that I’m allowed to travel again after the surgery. Not too bothered about the queuing at the airport.
That's cool, Robin. Hope you use the chance well to recuperate and enjoy yourself:cool:
Marco.
We checked in our luggage the night before our flight, no queuing. We stayed overnight at the airport premier lodge (over the road from the terminal) and in the morning went straight through the premium security channel before relaxing in the VIP lounge with unlimited brekkers before our flight. We flew premium class on a brand new 787 Dreamliner (8 hours to Barbados) with all your food and drinks included before being picked up by a coach direct from the plane and taken to our ship where our luggage had been delivered to our cabin. Zero stress [emoji846]
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how the return is as easy mate... enjoy it anyway:)
Well, if you can manage the drive, perhaps in stages, you know you'd be very welcome here ANY time, and you'd have your own comfortable downstairs bedroom, right next to the loo (and all the booze:eyebrows:), and you'd be very well looked after!:)
The food would be half-decent, too...;)
Marco.
i would love to... its just a long way
We checked in our luggage the night before our flight, no queuing. We stayed overnight at the airport premier lodge (over the road from the terminal) and in the morning went straight through the premium security channel before relaxing in the VIP lounge with unlimited brekkers before our flight. We flew premium class on a brand new 787 Dreamliner (8 hours to Barbados) with all your food and drinks included before being picked up by a coach direct from the plane and taken to our ship where our luggage had been delivered to our cabin. Zero stress [emoji846]
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Nice one, mate - and exactly how things should be done!:respect:
Marco.
i would love to... its just a long way
I know, but you could do it in stages... Could you get to Tebay services on the M6? That's about halfway. If so, Del could drive me there to meet you, leave and go back home, and I could take over driving of your jalopy and take you to ours, or any other similar combination of such, and do the same on the way back.
Not a problem. As they say, where there's a will there's a way...;)
Marco.
Well, if you can manage the drive, perhaps in stages, you know you'd be very welcome here ANY time, and you'd have your own comfortable downstairs bedroom, right next to the loo (and all the booze:eyebrows:), and you'd be very well looked after!:)
The food would be half-decent, too...;)
Marco.
Yes - having sampled the hospitality at Chez Pieraccini on a few occasions, I can vouch for that. :thumbsup:
i will try and build up to it.. waiting some decent weather first tho... hotel at temby looks nice, but who knows.. its not the drive as such but the lack of hip rotation that might well be the issue. then there is good ol' coronavirus which could have killed me by then anyway:ner:
Lol. no worries. We'll see what the summer brings. We're not going away this year (doing up the garden and parts of the house instead), so don't be afraid to ask!:)
Marco.
Lol. no worries. We'll see what the summer brings. We're not going away this year (doing up the garden and parts of the house instead), so don't be afraid to ask!:)
Marco.
what you doing up this year?
Yes - having sampled the hospitality at Chez Pieraccini on a few occasions, I can vouch for that. :thumbsup:
Yesh, but you only gave is 4 and a half out of 5 on Tripadvisor!
Is that because when I brought your morning paper, it was The Sun rather than The Guardian?;)
Marco.
what you doing up this year?
Clearing the garage out, in preparation for it becoming a bespoke dining area, and doing up the hallway and stairs, plus various stuff in the garden itself:)
That is, if we are lucky to be among the survivors of the virus....
https://youtu.be/Ch7N7KCn778
:eek::D
Who remembers that series from the 70s? It may end up being an accurate prediction of the future!
Marco.
walpurgis
09-03-2020, 16:11
I do remember that. Despair and gloom seemed to be the main theme. :D
Clearing the garage out, in preparation for it becoming a bespoke dining area, and doing up the hallway and stairs, plus various stuff in the garden itself:)
That is, if we are lucky to be among the survivors of the virus....
https://youtu.be/Ch7N7KCn778
:eek::D
Who remembers that series from the 70s? It may end up being an accurate prediction of the future!
Marco.
Lol I have it on dvd.. all series, it was great.. its a bit dated now to an extent and acting was pretty poor... all the good folk were middle class and the working class were a mix of half decent idiots and total evil..so pretty accurate:ner:
I do remember that. Despair and gloom seemed to be the main theme. :D
Yup... Exactly what I loved about 1970s dramas! They were invariably rather 'dark'.
Marco.
Lol I have it on dvd.. all series, it was great.. its a bit dated now to an extent and acting was pretty poor... all the good folk were middle class and the working class were a mix of half decent idiots and total evil..so pretty accurate:ner:
Indeed, what else are the lower-order scoundrels good for?:eyebrows:
Marco.
how the return is as easy mate... enjoy it anyway:)
We fly back from Cyprus so no problem Grant (no premium class but we’ve got extra legroom seats)
We fly back from Cyprus so no problem Grant (no premium class but we’ve got extra legroom seats)
hopefully there are no issues with the virus
Pigmy Pony
09-03-2020, 18:50
I'm used to peace and quiet[/B] and coming and going as *I* please.
Marco.
So are the locals at these out of the way places you favour. Then you turn up in THAT car with THAT car stereo :eek: You do realise you are a tourist too? :ner:
So are the locals at these out of the way places you favour. Then you turn up in THAT car with THAT car stereo :eek: You do realise you are a tourist too? :ner:
:lol:
In the Caribbean, they'd love it, as they're cool dudes, yeah man!:peace:
As for the tourist thing, yes, but I try as hard as possible not to act or stick out like one, and distance myself as far as possible from any English accents;)
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
09-03-2020, 19:06
:lol:
In the Caribbean, they'd love it, as they're cool dudes, yeah man!:peace:
As for the tourist thing, yes, but I try as hard as possible not to act or stick out like one, and distance myself as far as possible from any English accents;)
Marco.
I dare say the locals visibly relax when they see your badge asking them to "Please ignore the Scottish accent, my dad is Italian you know" :)
Nah, the plumes of fart gas, accompanying my arrival, usually ensures they run a mile!:D
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
09-03-2020, 19:14
Nah, the plumes of fart gas, accompanying my arrival, usually causes them to run a mile!:D
Marco.
Now you're showing your tourist credentials, that should be 1.6 kilometres :D
Yeah about the size of your average reefer over there:eyebrows:
Marco.
Pigmy Pony
09-03-2020, 19:40
Yeah about the size of your average reefer over there:eyebrows:
Marco.
Really? Probably explains why Italians like their food so much. Monster munchies!
Made in 1968
09-03-2020, 19:42
:D
Yeah, my middle leg's got a big appetite!:eyebrows:
Marco.
I dunno about your middle leg Marco, but I wonder where the best location for a sun grown organic weed holiday would actually be?
Forum members the collective is listening...:)
No recommendations that don't come from personal experience please. We want quality here.
Pigmy Pony
10-03-2020, 06:35
I dunno about your middle leg Marco, but I wonder where the best location for a sun grown organic weed holiday would actually be?
Forum members the collective is listening...:)
No recommendations that don't come from personal experience please. We want quality here.
:scratch: Bloody hell you don't want much do you? Not expecting too many replies to that one...
For most serious stoners these days every day is a holiday, but with no job they're gonna be stuck with home-grown-in-a-grow-tent-elsewhere-on-the-council-estate turbo skunk. Watching daytime telly (which may include some holiday programmes).
We probably get more than our share of weed tourists in Britain, and I'm betting we export more than we import. Not organic though.
I thought any direct response might make for some interesting reading...:);)
Looks like you're right, though.
never understood the chasing of thrills ... life is better than that. imo of course...guessing when your life is on a shoogly nail you realise it, all too late
:
We probably get more than our share of weed tourists in Britain, and I'm betting we export more than we import. Not organic though.
It's another UK success story.
Appearing in the theatre last night
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Quite good to be fair [emoji846]
never understood the chasing of thrills ... life is better than that. imo of course...guessing when your life is on a shoogly nail you realise it, all too late
Absolutely, but sometimes a toke on some quality weed can mellow you out, if you need it... Not good to crave it though, or use any drug as a form of long-term 'escapism'. Better to address, and try to fix, what it is you're seeking to escape from...
As ever with these things, it's about a question of balance, and whether you're in control of things, or things are in control of you.
However, I'm in agreement that, if you can, it's better to get your 'highs' (and fun) naturally from life, than from any form of artificial stimulant, which is is one of the reasons why I've never drank or got stoned to excess, even in my youth, as I've never had anything that I fundamentally needed to 'escape' from*
Having a 'happy head' cures all manner of ills, and in turn stifles the need to become 'hooked' on anything other than simply enjoying LIFE...:)
Marco.
* Other than the stench of my arse gas, in confined spaces,, where boiled cabbage is involved.
Made in 1968
10-03-2020, 14:22
Appearing in the theatre last night
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Quite good to be fair [emoji846]
Thanks
How much did they pay you?:D
Marco.
most have forgot what they were trying to forget, years ago but it just became a habit.. drink is as bad as drugs if taken to excess... Glad to say my daughter rarely drinks and my sone even rarer.. neither touch drugs although the lad had a problem once, but wised up while he was still young.
if you can guarentee the stuff is ok, then it may be safe now and then but it could be dodgy stuff too.. you never really know; its like buying hooch...crazy
most have forgot what they were trying to forget, years ago but it just became a habit.. drink is as bad as drugs if taken to excess... Glad to say my daughter rarely drinks and my sone even rarer.. neither touch drugs although the lad had a problem once, but wised up while he was still young.
if you can guarentee the stuff is ok, then it may be safe now and then but it could be dodgy stuff too.. you never really know; its like buying hooch...crazy
Yup, for me though, it all comes down to one thing: happiness.
How many people these days (or even in the past), no matter how much they have in terms of money or material possessions, or superficially how 'successful' they've been in life, can say [without kidding themselves on] that they are TRULY happy...??
Few, I'd bet. It's a precious commodity indeed, as life has a habit of kicking you in the teeth and destroying happiness, often fatally...
However, if in your head you are *truly* happy/fulfilled [and for me that only comes from having been loved from birth, and also having formed and maintained successful human relationships since], then the desire to seek thrills, 'better yourself', or escape from life in general, becomes virtually non-existent.
Returning to the thread subject though, Roy-boy seems pretty happy and enjoying life, and long may that continue!:cool:
Marco.
indeed, it looks lovely over there, but i couldnt contemplate a 8hr flight, even when fit. ive been to spain and took about 3 hrs and i was bordering on jumping out:eek:
Like you i'd rather be in a car, boat or train where you can at least walk about; car you can stop and relax etc... on plane your stuck. plus the air scrubbers are usually buggered so you breathe everyones germs.. done that never again..
indeed, it looks lovely over there, but i couldnt contemplate a 8hr flight, even when fit. ive been to spain and took about 3 hrs and i was bordering on jumping out:eek:
Like you i'd rather be in a car, boat or train where you can at least walk about; car you can stop and relax etc... on plane your stuck. plus the air scrubbers are usually buggered so you breathe everyones germs.. done that never again..
Yup, and that's precisely why I much prefer to travel that way - that and the fact that, en route, you get to see something other than endless white clouds - that is if you're lucky to get a window seat! However, to travel abroad by car, train and/or boat takes TIME (another of modern life's precious commodities), and so every bugger these days has to do everything the quickest way possible...
That's a total anathema to me, as it simply isn't relaxing, and therefore neither is it pleasurable.
That's why we take three full days to drive to Italy by car, in order to do it at a leisurely pace and make it FUN (stopping where and when we want en-route), when it could be rushed in one. Quite simply, if you're unable to relax (and de-stress) on holiday, and that includes during the journey there and back, then you're not doing yourself any real favours. especially if you've got a demanding job and need to recharge your batteries...
That's why, during UK Bank Holiday Mondays in the summer, I laugh at all the 'lemmings' spending the one extra day off that they have, heading to the EXACT same seaside resorts, battling through huge traffic jams in the process, to arrive at their destination, only to find that there's nowhere to park!!:doh::D
Then once they eventually find somewhere, half the day has been wasted, and it's not long before they have to leave and face a similar nightmare journey home, eventually arriving back stressed to buggery, only to have to get up again for work the next day!!:doh::doh:
"Holiday"? I'd rather stay at home [and frequently have]! :exactly:
Yet so many folks seem happy to put up with that pish.... MADNESS:mental:
Marco.
Made in 1968
10-03-2020, 16:36
I hate Aeroplanes, Utter hell just sat there like a tw*t hours on end. I swear those plane seat are made to be uncomfortable & people just cannot sit down two mins filling themselves with Drinks so they are up for a piss every two mins :rolleyes: We used to Holiday in Crete & Cypus every year about 4 Hours to Crete nearly 6 hours to Cyprus, my idea of hell on a plane that long & pretty much the reason i stopped going. Im not one of those people that just sit there & put up with people pissing me off so flights pretty much always ends in tears :eyebrows:
Lol, I know what you mean, especially the arsehole fidgeters who can't sit still...:rolleyes:
We don't go on long flights (max three hours), so simply hydrate ourselves and use the airport facilities *before* we board the plane, then stay put for the duration of the flight. Radical, eh? And we have ZERO interest in consuming alcohol on a plane, or paying through the nose for it either. Our bladders are therefore able to cope until we get to our destination!
When we're flying. Del usually reads a book and I just go for a sleep and wake up in time for touch down [I can sleep anywhere, anytime]:)
Marco.
walpurgis
10-03-2020, 17:42
I hate Aeroplanes
I dunno. I think I might rather enjoy this one. :)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nU95cp8-zK4
InThe Sticks
10-03-2020, 20:58
I’m still struggling to understand whats stressful about flying, yes it may take 3, 8 or 12 hours to get to ones destination, but so what? Most of us are probably in middle age, so whats a few more hours to spend to get to some exotic or fun location for a memorable holiday for a week or so.
I mean, if you’re gonna moan and winge about the flights over the actual holiday itself, then you’re either an idiot or not doing it right. At all.
I’ll be spending a full 24 hours flying to Vegas and back in May, but does it bother me? Fuck no, not one bit.
We’ve booked car hire, gun ranges x 2, helicopter and plane flights over the grand canyon and down the strip at night etc etc etc.
I’ll have a giggle with my mate (and many drinks) on the plane with other excited people, and sleep for the last few hours like i did last time i went. And on the way back, i’ll catch an audiobook or two and look forward to reliving the memories with my buddy in our village pub.
The last thing i’ll remember is the airports and security.
But, i look at everything in life as positive..
Sounds like a great trip planned Jon. Did similar (without the guns!) a long time ago and it was fabulous. Coronavirus willing, we are taking the kids to Florida in May. First long haul flight with them (7 & 11) - previously I would just sleep (much like Marco I can kip anywhere, anytime) but suspect that won't be an option with two excited children! A pack of cards and other games will make the time fly by... I hope!
Pigmy Pony
10-03-2020, 21:22
I’m still struggling to understand whats stressful about flying, yes it may take 3, 8 or 12 hours to get to ones destination, but so what? Most of us are probably in middle age, so whats a few more hours to spend to get to some exotic or fun location for a memorable holiday for a week or so.
I mean, if you’re gonna moan and winge about the flights over the actual holiday itself, then you’re either an idiot or not doing it right. At all.
I’ll be spending a full 24 hours flying to Vegas and back in May, but does it bother me? Fuck no, not one bit.
We’ve booked car hire, gun ranges x 2, helicopter and plane flights over the grand canyon and down the strip at night etc etc etc.
I’ll have a giggle with my mate (and many drinks) on the plane with other excited people, and sleep for the last few hours like i did last time i went. And on the way back, i’ll catch an audiobook or two and look forward to reliving the memories with my buddy in our village pub.
The last thing i’ll remember is the airports and security.
But, i look at everything in life as positive..
:D That's the spirit!
Ok so flying is a bit shit, can be boring as hell, but I just spend the time reading and the time goes by quick enough. Not stressful at all. A one week holiday =168 hours, so 6 hours worth of return flight is only about 4% of your holiday. I can live with that
But I have no interest in fly-booze, and I have never used an airplane toilet, though I'm sure they're really nice :)
I’m still struggling to understand whats stressful about flying, yes it may take 3, 8 or 12 hours to get to ones destination, but so what? Most of us are probably in middle age, so whats a few more hours to spend to get to some exotic or fun location for a memorable holiday for a week or so.
I mean, if you’re gonna moan and winge about the flights over the actual holiday itself, then you’re either an idiot or not doing it right. At all.
I’ll be spending a full 24 hours flying to Vegas and back in May, but does it bother me? Fuck no, not one bit.
We’ve booked car hire, gun ranges x 2, helicopter and plane flights over the grand canyon and down the strip at night etc etc etc.
I’ll have a giggle with my mate (and many drinks) on the plane with other excited people, and sleep for the last few hours like i did last time i went. And on the way back, i’ll catch an audiobook or two and look forward to reliving the memories with my buddy in our village pub.
The last thing i’ll remember is the airports and security.
But, i look at everything in life as positive..
Lol Jon. That's a good attitude.
I get what you're saying [although not that Vegas is my thing, defo not, although the gun ranges would be], and I hope you have a great time, which I'm sure you will. However, I think I've explained quite clearly what my issues are with airports and flying. When I go on holiday I like peace and tranquility, and being miles away from the masses. in the countryside hills and mountains, not noise, queues and crowds, no matter where in the world it might be.
If a car's not involved [i just love driving abroad, off the beaten track amongst beautiful scenery], then my idea of a perfect, relaxing holiday, would be a week (or more) on the Orient Express. Miles away from crowded airports and tourist resorts, and pampered in luxury!! Different stokes for different folks....:)
Marco.
Made in 1968
10-03-2020, 22:04
With me i never want to go abroad so that dont help stewing on a plane
Time I’d watched a couple of films (joker & shaft), won a poker tournament, had a few snacks and more than a few drinks we were there [emoji846]
I can't watch telly on those tiny little screens they have in the back of the seats, too small to be able to concentrate on what is going on.
Preferred the old days when they had a proper big screen at the front. Okay so you all had to watch the same film but that wasn't so bad as in general films were better then.
They used to show proper cartoons like Tom & Jerry and Daffy Duck too. And you could smoke. I went on an internal flight in the U.S and they didn't even have tea to drink. Only coffee. Talk about the decline of civilization.
I get that Vegas is a cool place to go for a 'boy's jolly', especially if you're into casinos and such like, and in that respect I'm sure Jon will have a ball [hope he posts pics when he's there], but it's not really my scene. It's probably a place I'd go once to spend a weekend, just to say I've seen it, but that's all.
Somewhere like Boston or New Orleans would appeal to me much more than Vegas...
In America, states such as Arizona, Kansas, Wyoming, Louisiana, Maine and New England appeal greatly to me, as large chunks of them are off the beaten track and full of quaint little towns, beautiful scenery, and populated by 'real' people. I'd love to tour those areas, over the course of a couple of months in a classic American car, or combination of such (plus also do the Route 66 thing) - and I will. Taking long flights then (in 1st Class) will be worth it.
Noisy and crowded big cities, however, no matter where in the world, just aren't my bag... Give me out in the sticks, in the fresh air somewhere, in any decent country, as far away as possible from mass commercialism/tourism, mingling with the locals whilst enjoying their cuisine/hospitality, and I'll be a happy bunny!:)
Marco.
I find i can immerse myself in a film with the small screen & headphones, found Joker quite intense
New England, during the fall (as they call it) would be perfect: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/usa/new-england
:cool:
Marco.
Made in 1968
11-03-2020, 14:25
New England, during the fall (as they call it) would be perfect: https://www.lonelyplanet.com/usa/new-england
:cool:
Marco.
The Boston area of USA was where the best US bands came from in the late 60's.. Still i wouldnt be seen dead in the US
I find i can immerse myself in a film with the small screen & headphones, found Joker quite intense
Glad you liked it, Roy. I watched it at home on a biggish screen with Del and friends the other night, and thought it was FAB. Give me a convincing nutcase and some gratuitous violence, and I'm happy!!:D
Marco.
The Boston area of USA was where the best US bands came from in the late 60's.. Still i wouldnt be seen dead in the US
Yeah, defo. But no, Del and I fully intend to visit the areas mentioned, when she's retired and my dad is no longer around. We want to do it properly, along with China, India, Japan, Africa and New Zealand.
Marco.
Yeah, defo. But no, Del and I fully intend to visit the areas mentioned, when she's retired and my dad is no longer around. We want to do it properly, along with China, Japan, Africa and New Zealand.
Marco.
brother did the grand tour.. usa, china, japan, pacific islands, arabia, plus many more i guess.
Made in 1968
11-03-2020, 14:33
Marco: Not even a proper country. Mish mash of other origins innit
Nice one, mate. If you can do it, it's got to be done. Plenty of other places we also want to visit in Europe, such as Finland, Croatia, Hungary, Romania, Poland, plus some of the remote Greek islands, and also have a proper driving holiday in Spain, especially visiting the Andalusia region.
Lots to look forward to in future, if we're not all wiped out by the CV!:eek:
Marco.
Marco: Not even a proper country. Mish mash of other origins innit
Yeah I know, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have its attractions.
We also want to visit some of the Scottish islands we haven't been to yet, and also have a touring holiday in Ireland, plus visit West Wales (the remoteness of many of its areas appeals), which we've not seen either! Might manage a few days there in the summer.
Pembrokeshire and Tenby look lovely!:)
Marco.
skye is good if youve not been. islay too, andgot a few distilleries . skye too
Yeah it's gorgeous, mate. We've been, but would like to go back, and also to Orkney, which we just adored! So Shetland would be next, along with places sucb as Iona, Lewis and Harris, Jura, etc. Go in small planes or boats to get there, or where possible take the car, so we can drive around and see the whole of the island and take some stunning pics:)
We just love places where it looks (and feels) like 'The land that time forgot'!:cool:
Miles away from all the iZombies, rat race/key-janglers, grey soulless built-up concrete jungles, and where you can still live life as it once was before all that pish happened.
Marco [forever seeks to divorce himself from the worst aspects of modern life].
Yeah it's gorgeous, mate. We've been, but would like to go back, and also to Orkney, which we just adored! So Shetland would be next, along with places sucb as Iona, Lewis and Harris, Jura, etc. Go in small planes or boats to get there, or where possible take the car, so we can drive around and see the whole of the island and take some stunning pics:)
We just love places where it looks (and feels) like 'The land that time forgot'!:cool:
Miles away from all the iZombies, rat race, grey soulless built-up concrete jungles, and where you can still live life as it once was before all that pish happened.
Marco [forever seeks to divorce himself from the worst aspects of modern existence].
aye, sounds like my livingroom mate:D
:lolsign:
You'd need to chuck out your Smartphone(s)!
I think you 'get' the kind of things I like, though, and also what I dislike (or indeed abhor)....
Marco.
im on the great barrier reef today.. door locked now as a neighbour came in and coughed.. so i flung him out.. infectious bugger is trying to kill me for my stereo;)
Hahaha... Did you boot his baws?:D
"Get yer coughing tae fuck, ya cunt" :door:
:lolsign:
Marco.
bashed him wi ma stick... hes a pain for doing that. he always has a chesty cough mind. I am trying to self isolate for as long as it takes, with occasional forays out if safe-ish.... might not be many more as my region is now the highest
Made in 1968
11-03-2020, 16:53
Yeah I know, but that doesn't mean it doesn't have its attractions.
:scratch: only thing is its an insular cuntry. You want snow you nip up the top. fancy a trip to mars go to Arizona, You want mountains & country park type stuff colorado and so on, so what puzzles me is why they even come out of the cuntry!
Yesh, but you only gave is 4 and a half out of 5 on Tripadvisor!
Is that because when I brought your morning paper, it was The Sun rather than The Guardian?;)
Marco.
No, it was due to the fact that Tabatha gave me a 'relief' massage rather than the simple neck and shoulder massage I requested.
But what really did it was you serving up a 2000 Chateau Petrus at 22 degC! :eek:
Entirely understandable, old chap. Almost as bad as last time, serving you a Beaujolais Nouveau from 1974!:D
I presume that Tabatha offered you the deluxe wet-wipe after you'd, erm, 'finished'?
Marco.
It as a long time ago now, but two weeks starting from Boston in "the fall" in New England and Southern Canada (Montreal, Toronto, Ottawa, Niagara Falls) taking in Washington DC, Philadelphia and New York in a big loop road trip was one of the best holiday's of my life. Runs close doing San Francisco up to Sacramento via Napa, back down through Yosemite, Sequoia & Death Valley to Vegas, (we intended to stay one night, stayed four) then back across to the Pacific Coast and all the way back up Highway 1 to San Francisco. In those days (with first wife) and before I had kids we just booked flights, car hire and first night's hotel and then just drove. Sue (current wife) and I did similar in Florida, across to Miami and a few days in The Keys and everglades. Always found somewhere" to eat and sleep, though there were a few interesting moments! A roadtrip in the US is highly recommended!
Sounds awesome, Alex. Just my kind of thing!:)
When you were out in the sticks, did you find any typical/classic 1950s-style diners, which sold amazing burgers, ribs, apple pie and milkshakes? You know the kind of place I'm talking about.
I'd love to be cruising down some long winding road, in the middle of nowhere, and then come across something like that (or a gas station with a restaurant/cafe attached), go in and enjoy the above, then at night stop at a spooky remote rundown motel, with a neon-lit sign outside, and think of PSYCHO!:lol:
Marco.
So, spray your whipped cream on your apple pie and not on each others body parts(Red Dwarf):ner:
Lol - depends on how the vibe goes:D
This would be my ideal scenario... Driving along roads like this in a vintage American car:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/923/kTIxe7.jpg
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/921/DSjwYJ.jpg
Then further along I spy this:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/6rSB59.jpg
...which inside looks like this:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/921/pAP6y6.jpg
...subsequently enjoy an amazing meal, consisting of all the famous American classics (as mentioned previously). Then later on, stop for the night at somewhere like this:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/922/5edaKm.jpg
*THAT* is what I love about the States! Feck yer big cities...
Marco.
Think the reality may be less inviting... that road looked long; best not break down as it'll be a long hot walk:eyebrows:
Lol - that would all add to the 'sense of occasion'... Might get picked up by some unhinged nutcase and never be seen again!:D
Marco.
Another favourite film of mine I'm reminded of, whilst discussing road trips in the States, is Vacancy:
https://youtu.be/u96Pnl8yQrA
Seems like a nice wee place..:eyebrows::eyebrows:
Marco.
Well Madeira don’t want us (never liked their cake anyway) so it’s straight on to Gib.
that due to fears of virus
In the current climate, Roy, you'd be far safer staying at home! :trust:
We're going precisely no-where that isn't urgent.
Marco.
Lol - depends on how the vibe goes:D
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/6rSB59.jpg
...which inside looks like this:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/921/pAP6y6.jpg
...subsequently enjoy an amazing meal, consisting of all the famous American classics (as mentioned previously). Then later on, stop for the night at somewhere like this:
https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/922/5edaKm.jpg
*THAT* is what I love about the States! Feck yer big cities...
There was still diners like that 20 years ago, I stopped at one in New Jersey. But I don't know about these days. As for those lonely desert roads, don't forget 'The Hills Have Eyes'.....
Although frankly I found North Nottinghamshire a lot more creepy in that respect. In fairness that's more of a 'Children Of The Corn' vibe though.
Al Mac's still exists: https://almacsdiner.org/
I'm sure there are plenty more diners like that still around, all over the States. Just need to do some research, and I'd be targeting them all before we went:)
North Nottinghamshire in England, you mean?
Marco.
Al Mac's still exists: https://almacsdiner.org/
I'm sure there are plenty more diners like that still around, too. Just need to do some research, and I'd be targeting them all before we went:)
North Nottinghamshire in England, you mean?
Marco.
Yes in England, the area north of Retford.
Don't think I've been. Must check it out - I like bonkers places!:eyebrows:
Marco.
that due to fears of virus
Indeed, we’re wondering now if they might head straight back to Southampton.
Indeed, we’re wondering now if they might head straight back to Southampton.
would be the sensible thing if its brits on board.
Pigmy Pony
13-03-2020, 19:13
Well Madeira don’t want us (never liked their cake anyway) so it’s straight on to Gib.
Well hopefully Giblets you in...
Sounds awesome, Alex. Just my kind of thing!:)
When you were out in the sticks, did you find any typical/classic 1950s-style diners, which sold amazing burgers, ribs, apple pie and milkshakes? You know the kind of place I'm talking about.
I'd love to be cruising down some long winding road, in the middle of nowhere, and then come across something like that (or a gas station with a restaurant/cafe attached), go in and enjoy the above, then at night stop at a spooky remote rundown motel, with a neon-lit sign outside, and think of PSYCHO!:lol:
Marco.
Yes, but as Martin says, that was 20 years ago for the California and East Coast trips. On one really rural road in California I spotted a proper old school “gas station” with a few cars for sale, one of which was a blue Plymouth Roadrunner. Now, with my love of American muscle cars, this was a rare spot, and I stopped to take a photo with my then “proper” SLR. As I was framing the shots, a guy came out of the kiosk and the next thing I know there’s a snub-nose revolver in my face and in a red-neck drawl he’s asked “what the fuck you doin, boy?”...
Suffice to say after talking myself out of the situation I never take photos without first asking!
would be the sensible thing if its brits on board.
Rumour is we need to refuel at Gib so going there anyway whether they let us off or not.
I know these are exceptional circumstances but I think that’s me done with cruising.
Wishing you a healthy, speedy and safe return home, Roy.
Marco.
Wishing you a healthy, speedy and safe return home, Roy.
Marco.
Cheers Marco. At least the ship’s well stocked with food and booze & the weather’s very pleasant
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200314/11e2f694b857b74ba0d73c6b92486975.jpg
Confirmed we’re heading back to the uk, will get 50% refund. Oh well at least we did the Caribbean bit, shame we’re not stuck there.
Confirmed we’re heading back to the uk, will get 50% refund. Oh well at least we did the Caribbean bit, shame we’re not stuck there.
I was going to say I think I'd have 'accidentally' missed the boat at some point and gone and built a bivvy up in the rain forest.
That's a shame, Roy, but as you say, at least you've had the Caribbean. How long does it take to sail back?
Our two-week trip in May to Florida with the kids is now looking seriously doubtful. :( Just hope we get the money back and can plan it again for next year if this hasn't settled down by then, which I suspect is seriously unlikely...
I think you should be okay by May.
That's a shame, Roy, but as you say, at least you've had the Caribbean. How long does it take to sail back?
Our two-week trip in May to Florida with the kids is now looking seriously doubtful. :( Just hope we get the money back and can plan it again for next year if this hasn't settled down by then, which I suspect is seriously unlikely...
Not sure how long to get back yet, Thursdays looking likely?
Hope you’re still able to do your trip .
I was going to say I think I'd have 'accidentally' missed the boat at some point and gone and built a bivvy up in the rain forest.
Now there was a thought.
Well Madeira wouldn’t even accept a medical emergency from us (some pissed bloke trying to dance fell on his wife) so we’re off to Gib.
was going to say I think I'd have 'accidentally' missed the boat at some point and gone and built a bivvy up in the rain forest.
What's a bivvy? :scratch:
Marco.
a shelter...to bivouac i think
Lol, what's "bivouac"?
Never heard of any of these words!
Marco.
Just looked it up...
"A bivouac shelter is any of a variety of improvised camp site or shelter that is usually of a temporary nature, used especially by soldiers or persons engaged in scouting and mountain climbing."
Well, that's a new one on me. I know ZERO about [or have any interest in] camping, soldiering or mountaineering, so that'll be why!:D
Marco.
We’re being repatriated on Thursday.
In the meantime there’s tiramisu to eat
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200316/af4beceb2fa2a7f428dc197582d9dbda.jpg
that to last you til thursday roy? and nae chips:ner:
that to last you til thursday roy? and nae chips:ner:
I’m surprised they’ve not run out of Metaxa [emoji6]
We’re stopping at Lisbon tonight for fuel and provisions.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200314/11e2f694b857b74ba0d73c6b92486975.jpg
That has to be the most 'Zen' of all travel photographs! ;)
The composition is good though.
Lisbon
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200316/627c81f8b7c56b59f5cdafdc51c9a9ff.jpg
I think you should be okay by May.
Not looking likely I don't think, although USA travel ban is only 30 days at the moment. Hopefully we'll get our money back, or if not the insurance will cover it but I guess there's more important things to worry about than holidays for a while...
Now crossing the bay of biscay, surprisingly calm at the moment. Won’t be sorry to get back to dry land.
Pigmy Pony
19-03-2020, 06:33
Will you be let off the boat straight away, or will there be a quarantine period?
Will you be let off the boat straight away, or will there be a quarantine period?
Straight off the boat and we’ve arranged a cab straight home from Southampton. Just passing the Isle of Wight (don’t remember eating that).
Straight off the boat and we’ve arranged a cab straight home from Southampton. Just passing the Isle of Wight (don’t remember eating that).
:D painful?
:D painful?
The needles pinched a bit [emoji15]
hopefully you dont start coughing when time to pay up ;)
We’d already paid him to pick us up from Gatwick, another £90 for pick up direct from Southampton which we thought worthwhile rather than cram on a coach to Gatwick. His business is 80% down anyway so he didn’t have much else to do.
Nice one, Roy. Bet you'll be glad to get home?:)
And just in time too, to 'enjoy' the current supermarket shopping experience!:eek::doh:
Make sure you're 'tooled up' before you go......
Marco.
Nice one, Roy. Bet you'll be glad to get home?:)
And just in time too, to 'enjoy' the current supermarket shopping experience!:eek::doh:
Make sure you're 'tooled up' before you go......
Marco.
I won’t go hungry, bread & plenty of meat in freezer plus tinned stuff and pasta / rice. Just eggs and milk needed really. Some local supermarkets are doing oldies hours or something so might take advantage of that. Yes, looking forward to getting back, have missed decent vibes.
Safely back. Word of advice if you ever go on a cruise make sure you don't go via the port of Southampton, the place is a badly organised, poorly run tip.
Glad you're back safe and sound Roy. :)
Glad you're back safe and sound Roy. :)
Cheers Alex. Luckily our cab driver was very 'efficent' & got us back promptly. We docked just before 5 but didn't get to our cab till about 8! The immigration officers came on board to look at everyone's passport & nobody was allowed off until they'd seen us all (& there were the usual stragglers that held everyone else up).
We then had to reclaim our luggage from a huge hanger of a place with no direction & no officials apparent to assist anybody. So basically there were 1200 people tripping over each other to find their luggage-nightmare!
Then you had to join the huge queue to go through customs where there were, you guessed it, NO officers present (but for some reason it still took ages). Never again.
Welcome home Roy. :)
Thanks Barry, Just relaxing with a beer before re-filing the watches I took with me ;)
Thanks Barry, Just relaxing with a beer before re-filing the watches I took with me ;)
Any new purchases? ;)
Any new purchases? ;)
One Invicta from St Lucia. The other half dragged me out of a Tag shop in Antigua where I was looking at a new Carrera. I was going to invest in a couple of Seikos in Gib as apparently prices are quite keen there but they wouldn't have us :(
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20200319/5614af885bdf575fee818feed1ca8500.jpg
Cheers Alex. Luckily our cab driver was very 'efficent' & got us back promptly. We docked just before 5 but didn't get to our cab till about 8! The immigration officers came on board to look at everyone's passport & nobody was allowed off until they'd seen us all (& there were the usual stragglers that held everyone else up).
We then had to reclaim our luggage from a huge hanger of a place with no direction & no officials apparent to assist anybody. So basically there were 1200 people tripping over each other to find their luggage-nightmare!
Then you had to join the huge queue to go through customs where there were, you guessed it, NO officers present (but for some reason it still took ages). Never again.
Bloody hell, mate, now you know why I avoid that sort of stress and hassle like the plague!:eek:
So when things return to normal, I'll stick to travelling abroad by car;)
Marco.
P.S Nice watch:)
Bloody hell, mate, now you know why I avoid that sort of stress and hassle like the plague!:eek:
So when things return to normal, I'll stick to travelling abroad by car;)
Marco.
P.S Nice watch:)
Really couldn't say whether the whole long winded process was exacerbated by the current situation but it appeared to be the norm.
I've not gone 'public' with a medical condition I suffer with but stress does me no favours, I've never been so pleased to see fat Darren, our cab driver.
Pigmy Pony
20-03-2020, 06:21
Really couldn't say whether the whole long winded process was exacerbated by the current situation but it appeared to be the norm.
I've not gone 'public' with a medical condition I suffer with but stress does me no favours, I've never been so pleased to see fat Darren, our cab driver.
I know a few cabbies called Darren, could you describe him for me? :)
I know a few cabbies called Darren, could you describe him for me? :)
Chubby and affable are his super powers, he looks like a Buddha with a no.1
I know a few cabbies called Darren, could you describe him for me? :)
He's the brother of the dude in The League of Gentlemen.
Marco.
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