June 28th. The Taj Mahal at 6am, a wonderful sight. The Taj Mahal itself was smaller that I thought it would be, but a very peaceful experience. The biggest hustle was to get a photo on the Princess Diana seat - I managed to get one.
Then we then faced a journey to Lucknow. After taking a wrong turning we found our way on the road to Varanasi so we carried on and are here for 3 nights. It was a long and tiring drive from Agra involving a 2 hour wait on the highway for an accident to be cleared following monsoon rains. We left Agra at 9am and arrived at 2.30 am!!! We explore Varanasi today and tomorrow.
We have played a naughty game to pass away the time on the bus, counting the number of people we see peeing in the street, we had quite a number after 18 hours!!
We go to the Ganges tonight to view the funeral pyres and then to the various religious ceremonies that go on.
Hot and sticky here, and it is great to have Anthony back from hospital, he flew here from Delhi yesterday looking very thin.
Speak soon.
Sunday, 29 June 2008
Friday, 27 June 2008
India
The highlights and lowlights of the first week in India has been the great contrast between the countryside and hills and the filth and pollution of the cities. We have also faced a lot of illness with another two of us being admitted to hospital in Delhi with the dreaded Delhi belly!!
The Golden Temple in Amritsar (22nd) was another breathtaking stop where we saw the kitchens and food production machine in full swing. The Temple produces 15,000 free meals every day!! People also go there to pray of course!
During all this time my stomach was letting me down and I needed to ensure toilets were nearby!!! Indeed for the whole week.
Then to the black hole of Delhi (23rd). I can’t believe how many people go to the toilet in the streets in India (number ones and two's).
I was relieved to get to the Tiger Reserve at Corbett in the north on the 24th. I booked two safaris and saw loads of monkeys, water buffalo and elephants, but NO tigers (saw footprints though). We think the guides must have put them in before we drove off.
The camp was great with some really big rats being spotted, one in a bedroom. I also cornered a massive spider and fought with it. I eventually won the fight and a friend caught it and put it outside to fight another day. Breakfast at camp was also good, baked beans!!
Coming back to Delhi (26th) was not something I looked forward to. I prefer the tranquil side of India but people are still friendly everywhere. Last night I shared an 8 hour taxi tour which was a nightmare. We managed to get fined for parking - we had to pay the fine. And everywhere we wanted to go we were told "It is closed" or "There is no parking there'. We decided to come home early and complain about our hotels instead. Hotels have been a real mixed bunch of experiences. We expected better in India but have not got a good deal. Dirty rooms, bed linen, towels, and squashed insects and geckos on the floors - does this build character?
Another highlight this week that I only just remembered was when a colleague decided he would empathise with the locals and also have a pee in the street. He also thought he could have his own back by then shaking hands with the locals without washing his hands. Good man!!
Today we travel to Agra and visit the Taj Mahal tomorrow morning. I hope the hotel is good!
I finish now by saying "Thank God for rehydration salts and Imodium".
Best wishes to all.
The Golden Temple in Amritsar (22nd) was another breathtaking stop where we saw the kitchens and food production machine in full swing. The Temple produces 15,000 free meals every day!! People also go there to pray of course!
During all this time my stomach was letting me down and I needed to ensure toilets were nearby!!! Indeed for the whole week.
Then to the black hole of Delhi (23rd). I can’t believe how many people go to the toilet in the streets in India (number ones and two's).
I was relieved to get to the Tiger Reserve at Corbett in the north on the 24th. I booked two safaris and saw loads of monkeys, water buffalo and elephants, but NO tigers (saw footprints though). We think the guides must have put them in before we drove off.
The camp was great with some really big rats being spotted, one in a bedroom. I also cornered a massive spider and fought with it. I eventually won the fight and a friend caught it and put it outside to fight another day. Breakfast at camp was also good, baked beans!!
Coming back to Delhi (26th) was not something I looked forward to. I prefer the tranquil side of India but people are still friendly everywhere. Last night I shared an 8 hour taxi tour which was a nightmare. We managed to get fined for parking - we had to pay the fine. And everywhere we wanted to go we were told "It is closed" or "There is no parking there'. We decided to come home early and complain about our hotels instead. Hotels have been a real mixed bunch of experiences. We expected better in India but have not got a good deal. Dirty rooms, bed linen, towels, and squashed insects and geckos on the floors - does this build character?
Another highlight this week that I only just remembered was when a colleague decided he would empathise with the locals and also have a pee in the street. He also thought he could have his own back by then shaking hands with the locals without washing his hands. Good man!!
Today we travel to Agra and visit the Taj Mahal tomorrow morning. I hope the hotel is good!
I finish now by saying "Thank God for rehydration salts and Imodium".
Best wishes to all.
Tuesday, 24 June 2008
Lahore & the border closing ceremony
We travelled to Lahore yesterday (20th) and saw the Gadaffi Cricket Stadium where Pakistan play cricket (a religion here). I was ill on the bus, had the runs and was sick. TERRIBLE!! I went straight to bed and only surfaced today at 4:30.
Our last night in Pakistan was a real treat. I was well enough to go to the Wagha border crossing to see the ceremonial closing of the gates between India and Pakistan. A lot of shouting and singing from both sides and the soldiers all dressed up in dress uniform. It was a great laugh to see grown men in costume pull faces, stamp their feet at each other, flashing their guns, the whites of their teeth and also saluting! We were cheering for Pakistan as we were given places of honour on the Pakistan side. It was an amazing experience. On the way home loads of people asking us about what we think of Pakistan and who performed the best at the crossing.
Our last night in Pakistan was a real treat. I was well enough to go to the Wagha border crossing to see the ceremonial closing of the gates between India and Pakistan. A lot of shouting and singing from both sides and the soldiers all dressed up in dress uniform. It was a great laugh to see grown men in costume pull faces, stamp their feet at each other, flashing their guns, the whites of their teeth and also saluting! We were cheering for Pakistan as we were given places of honour on the Pakistan side. It was an amazing experience. On the way home loads of people asking us about what we think of Pakistan and who performed the best at the crossing.
Monday, 23 June 2008
Equipment, camping and passing the time
Responses to some questions I have received:
Most of the equipment I brought was spot on but too many clothes - 2 pairs of trousers, some flip flops and 2 shirts would have been fine. Just wash and wear. I did bring 2 novels which I have not started to read as I want to see the world go by (I have now lost the books as they were too heavy to carry). I also made a mistake buying a new tent as after Europe we don’t need our own tents and have been encouraged to give them away to anyone who needs them - Australia will be our next camping site and we use pre erected tents there.
The camping went well but we often arrived late at the campsites and were in a hurry to put the tent up before dark. The campsites have all been okay, but there was sometimes a shortage of proper toilets. People out here seem to prefer the hole in the floor type of loo and it takes a bit of practice especially when caught with stomach cramps and the Delhi Belly!
In camp we have usually catered for ourselves and I have been busy on the cooking team. Plenty of pasta and rice dishes have been the order of the day and we even endured an evening meal of mash and hot dog sausages!! Yuck, but tasty given we were really hungry.
Some of the journeys through Iran and Pakistan have been long and tiring. The longest being 18 hours to cross the border to Pakistan. We have played ‘Guess the famous person’, Battleships, done crosswords, quizwords and even ‘I Spy’ which was very difficult when looking out at Pakistani desert for over 12 hours.
We also stopped at a village in the middle of the desert at the end of a sand storm. We had drinks and discovered we were standing in the local mosque which was a few bricks and stones forming an outline on the floor. The locals were very forgiving. It was also strange being in the village in the dark, so quiet and hearing voices in the distance talking away.
The group have known about me being a vicar since the first week of the journey and I have had several interesting conversations. Covering subjects like homosexuality, spirituality, guilt, the trinity, the Catholic Church and church’s wealth. People really do want to talk about these and many other issues. I have found the conversations with lapsed Catholics and some of the Muslims especially rewarding. Today (19th), talked to our local guide about faith, he was quite gened up about things and I felt he was very defensive of Islam. Okay by me as I defended my faith too.
Most of the equipment I brought was spot on but too many clothes - 2 pairs of trousers, some flip flops and 2 shirts would have been fine. Just wash and wear. I did bring 2 novels which I have not started to read as I want to see the world go by (I have now lost the books as they were too heavy to carry). I also made a mistake buying a new tent as after Europe we don’t need our own tents and have been encouraged to give them away to anyone who needs them - Australia will be our next camping site and we use pre erected tents there.
The camping went well but we often arrived late at the campsites and were in a hurry to put the tent up before dark. The campsites have all been okay, but there was sometimes a shortage of proper toilets. People out here seem to prefer the hole in the floor type of loo and it takes a bit of practice especially when caught with stomach cramps and the Delhi Belly!
In camp we have usually catered for ourselves and I have been busy on the cooking team. Plenty of pasta and rice dishes have been the order of the day and we even endured an evening meal of mash and hot dog sausages!! Yuck, but tasty given we were really hungry.
Some of the journeys through Iran and Pakistan have been long and tiring. The longest being 18 hours to cross the border to Pakistan. We have played ‘Guess the famous person’, Battleships, done crosswords, quizwords and even ‘I Spy’ which was very difficult when looking out at Pakistani desert for over 12 hours.
We also stopped at a village in the middle of the desert at the end of a sand storm. We had drinks and discovered we were standing in the local mosque which was a few bricks and stones forming an outline on the floor. The locals were very forgiving. It was also strange being in the village in the dark, so quiet and hearing voices in the distance talking away.
The group have known about me being a vicar since the first week of the journey and I have had several interesting conversations. Covering subjects like homosexuality, spirituality, guilt, the trinity, the Catholic Church and church’s wealth. People really do want to talk about these and many other issues. I have found the conversations with lapsed Catholics and some of the Muslims especially rewarding. Today (19th), talked to our local guide about faith, he was quite gened up about things and I felt he was very defensive of Islam. Okay by me as I defended my faith too.
Friday, 20 June 2008
Iran, police escorts, and delightful Pakistan
Forgot to mention that in Yazd we visited a mosque and we were fascinated by the Zoroastrian Fire Temple which has a fire that has been burning for over 1500 years! In Kerman discovered an Anglican church (St. Andrews) which has now closed down and people did not want us to visit, but we managed to get some photos!
Due to the threat of the Taliban, we have had a heavy armed escort since Kerman. Travelled on the 14th to the ancient Citadel of Bam where 15,000 people died a few years age in a huge earth quake. The Citadel is now being rebuilt, a stark reminder of how the world we live in is so fragile.
Then on the 15th to Zahedan. On the 16th over the border into Pakistan and miles of desert road to Quetta. This was an 18 hour journey and does not include the 2 hour crossing of the Iran/Pakistan border. We had mangoes in Quetta, and the highlight of having a tuk-tuk ride home from a restaurant.
A long hot journey to Sukkur on the 18th where we went on a trip around the city on horse pulled rickshaws. Poor horses, with limps and so badly treated. But we were welcomed like royalty. We went to a Hindu Temple in the middle of the Indus River and people went wild with such a welcome for us. The Hindus are a minority group here and treated as outcasts, so for us to visit was a great honour to them. The Priest later phoned our guide to apologise for the children’s behaviour! Oh yes, last night at Sukkur the local TV station turned up.
Today, 19th June, we arrived in Multan in the Punjab with dancers and drums playing for us. We had 40 Elite Police of the Punjab escort us and they are now outside the hotel with guns at the ready. Tonight we visited a local mosque and met loads of people all wanting to shake hands and have their photos taken. I met 3 lads on the way home and they asked if I was a Christian and they told me they were also Christians. I was amazed! I was also asked what my job was tonight at the local mosque. After I told the questioner, his reply was "But are you a Muslim?" I think he realised his mistake and smiled later asking for a photograph.
Pakistan has insulted all the senses, the colour and smell and the poverty. Everything is all so much but the welcome has been amazing. We also get frequent power cuts so things are still a bit difficult.
Life is busy and the world full of amazing and kind people!!
Love to all.
Due to the threat of the Taliban, we have had a heavy armed escort since Kerman. Travelled on the 14th to the ancient Citadel of Bam where 15,000 people died a few years age in a huge earth quake. The Citadel is now being rebuilt, a stark reminder of how the world we live in is so fragile.
Then on the 15th to Zahedan. On the 16th over the border into Pakistan and miles of desert road to Quetta. This was an 18 hour journey and does not include the 2 hour crossing of the Iran/Pakistan border. We had mangoes in Quetta, and the highlight of having a tuk-tuk ride home from a restaurant.
A long hot journey to Sukkur on the 18th where we went on a trip around the city on horse pulled rickshaws. Poor horses, with limps and so badly treated. But we were welcomed like royalty. We went to a Hindu Temple in the middle of the Indus River and people went wild with such a welcome for us. The Hindus are a minority group here and treated as outcasts, so for us to visit was a great honour to them. The Priest later phoned our guide to apologise for the children’s behaviour! Oh yes, last night at Sukkur the local TV station turned up.
Today, 19th June, we arrived in Multan in the Punjab with dancers and drums playing for us. We had 40 Elite Police of the Punjab escort us and they are now outside the hotel with guns at the ready. Tonight we visited a local mosque and met loads of people all wanting to shake hands and have their photos taken. I met 3 lads on the way home and they asked if I was a Christian and they told me they were also Christians. I was amazed! I was also asked what my job was tonight at the local mosque. After I told the questioner, his reply was "But are you a Muslim?" I think he realised his mistake and smiled later asking for a photograph.
Pakistan has insulted all the senses, the colour and smell and the poverty. Everything is all so much but the welcome has been amazing. We also get frequent power cuts so things are still a bit difficult.
Life is busy and the world full of amazing and kind people!!
Love to all.
Tuesday, 17 June 2008
Central Iran
Today (Friday 13th) we have had a long journey to Kerman in central Iran and the temperature is hot, hot, hot!
The past few days have been eventful. On Tuesday (10th June) we spent hours at the Pakistan embassy in Tehran trying to sort out our visas. Wednesday to Esfahan where we visited the Blue Mosque (Imam Mosque) which was stunning, and the Lady Mosque (Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque), reputedly the most beautiful mosque in the world. Thursday saw one of our number taken to hospital with a broken arm after a nasty fall on one of the bridges in Esfahan. She is being well looked after and will be going home after an operation today (Friday). Hopefully she will rejoin us on the journey.
Thursday we also went to Yazd and the bus flew over a speed bump while looking for a petrol stop, we really did fly! Once the bus was checked we found petrol and managed to fill up with 247.6 litres at 165 Rials a litre. The total being 40,854 Rials. Sounds a lot but in sterling only just under two pounds fifty! How's that for value?
My toe is also doing well, and we have decided that there is a problem period for us between 12 noon on a Wednesday and 12 noon on a Thursday as all our accidents have happened between those hours! Two lost toe nails (including mine), a nasty cut finger and now a broken arm. So far we have managed one hospital visit a week, one in Bulgaria, two in Turkey and one in Iran.
The past few days have been eventful. On Tuesday (10th June) we spent hours at the Pakistan embassy in Tehran trying to sort out our visas. Wednesday to Esfahan where we visited the Blue Mosque (Imam Mosque) which was stunning, and the Lady Mosque (Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque), reputedly the most beautiful mosque in the world. Thursday saw one of our number taken to hospital with a broken arm after a nasty fall on one of the bridges in Esfahan. She is being well looked after and will be going home after an operation today (Friday). Hopefully she will rejoin us on the journey.
Thursday we also went to Yazd and the bus flew over a speed bump while looking for a petrol stop, we really did fly! Once the bus was checked we found petrol and managed to fill up with 247.6 litres at 165 Rials a litre. The total being 40,854 Rials. Sounds a lot but in sterling only just under two pounds fifty! How's that for value?
My toe is also doing well, and we have decided that there is a problem period for us between 12 noon on a Wednesday and 12 noon on a Thursday as all our accidents have happened between those hours! Two lost toe nails (including mine), a nasty cut finger and now a broken arm. So far we have managed one hospital visit a week, one in Bulgaria, two in Turkey and one in Iran.
Sunday, 15 June 2008
Mishaps and hospitality
In Bulgaria our Irish friend Darren managed to knock off the toenail on his left large toe, a trip to the hospital for him!
In the Turkish Baths in Göreme our French friend Claire fainted in the heat and needed a taxi home.
On the way to Sivas our bus developed a problem with the suspension and needed a garage stop which delayed our progress and the search for a camping site.
During one stop our eldest traveller Cliff (who I think is 69) fainted, I think he enjoyed the attention of the ladies and he needed a quick visit to the hospital.
And Claire (again) managed to sink into the mud at a hot spring. Sinking to her knees in just two seconds she had to say au revoir to her flip flops.
On my wedding anniversary I managed to copy Darren's accident of a week before and caught my large left toe on a tent peg ripping the toenail! En Route to Erzurum we discovered an out of the way hospital and the following happened.
"Stop the bus quickly there is a hospital", so the bus pulls up to a garage opposite. Viv, the tour guide, and I walk to the hospital. When greeted by the receptionist I point to my toe. I’m shown in to a clean new room where the nurse cuts off the bandage (no English). A doctor looks in, a second doctor looks in, a third and a fourth.
Eventually a pretty lady doctor comes in who speaks a little English, the toenail needs to come off!! Doctor one places my foot over a bin half filled with old dressings and blood, and pours on iodine. Then the only bit of Turkish I understood for the whole visit, I just knew that Doctor one said to Doctor two "Distract him for a minute". Needles go in and the nail is pulled off.
By this time we have been joined by two local coppers who want to know what the bus is doing at the garage opposite. They look on and smile, by now the room is full of people looking on at my pain and smiling.
I am told to dress the wound daily and take antibiotics! Where do we get dressings and antibiotics from? Two minutes later our lady doctor appears with dressings and tablets. I am then ordered a porter who takes me in a chair to the police car outside. The police were then told to drive me to the bus, which they did! The bus is now surrounded by locals asking questions and laughing.
Our lady doctor then explains she was finishing at that hospital and was only there to say goodbye to friends. What a miracle! She then discovers that our hotel in Erzurum was opposite her home. She then gets a lift for herself and family to town showing us the way.
All this was done for FREE as well, no questions asked. Thank you to all at the hospital and the people Turkey.
In the Turkish Baths in Göreme our French friend Claire fainted in the heat and needed a taxi home.
On the way to Sivas our bus developed a problem with the suspension and needed a garage stop which delayed our progress and the search for a camping site.
During one stop our eldest traveller Cliff (who I think is 69) fainted, I think he enjoyed the attention of the ladies and he needed a quick visit to the hospital.
And Claire (again) managed to sink into the mud at a hot spring. Sinking to her knees in just two seconds she had to say au revoir to her flip flops.
On my wedding anniversary I managed to copy Darren's accident of a week before and caught my large left toe on a tent peg ripping the toenail! En Route to Erzurum we discovered an out of the way hospital and the following happened.
"Stop the bus quickly there is a hospital", so the bus pulls up to a garage opposite. Viv, the tour guide, and I walk to the hospital. When greeted by the receptionist I point to my toe. I’m shown in to a clean new room where the nurse cuts off the bandage (no English). A doctor looks in, a second doctor looks in, a third and a fourth.
Eventually a pretty lady doctor comes in who speaks a little English, the toenail needs to come off!! Doctor one places my foot over a bin half filled with old dressings and blood, and pours on iodine. Then the only bit of Turkish I understood for the whole visit, I just knew that Doctor one said to Doctor two "Distract him for a minute". Needles go in and the nail is pulled off.
By this time we have been joined by two local coppers who want to know what the bus is doing at the garage opposite. They look on and smile, by now the room is full of people looking on at my pain and smiling.
I am told to dress the wound daily and take antibiotics! Where do we get dressings and antibiotics from? Two minutes later our lady doctor appears with dressings and tablets. I am then ordered a porter who takes me in a chair to the police car outside. The police were then told to drive me to the bus, which they did! The bus is now surrounded by locals asking questions and laughing.
Our lady doctor then explains she was finishing at that hospital and was only there to say goodbye to friends. What a miracle! She then discovers that our hotel in Erzurum was opposite her home. She then gets a lift for herself and family to town showing us the way.
All this was done for FREE as well, no questions asked. Thank you to all at the hospital and the people Turkey.
Turkey to Iran
Göreme - amazing underground cities and churches cut in to the hills to explore! We camped here for 3 nights, then on to Sivas (4th June) and camping next to a huge lake. A really cold night here and I managed to have an accident that meant a visit to a Turkish hospital.
5th June, our Wedding Anniversary - love to Jan. Travelled to Erzurum and stayed one night in a small hotel in the centre of town. Then we set off for the famous Doğubeyazıt (also know as doggy biscuit) in the shadow of Mount Ararat, famous as the resting place of Noah's Ark. I stayed in a cabin as I couldn't be bothered with camping after such a long trip.
Saturday 7th June off to Iran, a long border crossing and on to Tabriz with our Iranian guides aboard. Next day to Zanjan where we spend the evening partying with the local people! Now in the capital, Tehran, where I now sit typing my blog after a long journey and a few hours at the British Embassy getting a letter for my visa for Pakistan.
Coming through Turkey and Iran has brought in to contact with literally hundreds of people. Some have described themselves as Turkish or Kurdish or Iranian or Sunni or Shia or Christian. Many have gone out of their way to help us when we are lost - yes, the Oz Bus does get lost nearly every day. No matter what, people have shown us courtesy and kindness. They have laughed with us and stared at us, they have offered us food and drink and time to talk, they have wanted to speak, listen and practice their English skills.
A great example of this was just last night in the Iranian town of Zanjan. We went to a local fairground at 8pm after a meal. We go on a Swinging Boat and the ladies opposite us, all dressed in black veils, copy us when we start to put our hands in the air. We all start to laugh. This continues throughout the ride and we are followed to the Big Wheel and then the Swan shaped paddle boats. We laugh and laugh together. The locals take pictures and Darren shows the luck of the Irish by winning on a Wheel of Fortune. We are stopped and photographed and a great time was had. We even managed to share our candy floss with a little girl! A highlight of the trip for sure.
5th June, our Wedding Anniversary - love to Jan. Travelled to Erzurum and stayed one night in a small hotel in the centre of town. Then we set off for the famous Doğubeyazıt (also know as doggy biscuit) in the shadow of Mount Ararat, famous as the resting place of Noah's Ark. I stayed in a cabin as I couldn't be bothered with camping after such a long trip.
Saturday 7th June off to Iran, a long border crossing and on to Tabriz with our Iranian guides aboard. Next day to Zanjan where we spend the evening partying with the local people! Now in the capital, Tehran, where I now sit typing my blog after a long journey and a few hours at the British Embassy getting a letter for my visa for Pakistan.
Coming through Turkey and Iran has brought in to contact with literally hundreds of people. Some have described themselves as Turkish or Kurdish or Iranian or Sunni or Shia or Christian. Many have gone out of their way to help us when we are lost - yes, the Oz Bus does get lost nearly every day. No matter what, people have shown us courtesy and kindness. They have laughed with us and stared at us, they have offered us food and drink and time to talk, they have wanted to speak, listen and practice their English skills.
A great example of this was just last night in the Iranian town of Zanjan. We went to a local fairground at 8pm after a meal. We go on a Swinging Boat and the ladies opposite us, all dressed in black veils, copy us when we start to put our hands in the air. We all start to laugh. This continues throughout the ride and we are followed to the Big Wheel and then the Swan shaped paddle boats. We laugh and laugh together. The locals take pictures and Darren shows the luck of the Irish by winning on a Wheel of Fortune. We are stopped and photographed and a great time was had. We even managed to share our candy floss with a little girl! A highlight of the trip for sure.
Friday, 6 June 2008
Companions
An interesting group of people from gap year students to those out to discover a new life. Jane D. says ‘my journey is one of reflection and development’. Others are on their way back home to Aussie after travelling the world. There are two groups, the young ones partying all night, and the middle aged (me) and older ones. There are a number of couples including one couple from Hong Kong who leave us at Bali to go to the Olympic Games in Hong Kong.
As we travel from country to country we need small amounts of money so a few people have been withdrawing money and sharing for drinks etc. This avoids us all getting money from the ATM. It is great to see the travellers help each other.
Tomorrow (Sunday 1st June) we go to Göreme a town in Cappadocia central Turkey, a trip of 11 hours! But it is supposed to be an outstanding place to visit, and hot air ballooning on Monday.
As we travel from country to country we need small amounts of money so a few people have been withdrawing money and sharing for drinks etc. This avoids us all getting money from the ATM. It is great to see the travellers help each other.
Tomorrow (Sunday 1st June) we go to Göreme a town in Cappadocia central Turkey, a trip of 11 hours! But it is supposed to be an outstanding place to visit, and hot air ballooning on Monday.
From Romania to Bulgaria
Earlier today (28th May) we left Bucharest in Romania after visiting the presidential palace where the dictator Ceauşescu made his last infamous speech and was eventually overthrown. We had spent the night camping and the youngsters managed to play music until about 2.00am, which I actually slept through for the most part. There were a few complaints this morning though!
We then travelled through the stunning countryside of Romania and Bulgaria to the central city of Kazanlak. I would strongly recommend anyone to come and visit these lands before they become too developed. There are the old soviet style housing blocks and the ancient ways of living trying to compete with societies breaking into the 21st century.
We have now seen a great change from western to eastern cultures and tomorrow will be even more fascinating as we head for the Turkish border and to Istanbul, it will be a long drive. But tonight we have the luxury of sleeping in a superb hotel, hot showers and large beds! Here’s to a good nights sleep.
We then travelled through the stunning countryside of Romania and Bulgaria to the central city of Kazanlak. I would strongly recommend anyone to come and visit these lands before they become too developed. There are the old soviet style housing blocks and the ancient ways of living trying to compete with societies breaking into the 21st century.
We have now seen a great change from western to eastern cultures and tomorrow will be even more fascinating as we head for the Turkish border and to Istanbul, it will be a long drive. But tonight we have the luxury of sleeping in a superb hotel, hot showers and large beds! Here’s to a good nights sleep.
Tuesday, 27 May 2008
Hello from Eastern Europe
Since the last post we have been to Budapest in Hungary, which was quite an experience!! We were given loads of instructions about personal safety, yet one of our tents was slashed whilst we were in Budapest generally having a great time! Despite the risks of being in Eastern Europe (in the cities) it has been a truly wonderful time.
From Hungary we travelled to Romania. Our first night spent in a luxurious (tongue in cheek) hotel in Cluj. From there through the rural outback of Romania spending three hours in the picturesque city of Sighisoara. A great time was had including the strange experience of ordering a pizza in a restaurant, only to see the owner get on the phone and call the local pizza delivery firm (it was fun to see). The pizza took an age to come! Vlad the Impaler lived here and there are loads of accounts about Count Dracula!!
We then moved on to Brasov where we stayed last night in another hotel. A superb city with loads of culture for such a small place. A great meal last night at a place recommended by the Lonely Planet Guide, we actually met the English guy who made the recommendation to the LPG! He was sitting at the next table with some tourists. He was also wearing a T-shirt stating "Australia is a very long way". Today we go on to Bucharest and camping.
Romania has been great though! The rural country especially. Let's hope the country will benefit from membership of the EU but not loose its rustic charm. There are still loads of old Communist Factories.
It has not been easy to find time to blog so I will do my best keep this up to date as we move along.
From Hungary we travelled to Romania. Our first night spent in a luxurious (tongue in cheek) hotel in Cluj. From there through the rural outback of Romania spending three hours in the picturesque city of Sighisoara. A great time was had including the strange experience of ordering a pizza in a restaurant, only to see the owner get on the phone and call the local pizza delivery firm (it was fun to see). The pizza took an age to come! Vlad the Impaler lived here and there are loads of accounts about Count Dracula!!
We then moved on to Brasov where we stayed last night in another hotel. A superb city with loads of culture for such a small place. A great meal last night at a place recommended by the Lonely Planet Guide, we actually met the English guy who made the recommendation to the LPG! He was sitting at the next table with some tourists. He was also wearing a T-shirt stating "Australia is a very long way". Today we go on to Bucharest and camping.
Romania has been great though! The rural country especially. Let's hope the country will benefit from membership of the EU but not loose its rustic charm. There are still loads of old Communist Factories.
It has not been easy to find time to blog so I will do my best keep this up to date as we move along.
Saturday, 24 May 2008
Off and running
The first part of this great journey started on Sunday by me being late for the bus. I should have been there for 7am, but at 7:15 I was the last to arrive. Left London at 7:30 for Bruges and had a great first night at a hostel. Monday included an evening bike ride round the city.
Tuesday morning was an early start for Heidelberg. And the first camping!! We had one night there and the city was truly amazing.
Then to the Czech Republic and Prague and for two nights, but the weather was poor for camping. It’s a great city with huge history and a wonderful place to get lost in the architecture.
Yesterday we travelled to Vienna and camping for another two nights. Explored the city today, more amazing sights and churches galore! Tonight we’re off to a beer garden for a meal.
We have now been through Western Europe, tomorrow to Hungary and Eastern Europe.
I have been allocated work on the cooking team, not poisoned anyone yet.
The group dynamics are really interesting as we are a very mixed bunch - Australians, Spanish, Irish, French, British and two from Hong Kong. So far we have all been trying to find our places.
Tuesday morning was an early start for Heidelberg. And the first camping!! We had one night there and the city was truly amazing.
Then to the Czech Republic and Prague and for two nights, but the weather was poor for camping. It’s a great city with huge history and a wonderful place to get lost in the architecture.
Yesterday we travelled to Vienna and camping for another two nights. Explored the city today, more amazing sights and churches galore! Tonight we’re off to a beer garden for a meal.
We have now been through Western Europe, tomorrow to Hungary and Eastern Europe.
I have been allocated work on the cooking team, not poisoned anyone yet.
The group dynamics are really interesting as we are a very mixed bunch - Australians, Spanish, Irish, French, British and two from Hong Kong. So far we have all been trying to find our places.
Saturday, 17 May 2008
Thanks and goodbye!
At last the day has come! I have packed the bags and gone through them several times taking things out to reduce the weight (I still think I am taking too much). I leave for London today on the 3.57 train from York and stay tonight with Andy And Amalia Butler at their flat in London. I married Andy and Amalia two years ago and this will be my first vist to see them in their London home. I am so grateful to them for looking after me.
I am also grateful to the many people who have sent cards and presents over the past few weeks and days. And even several emails received this morning wishing me well! In addition I have been given the names, addresses and phone numbers of quite a few people to visit on the way.
Yesterday I received a call from my mother in law who was very "up beat" about my trip. She then told Jan that she thinks I will, "be glad to get home, after visiting all those awful places!" She does make me laugh and is a very lovely lady.
A phone call this morning from my sister-in-law to wish me well. It was good to hear from her and I'll ring my mum this afternoon before I leave.
Last night it was a farewell pint at the local with my good friend Roy. Thanks to Roy for his great friendship!
Yesterday, Jan and I had our final meal out together at Lunchtime. Yesterday also had two other lovely surprises. Katie came round for tea and Sarah came home from Uni just to say goodbye! I am so fortunate!
Thursday, 15 May 2008
Bring home only memories, leave only footprints
At last I have a tent I can use and my passport has been returned from the Visa company. Unfortunately the Pakistani Visa has not been granted. I have been assured however, that everyone on this trip is the same position and that we will need to apply for visas at the point of entry to Pakistan. That part of the journey could be interesting! I'll let you know what happens when I get there!
There are a few jobs to do before saying goodbye. I have just altered the message on the answer phone so that callers will know who to contact over the next few months. (The message definitely states that any recordings wont be responded to, but I bet some people will leave messages anyway). I have also cleared my emails to that all the mail-boxes are as empty as possible. Tomorrow it will be last minute shopping for odds and ends like wet wipes and calamine lotion.
Tonight I will have to try to pack my bags. Then another day nearer the journey!
One lovely person told me that I should seek to "Bring home only memories, leave only footprints." Not bad advice I think!
There are a few jobs to do before saying goodbye. I have just altered the message on the answer phone so that callers will know who to contact over the next few months. (The message definitely states that any recordings wont be responded to, but I bet some people will leave messages anyway). I have also cleared my emails to that all the mail-boxes are as empty as possible. Tomorrow it will be last minute shopping for odds and ends like wet wipes and calamine lotion.
Tonight I will have to try to pack my bags. Then another day nearer the journey!
One lovely person told me that I should seek to "Bring home only memories, leave only footprints." Not bad advice I think!
Tuesday, 13 May 2008
Bits and Pieces and Reflections
Last weeks terrible news about a devastating disaster in Myanmar with millions being killed has been added to this week with the news of thousands more killed in China by an earthquake. These are terrible tragedies that are very difficult to explain. They are certainly a challenge to anyone with a religious faith.
When such tragedies happen, we often hear of people who survive and are so thankful saying that "God was with them". They were certainly very fortunate and God was with them but my faith tells me that if God was anywhere He was also most certainly with those who suffered and died. For me, this is the whole point of the incarnation. Christians believe in a God who reaches out and walks alongside us in the realities of life. Well, that's enough of the sermon! I do hope that the relief agencies will be able to get on with their work and that many people will be able to support the work they do.
Such tragedies put my own problems into perspective. Last week I discovered that my tent wasn't big enough, so I purchased a replacement over the internet. In order to ensure the tent would be with me by last weekend I phoned the supplier. They promised me that it would be, provided someone stayed in on Friday to sign for it. Friday came and Jan stayed home all day. At four o'clock I phoned the supplier as the tent still hadn't been delivered. I was told, "Sorry, we've run out of that model tent and would like to offer you a different one".
The different one was too heavy, so I had to start again. Back to ebay and another tent ordered by a different supplier. They promised that it would be with me by today (Tuesday). They were true to their word, but when trying to erect the tent I discovered that it was incomplete and lacks a pin in one of its corners! They promised to get a new pin to me for tomorrow!! (I keep praying). (Here's me worrying about a tent when so many are just worrying about life itself).
In addition to this, I have had problems obtaining a Pakistani Visa. First of all the Pakistan Embassy required a different form to be completed. They now require evidence that I can financially support myself when in the country. The Visa company is going spare, as am I. We are due to leave this coming Sunday! I suppose it wont matter if I can't get into Pakistan. Other things in life are far more important.
When such tragedies happen, we often hear of people who survive and are so thankful saying that "God was with them". They were certainly very fortunate and God was with them but my faith tells me that if God was anywhere He was also most certainly with those who suffered and died. For me, this is the whole point of the incarnation. Christians believe in a God who reaches out and walks alongside us in the realities of life. Well, that's enough of the sermon! I do hope that the relief agencies will be able to get on with their work and that many people will be able to support the work they do.
Such tragedies put my own problems into perspective. Last week I discovered that my tent wasn't big enough, so I purchased a replacement over the internet. In order to ensure the tent would be with me by last weekend I phoned the supplier. They promised me that it would be, provided someone stayed in on Friday to sign for it. Friday came and Jan stayed home all day. At four o'clock I phoned the supplier as the tent still hadn't been delivered. I was told, "Sorry, we've run out of that model tent and would like to offer you a different one".
The different one was too heavy, so I had to start again. Back to ebay and another tent ordered by a different supplier. They promised that it would be with me by today (Tuesday). They were true to their word, but when trying to erect the tent I discovered that it was incomplete and lacks a pin in one of its corners! They promised to get a new pin to me for tomorrow!! (I keep praying). (Here's me worrying about a tent when so many are just worrying about life itself).
In addition to this, I have had problems obtaining a Pakistani Visa. First of all the Pakistan Embassy required a different form to be completed. They now require evidence that I can financially support myself when in the country. The Visa company is going spare, as am I. We are due to leave this coming Sunday! I suppose it wont matter if I can't get into Pakistan. Other things in life are far more important.
Monday, 5 May 2008
Sunday, 4 May 2008
Strensall Vicar World Tour
Following this week's press publicity, people have been asking all sorts of questions about my trip and also commenting about how they would feel riding on a bus from England to Australia. Some said they would love it whilst others were more guarded. (They would hate it!)
The funniest thing to happen this week was the bill board outside the local Tesco Store. It read "Strensall Vicar World Tour". I could have died when I saw it! It made me sound like Brian Adams or Take That!
On the down side my tent is too small!! Either that or I am too big! I bought my tent in January (in the sales), but only managed to erect it yesterday. I could hardly get myself into it, yet alone my back pack and sleeping equipment as well! I purposely bought a two person tent as I though it would be enough room for one. (I was also concerned about the weight). This week is going to be interesting then, as I need to get a tent sorted out pretty quickly. If anyone has any suggestions please let me know. As I have now got the knack of publishing photographs with my blog I also include a picture of Katie and Sarah with this one!
Saturday, 3 May 2008
Thursday, 1 May 2008
Another week gone!
After reading a blog comment left by a friend I thought I would take her advice and use my blog as a record of all the things I need to take with me on my trip.
I haven’t managed to get round to that yet as this week has been so busy. Most of the time I have been attempting to get my work commitments sorted out, and that has involved endless meetings.
I was so busy yesterday that I even managed to miss an investigator (Oops! Reporter), for the York Evening Press. He was trying to contact me for an article about the trip.
Apparently they have published something in the local newspaper today but I haven’t managed to see the article yet. (Just a minute….Jan has entered the room with the newspaper…….!)
Not too bad but apparently I am going away for a sabbatical year. (It’s 3 months). And the photograph is terrible. (It must be at least 3 years old. I haven’t had a moustache for 2 years). Where did they dig that up from? I am sure they deliberately look for the worse they can find. (Vein creature that I am).
Actually its not too bad an article, but I always hold my breath when the press are reporting as they inevitably leave something positive out that you would like them to say or get an important bit wrong.
However, there are a few other things I need to mention today.
Firstly, the kindness shown by many people since I mentioned my trip in the Parish Magazine. Many words of encouragement have come my way, and also a few gifts to wish me well before I leave. I have been really moved by all the positive feed back. (Last night the children at “Fridge” gave me a special notebook so I can keep an accurate record of my journey. They had all signed a bookmark and got it laminated too).
Secondly, I am so grateful for all those in the church who are pulling together and doing more to ensure that things continue to run smoothly when I am away. I am so grateful to have such a dedicated group of people to work with here in Strensall. Thank you all very much.
I haven’t managed to get round to that yet as this week has been so busy. Most of the time I have been attempting to get my work commitments sorted out, and that has involved endless meetings.
I was so busy yesterday that I even managed to miss an investigator (Oops! Reporter), for the York Evening Press. He was trying to contact me for an article about the trip.
Apparently they have published something in the local newspaper today but I haven’t managed to see the article yet. (Just a minute….Jan has entered the room with the newspaper…….!)
Not too bad but apparently I am going away for a sabbatical year. (It’s 3 months). And the photograph is terrible. (It must be at least 3 years old. I haven’t had a moustache for 2 years). Where did they dig that up from? I am sure they deliberately look for the worse they can find. (Vein creature that I am).
Actually its not too bad an article, but I always hold my breath when the press are reporting as they inevitably leave something positive out that you would like them to say or get an important bit wrong.
However, there are a few other things I need to mention today.
Firstly, the kindness shown by many people since I mentioned my trip in the Parish Magazine. Many words of encouragement have come my way, and also a few gifts to wish me well before I leave. I have been really moved by all the positive feed back. (Last night the children at “Fridge” gave me a special notebook so I can keep an accurate record of my journey. They had all signed a bookmark and got it laminated too).
Secondly, I am so grateful for all those in the church who are pulling together and doing more to ensure that things continue to run smoothly when I am away. I am so grateful to have such a dedicated group of people to work with here in Strensall. Thank you all very much.
Friday, 25 April 2008
Things done this week!
Been to school this week to talk to the older children about the Oz-bus. They were very good and seemed genuinely interested. I also received my final injection against Japanese Encephalitis. My passport is now returned from the Myanmar embassy to the visa company. I only have the Pakistani visa to collect before departing. All other visa’s are obtained en-route! I also got myself an i pod to help pass away the hours on the bus.
Monday, 14 April 2008
“Are we there yet?”
Bart and Lisa Simpson were being driven to a theme park by Homer and Marge. They can’t stop shouting, “Are we there yet?” “Are we there yet?” “Are we there yet?” “Are we there yet?” “Are we there yet?” “Are we there yet?” “Are we there yet?….etc”.
I am beginning to know how Bart and Lisa felt and I am just waiting for the day when the journey begins! What will it be like after three months on a bus?
Thursday, 10 April 2008
The Countdown Continues
I visited our local village school today (The Robert Wilkinson School) in order to arrange an assembly to talk about my trip.
Some of the classes are going to follow my blog and plot my progress across the world. They will also be encouraged to send me some questions about the places I visit. I hope they are not too difficult! Children always ask the best (most difficult) questions.
It will also be great to hear news from the children. They will hopefully keep me informed about the really important things that are happening back home.
Some of the classes are going to follow my blog and plot my progress across the world. They will also be encouraged to send me some questions about the places I visit. I hope they are not too difficult! Children always ask the best (most difficult) questions.
It will also be great to hear news from the children. They will hopefully keep me informed about the really important things that are happening back home.
Monday, 7 April 2008
Time flies
Time is passing quickly and lots of preparation still needs to be done.
All the relevant visas are applied for and I am awaiting my passport being returned from the visa company. Only one more travel vaccination remaining (Japanese Encephalitis) and then the courses are finished.
The next big decision is what to take? Clothing for both hot and cold weather. Something for the rainy as well as the sunny days.
I have also decided to buy the most comfortable travel mattress I can find. No good traveling all that way and being miserable due to lack of sleep.
I now need to concentrate on the practicalities of such things as practicing pitching my tent. I would like to get my tent up and down as quickly as possible. When the weather allows I’ll get into the garden to start practicing.
I have also made a start buying some sun cream and insect repellent!
A real nuisance at this time of year is the need to complete and file a Tax Return. I need to get this done quickly. I also need to complete a student loan application form for daughter number 2. All to be done before I leave in May!! Will it all get done?
All the relevant visas are applied for and I am awaiting my passport being returned from the visa company. Only one more travel vaccination remaining (Japanese Encephalitis) and then the courses are finished.
The next big decision is what to take? Clothing for both hot and cold weather. Something for the rainy as well as the sunny days.
I have also decided to buy the most comfortable travel mattress I can find. No good traveling all that way and being miserable due to lack of sleep.
I now need to concentrate on the practicalities of such things as practicing pitching my tent. I would like to get my tent up and down as quickly as possible. When the weather allows I’ll get into the garden to start practicing.
I have also made a start buying some sun cream and insect repellent!
A real nuisance at this time of year is the need to complete and file a Tax Return. I need to get this done quickly. I also need to complete a student loan application form for daughter number 2. All to be done before I leave in May!! Will it all get done?
Monday, 10 March 2008
In the Beginning
I am about to have a Sabbatical and I am amazed at the amount of preparation that I have had to do in order to get ready for it.
Originally I was intending to go to Mount Athos in Greece. Athos is known as the ‘Holy Mountain,’ and there are 21 monestries scattered around a rocky and beautiful promontory of Halkadiki.
In order to get to Athos I needed to apply for permission from the Ecumenical Patriarch in Constantinople (Istanbul). Unfortunately permission was a long time in coming, as the number of foreigners (Especially those who are not of the Orthodox Faith), are limited on the mountain. After waiting for quite a few months I decided that I needed to arrange to do something else instead.
At that time I heard about the Oz Bus, which travels from London to Sydney through 20 countries stopping at some interesting and out of the way places. For most of the way camping in the preferred method of accommodation and of-course the mode of transport a bus! I was so intrigued by this idea that I decided to explore this as an alternative option to Athos.
After asking a few questions I booked my place! (My permit for Athos arrived the following week!).
So I shall be travelling across Europe to Turkey and then south through Iran and Pakistan to India. Then to Nepal and Myanmar and south through Indonesia. The only flying will be from Bali to Cairns and then we drive through the heartland of Australia.
I don’t know what this trip will bring. Perhaps it will be like life itself. A journey with a beginning and an end and lots of different and exciting experiences in-between?!
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