Don’t you just hate feeling under the weather?

Following a week of absence from work due to illness I am hoping that normal services resume shortly. In the meantime I’m going to relax some more and annoy the cats.

Another weekend, another motoring adventure. Today Lyn and I were invited to a rolling road day at PowerStation by the owner of Torque Wales car club. It went something along the lines of:

TW: “Would you like to join us at PowerStation for a rolling road day?”
Us: “Yeah, go on then.”

Suffice to say it was an enjoyable day and a few photos from the day can be seen here.

And I don’t care what anyone says - the new Nissan Skyline R35 GTR is AWESOME!

OK - if I’d known my site was broken then I would have fixed it weeks ago… However, I didn’t know and it didn’t get fixed and it’s now been sorted and I’ll now take a breath. I thank you.

After a very busy time recently Lyn and I were finally able to get away for a short break to the lovely island of Skiathos in the warm, crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea… You can read all about it below. If you’re so inclined to do so.

Pre-holiday

Having finished work on Thursday I arrived home to find Lyn just about ready to go. I washed and tidied myself up (one must at least make an attempt to look half decent don’t you know) and together we packed our suitcases into the car (we had packed over the previous couple of weeks - nothing like being prepared). Having waited until the rush hour traffic had passed we set off for London’s Gatwick airport… or, rather, the nearby hotel as our flight was not due to depart until the following morning.

Unbelievably the hotel had no car parking facilities so we ultimately ended up having to pay for the hotel and for parking in a nearby Pay and Display facility (which is not cheap in/near London). However, believe it or not, I made a small profit here… The Pay and Display ticket vending machine was faulty and didn’t register my payment so I delivered a few choice ‘persuasive’ knocks in its general direction. Eventually my monies were returned; along with the monies of some other unsuspecting souls who had fallen prey of the blasted machine. Bonus! A few minutes later I’d paid the fee, ensured the car was secure and walked back to Lyn in the hotel reception a few pounds richer. A long walk up and down several staircases and through several long hallways eventually we reached our safe haven for the night and retired to dreams of all things Greek.

The following morning we were up early and off to the airport. It was only a short journey away, probably in the region of 10 minutes drive. We had booked the car into one of these secure car parking facilities and a valet took the car away as we registered our details and then boarded a shuttle bus to the South Terminal. After checking in (what a hassle that is these days) and upgrading our seats we would soon be on our way.

Day 1 - Friday 27th June

Luckily there was only a minor delay on our outward flight (hence we lost our ’slot’ for take off). Whilst we were sat on the aircraft waiting to take to the skies I used my witty conversation and charm on Lyn such that she surrendered her window seat to me… Don’t believe her version of the story as I categorically did not moan and I certainly did not whinge until we swapped seats… We chatted to a couple (Clive and Lyn) who were sat behind us on the aircraft. They would be staying onboard the plane at Skiathos and flying onwards to a different island, and onto a holiday that necessitated a 4×4 vehicle to drive along a dried up river bed to reach their accomodation. Sounds fun…

Skiathos airport’s short runway

The flight was fine (just a little turbulence) and we soon left the cloudy skies behind and reached the expansive blue skies over the Aegean Sea. We touched down on the short runway of Skiathos airport around 5:30pm in a 34 degree heat and were handed a map of Skiathos by a young girl. Bizarre but useful. The map that is, not the girl! Having collected the baggage we were soon in a taxi on our way to our hotel. We shared a taxi with a lovely couple by the name of Dee and David and 15 minutes later we had arrived at the lovely Cape Kanapitsa hotel. I must admit to feeling a little awkward on the journey in the taxi as I couldn’t quite hear properly (the pressure variation as the plane comes in to land always affects my ears quite badly you see) and I was worried that I may have come across as being rude to Dee and David. I hope that was not the impression they got! On the other hand, perhaps they were talking about me? Behind my back. Hmmm. How dare they!

We were due to meet our rep at 6:30pm but she did not show. Not wanting to waste any time we instead made haste to our hotel room and began unpacking and re-arranging a few things; to make the room ‘ours’ (a few candles and suchlike here and there). As we unpacked and re-arranged we were quite taken back by the fantastic views we were afforded from the balcony of our room. We made the right choice to go with a so-called Superior Deluxe room without a doubt - fantastic! (Lyn and I really must thank her boss, Sonia, for the advice regarding the choice of room!)

The first evening view from our room

Only a couple of hundred metres down the road was a supermarket selling everything we could possibly need for our break so we stocked up on fresh fruit, juices, water and other light bites. Thankfully the room had a fridge to keep things cool and fresh so we filled it to bursting point with fresh produce and plenty of water! Both Lyn and I were in agreement that the pears we ate that evening were the best we’d ever tasted. I thought my pear was delicious but Lyn had an even juicier pear! *snigger*

The first evening view from our room

Our room overlooked a quiet beach (Tzaneria Beach) and cove so we talk a steady wander down, stopping for a drink at the beach-side taverna. After a short stay at the taverna (with very generous measures of Malibu and Jack Daniels with Coke) we returned to the hotel and retired for the night. We hadn’t planned on staying out long that evening - it was more a reconaissance trip to establish our bearings!

Day 2 - Saturday 28th June

We awoke fairly early and made our way to the pool area - where breakfast was served daily. On offer was plenty of fresh fruit, yoghurt, bread, cold meats and cheeses. I decided to go for the egg and bacon naturally. And then the fruit, bread, and so on and so forth. Having chosen the food we were faced with the dilemma of where to sit. In the shady bar area or outside overlooking two coves and beaches, against a backdrop of Greek islands? It was an easy choice and Lyn enjoyed her breakfast whilst I fought with a wasp to protect my food!

Breakfast by the pool / bar

During breakfast we met up with Karen and Chris, who were desperately trying to locate their luggage. They had arrived previous yet their luggage was in a different part of Greece (Athens I believe). Oh dear. We wished them well, exchanged pleasantries and decided to take a ‘taxi’ into the main town.

Cape Kanapitsa hotel

We caught the boat taxi to Skiathos Town from our very own beach - a great way to travel the island. Forget the bus or conventional taxi, this was to be our main method of transport from now on. Only 4 Euros took us from our beach to the Old Port of Skiathos Town - a journey of some 15 minutes along beautiful coastline. Having arrived we spent a few hours wandering around the small and picturesque town and enjoyed a meal in one of the many restaurants and bars.

Skiathos Town - very picturesque

Before heading back we relaxed at Boutzi and watched the local kids swimming in the sea before catching the boat taxi back to our beach.

Public transport in Skiathos

Boutzi

After a quick drink we took a swim and Lyn went snorkelling around the local cove, I just splashed in the water near the sunbed and bags! When we’d had enough we returned the the hotel room (all of 5 minutes away) and freshened up. Lyn had caught the sun badly and was suffering (despite sun protection factor 50!) A short rest then became a ‘goodnight’ (ooer) and we didn’t resurface until morning.

Day 3 - Sunday 29th June

The glorious day started as it had the day before with breakfast by the pool. However, I had no wasp to contend with this time! Even at this relatively early hour the temperature was touching mid-30’s and the locals were complaining that it was too hot for the time of year.

Overlooking Tzaneria Beach

Undeterred Lyn and I decided today would be the day that we took a walk and did a little exploring. We hit the main road (there is only one, with a single bus route) and followed it on foot for a while.

Random view as we ‘explored’

A distance later we turned off and followed the sign for a beach (the name of which escapes me). After a fair distance we still had not hit the beach and the roads were hilly and steep, even more tiring when the temperature was touching 40 degrees. IN response we turned around, retraced our steps and took a shortcut down some steep steps that Lyn had noticed earlier; eventually returning to the main road. At this point we saw a different sign for a different beach and, being the intrepid explorers we are (or downright fools - you choose!), we again followed the signposted instruction! After another hilly walk we arrived at Vromolimnos Beach and promptly ordered fresh orange juice at the beach bar, not realising just how tiring this exploring lark actually was.

A view from Vromolimnos Beach

The beach side bar / taverna was packed full of holidaymakers and locals - obviously a popular spot for many. Whilst Lyn relaxed in the shade and gently sipped at her drink (in between great gulps of thirst) I took to the beach for a quick look around. The beach was lovely and clean with crystal clear waters but it was also very narrow and very, very busy. Too busy in fact. I walked to the end of the beach, fired off a few photos and returned to the Good Lady Lyn. There wasn’t really much else to be done so once again we took to our feet and made haste (well, a slow walk) back towards the main road and, ultimately, our hotel.

As you can imagine we were a little tired after that ordeal (even given our superior levels of fitness) so a short nap provided a much needed opportunity to recharge and refresh. Feeling a little more alive we later went for a swim at our beach and Lyn went off snorkelling around the cove. Sadly she burned and was quite sore so an executive decision was made there and then and we decided a t-shirt would help cover her up next time… But we needed a suitable t-shirt first and we didn’t have one…! That would require a trip into town the next day. By boat taxi of course.

The quiet Kanipitsa Beach

For the evening meal we went to a local taverna; the very Greek sounding “Johnny’s Restaurant.” Lyn and I were in agreement that it was the most delicious grilled chicken we’d ever tasted (or certainly as good as). The chicken souvlaki was delicious. It’s fair to say we later returned to the hotel rather stuffed! Oh man, we are such crazy kids!

Day 4 - Monday 30th June

I am not sure what time we got to sleep (having watched “Village of the Damned” on TCM) the previous night but we were up fairly early for breakfast. This was followed by a walk to the beach where we caught the boat taxi into Skiathos Town; mission to find a t-shirt to block some of the sun whilst Lyn was swimming and snorkelling.

Waiting for the boat taxi

Skiathos Town Old Port / Harbour

Again the heat was fierce and Lyn’s fair skin was taking a battering so we made haste, purchased a t-shirt and boat taxi’d back to the hotel.

As the midday heat abated (a bit) we got together our snorkelling gear - and applied the various creams and lotions - before hitting the beach for an hour or two dodging waves (and sea urchins, which are nasty little buggers to say the least. On a couple of occasions we were lucky - especially me apparently - not to have trodden on one. But I digress…)

Yours truly about to brave the ferocious waves!

Finally I started to use the snorkelling equipment Lyn had bought for me and I followed her as she swam around the cove and across the reef. I found it very relaxing and found that a) I could actually swim and b) I was a stronger swimmer than I thought! It was surprising how many fish were so close to shore and how big some of them actually were. Again ‘our’ beach was quiet and we pretty much had the run of it. The only real problem (not that it was a problem really) was having to keep an eye out for water skiers and other watersport enthusiasts.

Enjoying the watersports

As per our routine we later returned to the hotel to rest before getting ready to venture out for the evening meal.

Enjoying the sunset

Tonight we would dine at the Taverna Nafsika and Lyn enjoyed a grilled chicken fillet with rice whilst I had the same with a creamy saffron sauce. Delicious it was too. For dessert I couldn’t resist the crème caramel and Lyn opted for the ice-cream with birds nest pastry and strawberry garnish. That was delicious too! After eating (probably too much) all that was left was to return to the hotel room and to see which movie we’d fall asleep to that night; Steve McQueen in Bullit was the answer!

Day 5 - Tuesday 1st July

Just in case you were wondering… another glorious and hot day started with breakfast by the pool and bar. Due to the heat and sun we decided to eat indoors in the relative cool of the shady bar area. When I say ‘relative’ I mean relative to a blast furnace as the air even within the breakfast bar area was unrelenting. I don’t mind the heat and the sun but it’s not so pleasant when you are trying to eat and drink yourself to the start of a new day! Mind you, I guess it was a little like a greenhouse in there what with the large windows and glass-paned skylights above our heads. Still, we weren’t complaining as we were enjoying ourselves thoroughly and feeling relaxed… which doesn’t always necessarily happen on holiday based on past experiences.

The sun rises

I needed to grab some money from somewhere and the only cashpoints and banks were in Skiathos Town. We also needed to see the holiday tour operator representative to find out details about the return journey home. With a bit of planning and careful thought (i.e. a suggestion from Lyn) it was decided that I pop over into Town to visit the bank whilst she met up with the rep. I found myself again on the boat taxi to the Old Port and saw familiar faces from the days previous. As on those earlier days the Port was quiet with only occasional bursts of activity and crowds when boats from surrounding islands delivered visitors to Skiathos’ shores for a short break.

Calming and very blue

Having taken a short walk to the cashpoint it was at this juncture (I don’t like junctures, I don’t like anything that causes my wheels to go flat…) that I had my first bout of what can only be described as, “Skiathos Bank Rage” - or SBR for short. Banks over there are a little different to ours it would seem (which, I guess, is to be expected). To start with, a cashpoint that had happily provided cash yesterday refused to pay out more. Then the sloooow queues in the bank itself had to be endured instead so that was 40 minutes that I’ll never get back (most of it waiting for a specific cashier to return to the building such that I could cash-in a Traveller’s Cheque. Sadly I only had a small one (denomination that is) so I knew I’d have to return again at some point for more cash. Bugger.

Eventually I got the cash, had a quick OJ at a really nice bar Lyn and I had found the day before, and rushed back to the boat taxi. As I walked back to the hotel a familiar face greeted me halfway back and she slipped her hand into mine. I’m not too sure what Lyn thought of the whole thing because she, too, had come to greet me off the boat…

Steps to the beach

As we strode back purposefully to the hotel (which is difficult to do when you aren’t actually striding and there is no real purpose or agenda) and threw a few bits and pieces together. We were planning on having a hot time at the beach later… With the sun beating down we didn’t have much choice the truth be known. As it transpired we were at it for hours that afternoon and I’d often have to stop to catch my breath. Even Lyn had to come up for air sometimes (and she’s usually really good down below) or would simply need to give the pipe a good blow. Isn’t snorkelling great?

A nearby taverna

There were many fish of many sizes sharing the warm waters with us and eventually it was time to leave them be for the day. Having spent so long in the water we looked like shrivelled up prunes (to the untrained eye) and were in need of rest before we ventured out for the meal that night - a meal that we would enjoy at the Taverna pictured above. Having rested and refreshed/dressed we popped into the hotel bar to enjoy a couple of drinks before heading down to the beach and taverna for our meal. Whilst sat at the bar we were joined by the lovely Dee and David so we took the opportunity to have a chat and to catch up on the past few days. They were (and most certainly are) a very interesting and friendly couple and both Lyn and I found ourselves warming to them. Very soon the ‘quick drink’ had become a more leisurely affair as we spoke of shared common interests (cars and motorsport featured a little), families, work, television and many more things. I felt we could have probably talked half the night away but, and quite rightly, David called time as we all needed food before it got too late!

Pool by night!

Over the meal later that evening we spoke of the day and, somewhat excitedly, of the Skiathos Island boat trip we had planned for the next day… On returning to the hotel (having dined on yet another delicious meal) we caught the end of Shaft on the movie channel before being encumbered by slumber. Ooer.

Day 6 - Wednesday 2nd July

Today was the day of our planned island tour so a hearty breakfast was enjoyed early by the pool. This was followed by a walk to the beach to catch the earliest boat taxi into Skiathos Town’s Old Port - the place from where many Tours of the island (and, indeed, surrounding islands) would begin daily.

Aboard the boat waiting to leave port

The Tour of Skiathos Island would was due to leave at 10:00am and arrive back in port at 3:30pm so we prepared ourselves for a lengthy exposure to the sun. Various types of sun cream had been packed along with bottles of water and the all-important cameras. After a short delay we were on our way (on a boat that had now become quite full with some 50+ people.

Rocky shorelines between beautiful beaches

Having left the quietly busy port we soon found the landscape of the island changing quite dramatically. The populated and lush shorelines giving way for towering cliffs, and beautiful beaches enclosed within sharp and barren rock formations. Every so often we’d pass a cave and photographers would take the opportunity to grab a few snaps. The first stop on our Tour was actually one of the more famous caves, locally known as “Dark Cave.” It was certainly dark and no amount of squinting would allow us to see further into the cave. It would have been fun to enter the cave, or at least to get a little closer, but the boat on which we were boarded was a little too large.

Approaching “Dark Cave”

A few minutes only was spent at the cave; just enough time to take a few photos and to listen to a badly-voiced recording giving information about the area. I had no idea what was spoken… The next stop was, I believe, one that many people were looking forward to. Lalaria Beach is well-known for it’s clear waters, the hollow rock at one end of the beach, the white pebble shore and the fact that it’s only accessible by boat (unless you are some kind of maniacal rock climber). As the boat pulled up to the shoreline there were already many visitors on the beach, visitors who had been deposited there by one of the other tour boats working in the area. Lyn spotted a shady area in the cliff face and, once ashore, made our way there and established base camp. We would be there for an hour… so the snorkelling gear was pulled from the rucksack and into the sea we ventured.

Lalaria Beach’s hollow rock

The water was gloriously clear and rich in colour yet there were not as many fish to be seen as on the beaches next to our hotel. There were some very small jellyfish a short distance out though. Lyn found one after it stung her leg and I found another when it stung the back of my arm. Luckily they were only small and their sting was no more painful than that of a nettle. Following that I headed back closer to the shore whilst Lyn swam to the hollow rock to take a look around.

Lalaria Beach’s clear waters

After a while I climbed out the sea (which was difficult on that steep pebble beach!) and offered my hand to help Lyn too. She told me of the submerged rock under the hollow that was curved and shaped like a horseshoe and how there was a rather dodgy looking old man taking ‘glamour’ shots of a young-looking female in a bright orange bikini. As we towel-dried the boat was returning to collect us so I grabbed a few more photos before we both climbed back aboard. The next scheduled stop was at Kastro and this used to be the Capital of Skiathos.

Our ride for the day!

At Kastro the beach was again enclosed between rocky outcrops and high above on the cliffs could be seen the ruins and fortifications of old Kastro. As at Lalaria, the boat pulled right up to the shore allowing us to descend the gangplank to the beach. Immediately many people started hopping from foot to foot as the full heat of the sand on bare feet was realised! The sand was very coarse and quite dark and exhibited an almost volcanic quality (that’s the only way I can think of describing it!)

Arrival at the beach at Kastro

View across the beach

The majority of people immediately made their way to a small cantina that nestled at the foot of the hills a short distance up the beach. It offered shade but, sadly, was too small for the number of visitors to the secluded beach. Some of the braver souls took to the steep path and made their way up to the ruins above whilst others enjoyed an hour of relaxation before the boat would return for collection.

The cantina on the hill

The cantina offered just enough cover from the sun for most people but many were happy to see the boat returning. Onboard the boat (at sea) we were afforded a cool breeze that was not present when ashore. From Kastro we headed for another brief stop at “Fonnissa’s Cave.”

After a brief stop at “Fonnissa’s Cave” the boat continued it’s journey around the island towards the fairly remote Aselinos. This is where we would be spending an hour and a half of our day thus allowing us time for lunch, swimming and/or lazing about.

The beach at Aselinos

Woof!

Despite the pleasant beach area there really wasn’t all that much to see and do at Aselinos. We spent most of our time sat in the taverna enjoying lunch and a cold drink. I have to admit that I really enjoyed the tomato salad… Whilst we were waiting for the boat to return Lyn made friends with a dog (presumably local to the area). He was very nervous and not in the best of shape. It looked as though a couple of his legs had been broken and had not set correctly when repairing themselves; which gave him an awkward gait and difficulty of movement.

Our final stop of the day was at one of Skiathos’ offshore islands, namely Tsougrias. This was a good 50 minutes away so we sat back and relaxed whilst the boat and accompanying voice-over introduced us to many of the popular beaches of Skiathos. Some were quite empty and peaceful and some were busy with people of all ages. Some were a haven of serenity whilst others were buzzing to the sound of motorboats and watersport enthusiasts. Every so often our view of the shoreline would be invaded by magnificent yachts and cruisers or by locals zipping around in their speedboats. We were also joined by another local who was clearly enjoying soaring alongside on the draughts and thermals around us…

Those crazy locals!

So close you could reach out and touch him!

Before reaching Tsougrias we passed a picturesque looking beach known as “Banana Beach.” Part of this beach encompassed the island’s only official nudist area. What happened next was quite funny and quite shocking in equal amounts (although I wouldn’t have been too impressed had I been relaxing on the beach in my birthday suit!) The announcement was made that we were at the nudist beach and the boat was suddenly piloted close up to the shore whilst almost coming to a halt. There were bemused looks from many on the boat as there were from on the beach. Whilst the reserved British amongst us dropped lenses and averted gazes the remainder of the people on our boat suddenly pulled out cameras and video cameras and began shooting away at those on the beach! I’m certainly no prude and can appreciate an attractive female figure but I thought it was a bit off to invade their beach this way. Mind you, those in the nude that did wander into my gaze were not exactly photogenic (no disrespect to anyone!) You don’t find your Brad Pitt’s and Charlize Theron’s in places like this… the populace is more akin to the late and great Bella Emberg and Luciano Pavarotti…

After finally leaving “Banana” we passed by what is believed to be one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, “Koukanaries.” We were told prior of it’s beauty and palm trees by many people, the holiday representative included. It certainly did look picturesque but - sadly - it was far too busy for my liking. And what about the palm trees? I guess the rep had meant pine trees as the beach was set against a backdrop of lush green pine forest. As nice a place as it looked both Lyn and I weren’t too upset that we hadn’t made the effort to visit it. Then again there was no need when we had two great beaches within a couple hundred yards of our hotel room. It wasn’t too long before we were on the approach to Tsougrias. This unpopulated island attracts many sun seekers to the beaches and old buildings and dwellings hint at activity on the island many years ago.

On the offshore island of Tsougrias

We would be spending an hour on the island before eventually returning to Skiathos Town Old Port. As we disembarked and passed over the dunes we found shelter under a large tree with a foreign lady (Russian I think) who kindly offered us biscuits in return for suncream! I think both Lyn and I were tiring now and looking forward to getting back to the hotel. Whilst Lyn passed the time sat under the tree I took 15 minutes to go wandering about the island and to grab a few photos. There wasn’t really much of note to capture in frame so I enjoyed the brief walk before returning to the Good Lady behind the dunes. We were glad to see the boat return and the hose down as we climbe back aboard the boat was actually quite refreshing! Within minutes we were back in the Old Port at Skiathos Town and then aboard the boat taxi that would return us to Cape Kanapitsa. As we travelled back to the hotel we reflected on what had been an enjoyable day and a day that we were both glad we’d taken. Would we do it again? Probably not the exact same Tour but a different Tour may entice us one day.

The long day was wrapped up nicely with a visit to our favourite restaurant for the evening meal - Johnny’s Restaurant. As we’d enjoyed our meals there so much only a few days earlier we repeated the order and dined like, well, hungry diners. Following the meal we said our farewells (and spoke of how we hoped to return the following year) and slowly traced our steps back to the hotel room. I can’t even remember what classic movie was featuring that night; tiredness set in quickly.

Day 7 - Thursday 3rd July

It was our last full day in Skiathos and, due to the problems with the banks earlier in the week, I needed to pop into Skiathos Town yet again to procure some funds. Lyn stayed at the hotel after breakfast (and began to pack) whilst I hurriedly made my way to the beach to catch the taxi into Town once again. And yet again the cashpoints weren’t working and the banks were full of customers queuing. I didn’t have time to hang around (another English guy I spoke to had been there for almost an hour) so I left the bank and asked a few people as to where there might exist another cashpoint. Eventually I found one tucked away and was able to make a withdrawal… so I made sure I had enough for Lyn and I for the remainder of the holiday. (Note to self - in future simply take cash). I had to make a run for the boat taxi home and just made it with seconds to spare. If Spielberg had been there it would have been one of those classic moments in movie history…

We’d decided to have a relaxed day on Tzaneria Beach so we gathered our belongings together upon my return and headed the short distance to the beach. It was great. Lovely weather, warm sea, good copmany. This was further made more enjoyable when David and Dee appeared too so our usual chit-chat and banter ensued. After a while David and Dee snorkelled off (borrowing a snorkel as Dee’s had broken) and Lyn and I continued to enjoy the fish swimming around us. I ventured out further into deeper waters (further than I would have imagined beforehand) and followed Lyn as she chased the silver-scaled fish (which made a change from her harrassing the hermit crabs…) After hours in the sea we returned to the calm of our balcony and watched the watersports and beach visitors below. Slowly the sun was beginning to set on what would be our final evening in Skiathos.

We were presented with the parting gift of a lovely sunset that evening. For our final meal in Skiathos we ventured to the taverna on Kanapitsa Beach and made pigs of ourselves. I’ve never seen so much ice cream and fruit in a dessert! I wish I’d had my camera to hand…

Day 8 - Friday 4th July

And so our last day in Skiathos had arrived and we went for breakfast a little later than normal. Thanks to Lyn’s domestic efficiency we were all pretty much packed and ready to go so were able to make the most of our final hours in Skiathos. Breakfast was followed by an impromptu photo shoot; worth a few extra memories! This was further followed by a final drink at the taverna before we returned to the hotel to meet Dee and David; with whom we would again be sharing a taxi to the airport. It would also give us plenty of time to have a chat and share a few laughs along the way!

Upon arrival at the airport (courtesy of an Aussie-Greek taxi driver) the ladies were left with the bags and cases whilst David and I made way for a civilised drink at the nearby taverna. (I would like to point out that the ladies were happy with this arrangement!) I had a really enjoyable conversation with David over a beer and Cola before we were called back to the airport for check-in. After check-in we still had a lengthy wait so all four of us (now free of suitcases) made our way to the taverna for drinks and to wait for our plane.

Sadly the time had come and we made our way back to the airport, through security and onto the awaiting aircraft. Due to the light fuel load (due to the short runway and the need to get airborne quickly) we would be making a stop at Volos for fuelling. And what a dismal place that was! We were asked to leave the aircraft upon landing (on one of the buses, although we maintain there was only one hence the waiting around) and we were shepherded into a cage. I kid you not. We sat and waited for the aircraft to be cleaned, fuelled and catering supplies loaded. Looking out from our cage it looked very much like the airport was part of an army base and photography and videography was strictly prohibited. The camera stayed in the bag! Although one unsuspecting foo- guy didn’t realise and began taking photos… until David saved his life (probably) and pointed out the restrictions by which we were bound! After not too long a wait we were let out of our cage and free to board the aircraft again. This time we wouldn’t be stopping until we hit Gatwick, London.

I could end on a sour note (about the confusion with the baggage carousel at Gatwick or how I annoyed staff by pressing the “emergency stop” button for the carousel when overloaded baggage started to fall off…) but I won’t. It was a fantastic holiday and definitely the best I’ve ever had. I actually returned home relaxed and refreshed and that has to be a first! Would we go again? Without a doubt. We left with very fond memories of Skiathos and will be looking to return one day. I can’t emphasise how enjoyable the week actually was and I would like to thank Dee and David for making it all the more enjoyable; simply by their presence and friendship. We would very much like to keep in touch and Lyn and I wish the two D’s the very best.

More photos from the holiday can be viewed in my Online Gallery here.

C’est fini.

It’s official… parts of Newbridge are downright bizarre! Take today for example; a lovely sunny day and a day whereby I had to nip into Newbridge to pick up some foreign currency from the bank…

I struggled to find a parking space so dropped the car into a free car park between two rows of terraced houses. On one side was a paramedic ready to ship a worker off to hospital. He had just cut the end of his finger off and was in a bit of a panic (looks like the household will have to wait for their new steps and wall). But that wasn’t strange compared to what I witnessed next.

At the end of the street music was being played and I happened to glance towards the origin of said music… and immediately wished I hadn’t looked! A group of 6-7 men and women, most of them heavily tatoo’d, were busy gardening… in black leather and PVC-like clothes. Either it was a fetish-cum-biker gardening party or I had happened upon a very ‘’special” group of people. I hurriedly walked on; not daring to look anywhere else but straight ahead.

What a weekend. So much for relaxing! You know the saying, “It never rains, it pours…?”

Lyn and I were sat chatting and watching the TV last Friday night when suddenly the house went dark and fell into silence; something had caused the electrics to trip (or I had suddenly fallen unconscious, hence the silence and darkness). Fortunately it was the former and the fault was traced to the washing machine. A washing machine that was mid-wash and full of water. Oh joy. Sure enough, each and every attempt to coax the machine back to life would result in the electrics tripping.

We had to concede defeat and Lyn was able to drain the water from the machine before scouring the Internet for a suitable replacement (which we found soon enough - one with a groovy LCD display! C’mon, I’m a guy and I like gadgets…) It was important that we find a replacement as soon as possible as there was a mountain of laundry to get through and a forthcoming holiday to prepare for.

The next morning we made our way to a local electrical store and promptly bought the appliance we were after (and got an Internet price match, too). They had the very machine in stock and - had we a bigger car - could have taken it home with us there and then. As it turns out we didn’t have a bigger car (we were in the Fiesta) but were able to arrange for delivery on the Bank Holiday Monday - which was a bit of a result.

Having ordered the new machine we set off deeper into Cardiff so that I could pick up my new camera; the traffic (as expected) was nose to tail. Lyn was driving so I jumped out the car mid-traffic queue and dived into the camera store to pick up my new gear. A moment or two later I received - whilst in store - a call from Lyn stating that… there was smoke coming from under the bonnet of the car! Hurriedly I left the store and joined her across the street where she had pulled up the car. There was a pool of water under the engine bay and the temperature sensor was reading somewhere north of “frikkin’ hot.”

We were a little relieved when it was found the smoke was in fact steam as it ruled out electrics and a potential fire… but then worries turned towards it being a blown head gasket. I called the AA and we waited…

15-20 minutes later and the AA breakdown service appeared and the [very friendly] service engineer took a look under the bonnet. After a quick look he was able to provide us with the good news - good in that it was nothing serious. The engine had simply overheated and the pressure built-up to such a point whereby the safety release valve had simply ‘popped’ (as it should have done). But why had the temperature suddenly risen? Further investigation indicated that the cooling fan had seized and no amount of fettling would get it turning.

Thankfully only a new fan/motor is required so it’s not too much of a problem. The fan may well have been seized for quite some time but - even though the car is used everyday - it never sits in traffic jams (like it did whilst outside the camera store in Cardiff!) When the car’s moving the cool air flow is enough to keep temperatures down, but when at a standstill the much needed assistance from the fan was a no-show. Until the fan gets replaced it’s foot down wherever we take the car (and we avoid places where there is likely to be congestion!)

No, no - not for me! For my sister. Following on from the good news about the court case she had further good news in the form of promotion at work and in the form of a 3-year modelling contract. Very well done indeedy.

And the strange thing is that I am the one with both the looks and the brains…

After what seems like an eternity, the court case in which my sister has been involved has finally come to an end; and a victorious one at that!

As you may or may not know my sister is an accomplished trampolinist as well as an advanced trampolining coach. For the past few years she has been running her own Club and has many students who regularly turn up and enjoy the coaching she provides (along with her qualified coaching colleagues). Sadly, not all students are quite as well ‘behaved’ [shall we say] as others and this led to an unfortunate injury to a young girl some time ago.

The parents/family of the girl were up in arms and claims of negligence and unprofessional conduct were being thrown around; claims that were wholly unfounded and untrue. It was upsetting for my sister and her staff that the girl had been injured and this was made worse by the fact that the parents of the girl decided to take legal action against the Club. So began a long and drawn out legal case…

To cut a long story short the case finally went to the courtroom the other week and the Judge and jury heard evidence and statements from both sides, and were questioned by the opposing legal teams of the parties involved. From the start it was obvious that those attempting to claim against my sister and her Club were not going to win (and quite rightly so).

My sister’s legal team picked holes in the stories and statements of the opposition and this led to the breakdown in court of the girl. They tied themselves in knots as they could not back up their false stories and the Judge commented to the courtroom that the outlook was bleak for them; unless they could produce/provide substantial evidence of negligence as to back their claims. Evidence that clearly did not exist!

After deliberation the Judge ruled in favour of my sister’s Club, stating that it was obvious that the Club was extremely professional and that the Club, in fact, went well above and beyond the requirements and expectations as laid down by the relevant governing bodies. The Judge was impressed with the Club and the professionalism exhibited and dismissed the accuser(s) claims. Their plans to make ‘a quick buck’ had obviously not worked and they were left with a bill in excess of £40,000…

On the 2nd March we hooked up with a local Japanese Performance Car club and joined them on one of their drives. After seeing the planned route Lynda suggested a change to avoid an unnecessary drive through a small nearby town; a change that would save time and make for an easier and more leisurely drive/route. When the organisers were happy that eveyone who was turning up had, in fact, turned up the convoy left the meeting point and headed towards Brecon and the hills and valleys.

Against Lynda’s sensible advice we smiled to each other when the entire convoy decided to go exactly where Lyn had suggested they don’t go… so we left them to it and made our own way to where we would later meet the convoy. After a short, but immensely enjoyable, drive we found ourselves at the designated waypoint well ahead of the convoy and in the middle of a rally! Ok, so we weren’t *in* the rally itself but we were mixing it up with the competitors as they travelled between stages! Great photo opportunities were to be had so I naturally grabbed a few shots to remember the occasion.

25 minutes later the convoy turned up and, sure enough, they had got into complications (lost!) when not sticking to the alternative route as advised. Still, they had made it now and all the cars were lined up at the roadside whilst their drivers took the chance to grab photographs of their own. It was a very, very cold day so we were soon on our way.

A brief stop in Builth Wells was next and Lyn and I took the opportunity to introduce ourselves to a few people (a little bit of Club promotion never hurts!) We finished the day having made a few new friends, a few new contacts and having enjoyed the day as a whole. You can see more photos from this meet on our Club gallery here.

Back at the end of February and into the beginning of March, Lynda and I had to make a few visits to Snowdonia (and the surrounding areas from Mid- to North Wales) to prepare, and later refine, a route for an upcoming drive we had organised. The drive was an ‘extended’ drive in that members of our Club would also enjoy a weekend stay in a lovely country hotel whilst enjoying three days of driving over the long weekend. As you can imagine this took a lot of time, patience and money on our part and it was a little stressful at times!

Nevertheless, the weekend would prove very successful and you will find that I’ll write about this in a future blog entry. Here are a few pictures that I took whilst Lynda and I planned the weekend…

Back in February (the weekend of 9th/10th) Lynda and I took a trip to Dover having been invited to stay with our good friends, Craig and Michelle. The weather was surprisingly good the day before we went down and we were hoping that it would last for at least a couple of days more. We hadn’t been over to that part of England since we returned from the Euro Tour back in July of 2007.

As the drive from Wales to Kent would take us perilously(!) close to The Big Smoke we had anticipated traffic jams and congestion. Surprisingly (well, I was surprised) the traffic was light and free-flowing and we made excellent time during the cross country drive from South Wales, and across England’s South West to the South East. Having arrived near our destination we navigated the nightmare-inducing roadworks and found a petrol station to fuel up Lyn’s car. As she filled up with petrol a guy pulled up behind in a really smart Mini Cooper; he was busy admiring Lyn’s car. After a moment he asked us what products we used to polish and clean the car with as he thought it looked immaculate. Not bad considering we had just driven several hundred miles to get there… Never one to miss a moment, Lyn took the opportunity to let him know about our Club (Rebel Motorsport Club) whilst briefing him on the cleaning products we use to keep the Type-R in good health!!!

After the impromptu promotional campaign we left the petrol station and made the short journey to Craig and Michelle’s place. We were a bit stumped as there did not appear to be anywhere to park. That was until I called Craig (who was still in work) and he told Lyn and I about the secret parking area (around the back, around the garage, through the secret door, underground, behind the missile silo…) There was no way I’d remember the instructions into the secret parking area so - whilst Lyn turned the car around - I knocked on the door and, having greeted Michelle, got her to jump in with Lyn and navigate!

When Craig got in from work that evening we all enjoyed a good old chinwag and caught up on recent events before jumping into the car and heading to a nearby pub for a meal; and a nice meal it was too. Later we returned to their house and settled down to watch TV and then watch Severance on DVD (a movie I had never seen and one which I thought was hilarious having watched it!) The next day we had planned to head out and take a little drive around Dover itself and on that note we retired for the night.

The following morning Lyn and I awoke to the sound and smell of sizzling bacon and sausages. Craig had been good to his word and, with Michelle’s help, cooked us up a fantastic fried breakfast. It tasted as good as it looked and was the ideal way to start the day. Following breakfast we jumped into Lyn’s car and headed towards Dover (under the expert navigation of Craig) to take in a few beauty spots and to enjoy some of the crisp, fresh air (and the breeze from the sea). It was fantastic to be able to see the famous white cliffs of Dover (I feel a song coming on…) as our previous trip there had been shrouded in fog; and the cliffs had practically been invisible (or a drab, murky grey at the very best). Of course I had the camera to hand and fired off a few shots to remember the occasion by! We left the area around the port of Dover and headed through a hole in a mountain. That may sound a little strange but that is exactly what we did. We pulled off a main road, passed through a tiny tunnel running through a cliff… and ended up in a scenic beauty spot with lovely walks along the coast. We would have never known the place existed had Craig and Michelle not pointed it out. An hour or so later we moved on and took a trip to [a place I cannot recall] a beach area. It was very busy given the fine weather for the time of year so we didn’t stay too long. By this time we were all hungry so we headed back to Craig and Michelle’s place via another lovely pub where we enjoyed another delicious meal.

Alas, time waits for nobody (or so some supposedly wise person said) and we were soon having to say our farewells before beginning the trek back to sunny South Wales. Admittedly it would be dark South wales by the time we got home, and very likely wet as well…

Craig and Michelle… thanks for a great weekend. The fried breakfast was delicious!

Way back in January we spent a weekend (26/27th) near Cambridge with a view to joining an organised drive on the Sunday. Lottie and Jermal had been organising this for a while and both Lyn and I were looking forward to it. A route had been planned and a place to stop for a meal so all was good…

Lynda and I travelled down on the Saturday and met up with Lottie and Si for the evening. As always we enjoyed a good laugh but had trouble on deciding what to eat for our evening meal! Pizza? Chinese? Indian? To be honest we didn’t do too badly and managed to reach a decision [between us] fractionally within the hour. Pizza it was… for Lynda! The rest of us decided to pop into the local town and grab a Chinese takeaway. The name of the town escapes me (it was near Saffron Walden) but it’s quite a posh area; even the names of the towns and villages around that locality are double-barrelled!

Following the meal (and an hour or two of chatting into the night) Lyn and I made our way the few miles to the hotel where we would be staying for the night. Whilst nothing special it was quiet and clean and also convenient; convenient in the fact that it was only 200 yards from where we would be meeting for the start of the drive the next day.

Sunday started early with the weather looking promising and, whilst Lynda showered and dressed, I took the car to find a local garage with a Jet Wash so that I could clean the car. Sadly not one of the local garages had the facilities and the nearest palce was (or so I was told) some 12 miles away. I was on a mission so headed in the direction indicated by the informant… Sure enough I found the garage and joined the queue of cars waiting to use the Jet Wash. After 15 minutes waiting the cars in front had got fed up so I was next up and pulled into the washing bay. I inserted the coins into the machine and proceeded to wash the car, starting with warm water to remove the grime. Next up the hot shampoo. Sadly it was halfway through shampooing when the machine broke down. No amount of coaxing would get it working again and the staff at the garage were about as useful as chocolate teapots and about as helpful, too. Having called Lynda to explain the situation I began the journey back to the hotel; complete with white blobs of shampoo flying carefree from my car as I drove (and no doubt annoying the cars behind!)

I got back to the hotel and quickly washed before making the journey of 200 yards to meet the guys and gals who were taking part in the drive. The sun was out and, whilst cool, the weather for the time of year was glorious. There was also quite a tasty selection of cars turning up although many of the faces were new.

Eventually the drive started and, for reasons I won’t go into, a few idiots decided to head off without really knowing where they were going. This caused problems and resulted in a very near accident (luckily only one guy’s car got messed up after he skidded up a kerb after nearly driving into the back of another…) To cut a long story short Lyn and I decided there and then to make our own way to the destination and to travel it alone away from the others. Sadly the early-leavers made somewhat of a bad impression on us with their inconsiderate driving yet those in the group behind (actually with the organisers) were able to enjoy a good and safe drive to the destination.

At one point along the route we were forced to pull onto a grass verge and the soft grass meant that the front of my car was a little lower than normal. As Lyn pulled away it caught on the verge and snapped the front splitter. I told her not to worry as it was purely an accident… but she was annoyed with herself all the same. Me? I wasn’t bothered as accidents happen and there was no serious damage done. Lynda offered to buy me a carbon fibre replacement anyways… which now sits proudly afront my car!

Overall it was a good weekend and a chance to catch up with a few people I’d not seen in a while (as well as meeting a few new people for the first time). Apart from a few idiots it was a good weekend and thanks go to Lottie, Si and Jermal for taking the time to organise what was a good drive and route.

I believe the best place to start this blogging revival is with the main reason as to why I haven’t been updating much of late. I expect most of you already know the reason why but for those who don’t, please let me introduce you to the Rebel Motorsport Club. Yes, this little venture has really taken off in quite an unexpected way and Lyn and I have been extremely busy taking the site/Club forward.

Whilst Lyn has been busy promoting the site, raising Club awareness and organising the Events (plus a kabillion other things) I have been busy working on the technical aspects of the website (mostly under the hood) as well as lending a hand with the organising of Events and drives. From negotiating deals with companies and businesses (with respect to offering club member discounts on products and services), to custom design work for promotional materials (such as banners, flyers and business cards) to working with other car Clubs and organisations it’s fair to say life has been a little hectic. Only now are we able to take a much needed breather; although not for too long because we have another action-packed weekend ahead - namely the Castle Combe Performance Car Action Day (we have our own Club stand) on Saturday and then a Sunday drive around the mountains and valleys of South Wales.

At the time of writing we are some 170+ members strong with a demographic covering various ages and from many parts of the UK. We have also organised some fantastic drives and meets and I’ll cover some of these as part of my blog revival. Although we are South Wales based we certainly don’t limit the Club to that area and have held Events further afield (as well as having many plans in the pipeline for future Events all over the place). Next month we are off to enjoy the world famous Nurburgring in Germany, followed by a day at the well-known Spa Francorchamps race circuit (in Belgium) to enjoy what should be an excellent track day. The camera will be worked hard over those days I’m sure.

In the short time that the new-look Rebel has been active both Lyn and I have made some great new friends, many new contacts and met many like-minded performance car enthusiasts. It’s been an absolute blast so far (plus a lot of hard work!) and I am sure we’ll continue to go from strength-to-strength.

A big thanks to Lyn and Wayne and to all those involved with the Club, organisers and members alike.

More updates on the way shortly…

So here we are then… it’s certainly been a while since I last put pen to paper (or finger to keyboard in the blogging sense). A lot of things have happened (and are indeed happening now) since I last updated my site so I’ll touch upon those because, well, y’know… someone somewhere may just be interested! It has also been brought to my attention that people are actually visiting my site and reading my posts so I thought it about time I actually put some effort into it and - at least - try to offer something up on a regular basis; no matter how meaningless or random.

Let’s start with a shout out to the ‘boys’ whom I’ve been meaning to send an email to for the last couple of months… Marvellous Marky “Deets”, Dangerous Dave “Wooly-oh” and the fantastic folk up at Super-Strangelite towers. Reeespect to y’all. (Enough of the gangsta before I end up wearing gold chains, sovereign rings on each finger and purchasing chrome spinners for my pimped out ride).

Yes, I know the updates have been slow of late. It’s not that I don’t want to post; it’s not that I don’t have anything to say… I just haven’t had the ‘creative’ (pffft!) energy as I’ve been full-steam ahead on a few things recently. An update will be along shortly. I hope all you reader (singular) are well.

Did you know…

If you drove your car at a steady 202mph around the M25, you would complete a full lap in 36 minutes.

Of course this may not be possible for several reasons. And you’re more likely to have a car capable of 202mph than you are a clear run around the M25.

I stumbled across an interesting (but short) article today that presented the results of a recent poll involving teenagers (in the UK) and their knowledge of well-known characters through history. It’s a short article so I’ll quote it here (courtesy of MSN.co.uk)

Britons don’t know their fact from their fiction. UKTV Gold polled 3,000 teenagers about their knowledge of historical and mythical figures, with startling results: many couldn’t tell the difference between real people and fictional characters. A shocking 23% of those polled believed Winston Churchill was a mythical character, and 47% thought the same of Richard the Lionheart. Meanwhile, the teens commonly believed Sherlock Holmes, King Arthur, Robin Hood and Eleanor Rigby actually existed.

I fear for the future, I really do.

I also fear for myself as I’m obviously getting old otherwise I wouldn’t be writing, or have opinions, on such issues. I’ll be talking about the weather next.

Bugger - did that a few posts ago, too. I rest my case. *sigh*

It’s great to be remembered, isn’t it? Assuming you are being remembered for the right reasons of course… For example, I don’t want to be remembered for that awful incident with the pineapple, the g-string and the lady who was a *real* Police Officer and not a stripper as initially believed…

So it was with surprise that I received a rather fantastic email from a previous employer of mine. In fact, it was one-half of the duo that gave me my big-break in the Games Development Industry; for which I was grateful. As a result I’ll happily link their sites here and here and say ‘thanks’ to Andrew and Philip for the ‘break’ all those years ago, and thanks for the kind words in the email. I hope we can catch up at some point - whether it be GDC or when I’m around the Warwickshire area.

Still on the subject of ‘being remembered’ a good friend - Kenty - of Lyn and I is due to pop around later tonight (around 11:40pm) with a batch of curry from his Chinese Takeaway. How’s that for service, huh?

I watched the Silent Hill movie (released 2006) for the first time yesterday - you can check it here on IMDB and here on Wikipedia. I wasn’t too sure what to expect having heard mixed reviews; some good, some bad and from one extreme to the other. In all truth my expectations weren’t too high but I didn’t want to be disappointed as I was (and still am) a big fan of the Silent Hill computer game series.

I can appreciate that this movie would not appeal to the masses in any great shape or form, and that it - perhaps - did go on a little too long in terms of running-time, but I thought it captured the feel of the videogame series superbly. Whilst I wasn’t blown away by the story (loosely based on the first game, albeit with a few twists including the change of sex of the lead character) I was however immediately comfortable knowing that this was definitely Silent Hill. The colours, the music and the motion (camera direction) were all straight out of the game - credit to the production team for doing their homework. Due to those reasons alone I think it made the movie all the more enjoyable for me. Had I not been familiar with the game franchise my views may well have been completely different but the fact is I enjoyed watching it.

So… it was with interest that I heard about a sequel to this movie a short while back. Would a sequel work? I hope so. Sadly my initial interest has somewhat dwindled having learned that the original screenplay writer and producer are no longer working on the movie and that they have no plans to return to it. As always, time will tell.

Lyn’s Sony Cybershot digital camera has been playing up of late and the jog-dial has lost it’s, um, ‘joggability’… It’s more a slow-walk-and-trip-up-dial than a jog-dial at the moment, in so far as it works to a certain point then trips up and works/jogs no more. Sort of. It’s a great camera though and easily pocketed for that day out, party or whatever. As a result this will be getting repaired shortly. In the meantime it has been joined by a stablemate! Yes, Lyn has bought a camera (just like mine) but it’s better. Hmmph. It’s silver and looks, as they say here in Wales, “well swish!” Due to that simple reason it makes it far better than mine so please don’t try and tell me any different…

I’m sure you’ll be seeing many photographs on here in the future. Some of them possibly car related.