Fri.30th. Dec.
Now I'm really angry!! I typed up today's blog and I blinked and it disappeared. Maria says it is saved somewhere but I can't locate it so I'm starting again. We drove from Agrigento to Selinunte today along some decent road, the SS115 and through some gorgeous scenery. This really is a beautiful part of the world, I'm a little disappointed that we're not seeing it in better weather. We found a Lidl's and shopped, filled up with diesel and gas and had a coffee on the way. Arrived about 12.30 and re-acqainted ourselves with Geert and Maria. (and Tessa, the dog.) I think Tessa missed us!! After lunch Jan and I walked into the village and had a good look around, we're hoping to find a restaurant or other venue for new years eve. Not much luck so far. Will try again tomorrow. There are a couple of possibilities. It's a long walk from the site and I have to say that I'm concerned about Jan's hips, which seem to be causing her great discomfort at the moment. I think we need more sunshine. After dinner, shared some wine with Geert and Maria. They amused us with a typical camper van tale of getting stuck in a small town in the mountains and having to be rescued by 2 policemen. Hell of a way to get a parking space close to the market!! We had some fun and I took pictures and a movie. I referred to them as Gert and Daisy, a comic couple from years ago, I hope they didn't take offence, I must explain tomorrow. One day left of 2011. Can start 2012 as a retired man. Can it get any better than this??
Friday, 30 December 2011
Thursday, 29 December 2011
Kevnjan's big adventure.
Thur.29th.Dec.
Sat here after dinner of cold pork, sausages and salad thinking how lucky we are. We left the site this morning and came to a car park near the Valley of Temples. Paid €5 and can spend the night. The saving on the site fee for a night paid for our entrance tickets and audio guide, very expensive. Worth it though, I thought I'd probably done with Greek temples and ruins,( pics on Facebook tomorrow) until we spoke to Geert and Maria tonight and arranged to meet them in Selinunte tomorrow, home of more temples. The weather was perfect today, much to our surprise, the forecast was rubbish. Shorts and tee shirts order of the day. The sights were spectacular and the scenery better. It must be something in the summer. Janet gets totally absorbed by these old ruins, touching the stones and imagining how it was 1500 years ago. It makes it special to see how much pleasure she gets from it. No electricity tonight so battery getting low. No freecell tonight. Book and another glass of wine then. Ho hum!!
Sat here after dinner of cold pork, sausages and salad thinking how lucky we are. We left the site this morning and came to a car park near the Valley of Temples. Paid €5 and can spend the night. The saving on the site fee for a night paid for our entrance tickets and audio guide, very expensive. Worth it though, I thought I'd probably done with Greek temples and ruins,( pics on Facebook tomorrow) until we spoke to Geert and Maria tonight and arranged to meet them in Selinunte tomorrow, home of more temples. The weather was perfect today, much to our surprise, the forecast was rubbish. Shorts and tee shirts order of the day. The sights were spectacular and the scenery better. It must be something in the summer. Janet gets totally absorbed by these old ruins, touching the stones and imagining how it was 1500 years ago. It makes it special to see how much pleasure she gets from it. No electricity tonight so battery getting low. No freecell tonight. Book and another glass of wine then. Ho hum!!
Wednesday, 28 December 2011
Kevnjan's big adventure.
Wed.28th. Dec.
Spent the night at the marina. Bit noisy, dogs - just a fact of life in Italy, doesn't make it easier to put up with. Cars up and down, mystifying!! Still, this morning it wasn't raining, it wasn't windy and the sky was bright. We set off to find coffee and gelato. 50% success. Coffee delicious. Hit the road and took a pleasant drive along the coast to Agriegento. Arrived around 12.30 and had lunch. Cleared out the garage and tried to get rid of the smell of cheap Spanish whisky. Laid out in the sun for an hour, so warm, this is what it's all about. Spent a couple of hours up in the old town of Agriegento. Disappointing, we've been spoiled by so many fabulous towns. Fish for dinner,site OK, internet connection not. Ancient Greek ruins in prospect tomorrow. Can't wait!! Think I'll have a whisky.
Spent the night at the marina. Bit noisy, dogs - just a fact of life in Italy, doesn't make it easier to put up with. Cars up and down, mystifying!! Still, this morning it wasn't raining, it wasn't windy and the sky was bright. We set off to find coffee and gelato. 50% success. Coffee delicious. Hit the road and took a pleasant drive along the coast to Agriegento. Arrived around 12.30 and had lunch. Cleared out the garage and tried to get rid of the smell of cheap Spanish whisky. Laid out in the sun for an hour, so warm, this is what it's all about. Spent a couple of hours up in the old town of Agriegento. Disappointing, we've been spoiled by so many fabulous towns. Fish for dinner,site OK, internet connection not. Ancient Greek ruins in prospect tomorrow. Can't wait!! Think I'll have a whisky.
Tuesday, 27 December 2011
Kevnjan's big adventure.
Tues.27th.Dec.
So on we go. Left club Picadilly this morning, owing the owner about €5 as I only had about €83 and the bill was 88. Felt guilty but he could have taken a card. Managed a Skype with the Birds and mother hen. Weather was horrendous when we left, rain and gusty winds. Pulled up at gas station for LPG. Realised just in time that I had no cash. How embarrassing. Drove on until we got to Comiso, up in the hills. A pretty enough town with more churches than banks and bars put together. Got soaked, found a bancomat and got cash, found a bar and ordered coffee. Had a strange chat with the owner, who spoke no English. Offered to pay with €20 note, he couldn't change it!! How embarrassing. Free coffee. It's been an odd day, we found a campsite at Falconara, half way between Gela and Licata. He wanted €17 for the night and I was too mean to pay. Drove on to Licata and we're now parked on the town quay overlooking the harbour. Free parking. Walked the town tonight after dinner, pretty in Christmas lights. We'll have a look in the light of day tomorrow. Couldn't find any gelato for Jan, it's getting serious now. 5 days!! I kept smelling booze in the garage, tonight I discovered the bottle of Spanish whisky is broken - divine intervention? Who knows. Why do Italians take such delight in driving their cars to the end of the town quay when the only place to go is back? It happens everywhere we go. Odd or what? I'm pleased to say that the Scotch, which was next to the Spanish in the garage is unharmed. At least it was until now!! Cheers.
So on we go. Left club Picadilly this morning, owing the owner about €5 as I only had about €83 and the bill was 88. Felt guilty but he could have taken a card. Managed a Skype with the Birds and mother hen. Weather was horrendous when we left, rain and gusty winds. Pulled up at gas station for LPG. Realised just in time that I had no cash. How embarrassing. Drove on until we got to Comiso, up in the hills. A pretty enough town with more churches than banks and bars put together. Got soaked, found a bancomat and got cash, found a bar and ordered coffee. Had a strange chat with the owner, who spoke no English. Offered to pay with €20 note, he couldn't change it!! How embarrassing. Free coffee. It's been an odd day, we found a campsite at Falconara, half way between Gela and Licata. He wanted €17 for the night and I was too mean to pay. Drove on to Licata and we're now parked on the town quay overlooking the harbour. Free parking. Walked the town tonight after dinner, pretty in Christmas lights. We'll have a look in the light of day tomorrow. Couldn't find any gelato for Jan, it's getting serious now. 5 days!! I kept smelling booze in the garage, tonight I discovered the bottle of Spanish whisky is broken - divine intervention? Who knows. Why do Italians take such delight in driving their cars to the end of the town quay when the only place to go is back? It happens everywhere we go. Odd or what? I'm pleased to say that the Scotch, which was next to the Spanish in the garage is unharmed. At least it was until now!! Cheers.
Monday, 26 December 2011
Kevnjan's big adventure.
Mon.26th.Dec.
Pretty dull boxing day. Weather grey, cleaned van, had walk, ate panetone, drank coffee, waved goodbye to Geerd and Maria, had lunch. Think it's time to move on tomorrow, find some life, or some ruins to visit, re-ignite the adventure part of our adventure. Good news though, the fridge is working again and we have lots of cooked meats which I barbecued last night, in stock. We have some of the most stinking cheese, it's delicious but really is anti social. Jan's cold seems to be holding off. Hannah has Facebook and she and Jan spent time chatting today, I think that was good for both of them. Jan is looking at Skype regularly now to see who's online. Evening with TV in prospect, wouldn't be so bad if we didn't know the adverts by heart. Am I complaining? No, life's good. Think I'll have a whisky.
Pretty dull boxing day. Weather grey, cleaned van, had walk, ate panetone, drank coffee, waved goodbye to Geerd and Maria, had lunch. Think it's time to move on tomorrow, find some life, or some ruins to visit, re-ignite the adventure part of our adventure. Good news though, the fridge is working again and we have lots of cooked meats which I barbecued last night, in stock. We have some of the most stinking cheese, it's delicious but really is anti social. Jan's cold seems to be holding off. Hannah has Facebook and she and Jan spent time chatting today, I think that was good for both of them. Jan is looking at Skype regularly now to see who's online. Evening with TV in prospect, wouldn't be so bad if we didn't know the adverts by heart. Am I complaining? No, life's good. Think I'll have a whisky.
Sunday, 25 December 2011
Kevnjan's big adventure.
Sun.25th.Dec.
Happy Christmas to all our readers. Janet was very good this morning. Usually she has me awake at 6am on Christmas Day, today she managed to suppress her excitement until 6.55am. We had some tea and biscuits with the promise of a full English later. We exchanged gifts around 9am and she surprised me with a new jumper. I gave her some expensive shower stuff and moisturiser, etc. Then took her to shower to help her familiarise herself with it. Smells delicious. Poor Jan is still fighting off a cold and didn't feel so good. Coffee and breakfast helped to get her ready for a walk. The weather was fair with warm sunshine but cool wind. We walked to the end of the road and scrumped some lemons for honey and lemon cold cure. We sat outside in the sun for a while then realised that Anthony was trying to Skype. Had good session with Ant and family, Derek promised to drink some light and bitters for me down the pub. What a nice man, promised not to get me drunk!! We were disappointed not to Skype with Karel, Pete and Mum in Australia. Must try again tomorrow. Got Julie and family though, the girls have got laptops for Christmas and are now Skype candidates. Geerd and Maria joined us for a drink this afternoon, we talked and decided how best to put the world to rights. Good company. Have had a few problems with the fridge. Poor Jan lost a whole carton of Butter Pecan ice cream yesterday and the meat in the freezer defrosted. Had a clean out today and saved most of the meat, had to cook it tonight and will eat it cold over the next few days. Dinner was fillet steak, I did it on the barbecue and it was fabulous, melted in mouth. Fridge seems to be working now, strange how the gremlins get in the works. All in all, a good day. Time for one more whisky before bed. €1.99 panetone was delicious, enormous, need help with it.
Happy Christmas to all our readers. Janet was very good this morning. Usually she has me awake at 6am on Christmas Day, today she managed to suppress her excitement until 6.55am. We had some tea and biscuits with the promise of a full English later. We exchanged gifts around 9am and she surprised me with a new jumper. I gave her some expensive shower stuff and moisturiser, etc. Then took her to shower to help her familiarise herself with it. Smells delicious. Poor Jan is still fighting off a cold and didn't feel so good. Coffee and breakfast helped to get her ready for a walk. The weather was fair with warm sunshine but cool wind. We walked to the end of the road and scrumped some lemons for honey and lemon cold cure. We sat outside in the sun for a while then realised that Anthony was trying to Skype. Had good session with Ant and family, Derek promised to drink some light and bitters for me down the pub. What a nice man, promised not to get me drunk!! We were disappointed not to Skype with Karel, Pete and Mum in Australia. Must try again tomorrow. Got Julie and family though, the girls have got laptops for Christmas and are now Skype candidates. Geerd and Maria joined us for a drink this afternoon, we talked and decided how best to put the world to rights. Good company. Have had a few problems with the fridge. Poor Jan lost a whole carton of Butter Pecan ice cream yesterday and the meat in the freezer defrosted. Had a clean out today and saved most of the meat, had to cook it tonight and will eat it cold over the next few days. Dinner was fillet steak, I did it on the barbecue and it was fabulous, melted in mouth. Fridge seems to be working now, strange how the gremlins get in the works. All in all, a good day. Time for one more whisky before bed. €1.99 panetone was delicious, enormous, need help with it.
Saturday, 24 December 2011
Kevnjan's big adventure.
Sat.24th. Dec.
Another glorious morning, clear blue sky and sunshine. Christmas eve at last!! No shopping today, just take it easy. A little housework, then let the day unfold. Had a couple of hours in the chair getting some sun. Very relaxing. Invited to Geert and Maria's this afternoon. Had siesta and at 4pm. presented ourselves to help out with the eating of dulce and drinking of excellent whisky. Enjoyed a pleasant couple of hours playing Yahztee and cards. Good company, who could ask for more. Home at 7pm and delicious dinner of chicken in sauce made from recipe obtained from Becky. Lovely relaxing day, hope tomorrow is as good. More whisky before bed!!
Another glorious morning, clear blue sky and sunshine. Christmas eve at last!! No shopping today, just take it easy. A little housework, then let the day unfold. Had a couple of hours in the chair getting some sun. Very relaxing. Invited to Geert and Maria's this afternoon. Had siesta and at 4pm. presented ourselves to help out with the eating of dulce and drinking of excellent whisky. Enjoyed a pleasant couple of hours playing Yahztee and cards. Good company, who could ask for more. Home at 7pm and delicious dinner of chicken in sauce made from recipe obtained from Becky. Lovely relaxing day, hope tomorrow is as good. More whisky before bed!!
Kevnjan's big adventure.
Fri.23rd.Dec.
Lovely morning, bright and sunny. Packed up van for trip to local supermarket to get a few bits of shopping. €55 on what?? A few bits!! No booze - it's easy to spend here. Went back to the van, couldn't fit it all into the little freezer. Oh well, we'll just have to eat it. Went to Donnalucata, not much there, bought a saucepan. Had some coffee, walked along the sea front, sat in the sun. Returned to site around 12.30 and had some lunch, smoked salmon on crusty bread, (Ah that's where the money goes.) Jan did a little hand washing and I sat in the sun and put together Jan's first Christmas surprise, a father Christmas that climbs up a ladder, singing Jingle Bells. She was thrilled, I don't normally do Christmas stuff but she's been very good. I could get fed up with Jingle Bells pretty soon though. We went for a walk on the beach and when we returned Geert and Maria had turned up, it was good to see them, later, after dinner we spent an hour with them and compared notes and blogs. I sneaked back to the van and prepared Jan's second surprise, fairy lights for the van. There were so many I had to string them all around the outside. They look fabulous, flashing and changing colour and generally brightening up the place. Jan's face when she saw them was a picture. She loves stuff like that. So now we are ready for Christmas, I've got some brownie points in the bank and the weather's set fair for Christmas Eve. Might have a whisky!!
Lovely morning, bright and sunny. Packed up van for trip to local supermarket to get a few bits of shopping. €55 on what?? A few bits!! No booze - it's easy to spend here. Went back to the van, couldn't fit it all into the little freezer. Oh well, we'll just have to eat it. Went to Donnalucata, not much there, bought a saucepan. Had some coffee, walked along the sea front, sat in the sun. Returned to site around 12.30 and had some lunch, smoked salmon on crusty bread, (Ah that's where the money goes.) Jan did a little hand washing and I sat in the sun and put together Jan's first Christmas surprise, a father Christmas that climbs up a ladder, singing Jingle Bells. She was thrilled, I don't normally do Christmas stuff but she's been very good. I could get fed up with Jingle Bells pretty soon though. We went for a walk on the beach and when we returned Geert and Maria had turned up, it was good to see them, later, after dinner we spent an hour with them and compared notes and blogs. I sneaked back to the van and prepared Jan's second surprise, fairy lights for the van. There were so many I had to string them all around the outside. They look fabulous, flashing and changing colour and generally brightening up the place. Jan's face when she saw them was a picture. She loves stuff like that. So now we are ready for Christmas, I've got some brownie points in the bank and the weather's set fair for Christmas Eve. Might have a whisky!!
Thursday, 22 December 2011
Kevnjan's big adventure.
Thurs.22nd.Dec.
Packed the van up this morning and took of for an adventure. Nowhere to walk within easy reach. Headed for Modica, up in the mountains. Satnav woman took us through Scicli, a small but busy town with nasty narrow streets, nasty satnav. Scraped through unscathed and made it to Modica. A pretty town with two lovely churches. We entered the first and were delighted to find a school orchestra and choir rehearsing for a carol service, their music was a pleasure to hear in the wonderful acoustics of the church. Spent half an hour there and got Jan to leave, reluctantly, to continue our exploration. The weather was cool and it's clear that winter has arrived in Sicily. Let's hope it's not going to get much colder. We like warm. Neil's birthday today, happy birthday Neil. Back on site now and preparing to barbecue pork chops, time for a glass of wine. What a life!!
Packed the van up this morning and took of for an adventure. Nowhere to walk within easy reach. Headed for Modica, up in the mountains. Satnav woman took us through Scicli, a small but busy town with nasty narrow streets, nasty satnav. Scraped through unscathed and made it to Modica. A pretty town with two lovely churches. We entered the first and were delighted to find a school orchestra and choir rehearsing for a carol service, their music was a pleasure to hear in the wonderful acoustics of the church. Spent half an hour there and got Jan to leave, reluctantly, to continue our exploration. The weather was cool and it's clear that winter has arrived in Sicily. Let's hope it's not going to get much colder. We like warm. Neil's birthday today, happy birthday Neil. Back on site now and preparing to barbecue pork chops, time for a glass of wine. What a life!!
Wednesday, 21 December 2011
Kevnjan's big adventure.
Wed.21st.Dec.
Since we came away we've experienced some pretty amazing storms. Last night we had the daddy of them all. Gale force winds, torrential rain and thunder and lightening like you've never seen. The van was rocking in the wind. Didn't sleep much. At 3.50am Jan demanded a cup of tea. The weather has continued most of the day. We did manage to walk to the supermarket, needed potatoes. The owner of the site told us it was about 1 K. He lied, it was about 2 miles, each way. The wind was howling and it was cold. Still, the excercise did us good. We have spent the rest of the day in the van and are now watching Judge Judy. I'd like it on record that this adventure is not all beer and skittles. Not that I'm complaining you understand. Weather forecast for tomorrow is for unbroken sunshine. We'll see!! Jan gave me an early Christmas present today, a baseball hat. Came in useful, it kept the rain off, very chic!! Cottage pie for dinner tonight. Look forward to that.
Since we came away we've experienced some pretty amazing storms. Last night we had the daddy of them all. Gale force winds, torrential rain and thunder and lightening like you've never seen. The van was rocking in the wind. Didn't sleep much. At 3.50am Jan demanded a cup of tea. The weather has continued most of the day. We did manage to walk to the supermarket, needed potatoes. The owner of the site told us it was about 1 K. He lied, it was about 2 miles, each way. The wind was howling and it was cold. Still, the excercise did us good. We have spent the rest of the day in the van and are now watching Judge Judy. I'd like it on record that this adventure is not all beer and skittles. Not that I'm complaining you understand. Weather forecast for tomorrow is for unbroken sunshine. We'll see!! Jan gave me an early Christmas present today, a baseball hat. Came in useful, it kept the rain off, very chic!! Cottage pie for dinner tonight. Look forward to that.
Kevnjans big adventure.
Tues.20th.Dec.
Spent most of the day washing. Changed the beds, worked out how to use the washing machine, tied lines between trees and generally did washing stuff. Hard work, it has to be done, Jan insists on it!! Our new site is pretty remote, some distance from the shops, but right by the beach. Due to our industrious day we didn't explore, by the time all the laundry was put away we were good only for resting. Geert and Maria turned up
in the afternoon and had coffee with us. They have found free parking up the coast and are wild camping, (they have a generator) I wouldn't be surprised to see them here before Christmas although I don't think they were keen on the site. We are now friends on Facebook and it was fascinating to read their latest comments, not sure whether they are in Dutch or German. Can't wait to check out their blog!! My resolution to post my blog on the day was broken when we lost our internet connection last night, so it is now Wednesday. I'm tempted to tell you about last night but I'll save that until later. Jan's taking paracetemol in an effort to stave off a cold. I'm having to take good care of her, don't want to be cooking Christmas dinner!! Established contact with Dinnage at last!! No a minute too soon.
Spent most of the day washing. Changed the beds, worked out how to use the washing machine, tied lines between trees and generally did washing stuff. Hard work, it has to be done, Jan insists on it!! Our new site is pretty remote, some distance from the shops, but right by the beach. Due to our industrious day we didn't explore, by the time all the laundry was put away we were good only for resting. Geert and Maria turned up
in the afternoon and had coffee with us. They have found free parking up the coast and are wild camping, (they have a generator) I wouldn't be surprised to see them here before Christmas although I don't think they were keen on the site. We are now friends on Facebook and it was fascinating to read their latest comments, not sure whether they are in Dutch or German. Can't wait to check out their blog!! My resolution to post my blog on the day was broken when we lost our internet connection last night, so it is now Wednesday. I'm tempted to tell you about last night but I'll save that until later. Jan's taking paracetemol in an effort to stave off a cold. I'm having to take good care of her, don't want to be cooking Christmas dinner!! Established contact with Dinnage at last!! No a minute too soon.
Monday, 19 December 2011
Kevnjan's big adventure.
Mon.19th.Dec.
I've made a conscious decision to do my blog on the day rather than following day. This is mainly because I think I forget what I did the previous day. Is this old age creeping on? Today Janet announced that she wanted to move on, we'd been undecided but I think we both felt that the site we were on was not suitable for Christmas. We told our friends, next door and they said they'd decided that too. We packed up and headed for Carrefours, a shop where Jan had been told she could buy a mysterious gift. Maria had given us the address and we put it into the satnav. We missed it and drove several kilometres past and had to turn around. That is so aggravating, the store has changed names. As we were driving back we saw them driving past us and assumed they had been to the store and done their shopping already. We waved, found the store, did what we had to do and came outside to find their van parked next to ours. I can't tell you how good it made me feel to know that other people get lost too!! We took off south to find the site we'd selected and arrived about 2.30pm about 12 Ks west of Sampier, right on the beach. Found a spot and parked up. Problem with the satellite dish. Shame, it was a terrific spot. Moved with the help of a guy who I assume works on the site. He put us on a pitch, didn't like it. Moved again. It was cold, raining and I was getting fed up. We're plotted up now, not sure I'm altogether happy. It's quite nice here, but quite remote. We need to explore our surroundings tomorrow but I have a feeling we may not have found our ideal Christmas location yet. Maria and Geert are not here, wonder if they have found something better. Chicken for dinner tonight. I think I'm ready for my first whisky of the day. Watch this space.
I've made a conscious decision to do my blog on the day rather than following day. This is mainly because I think I forget what I did the previous day. Is this old age creeping on? Today Janet announced that she wanted to move on, we'd been undecided but I think we both felt that the site we were on was not suitable for Christmas. We told our friends, next door and they said they'd decided that too. We packed up and headed for Carrefours, a shop where Jan had been told she could buy a mysterious gift. Maria had given us the address and we put it into the satnav. We missed it and drove several kilometres past and had to turn around. That is so aggravating, the store has changed names. As we were driving back we saw them driving past us and assumed they had been to the store and done their shopping already. We waved, found the store, did what we had to do and came outside to find their van parked next to ours. I can't tell you how good it made me feel to know that other people get lost too!! We took off south to find the site we'd selected and arrived about 2.30pm about 12 Ks west of Sampier, right on the beach. Found a spot and parked up. Problem with the satellite dish. Shame, it was a terrific spot. Moved with the help of a guy who I assume works on the site. He put us on a pitch, didn't like it. Moved again. It was cold, raining and I was getting fed up. We're plotted up now, not sure I'm altogether happy. It's quite nice here, but quite remote. We need to explore our surroundings tomorrow but I have a feeling we may not have found our ideal Christmas location yet. Maria and Geert are not here, wonder if they have found something better. Chicken for dinner tonight. I think I'm ready for my first whisky of the day. Watch this space.
Kevnjans big adventure.
Sun.18th.Dec.
Not much to report today. I took Jan for a long walk into town, we looked in shops, she bought a few bits. It was a cool day. We reached the sea front which we hadn't seen previously and had a slice of pizza, some cake and coffee for lunch. We walked all along the sea front and back through the town, miles, feet were sore, legs ached but that took care of the calories from lunch. Had siesta, dinner, watched a dreadful film about Christmas and gratefully turned in for the night. Only event of note was Skyping the Smigiels, always a pleasure. Put a video of Jan having a Jantrum on Facebook.
Not much to report today. I took Jan for a long walk into town, we looked in shops, she bought a few bits. It was a cool day. We reached the sea front which we hadn't seen previously and had a slice of pizza, some cake and coffee for lunch. We walked all along the sea front and back through the town, miles, feet were sore, legs ached but that took care of the calories from lunch. Had siesta, dinner, watched a dreadful film about Christmas and gratefully turned in for the night. Only event of note was Skyping the Smigiels, always a pleasure. Put a video of Jan having a Jantrum on Facebook.
Sunday, 18 December 2011
Kevnjans big adventure.
Sat.17th.Dec.
Walked miles today exploring Siracusa. Lovely city, very laid back, easy going. Jan was looking for gifts, I found fish for dinner. The weather, while dry, was cool, fine when the sun was out but cool when cloudy. Jan was not really dressed for cool, but didn't complain too much. We were out for maybe 4 hours, walking, and returned for a siesta. Our neighbours invited us over for tea. They have a van called a Bavaria, I've never seen one before, about the same size as ours. It's a cross between a Frankia and Burstener and I've been dying to see it. I'm green with envy, it has everything you could wish for, so much space, 2 double beds, storage everywhere and all the gadgets. If I can get my hands on €125,000 I'm buying one!! For now though, I love my van and it's taking very good care of us. Fish was delicious, van stinks, must give it a good airing tomorrow.
Walked miles today exploring Siracusa. Lovely city, very laid back, easy going. Jan was looking for gifts, I found fish for dinner. The weather, while dry, was cool, fine when the sun was out but cool when cloudy. Jan was not really dressed for cool, but didn't complain too much. We were out for maybe 4 hours, walking, and returned for a siesta. Our neighbours invited us over for tea. They have a van called a Bavaria, I've never seen one before, about the same size as ours. It's a cross between a Frankia and Burstener and I've been dying to see it. I'm green with envy, it has everything you could wish for, so much space, 2 double beds, storage everywhere and all the gadgets. If I can get my hands on €125,000 I'm buying one!! For now though, I love my van and it's taking very good care of us. Fish was delicious, van stinks, must give it a good airing tomorrow.
Friday, 16 December 2011
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Fri.16th.Dec.
We've become quite friendly with a Dutch couple who seem to be turning up at all the sites that we use. This is the fourth one we've seen them on, quite a coincidence when you consider the huge number of sites and sostas available. Today we were talking to them and discovered that they were planning to drive down to Siracusa with a view to possibly spending Christmas there. We were planning the same thing. Anyway, we set off and after an hours shopping in Lidls we headed for Siracusa. On arrival, we found our Dutch friends already encamped. Not sure about this site though. It's in the city and about a 15 minute walk from the old town. The facilities are OK. We shared a bottle of wine and Jan had a coke, but when it got dark it became pretty cold so we retreated to our vans. I don't know whether we'll stay here for Christmas, tomorrow we'll explore and see what's around us. The jury's out.
We've become quite friendly with a Dutch couple who seem to be turning up at all the sites that we use. This is the fourth one we've seen them on, quite a coincidence when you consider the huge number of sites and sostas available. Today we were talking to them and discovered that they were planning to drive down to Siracusa with a view to possibly spending Christmas there. We were planning the same thing. Anyway, we set off and after an hours shopping in Lidls we headed for Siracusa. On arrival, we found our Dutch friends already encamped. Not sure about this site though. It's in the city and about a 15 minute walk from the old town. The facilities are OK. We shared a bottle of wine and Jan had a coke, but when it got dark it became pretty cold so we retreated to our vans. I don't know whether we'll stay here for Christmas, tomorrow we'll explore and see what's around us. The jury's out.
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Thurs.15th.Dec.
Today we did work stuff. Jan did some more washing, I washed the van. Big job. I do it quite often but it doesn't get any easier. I feel good because it gives the other people on the site something to find amusing. I know it's only a matter of time before it's their turn. This afternoon we took the bus to Castelmola, the small village above Taormina. Jan wanted to see the castle. I suppose it is as high again as Taormina and the views are even better. Sadly, the castle Jan wanted to see was on the top of the mountain next door and she had a tantrum. To make matters worse there was no gelato to be had in the whole village. Got the bus back down and went shopping for a special gift Jan had set her heart on. Got some brownie points there. Got to report that the €3.99 whisky is Spanish!! Serious error here, must be sure to read the label in future. Any similarity between this and Scotch is purely coincidental. Not for the squeamish. Still, only bought 2 bottles - could be worse. Moving day tomorrow, off to Siracusa, hope to spend Christmas there. Have to check it out.
Today we did work stuff. Jan did some more washing, I washed the van. Big job. I do it quite often but it doesn't get any easier. I feel good because it gives the other people on the site something to find amusing. I know it's only a matter of time before it's their turn. This afternoon we took the bus to Castelmola, the small village above Taormina. Jan wanted to see the castle. I suppose it is as high again as Taormina and the views are even better. Sadly, the castle Jan wanted to see was on the top of the mountain next door and she had a tantrum. To make matters worse there was no gelato to be had in the whole village. Got the bus back down and went shopping for a special gift Jan had set her heart on. Got some brownie points there. Got to report that the €3.99 whisky is Spanish!! Serious error here, must be sure to read the label in future. Any similarity between this and Scotch is purely coincidental. Not for the squeamish. Still, only bought 2 bottles - could be worse. Moving day tomorrow, off to Siracusa, hope to spend Christmas there. Have to check it out.
Wednesday, 14 December 2011
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Tues.14th.Dec.
Well, today we got to Taormina. It was one of those wow moments. We took the bus, the ride was dramatic, how these guys do this every day I don't know. The road was just one U bend after another, there is little width and heaven knows who buys the buses but they are just too BIG. Still, when we arrived at the bus station, in perfect safety we had to walk up the hill to the old town. We walked through the town and came to a piazza which afforded a view which was just breathtaking. The sky had cleared and there was a perfect view of the snow capped Mount Etna across a vista of sea and rolling hillside. The town itself was charming and picturesque but the best view are to be had from the ancient Greek amphitheatre at the top of the town. We were lucky enough to have a warm, clear day to enjoy this spectacle. After a thorough examination of the amphitheatre, we headed back to the piazza and gorged ourselves on pannini, gelatti and fizzy water, feeling extremely priviledged to be there, surrounded by such beauty. To make matters even better, I have to report that yesterday I found the cheapest Scotch yet. €3.99!! Haven't tried it yet but full report will follow. Home to barbecued pork chops and sausages. What a day.
Well, today we got to Taormina. It was one of those wow moments. We took the bus, the ride was dramatic, how these guys do this every day I don't know. The road was just one U bend after another, there is little width and heaven knows who buys the buses but they are just too BIG. Still, when we arrived at the bus station, in perfect safety we had to walk up the hill to the old town. We walked through the town and came to a piazza which afforded a view which was just breathtaking. The sky had cleared and there was a perfect view of the snow capped Mount Etna across a vista of sea and rolling hillside. The town itself was charming and picturesque but the best view are to be had from the ancient Greek amphitheatre at the top of the town. We were lucky enough to have a warm, clear day to enjoy this spectacle. After a thorough examination of the amphitheatre, we headed back to the piazza and gorged ourselves on pannini, gelatti and fizzy water, feeling extremely priviledged to be there, surrounded by such beauty. To make matters even better, I have to report that yesterday I found the cheapest Scotch yet. €3.99!! Haven't tried it yet but full report will follow. Home to barbecued pork chops and sausages. What a day.
Tuesday, 13 December 2011
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Tues.13th.Dec.
Left Santa Theresa to head for Giardini Naxos. Discovered that road south was restricted to vehicles under 2.8metres high. Had to drive north for 20 miles to join autostrada for alternative route. At last discovered how to use GPS co-ordinates in sat nav. Very useful, brought us directly to a site recommended by our new Swiss friends. The facilities are good and we have a fabulous view of Mount Etna, clouds permitting. Walked around the town and Jan was open mouthed at the shops and Christmas fare on offer. I think I'm going to have difficulty preventing her from decorating the van, all the vans here are done up like Christmas trees, several English couples here, very unusual. They should have more sense!! Taormina tomorrow.
Left Santa Theresa to head for Giardini Naxos. Discovered that road south was restricted to vehicles under 2.8metres high. Had to drive north for 20 miles to join autostrada for alternative route. At last discovered how to use GPS co-ordinates in sat nav. Very useful, brought us directly to a site recommended by our new Swiss friends. The facilities are good and we have a fabulous view of Mount Etna, clouds permitting. Walked around the town and Jan was open mouthed at the shops and Christmas fare on offer. I think I'm going to have difficulty preventing her from decorating the van, all the vans here are done up like Christmas trees, several English couples here, very unusual. They should have more sense!! Taormina tomorrow.
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Mon.12th.Dec.
Wow, good news and bad news. Had leisurely breakfast then went off in search of train times for our trip to Taormina. Train at 8.50am followed by one at 1.20pm. Time was 9am. No bus service suitable. Had to go back and tell Jan our trip was postponed, not a good idea as she had spent some time getting herself ready in nice dress and make up. The good news was the sun had come out and it was getting on for 70 already. Time for some laying in the sun. After a bit of a pout we agreed that the best plan was to move on to Giardini Naxos, down the coast tomorrow and visit Taormina from there. Spent the rest of the day laying in the sun, perfect. This evening we were determined to eat pizza cooked forno al legne. (in a wood fired oven) Presented ourselves at a Mexican pizzaria around 7.45 and ordered starters from Italian language menu. Got funghi dinamite, very spicy stuffed mushrooms and gambas flaming, which was exactly that, king prawn, on fire. Very exciting. Main course was seafood pizza and an Italian pizza. Very good, didn't think the wood fire made too much difference though. Excellent meal, washed down with couple of beers and some fizzy water. €36 was quite cheap for eating out in Italy. A day that started badly had finished with a flourish. Moving day tomorrow.
Wow, good news and bad news. Had leisurely breakfast then went off in search of train times for our trip to Taormina. Train at 8.50am followed by one at 1.20pm. Time was 9am. No bus service suitable. Had to go back and tell Jan our trip was postponed, not a good idea as she had spent some time getting herself ready in nice dress and make up. The good news was the sun had come out and it was getting on for 70 already. Time for some laying in the sun. After a bit of a pout we agreed that the best plan was to move on to Giardini Naxos, down the coast tomorrow and visit Taormina from there. Spent the rest of the day laying in the sun, perfect. This evening we were determined to eat pizza cooked forno al legne. (in a wood fired oven) Presented ourselves at a Mexican pizzaria around 7.45 and ordered starters from Italian language menu. Got funghi dinamite, very spicy stuffed mushrooms and gambas flaming, which was exactly that, king prawn, on fire. Very exciting. Main course was seafood pizza and an Italian pizza. Very good, didn't think the wood fire made too much difference though. Excellent meal, washed down with couple of beers and some fizzy water. €36 was quite cheap for eating out in Italy. A day that started badly had finished with a flourish. Moving day tomorrow.
Sunday, 11 December 2011
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Sun.11th.Dec.
Got Jan up at 7 to see sunrise. After being on west coast of mainland and watching sunsets for the last few weeks it made a change. Mainly grey day today but not cold. Took a walk this afternoon and found a circus. Saw an anteater, some pelicans and seals in pens on car park. Skyped Barb for over an hour and had steak for dinner. Delicious. Train to Taormina tomorrow.
Got Jan up at 7 to see sunrise. After being on west coast of mainland and watching sunsets for the last few weeks it made a change. Mainly grey day today but not cold. Took a walk this afternoon and found a circus. Saw an anteater, some pelicans and seals in pens on car park. Skyped Barb for over an hour and had steak for dinner. Delicious. Train to Taormina tomorrow.
Saturday, 10 December 2011
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Sat.10th.Dec.
Up bright and early, ready for next stage of the big adventure. Sicily!! Two Dutch couples who'd arrived yesterday are going to Sicily today as well, they've been before so we picked their brains. Nothing to it really, just turn up at the ferry, buy a ticket and get in the queue. As we left Palmi we saw the dustmen emptying bins so they're not on strike - shame, it would have been an acceptable explanation for the litter problem. Did some shopping on the way out of Palmi then hit the road for Villa San Giovanni, the port of departure for Messina. The A3 motorway clings to the side of towering cliffs hundreds of feet above the coast and the views are amazing. At least that's what Janet told me, I kept my eyes on the road for the most part, it's not much of a motorway. We arrived at the port and I was surrounded by men who wanted to help me buy my ticket - for a fee. Didn't need them, if you come this way, ignore them, they're a nuisance you can do without, not much better than beggars really. Talking of which, we saw a new dodge today, A girl stood by the ticket machine at the entrance to the toll road, took out the ticket as we approached, handed it to us and waved a cup at us expecting a donation. Got to admire their cheek. Anyway, got the ticket for the ferry, €80 return, didn't think that was too bad, valid 3 months. On board we bought a savoury doughnut filled with cheese, a cream cake and some coffee and settled down to enjoy the voyage, it only took about 25 minutes and we were in Sicily. Headed south out of Messina, not a nice place to drive, and hit the motorway. Arrived at Sta. Teresa di Riva and located campsite. Think we'll stay a few days, find our feet and prepare for the push south.
Up bright and early, ready for next stage of the big adventure. Sicily!! Two Dutch couples who'd arrived yesterday are going to Sicily today as well, they've been before so we picked their brains. Nothing to it really, just turn up at the ferry, buy a ticket and get in the queue. As we left Palmi we saw the dustmen emptying bins so they're not on strike - shame, it would have been an acceptable explanation for the litter problem. Did some shopping on the way out of Palmi then hit the road for Villa San Giovanni, the port of departure for Messina. The A3 motorway clings to the side of towering cliffs hundreds of feet above the coast and the views are amazing. At least that's what Janet told me, I kept my eyes on the road for the most part, it's not much of a motorway. We arrived at the port and I was surrounded by men who wanted to help me buy my ticket - for a fee. Didn't need them, if you come this way, ignore them, they're a nuisance you can do without, not much better than beggars really. Talking of which, we saw a new dodge today, A girl stood by the ticket machine at the entrance to the toll road, took out the ticket as we approached, handed it to us and waved a cup at us expecting a donation. Got to admire their cheek. Anyway, got the ticket for the ferry, €80 return, didn't think that was too bad, valid 3 months. On board we bought a savoury doughnut filled with cheese, a cream cake and some coffee and settled down to enjoy the voyage, it only took about 25 minutes and we were in Sicily. Headed south out of Messina, not a nice place to drive, and hit the motorway. Arrived at Sta. Teresa di Riva and located campsite. Think we'll stay a few days, find our feet and prepare for the push south.
Friday, 9 December 2011
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Fri.9th.Dec.
Good news! Woke up this morning, it wasn't raining, the washing on the line was dry and the washing from last night is drying. Rode our luck and put in another load. The sun came out and it was a lovely morning. We climbed down an overgrown path down the cliff face to the sea front to take a walk. We were sad to see that the Italian disease of scattering vast amounts of rubbish in picturesque seaside locations is alive and well here. There was litter everywhere, I can't describe how much, and small knots of local people lined the sea front chatting, socialising and totally ignoring the mess which was ankle deep around them. I find it difficult to believe that it could happen anywhere else. Perhaps the dustmen are on strike, it's the only logical explanation. I'd like to think so. I must enquire. We couldn't get back to the site quick enough, to think that in summer this place is full of holidaymakers, Italian and foreign, they must clean up their act around here then. We got the chairs out and found a puddle of sunshine fighting it's way through the trees and followed it around. It was warm and pleasant and we enjoyed it for about 3 hours. Got the washing dry, chilled out. Nice relaxing day, tomorrow Sicily. Watch this space.
Good news! Woke up this morning, it wasn't raining, the washing on the line was dry and the washing from last night is drying. Rode our luck and put in another load. The sun came out and it was a lovely morning. We climbed down an overgrown path down the cliff face to the sea front to take a walk. We were sad to see that the Italian disease of scattering vast amounts of rubbish in picturesque seaside locations is alive and well here. There was litter everywhere, I can't describe how much, and small knots of local people lined the sea front chatting, socialising and totally ignoring the mess which was ankle deep around them. I find it difficult to believe that it could happen anywhere else. Perhaps the dustmen are on strike, it's the only logical explanation. I'd like to think so. I must enquire. We couldn't get back to the site quick enough, to think that in summer this place is full of holidaymakers, Italian and foreign, they must clean up their act around here then. We got the chairs out and found a puddle of sunshine fighting it's way through the trees and followed it around. It was warm and pleasant and we enjoyed it for about 3 hours. Got the washing dry, chilled out. Nice relaxing day, tomorrow Sicily. Watch this space.
Thursday, 8 December 2011
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Thur.8th.Dec.
Woke up to pouring rain again. Shame, still, we're English, we can take it. Took the opportunity to change the beds. By the time we'd finished coffee it had dried up a little. Walked back up the steps to have a good look around Tropea in daylight. Very pretty yet it occurred to me that if we left our houses and flats in such a poor state of exterior decoration people would be horrified. Here it seems that it lends character to have paint flaking and render falling off the walls. Wish I could get away with it!! I just don't understand it and yet it works. We wandered the streets for a while and visited the cathedral. The plainest and most understated church of note we've seen in Italy. We decided we'd seen enough and headed for the van and departure for Palmi. Satnav woman was in good form, twice trying to take us under low bridges, fortunately we spotted them in time and turned around. I'm going to have to re-enter the van's dimensions and hopefully pre-empt any repeat. We had an interesting drive altogether. Satnav woman directed us off SS18 towards SP10, a minor road, heading towards the autostrada. After about a mile or so we encountered a sign saying road closed. I was contemplating an about turn when a local man stopped and indicated that it was safe to proceed. We did so and sure enough, although the road was broken up in places and cracked, presumably through subsidence it was passable with care. The scenery was stunning, rolling hills and valleys full of orange groves and olive trees. So glad we persevered. We cleared the barrier at the other end, sighed with relief and took off along a good road, for about half a mile, then another road closed sign!! Ignored that one too. No problem, road to ourselves, same gorgeous scenery. Another few miles and hit the autostrada. Quite a relief really. About 6 Ks before Palmi turn off, still on motorway satnav announced we had reached our destination, a camp site. This was quite obviously not the case and satnav woman was switched off in disgrace having used up her last chance. Followed directions in CC book and found site. Too many trees, no satellite signal, still, got electricity and washing machine. No tumble drier, put up line, hung washing out, it's just started raining. Another load of washing in machine. May be here some time.
Woke up to pouring rain again. Shame, still, we're English, we can take it. Took the opportunity to change the beds. By the time we'd finished coffee it had dried up a little. Walked back up the steps to have a good look around Tropea in daylight. Very pretty yet it occurred to me that if we left our houses and flats in such a poor state of exterior decoration people would be horrified. Here it seems that it lends character to have paint flaking and render falling off the walls. Wish I could get away with it!! I just don't understand it and yet it works. We wandered the streets for a while and visited the cathedral. The plainest and most understated church of note we've seen in Italy. We decided we'd seen enough and headed for the van and departure for Palmi. Satnav woman was in good form, twice trying to take us under low bridges, fortunately we spotted them in time and turned around. I'm going to have to re-enter the van's dimensions and hopefully pre-empt any repeat. We had an interesting drive altogether. Satnav woman directed us off SS18 towards SP10, a minor road, heading towards the autostrada. After about a mile or so we encountered a sign saying road closed. I was contemplating an about turn when a local man stopped and indicated that it was safe to proceed. We did so and sure enough, although the road was broken up in places and cracked, presumably through subsidence it was passable with care. The scenery was stunning, rolling hills and valleys full of orange groves and olive trees. So glad we persevered. We cleared the barrier at the other end, sighed with relief and took off along a good road, for about half a mile, then another road closed sign!! Ignored that one too. No problem, road to ourselves, same gorgeous scenery. Another few miles and hit the autostrada. Quite a relief really. About 6 Ks before Palmi turn off, still on motorway satnav announced we had reached our destination, a camp site. This was quite obviously not the case and satnav woman was switched off in disgrace having used up her last chance. Followed directions in CC book and found site. Too many trees, no satellite signal, still, got electricity and washing machine. No tumble drier, put up line, hung washing out, it's just started raining. Another load of washing in machine. May be here some time.
Wednesday, 7 December 2011
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Wed.7th.Dec.
Spent a reasonable night at the marina and slept well when the rain wasn't beating on the roof and the thunder wasn't thundering. Up bright and early, headed back for Pizzo. Found space to park in the street on the way out of town. Set off down a long staircase through narrow picturesque streets in the direction of the centre. The views were every bit as dramatic as we expected, the clouds closed in and the heavens opened. We sheltered in the doorway of a building under renovation and waited for the rain to stop. It stopped, unfortunately the water kept on running down the stairs like a river. We have video which we will post when we get hook up. Spent an hour exploring the town which was much like so many others, pretty but unremarkable. At 12.30 the moment could be postponed no longer. We sat outside an old fashioned gelateria, in bright warm sunshine and ordered two Tartufi, speciality of Pizzo, ice cream, one dark chocolate, the other white chocolate and shared them. Janet lapsed into the trance like state which befalls her when she gets something very special in her mouth!! A strong coffee to follow completed lunch. Jan is still not recovered. We left Pizzo after that, nothing was going to beat it. We are now in Tropea, parked in a free car park under the cliffs, by the beach with the town looming above us. Very pretty. Went up for a quick look and a beer tonight. Looking forward to closer inspection tomorrow.
Spent a reasonable night at the marina and slept well when the rain wasn't beating on the roof and the thunder wasn't thundering. Up bright and early, headed back for Pizzo. Found space to park in the street on the way out of town. Set off down a long staircase through narrow picturesque streets in the direction of the centre. The views were every bit as dramatic as we expected, the clouds closed in and the heavens opened. We sheltered in the doorway of a building under renovation and waited for the rain to stop. It stopped, unfortunately the water kept on running down the stairs like a river. We have video which we will post when we get hook up. Spent an hour exploring the town which was much like so many others, pretty but unremarkable. At 12.30 the moment could be postponed no longer. We sat outside an old fashioned gelateria, in bright warm sunshine and ordered two Tartufi, speciality of Pizzo, ice cream, one dark chocolate, the other white chocolate and shared them. Janet lapsed into the trance like state which befalls her when she gets something very special in her mouth!! A strong coffee to follow completed lunch. Jan is still not recovered. We left Pizzo after that, nothing was going to beat it. We are now in Tropea, parked in a free car park under the cliffs, by the beach with the town looming above us. Very pretty. Went up for a quick look and a beer tonight. Looking forward to closer inspection tomorrow.
Tuesday, 6 December 2011
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Tues.6th.Dec.
Finally dragged ourselves away from the comfort and security of Diamante today. Drove down the coast road, the SS18 with the intention of finding somewhere in Pizzo to spend the night. The scenery was dramatic, on the right side a wild sea spraying salt across the road and on the left farmland rolling up to mountains shrouded in grey, almost black stormclouds. The wind and rain made it a less than comfortable drive. We shopped at a large Spa supermarket shortly after leaving Diamante and to our annoyance found a Lidls, 50Ks down the road. Familiar cereals and crispbread at last. Not to mention €5 bottles of whisky!! Stocked up on essentials. Arrived in Pizzo around 3pm and found nowhere to stay. Had to go on to Vibo Valentia where we are parked in the marina. Very pleasant, must get to Pizzo tomorrow though, special Gelato town. Jan can't miss it. Full report tomorrow.
Finally dragged ourselves away from the comfort and security of Diamante today. Drove down the coast road, the SS18 with the intention of finding somewhere in Pizzo to spend the night. The scenery was dramatic, on the right side a wild sea spraying salt across the road and on the left farmland rolling up to mountains shrouded in grey, almost black stormclouds. The wind and rain made it a less than comfortable drive. We shopped at a large Spa supermarket shortly after leaving Diamante and to our annoyance found a Lidls, 50Ks down the road. Familiar cereals and crispbread at last. Not to mention €5 bottles of whisky!! Stocked up on essentials. Arrived in Pizzo around 3pm and found nowhere to stay. Had to go on to Vibo Valentia where we are parked in the marina. Very pleasant, must get to Pizzo tomorrow though, special Gelato town. Jan can't miss it. Full report tomorrow.
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Mon.5th.Dec.
Lots more rain overnight and this morning it is very windy. Not a good day to be driving so we stayed put. I went to top up the dongle so we don't lose our internet connection and we needed some shopping. Jan walked a little way with me then decided to go back to the van in case it got swept away by the sea. The sea was very wild and turbulent and Jan was worried that it was going to come up over the beach and on to the site. When I got back from the shops we were still OK. Had a walk after lunch, the sea really was quite dramatic. Around 7pm there was a knock on the door and a local man wanted to warn us that there was a possibility of a high tide and we should move back from the front row. OK we moved, there were six vans and we all moved back, it was a wild night but I don't think the sea ever threatened the front row of pitches. Still, we are now more or less packed away and ready to move on tomorrow. Spaghetti bol for dinner.
Lots more rain overnight and this morning it is very windy. Not a good day to be driving so we stayed put. I went to top up the dongle so we don't lose our internet connection and we needed some shopping. Jan walked a little way with me then decided to go back to the van in case it got swept away by the sea. The sea was very wild and turbulent and Jan was worried that it was going to come up over the beach and on to the site. When I got back from the shops we were still OK. Had a walk after lunch, the sea really was quite dramatic. Around 7pm there was a knock on the door and a local man wanted to warn us that there was a possibility of a high tide and we should move back from the front row. OK we moved, there were six vans and we all moved back, it was a wild night but I don't think the sea ever threatened the front row of pitches. Still, we are now more or less packed away and ready to move on tomorrow. Spaghetti bol for dinner.
Sunday, 4 December 2011
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Sun.4th.Dec.
After a wild stormy night things settled down a little in the morning. I was delighted that despite rain that would make your head bleed, my repair to a leaking window had held good. We walked up to town and bought a couple of bits in the supermarket and some bread for our German friends next door who had lent us some sealer to fix the window leak. We decided that rather than head south we would stay here with the comforts of electricity and such until the weather improves. For an hour or so we even managed to sit outside but by mid afternoon the weather was turning bad again, squally showers. We adjourned indoors and skyped with Anthony and Louise and later with Barb. More bad weather forecast for tomorrow.
After a wild stormy night things settled down a little in the morning. I was delighted that despite rain that would make your head bleed, my repair to a leaking window had held good. We walked up to town and bought a couple of bits in the supermarket and some bread for our German friends next door who had lent us some sealer to fix the window leak. We decided that rather than head south we would stay here with the comforts of electricity and such until the weather improves. For an hour or so we even managed to sit outside but by mid afternoon the weather was turning bad again, squally showers. We adjourned indoors and skyped with Anthony and Louise and later with Barb. More bad weather forecast for tomorrow.
Saturday, 3 December 2011
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Sat.3rd.Dec.
Went to the market today, bought fresh figs, Jan loves fresh figs, grapes, socks and fish. It rained this afternoon, definitely time to head south. Skyped with Julie and family, Hannah's birthday today. Christmas films on CBS Drama. Nightmare. Still, it will all be over in a few weeks.
Went to the market today, bought fresh figs, Jan loves fresh figs, grapes, socks and fish. It rained this afternoon, definitely time to head south. Skyped with Julie and family, Hannah's birthday today. Christmas films on CBS Drama. Nightmare. Still, it will all be over in a few weeks.
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Fri.2nd.Dec.
Took a walk into Diamante this morning, nothing special really. A small town with narrow streets and a harbour. Weather was warm, came home, made coffee, sat in the sunshine. Another walk in the afternoon, pretty dull sort of a day really. Were looking forward to bufala sausages and steak on the barbecue for dinner. Sausages were dreadful, the steak overcooked. An unusual occurrance, a disappointing dinner. Not to worry, tomorrow will be better. Bit concerned about the clouds which gathered in the afternoon, not used to seeing those. Weather forecast not good. May have to head south.
Took a walk into Diamante this morning, nothing special really. A small town with narrow streets and a harbour. Weather was warm, came home, made coffee, sat in the sunshine. Another walk in the afternoon, pretty dull sort of a day really. Were looking forward to bufala sausages and steak on the barbecue for dinner. Sausages were dreadful, the steak overcooked. An unusual occurrance, a disappointing dinner. Not to worry, tomorrow will be better. Bit concerned about the clouds which gathered in the afternoon, not used to seeing those. Weather forecast not good. May have to head south.
Thursday, 1 December 2011
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Thurs.1st.Dec.
Just drove about 10Ks today to Diamonte, to a sosta which has been recommended by just about everyone we've met in the last 3 months. It's right on the beach, and a perfect spot, all the facilities and €8 per night. Jan looks like she's won first prize in a lottery. We watched yet another perfect sunset tonight. I think we'll stay a few days. It's a good spot to get the bus to places we want to visit. Problem is that the weather is still so warm that we're tempted just to lay in the sun. Every day is good, it's just that some are better that others. We feel very privileged.
Just drove about 10Ks today to Diamonte, to a sosta which has been recommended by just about everyone we've met in the last 3 months. It's right on the beach, and a perfect spot, all the facilities and €8 per night. Jan looks like she's won first prize in a lottery. We watched yet another perfect sunset tonight. I think we'll stay a few days. It's a good spot to get the bus to places we want to visit. Problem is that the weather is still so warm that we're tempted just to lay in the sun. Every day is good, it's just that some are better that others. We feel very privileged.
Kevnjan's Big Adventure
Wed.30th.Nov.
Well, you know how it is!! There you are, in the sunshine, driving along one of the worlds most beautiful roads, the SS18 along the west coast of Southern Italy, the sparkling Mediterranean, hundreds of feet below you on one side and impossibly tall cliffs towering above you on the other. What makes it more special is that you're driving a 26' long van and the road was definitely built for cars - or bikes!! Suddenly, just after a village called Aqua Freddo, (cold water) a man stops you and informs you that there is a landslide ahead and you have to turn back!! Bad news, all the nasty bits of road you thought were behind you now have to be gone over the other way, that's after you've found somewhere to turn around. Such is the life of the Italian adventurer - never a dull moment. Turned around, looked at the maps and found an alternative route. I have to say we saw some fabulous scenery driving over mountains and through wild valleys. It took us about 50Ks out of our way but the roads were good and very quiet. I think the locals go into hibernation at this time of the year. That is the one great advantage of exploring in the van, in the winter, very little traffic. I imagine it would be hell in summer. Eventually we found a deserted campsite, just south of Scalea and for €10 parked next to the beach, had electricity and facilities of a sort, though pretty basic. Watched another magical sunset, had a glass of wine and settled down for some TV and reflection on another interesting day!!
Well, you know how it is!! There you are, in the sunshine, driving along one of the worlds most beautiful roads, the SS18 along the west coast of Southern Italy, the sparkling Mediterranean, hundreds of feet below you on one side and impossibly tall cliffs towering above you on the other. What makes it more special is that you're driving a 26' long van and the road was definitely built for cars - or bikes!! Suddenly, just after a village called Aqua Freddo, (cold water) a man stops you and informs you that there is a landslide ahead and you have to turn back!! Bad news, all the nasty bits of road you thought were behind you now have to be gone over the other way, that's after you've found somewhere to turn around. Such is the life of the Italian adventurer - never a dull moment. Turned around, looked at the maps and found an alternative route. I have to say we saw some fabulous scenery driving over mountains and through wild valleys. It took us about 50Ks out of our way but the roads were good and very quiet. I think the locals go into hibernation at this time of the year. That is the one great advantage of exploring in the van, in the winter, very little traffic. I imagine it would be hell in summer. Eventually we found a deserted campsite, just south of Scalea and for €10 parked next to the beach, had electricity and facilities of a sort, though pretty basic. Watched another magical sunset, had a glass of wine and settled down for some TV and reflection on another interesting day!!
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