tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2009-11-12:/MokoFeed2009-11-12T18:54:38+01:00tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2007-02-09:/2007/02/10/man_responsibility_sucks~1713155/jcorben2007-02-10T00:51:28+01:002007-02-10T00:51:28+01:00 <p>Heho!!!</p> <p>Well, no a lot has happened since I last posted.... I started job three a few weeks ago! Had a braw christmas and new year. Saw my ma n pa, they spent a few days with us. Erm, think thats about it....</p> <p>Ok, going to vent some anger... some of you may or may not know, I have a flat in Edinburgh that Ive been renting out over my travels and have kept it on since coming back. Its great owning property, knowing there is capital there for future years, but just a wee bit of advice... be careful if you use an agent to rent it through. I have been with my current agent and I am SOOOO not impressed. I'm paying them for basically taking on the stress of 'being landlord' and I feel I'm paying them for absolutely nothing! They haven't heard of the very new concept called CUSTOMER SERVICE! All things that have happened so far are small, but when you add them up, MAN its annoying.... one example... you may find it interesting (or not!) Whilst I was away, I told them over the phone and in writing that I was NON CONTACTABLE so they had to go through my contact (and very good friend - Helen you know who you are, and you're fab) for ANY correspondence. But no, they WROTE to me six months into my travels highlighting the fact that they had be attempting without success to get in touch with me! LOOK AT THE CHUFFIN FILE!!!! ITS SAYS I WISNAE HERE!!!!!! Grrrr, ok, as one issue no biggy, but so many other small things! But thats for another time.</p> <p>Anyhoo, I plan to write more about this, just to air my sheer frustration.</p> <p>I hope everyone is doing well. I promise (I ken, same old!)to post pics soon, STILL haven't got my arse in gear to sort them, get depressed everytime I look at them. Oh, incidentally, one year ago tomorrow (10 Feb) I arrived in Australia! (Thats also my ma's birthday, and being a really bad daughter was in Autralia for her 60th!) Sorry mum.... I LOVE YOU XXXXX</p> <p>Anyways, Ill away the noo. </p> <p>Jo X </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2007/02/10/man_responsibility_sucks~1713155/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-12-03:/2006/12/03/long_time_no_see~1397456/jcorben2006-12-03T18:17:52+01:002006-12-03T18:17:52+01:00 <p>Hey there,</p> <p>Just a brief wee entry at the mo, as most of you know, we are home. Actually arrived back just over two months ago! Just been SO buy so never really had a chance to update. </p> <p>From Montreal, we arrived in Boston. We had an apartment there, it was braw. Whale watching was the highlight there, that was amazing!</p> <p>From Boston, we got to NY. My god! Its a busy place! Our last night there we spent at the HBO comedy night, that was good. </p> <p>We had one day in Dublin before we got home. Back to the lovely scottish weather! </p> <p>We've been busy we things since arriving home. New flat, new jobs... man, it sucks being back! Dont like this responsibility thing! </p> <p>Anyhoo, once I get pics sorted, I will post a few on. </p> <p>I hope everyone is well.</p> <p>Cheery the noo.</p> <p>Jo X </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/12/03/long_time_no_see~1397456/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-09-12:/2006/09/12/well_hello_there~1119891/jcorben2006-09-12T18:02:48+02:002006-09-12T18:05:34+02:00 <p>Hello,</p> <p>Finally some more pics. And aren't you lucky, lucky people, another entry too!<br><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=813829"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=813830"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=813831"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=813832"></a><br><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=813847"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/847/813847_15eb4d300e_s.jpg" alt="View from glass floor CN Tower" title="View from glass floor CN Tower" hspace="5" vspace="5" width="205" height="154"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=813848"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/848/813848_864389e7f6_s.jpg" alt="Aaaargh! Falling from CN Tower" title="Aaaargh! Falling from CN Tower" hspace="5" vspace="5" width="136" height="180"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=813849"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/849/813849_620cade92f_s.jpg" alt="Niagara Falls on a dreech day. Much like home WET!" title="Niagara Falls on a dreech day. Much like home WET!" hspace="5" vspace="5" width="205" height="154"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=813850"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/850/813850_3921ac4fba_s.jpg" alt="Rather sad looking building that was once an Olympic Village in Montreal" title="Rather sad looking building that was once an Olympic Village in Montreal" hspace="5" vspace="5" width="205" height="154"></a></p> <p>We haven't really done much whilst we've been in Montreal. Just taking it easy for Derek's back. We've been to the 'west' of the city which is more 'english' speaking and found quite a cool pub (by cool, I mean their menu was in french but also english<img src="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/tinymce/jss/plugins/blogdeemotions/smilies/060lol.gif" border="0" alt="" width="15" height="15">). We also visited the Olympic Village yesterday across to the east of the city. Looks like a bit of a concrete ghost town! </p> <p>You'll be pleased to know that we've mastered the 'huh?' look when some one speaks french to us. Fortunately, we've only come across a few who don't speak english! I have learnt a few words in French though.... now, as I type though, cant remember a damn one! <img src="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/tinymce/jss/plugins/blogdeemotions/smilies/grayconfused.gif" border="0" alt="" width="15" height="22"></p> <p>Thats really all we've managed here I'm afraid, to be honest, there isn't a huge amount to do here, but its a cool town. Loads of fab little shops. Oh, we spent Sunday afternoon in one of the local pubs and we were chatting to a guy whose grandfather was from Glasgow. So because we were Scottish, he bought us a drink. Then a cool OAP (didnt know english at all, but the barmaid translated) thought we were a cute couple. (Derek and I, no the French/Canadian/Glaswegian!) I was wondering if she'd forgotten her specs and/or medication, anyway more drinks were bought! <img src="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/tinymce/jss/plugins/blogdeemotions/smilies/smiley-money-mouth.gif" border="0" alt="" width="18" height="18"></p> <p>Anyway, we're off to Boston tomorrow. Looking forward to it. </p> <p>I hope y'all keeping well. Let me know how you're doin! Be grand to hear from you all...</p> <p>Take care the noo.</p> <p>Jo x</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/09/12/well_hello_there~1119891/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-09-08:/2006/09/08/bonjour~1108845/jcorben2006-09-08T18:44:42+02:002006-09-08T18:44:42+02:00 <p>Hiya from sunny Montreal! (btw the title is the limit of my french!)</p> <p>Sorry its been so long in updating. We did CN tower and Niagara Falls whilst we were in Toronto (we have pics, need to get them sorted for posting) and we are now in 'predominantly' (spelling?) french speaking Montreal. </p> <p>We have a week here before moving onto Boston. Hopefully get another post on before we leave. </p> <p>Dereks back is slowly getting better. We think we're done the right thing by resting as much as possible. </p> <p>Hope youre all braw.</p> <p>Jo X </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/09/08/bonjour~1108845/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-08-29:/2006/08/29/a_wee_update~1080859/jcorben2006-08-29T21:49:01+02:002006-08-29T21:52:58+02:00 <p>Hello all</p> <p>I am assuming that you have seen my pics. Any comments (relating to blog entries and pics, cheers. Not really capable on commenting on uk politics or anything else of that manner <img src="/img/smilies/graysleep.gif" alt=":zz:" class="middle" border="0">) are always welcome. No matter <em>how </em> sarcastic! (I think you know who I mean HELEN! <img src="/img/smilies/icon_lol.gif" alt=":DD" class="middle" border="0"> )</p> <p>We are still in Toronto. Dereks back has taken a turn for the worse and he's really been floored with it. I promise I didnt do anything to him! So we're really just taking things easy in the hope that rest will help his back.</p> <p>We hope to see Niagra Falls and do CN tower. We have another week here, so we'll hopefully do them. </p> <p>Anyhoo, Ill away the noo and see how Derek is doing.</p> <p>I hope everyone is keeping well.</p> <p>Miss yous all.</p> <p>Cheery oot.</p> <p>Jo X </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/08/29/a_wee_update~1080859/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-08-24:/2006/08/24/don_t_say_i_m_not_good_to_you~1066972/jcorben2006-08-24T22:48:12+02:002006-08-24T22:48:12+02:00 <p>Hello</p> <p>Some of you may remember a long long time ago, I did a 15000ft skydive in New Zealand and that I had some photos taken but unfortunately they got mixed up and in the end I just got the company to send them home. There, they were received by Helen, my very kind, generous and fantastic friend (hey there Helen, how you doin'? <img src="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/tinymce/jss/plugins/blogdeemotions/smilies/icon_wave.gif" border="0" alt="" width="26" height="22">) who emailed them back to me. I have finally managed to get some onto my iPod and now onto my blog for you to see...</p> <p>Incidentally, we think we've worked out, based on the info. we have that during my freefall, I 'fell' two miles in one minute! I WANNA GO AGAIN!</p> <p>So please enjoy. (oh, I think if you drag your mouse over the pics you get a wee description... the second and third ones though haven't got their full desc. 'I'M DEAD' and 'Okay, this ain't so bad' are missing.)</p> <p>Cheery</p> <p>Jo X<a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=774518"></p> <p><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/518/774518_e8f5d7681e_s.jpg" alt="Surprisingly calm" title="Surprisingly calm" hspace="5" vspace="5" width="120" height="180"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=774519"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/519/774519_63ffcfe896_s.jpg" alt="I\" title="I\" hspace="5" vspace="5" width="240" height="160"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=774520"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/520/774520_5606aaf379_s.jpg" alt="Okay, this ain\" title="Okay, this ain\" hspace="5" vspace="5" width="120" height="180"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=774521"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/521/774521_d51d74bd25_s.jpg" alt="G force, not a flattering look" title="G force, not a flattering look" hspace="5" vspace="5" width="240" height="160"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=774522"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/522/774522_71a4cf209c_s.jpg" alt="Brrr, cold" title="Brrr, cold" hspace="5" vspace="5" width="240" height="160"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=774523"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/523/774523_94a6b2155e_s.jpg" alt="WOO HOO" title="WOO HOO" hspace="5" vspace="5" width="240" height="160"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=774524"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/524/774524_4f78880eb9_s.jpg" alt="Thats me honest" title="Thats me honest" hspace="5" vspace="5" width="240" height="160"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=774525"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/525/774525_9c19d10d45_s.jpg" alt="INCOMING" title="INCOMING" hspace="5" vspace="5" width="240" height="160"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=774526"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/526/774526_0dd3412d28_s.jpg" alt="Back on solid ground" title="Back on solid ground" hspace="5" vspace="5" width="240" height="160"></a></p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/08/24/don_t_say_i_m_not_good_to_you~1066972/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-08-24:/2006/08/24/more_photos_don_t_say_i_m_not_good_to_yo~1066898/jcorben2006-08-24T22:15:35+02:002006-08-24T22:16:18+02:00 <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=774403"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/403/774403_df99085861_s.jpg" alt="Alcatraz" title="Alcatraz" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=774404"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/404/774404_50f3e20fc3_s.jpg" alt="Awww..." title="Awww..." vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=774405"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/405/774405_9324450bdb_s.jpg" alt="Ooooh!" title="Ooooh!" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=774406"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/406/774406_5299910a65_s.jpg" alt="Seattle skyline" title="Seattle skyline" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>All the pics are fairly obvious... </p> <p>The administratin building is on Alcatraz. You can see the addition the Indians made on the 'flag' when they claimed the island back in the 60's.</p> <p>A little penguin from San Francisco Academy of Science</p> <p>A little (ok not so little) skull from SF Academy of Science</p> <p>Finally Seattle skyline from the Needle.</p> <p>Hope you like.</p> <p>Bye bye....</p> <p>Jo X</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/08/24/more_photos_don_t_say_i_m_not_good_to_yo~1066898/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-08-21:/2006/08/21/sweet_pics_are_back~1058015/jcorben2006-08-21T21:12:07+02:002006-08-21T21:12:07+02:00 <p>Think it was a site thing but my pics are now back on! </p> <p>I'm afraid lacking internet time, so just a brief rundown to what we've been up to since Seattle...</p> <p>We visited Science Fiction Museum and Experience Music Project thet day before we left Seattle. Science Fiction was very cool and saw some stuff from years ago! The Music one was ok. Derek had a braw time 'performing' on the drums and guitar <img src="/img/smilies/icon_lol.gif" alt=":DD" class="middle" border="0"> I just watched Im afraid. As many of you know, co-ordination is not a strong point of mine! </p> <p>From Seattle we headed north to Canada. We had booked the train as we enjoyed the experience the last time, but when we arrived at the station we discovered the train and become a bus! If we'd known that we'd have saved $14 and booked Greyhound! Never mind, we got through customs fine. Well except this one English guy. He had his bags searched! But was back on the bus after about 20 minutes.</p> <p>We arrived in Vancouver and our hostel is right across the road from the station! Sweet!! </p> <p>The weather is A LoT warmer here than we ever expected (about 28 degrees). On par with Australia!. </p> <p>We haven't done very much apart from walking around and getting to know a little of Downtown Vancouver. Derek's back is playing up again so we're away to see a therapist to see if that'll help. </p> <p>from here, we head to Toronto. Looking forward to it but been told its even more humid than here!!!!! This is Canada! It should be cold!!!!! </p> <p>Anyhoo, I think thats as up to date as poss the now. </p> <p>I hope everyone is well. Hope you liked the pics. </p> <p>Take care.</p> <p>Jo X </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/08/21/sweet_pics_are_back~1058015/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-08-20:/2006/08/20/pics~1055466/jcorben2006-08-20T22:50:42+02:002006-08-20T22:50:42+02:00 <p>Not sure whats happened to my latest pics.</p> <p>Will try and get it fixed asap.</p> <p>Jo X </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/08/20/pics~1055466/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-08-19:/2006/08/19/pictures~1052655/jcorben2006-08-19T19:35:45+02:002006-08-19T19:40:27+02:00 <p>I forgot to post notes to the pics so you know where they are....</p> <p>The snowy one is Franz Josef. Just one of many pics of my Glacier Hike.. It was a braw day</p> <p>The dark one is from our Maori Experience. The women are performing their dance. Not long after they get the audience to participate! I lack so much co-ordination!</p> <p>The next one is also a Maori experience. This was when we were greeted by the leader. I swear we could see him clearly but this is how the photo came out. SPOOKY!!</p> <p>Next to that is Im afraid to say our only photo from Las Vegas. It was the hotel we were staying in and that was our view from the balcony. The Sahara hotel.</p> <p>Next: A BIG lion! Grrrrr. It was in San Francisco zoo. It was lying down just before I took this pic, got up had a look around at 'lunch' and then lay back down, so I feel quite proud of this pic. </p> <p>Finally, the Golden Gate Bridge. This is just one of many from our Bay cruise. It was a really good trip. </p> <p>I know its been a while since I updated with a proper log entry. Ill get this done asap.</p> <p>I hope everyone is well.</p> <p>Jo X</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/08/19/pictures~1052655/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-08-15:/2006/08/15/finally_some_pics~1040326/jcorben2006-08-15T05:35:51+02:002006-08-15T05:35:51+02:00 <p><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=752146"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/146/752146_6c03fb5096_s.jpg" alt="NZ Pics 303 small" title="NZ Pics 303 small" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=752147"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/147/752147_5cd9deceb4_s.jpg" alt="Maori Experience 013 small" title="Maori Experience 013 small" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=752148"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/148/752148_287abc1f1a_s.jpg" alt="Maori Experience 004 small" title="Maori Experience 004 small" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=752149"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/149/752149_04074cc508_s.jpg" alt="America part one 001 small" title="America part one 001 small" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=752150"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/150/752150_42523b277e_s.jpg" alt="America part one 105 small" title="America part one 105 small" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=752151"><img src="http://data2.blog.de/media/151/752151_3736e3800d_s.jpg" alt="America part one 178 small" title="America part one 178 small" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a></p> <p>Love ya's </p> <p>Jo XX </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/08/15/finally_some_pics~1040326/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-08-15:/2006/08/15/sf_and_then_some~1040325/jcorben2006-08-15T05:30:48+02:002006-08-15T05:30:48+02:00 <p>We moved hostels in San Francisco. We wanted to 'experience' differnt areas of SF so we moved to SoMA (South of Market) to European Guest House. The area was a little more 'run down' and the fellow guests were a little more 'interesting'. We stayed there five night. After the initial "mmm, is it safe.." thoughts, it turned out to be a really cool place. For $5 you culd get a dinner prepared by the live in chef Greg, really good food! </p> <p>We spent the rest of our time just going around San Fransisco. </p> <p>We bought the City Passes that allowed paid for certain attractions and public transport. So we decided to use the coupon for a Blue & Gold Ferries (major ferry company in SF) and did a Bay Cruise. This took us under Golden Gate bridge and around Alcatraz. We got some cracking photos of the bridge. We also paid a little visit to the Aquarium. Some really cool fish!</p> <p>We managed to do Alcatraz too! But to be honest, bit of a dissappointment... The ferry runs every 30 minutes and carries atleast 300 people on EACH crossing. So you don't actually get a 'feel' for the island as there are 299 other folk swarming around! Especially with SCREAMING kids and obnoxious tourists! Anyway, to see the cells, and just to be on the island was pretty cool. </p> <p>On the last full day in SF we decided to go to the SF Academy of Science exhibition. IT was just along from the hostel so it woul have been rude not too! But... on the way we stopped off at an Irish pub just for a wee pint and they had EDRADOUR! I haven't seen that whisky since I was back home! Anyhoo, the Science academy had some really bizarre creatures! And it had a really great cabinet with skulls :-) </p> <p>We left SF by Grayhound for the 15 hour trip to Portland. All seemed ok until we got to Sacramento... the bus left half an hour late after leaving atleast 30 people behind (the bus was full! They over book to unbeliavable pro-portions!) and then broke down atleast eight times over the rest of the journey! The fan thermosat wasn't kicking in apparently! Anyway, after I calmed down and realised that we didnt have a connection unlike the majority of other passengers, I just settled into the long journey. It only arrived into Portland two and a half hours late! </p> <p>Now, one thing that we have noticed since we've been travelling, Edinburgh cabbies are BRILLIANT! Anytime we've had to get a taxi in Oz and here they haven't got a clue where they are let alone where you want to go! And the cabbies in Portland are no different! Anyway, we got to the hotel (White Eagle) and were pleasantly surprised. The pub its attached too was really cool. Music every night, really good, cheap food and brilliant staff. The room was great too, really cosy. And aparently the hotel is haunted (a prostitute) but we never saw anything. </p> <p>Oh, the further north we've got, the cooler the people have become. We were just finishing our dinner and we joined this guy to watch the band. We chatted away and all enjoyed a wee dance (yes Derek danced too!!!) and we bought him a wee drink. Anyway, he had his drink then headed off to bed. When I went up to settle the tab, the bar maid told me he'd paid for it!! It was atleast $40!! But she did tell me that he didnt have cash on him so he couldnt buy the bands cds, so we bought them for him and taped them to his bedroom door :-)</p> <p>From Portland we got the train to Seattle. OH MY GOD! What a totally diferent experience. Reserved seats, leg room and a movie! </p> <p>We arrived in Seattle just as a big football game was starting. And get this... the cabie knew where we wanted to go! We got into our room and basically just vegged! We managed to get out for a couple of drinks at a 24 hour diner and then back for some cable tv! </p> <p>After getting to know the city a wee bit we decided to head to the Seattle Needle tower. It was $14 for a 520 foot elevator ride! Anyway the views were pretty cool.</p> <p>So far thats it. We head to Vancouver in a couple of days so I'll update you from there.</p> <p>Hope you're all well.</p> <p>Take care the noo.</p> <p>Jo XX </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/08/15/sf_and_then_some~1040325/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-08-03:/2006/08/03/beyond_venice~1009604/jcorben2006-08-03T06:58:11+02:002006-08-03T06:58:11+02:00 <p>Good day...</p> <p>From Venice we headed to Santa Monica. A completely different place! We stayed at the Hostel International (YHA) but we were quite dissappointed. Location was good, but it had no atmosphere. Their pricing methods left a lot to be desired! A six share cost the same as a 10 share! And the private rooms were extortionate! And the staff! MAN they were hopeless! Didnt have a clue about the local area and if you didnt have a car, they didnt have any idea how to direct you!! </p> <p>We'd decided that we wanted to travel the US the same way as Australia and New Zealand so decided to buy a car. We saw a few on Craigs list (a free online trading site) and we decided on a Ford Taurus. Basically another Bertha in shape and size. Anyway, we got it and got all the insurance sorted along with AAA cover and were quite pleased with our purchase. From Santa Monica we decided to make our way to Las Vegas. In the meantime though Derek wasnt doing too well. He was coughing a lot and his asthma was really bad. We thought about a docs in Santa Monica but the HI staff were really not constructive, so we decided to head to LV and see what was there. </p> <p>We got the car packed up and were on our merry way... With a few stops along the way to try and prevent over using the air con. we were making ok time. That was until the car completely packed in 80 miles from Las Vegas (we'd only covered 200 miles) due to overheating (granted it was over 40 degrees!) So we called the AAA and waited... and waited... and waited. The idiot on the other end of the phone took down the wrong call box and sent the recovery van about 100 miles west! Anyway, he finally arrived and we decided that as we'd already booked and paid for the hotel (Sahara) in LV, we would just get towed there and sort the car as we had a few days. </p> <p>Glad thats what we decided to do. The hotel room was air conditioned, cable tv, double twin, ensuite and room service and Derek by this stage was getting worse so we were in the best place for him. Peace and quiet in a 'luxurious' room. After a trip to the docs. (driven there in a stretched limo no less! Well we were in Las Vegas!!!) he was diagnosed with brochitis! So antibiotics were prescribed. Oh, the car.... that was dropped off at a garage and we called to find out the diagnosis.... the engine was screwed! It would cost alomost three times what we paid for it to get fixed!!! Def. out of our budget! So from there we decided the car should be scrapped (I know!! We were both really pee'd off at this because we covered 200 miles in the chuffin' thing) and we organised Greyhound to take us from LV to San Francisco. </p> <p>Our LV experience wasn't the most positive one we've had but I do think a private room for less (midweek) than most hostels we've stayed in was the best thing for Derek in his condition. (btw, temps were hitting 50 degrees!) </p> <p>After a 15 hour bus trip on Greyhound we arrived in San Francisco at 7am ish. We managed to get our luggage stored at the hostel and we went walk about the Mission district. On a sunday morning very quiet! We had booked into a dorm (10 share!!) but when we got in, we moved to a private room for $20 more! We were glad we did, we fell asleep for the rest of the day!! </p> <p>The hostel was pretty cool though. It had a roof terrace that was a bar/restaurant in the evening. I think because of this, they didnt bother with a kitchen so you were forced to eat out all the time. The food is cheap but nothing is as cheap as cooking for yersel! </p> <p>We spent a lot of time wandering round the Mission district. Its quite a cool place (a bit like Leith). We visited Mission Delores which is a church built in 1776 and managed to survive the 1906 earthquake. A lot of the surrounding buildings were flattened! </p> <p>After four nights at the Mission we decided to move into the Downtown district. We booked into a hostel called Adelaide. Right in the heart but actually quite quiet as its in the middle of an alley! </p> <p>We visited Fishermans Wharf. Very touristy! And we even managed to walk past the San Francisco AEGON office! Uuurgh!!!!! </p> <p>The zoo was the next port of call. Its been years since Ive been to one, so I fair enjoyed it! Lions and tigers and bears OH MY!!!! Got some crackin pics! (I know, I think Ive got a few hundred to post!!!!) Oh, we got in for free aswell! We were in the admission queue and this woman came up and handed us her family pass that was due to expire that day! I think we saved over $20! But we did put in a reasonable donation. </p> <p>We decided to invest in city passes. This is a seven day travel and attraction pass. It cost $49 (GBP 27) but this covers atleast two exhibitions we have on our to do list (these would have cost almost half the passes between them!) and the travel pass allows you unlimited travel on buses, cable cars, trams and trains! </p> <p>Oh, we have also been frequenting the Edinburgh Castle pub. From the outside you wouldnt think about going near the place let along opening the door and walking in! But once you get over that fear, its a really cool pub (was featured in 'So I Married an Axe Murderer'. Mike Myers character's parents anniversary celebrations, and where he asks Nancy Travis's character to marry him). We met two guys, one from Glasgow and the other from Bristol and spent the evening with them. Oh, we felt rough in the morning! But it was a really good night. Oh, and my pool playing is def. improving! </p> <p>We visited the Golden Gate Park as we had a pass for the De Young (art museaum). I think we spent four hours there but you really need the entire day as we ended up rushing the last hour so we could 'see' everything before closing. Oh, the park itself... didnt want to spend too much time there.....</p> <p>Anyway, thats it so far. We have a few things planned for the next few days including Alcatraz and Golden Gate Bridge (Ill try for as many good pics as poss. promise)</p> <p>Apologies for the lack of entries, just been so busy, you know this travelling lark isnt a walk in the park, its quite stressful! :-)</p> <p>After San Francisco we head north to Portland and then Seattle before arriving in Vancouver. So far thats as 'planned' as we've got. If there's any suggestions for things to do/see in SF, Portland or Seattle feel free to leave a comment. </p> <p>Anyway, I think thats as up to date as poss. See yous later. </p> <p>Hope you're all braw... </p> <p>Jo X </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/08/03/beyond_venice~1009604/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-07-27:/2006/07/27/greetings~993995/jcorben2006-07-27T21:01:04+02:002006-07-27T21:01:04+02:00 <p>Hello everyone.</p> <p>I hope you are all well.</p> <p>I do apologise for not being in touch sooner, the last week or so has been a little all over the place. I promise to do a full entry soon, but for now a quick run down....</p> <p>*left Venice and went to Santa Monica<br> *bought car<br> *left Santa Monica for Las Vegas (baby!)<br> *car broke down 80 miles from LV so got towed the rest of the way<br> *Stayed at Sahara in LV (cable tv, air con, room service, ensuite all for less than a ten share dorm!!!)<br> *Took Derek to docs (in a stretch limo!) - bronchtis!<br> *car to be scrapped as engine completely f***ed! ($3000 to repair!)<br> *won $37.50 on slot machine<br> *bused from LV to San Francisco (15 hours!)</p> <p>Think thats it so far..... I will expand more soon.</p> <p>So cheery the noo friends. </p> <p>Take care and peas oot.</p> <p>Jo XX </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/07/27/greetings~993995/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-07-11:/2006/07/11/free_internet_cheap_food~950364/jcorben2006-07-11T06:10:50+02:002006-07-11T06:10:50+02:00 <p>Well folks thats us in Los Angeles. We finished our NZ tour off with a Maori experience. It was very cool. We watched them perform the Haka and the women also did dancing. We were also invited up to take part! I HAVE NO CO-ORDINATION! But it was a laugh! We were shown how to use the Poi. Basically a ball on the end of a short piece of rope. This was used in the performance. </p> <p>The flights were fairly uneventful. Not much to do on a 12 hour flight except watch the tv! Got through 'Failure to Launch', Will and Grace, 2 x Simpsons, and most of Lord of the Rings - Fellowship of the Ring. By then I was falling asleep! We got through customs etc no problem (actually quicker than I expected). We walked out of the airport into 24 degrees! A bit of a change to the 4 degrees in NZ! The shuttle bus into LA seemed to go ok until we were dropped off at the wrong hostel! I think the driver couldn't be bothered! Not too fussy, the folk at this hostel slated the one we were supposed to be staying at and this one is 30 seconds from the beach (other one atleast 15 minutes!). We decided to just stay at the hostel we'd been dumped at. Its a six share with FREE INTERNET and ensuite. Its a little more expensive than we're used to paying, but hey FREE INTERNET! It is a little noisy at its on quite a busy main road but it does quieten down at night. </p> <p>We decided to mark our arrival in LA with a couple of drinks. Well, those couple turned out to be a bit of a session! I think eight beers, two rum (free pouring so close to double each time!) and cokes and a free whisky! The barman (Cacey) was very cool. Made us feel very welcome. But the next day we didnt feel to hot! Very relaxing day just wandering along the beach front. Man! This place (Venice Beach - famous for Muscle Beach, and where you see al the 'beautiful people' jogging - well in films!) has such a mix of characters and the markets are great. So many different things along this one beach! We had dinner at the Sidewalk cafe (beside Small World bookshop) and for two main courses and two drinks $30! (about GBP16 ish)!</p> <p>Fairly good start this morning. We walked upto Santa Monica along the beach. Then jumped on a bus (and train) to see Hollywood. (It actually took two hours to get there, but we only paid $3 for an all day Metro pass so can't complain!) We saw Dean Stockwell, Johnny Depp, Tom Hanks, Kevin Costner and Charlie Chaplin just to name a few (stars on the walk of fame of course!)Didnt see anyone famous for real, if we do though, you'll be the first to know! We had a late lunch/early dinner in Hooters. I of course, had to drag Derek in kicking and screaming! It was really cool. It was very tiring walking all along Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Boulevard in heat of atleast 25 degrees so we felt a light refreshment and food was required and hooters met all our reqirements! <img src="/img/smilies/icon_lol.gif" alt=":DD" class="middle" border="0"> The bus journey back was interesting! Some very bizarre conversations by fellow passengers! </p> <p>Anyway, we're moving hostels tomorrow up to Santa Monica. Should be a bit quieter as its not on such a busy road but its a 8/10 share! And costing the same as this one! Its Hosteling International (YHA) so we'll see how it goes. </p> <p>Ill sign off just now, hope everyone is braw. </p> <p>Cheery</p> <p>Jo xx </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/07/11/free_internet_cheap_food~950364/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-07-05:/2006/07/05/last_few_days_in_bonnie_nz~933816/jcorben2006-07-05T03:24:42+02:002006-07-05T03:24:42+02:00 <p><img src="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/tinymce/jss/plugins/blogdeemotions/smilies/smileys60.gif" border="0" alt="" width="34" height="17"></p> <p>Well, thats us almost at the end of our NZ leg. We're in Christchurch at the moment and we fly back up to Auckland for our flight to LA. Its about 7 degrees at the moment and apparently 25 in LA! </p> <p>We decided to end our nz part here as it meant we had more time to see the South Island (if your not getting it - ITS FANTASTIC!)<img src="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/tinymce/jss/plugins/blogdeemotions/smilies/icon_cheeze.gif" border="0" alt="" width="18" height="18"> so we decided to sell the car here. We put up 8 ads round varying hostels and internet places and within a few hours we had a text from an irish couple. SOLD! Thats a huge weight lifted. What do you do when you cant sell your car?? Mmmmmmm.....</p> <p>We saw the All Blacks in Cathedral Square the other day. They were in Christchurch for a training session so 'popped by' to see their adoring fans. We hung about for a few minutes but I was getting tempted to shout down with All Blacks GO Scotland, so we made a sharp exit before I got us a fight! <img src="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/tinymce/jss/plugins/blogdeemotions/smilies/10rolleyessmile.gif" border="0" alt="" width="15" height="15"></p> <p>Oh, heres a weird thing. Derek and I were in a wee irish pub just sittin having a quiet pint (or three!). Derek had his Scotland rugby top on and this guy came across and asked us where we were from. It turns out this guy went to my high school and knew half the folk that were in my register class! Thats just wrong I tell you! WRONG! <br>We went to a pub quiz last night, came 2nd last <img src="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/tinymce/jss/plugins/blogdeemotions/smilies/grayno.gif" border="0" alt="" width="15" height="15"> There were some obscure questions! </p> <p>My pics from my skydive are being sent home just to make sure I get them. I will try and get some emailed to me so I can post them on the blog........</p> <p>Oh, Im getting better at pool! I can actually beat Derek! And def. getting better at the more akward shots! So if nothing else, Ive improved at pool whilst Ive been away <img src="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/tinymce/jss/plugins/blogdeemotions/smilies/060lol.gif" border="0" alt="" width="15" height="15"></p> <p>Well, thats it for the noo folks. Ill try and post before we head to LA.</p> <p><img src="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/tinymce/jss/plugins/blogdeemotions/smilies/icon_wave.gif" border="0" alt="" width="26" height="22"></p> <p>Jo xxx </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/07/05/last_few_days_in_bonnie_nz~933816/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-07-03:/2006/07/03/finally_a_proper_job~928158/jcorben2006-07-03T01:49:24+02:002006-07-03T01:49:24+02:00 <p>By job I mean log entry, not actual employment! That would just be silly! </p> <p>Southwards.....</p> <p>Ferry took about three and a half hours. (I wasnt actually sick, but didnt feel at all well!) The crossing was really good. Some amazing scenery that just gives you a glimpse of how beautiful the south island is. </p> <p>We arrived in Nelson. Just another yha! Moved onto Westport. Strange wee town. Trying to be something but not sure what. Visited into the local brewery, very small but good beer. Went to the pub quiz. Totally different to the ones we're used to at home. You have to book in and theres a maximum of ten teams and $5 entry! At home, you turn up get pished, and if you win great. If you can stand up to collect your prize even better! Anyway, we joined a family team the daughter and her boyfriend had spent two years in Edinbugh!). We came second!!!!!</p> <p>Left Westport and headed south to Hokitika. What was meant to be one night turned into two. Hokitika is the 'capital of Jade carving so we stayed in an independant hostel that also allowed you to reate your own piece. The guy (Gordon, very interesting bloke!) carves your design then you spend the next 5 hours polishing it. It may sound boring but watching something you design be carved then spending time and care over it is actually quite satisfying. The hostel itself was just the guys two story house. The ground level was all hostel and upstairs was his flat. The only heating was a coal fire in the lounge! Its quirkyness was actually quite cool. And the conversations the man would get into! Man, you dont want to know! Anyway, we left with some really cool and individual pieces. I got a compliment on mine :-) </p> <p>After spending longer in Hokitika than originally planned we made our way to Frans Josef. (This is where Dereks digital camera met its untimely demise on the Glacier hike). The further south you drive the more stunning the scenery and then when you arrive here, MAN its just beautiful! I did the 3/4 day hike up the glacier (same one as Derek). The glacier moves about 6 metres a day, and 6 weeks ago, the area was flooded so my hike may have been completetly different to Dereks oe 6 months ago. The guides try and change the routes (after Gordon that word just seems wrong! Lets just say route mean something totally different here!) regularly. I got some cracking pics that Ill need to spend time over, but I promise to post some soon. The hike is about 6 hours, and some of it youre climbing an almost vertical wall of glacier! So cool. We even got axes to play with! And the weather was just stunning. Brilliant blue sky all day! And to top it off, right at the end saw a Kea (large green bird of the Parrot family). Never seen one before (apart from the stuffed one at the museum!) </p> <p>After a good nights sleep (I was shattered! thats the most exercise Ive done for months!) we left FJ and continued south and arrived in Wanaka. </p> <p>Not a particularly far drive to Wanaka. Stopped off at Haast for a wee bite of lunch. Decided we wanted to do a couple of things from Wanaka so we booked them as soon as we arrived at the hostel. As its ski season here, it took us a while to find a hostel but we got a room at Wanaka Bakpaka. TV less and doesnt take in backpacker buses so its just independent travellers. We booked a flight and boat tour for Milford Sound. We knew we wouldnt have time to do it by car so decided we would pay somelse to do the 'driving'. In this case piloting! A little expensive but so worth it. It was cloudy when we left (hour and a half late due to cloud) but once you were through the cloud the views were just stunning. The mountains were all covered in snow and the sky was so blue. (I have pics, but need to get them reduced to get them on the blog, so soon promise!) The flight (small plane, five people including the pilot!) was about 30 minutes and then we had a boat tour round Milford Sound. More stnning views! We had a great day for it! And to make the day even more special there was a pod of dolphins swimming along side another boat and they came across to us. They could easily beat the speed we were doing but they were weaving about at the front and Derek got some amazing footage on the dvd camcorder. I got a few pics but difficult taking photos of something thats moving so damn fast! Ive never seen dolphins before so that was a rare treat! The tour was about an hour and three quarters. It was beautiful and calm. The flight back was just as stunning and at one stage, to get through the mountains, the pilot (Paul) looked like he was heading straight for the mountain. Thats it he'd had enough of life and didnt care who he took out! But no, he turned just in time! ;-) From the flight we nipped across the road to 'Have a Shot!' We tried our hand at small bore .22 rifle. I actually did better than I thought an managed to hit the target with every shot! </p> <p>The following day we headed back out to the airport as I had a skydive booked. The cloud cover had postponed it so we nipped into the toy and car museum. This was a bizarre wee place. It had dozens of old cars covered in toys! Oh how some of those toys brought back memories! Anyhoo, skydive was on. I was one of the first to go up. I was nervous at first, but the closer it gets, the more relaxed I became (apart from the six trips to the toilet in one hour!) I think I was the only one that was doing the highest jump of 15000 feet. The views were even more stunning than the previous flight. Then we got 9000 feet, this time almost double. You could see as far as Mnt Cook (150 km away!) There was one lassie that was doing a 12000ft jump so she went first (she looked really nervous!) an then the plane climbed for my jump. I decided to get another person to jump with us to film the freefall and ou descent - Jeff. He got out the plane first and stood on a small platform on the side of the plane (the dvd shows him climbing out man! just amazin!) and then the poor sod thats jumping with me (I think his name was Grant) moves us forward to sit on the edge of the plane with our feet hanging out. (This is after Ive wriggled in his lap to 'apparently' to secure the harness!) We wave for the camera and then WOOOMPFH!!!!! I did think for about two seconds, thats it, Ive totally lost it and my life is over! Yeh, having 15000 ft of air between you and the ground can have that affect. Then I came to my senses and remembered the guy strapped to my back! We freefall for a minute (about 120 mph) (still having photos and dvd taken!) then the parachute comes out (drops to 25mph!) . This is where Grant 'adjusted' the harness to make it more comfortable. Yeh! Your plummetting to the earth and he's loosening straps! The landing is actually a lot softer than I expected. Not very elegant though, you lift your legs up and open! Mmm, lovely photo opportunity! Anyway, back on earth, Derek was watching this (he'd done a solo jump back home so didnt have the desire to throw himself out another plane) and taken some footage on his dvd camcorder. The dvd is cool. Im sure the photos are too but unfortunately these were mixed up with the other lassie (12000 ft) so Im stil waiting for those. Its a braw experience. Def. want to do more! </p> <p>Anyway, from Wanaka we headed straight to Invercargill. We wanted to get as far south as possible, and booked a trip to Stewart Island so we decided to spend two nights in Invercargil so we could get the day trip in. The ferry crossing to SI was very bumpy. More like a rollercoaster! And we bumped into a girl (not literally) that we met at Hokitika! We then spet most of the day seeing each other. SI is much bigger in size than Singapore - 4 million but SI has 380! But SI is 85% National park. It has only 30km of road and 300km of walking track! And Halfmoon Bay (Oban) is the only residential area on the islan so yeh, fairly inevitable we'd cross paths throughout the day. The island is beautiful. Very peaceful. We did a one and a half hour bus tour and then lunch at the hotel. The crossing back was a little calmer! So we've managed the far north with Cape Reinga (North Island) to the furthest south on Stewart Island! And the scenery in between AWESOME! </p> <p>Dunedin was our next stop. Just the one night here. To be honest didnt really remind me of Edinburgh. Nice city though. It is home to the 'steepest street in the world' (not sure if thats still the case but its a fair pech up the hill!) Baldwin Street. At its steepest its a gradient of 1 in 3.6! They have a bench two thirds of the way up and a water fountain at the top! We decided to walk it just incase Bert took a hissy fit and refused! </p> <p>From there we got to Christchurch. We stopped on the way to see if we could spot any penguins but no luck. So here we are in Christchurch, less than a week to go till we fly to LA. Looking forward to America but NZ is a fantastic place. If you can you mut visit! South Island is braw! </p> <p>Cheers the noo.</p> <p>Jo X </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/07/03/finally_a_proper_job~928158/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-06-30:/2006/06/30/wee_update~924331/jcorben2006-06-30T23:40:38+02:002006-06-30T23:40:38+02:00 <p>I know! I have a log all ready to post, just need to get somewhere I can get a usb connection. But in the meantime..... guess what I did on Wednesday??? I jumped oot a plane! (I was attached to someone, but it was still fantastic). 15000 feet and I got a full dvd recording of my freefall. Did get photos too, but there was a mix up so Im waiting for those to be posted. </p> <p>More details soon.</p> <p>Thank you to all who are reading blog, and for the comments :-) </p> <p>Peas oot the noo.</p> <p>Jo xxx </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/06/30/wee_update~924331/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-06-22:/2006/06/22/brielfy~903777/jcorben2006-06-22T23:35:35+02:002006-06-22T23:35:35+02:00 <p>Sorry guys for not putting in a fuller entry, not had time!</p> <p>Promise one will be posted v. soon </p> <p>Btw, please feel free to leave comments. </p> <p>Love Jo XXX </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/06/22/brielfy~903777/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-06-12:/2006/06/13/to_whangarei~875260/jcorben2006-06-13T00:18:26+02:002006-06-13T00:18:26+02:00 <p>Hello</p> <p>We decided as the journey to Opononi wasnt far, we would get another tour in from Paihai. This time it was a boat trip out to Motukokako Island (Hole in the Rock). On the way, we stopped by Russell. The oldest town in NZ. Then sailed up to Motuarohia Island (Capt. Cook anchored there way back in 1769), then Moturua Island. Passed by Bird Rock (birds sit and s*it on it!) as we got to Mtukokako Island. We had a beautiful day for it and the views were absolutely stunning. We sailed through the hole and if you were lucky enough to be dripped on by the rock it would grant you enternal youth. We didnae get dripped on :-( Just by this island is the end of Russell. There is an old lighthouse that was used up until 1978, now automated! But there is also the caretakers cottage right on the hill with fantastic views. Its an eight hour walk along the island but you can stay at the cottage for $12.50 a night per person (thats GBP 4.50ish!). Tell you, the cost of living is so cheap compared to UK. We then stopped off at Urupukapuka Island. We had an early lunch after waling up to the lookout for more superb views. After that back to the mainland and away up the road to Opononi. </p> <p>We arrived at the hostel after making our way up a very windy steep road. More fantastic views! Went out to Omapere to the lookout and saw the biggest sand dunes! Guess what, more lovely views. Very picturesque! Settled in for the evening with two cats! My sneezing started fairly promptly! Anyway, the sunset was lovely. </p> <p>Headed off usual 10am for next stop Whangarei and stopped off to see Tane Mahuta, a 2000 year old kauri tree (see previous entry re. trees). As you walk round your just taking in the beauty of the forest, then you see this HUGE trunk. The trunk height is 17.7m and total height is 51.5m! Trunk girth 13.8m and trunk volume 244.5m! I KNOW! Its not normal!!! </p> <p>Got to Whangarei at 2pm. Theres a shop here that imports Nairn Oatcakes!!!! Cheap too! The hostel office didnt open till 5 so we made ourselves comfortable in the lounge and caught up on a bit of tv :-) Just the one night there. </p> <p>From there we decided to head to Coromandel. Its south of Auckland and on the coast. Nothing to report on the road trip, expect the road from Thames to Coromandel is very windy and very close to the water! Got there in good time. Greeted by the holiday park/hostel dog, very cute :-) One of the pubs was showing the All Blacks v Ireland rugby game, so of course we had to attend that. It was a really good game. We then had a few games of pool with the locals and we actually won! </p> <p>Having decided to spend two nights at Coromandel, we headed out to the Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove. Unfortunetly, we were a bit out on the timing for the hot water. Its two hours around high tide (or something like that) but we were still able to apprectiate the beach. Very peaceful. From there, we headed up to Cathedral Cove. A natural rock formation thats been carved out by the sea. Its amazing. We were there just after sunset so it was very quiet and beautiful. (a hell of a walk out to it though!) We decided that we'd had a hard day so treated ourselves to a nice dinner in the local cafe LUNA Cafe at Hahei Beach. It was lovely! Bread and dips, Prawns in a sweet chilli sauce, chicken curry, chocolate cake, caramel slice and a glass of wine less than GBP 27!!! We had planned to go and watch the England v Wallabies rugby, but were feeling a little full, so just headed back to the hostel for a quiet one. </p> <p>From Coromandel, decided to head back to Auckland for one night (paper work to collect). We woke to a very stormy morning however, to discover that power had gone in Auckland and as we left Coromandel it went out there too! </p> <p>Anyhoo, no dramas, got into Auckland (after traffic jam on Southern highway!) about half one..........you guessed it, another quiet one...</p> <p>Peas oot.</p> <p>Jo X</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/06/13/to_whangarei~875260/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-06-12:/2006/06/13/auckland_to_paihia~875244/jcorben2006-06-13T00:15:48+02:002006-06-13T00:15:48+02:00 <p>Hi there, </p> <p>The last time I made an entry was when we'd just arrived in Auckland. I forgot to mention that we'd treated ourselves to a wee laptop/notebook (whatever they're called these days) so we can now make 'diary entries' and save them to disk/memory stick and just load them onto our blogs when we've got an internet connection. It will save a lot of paid internet use time. </p> <p>Anyhoo, we spent a little longer in Auckland than we planned. We had originally planned just three nights, but ended up staying five! But, those days were not wasted oh no! I experienced a fantastic record shop just yards from the hostel. Its braw. Absolutley huge! AND they had one of my favourite films (second hand but still had it!) January Man (Kevin Kline, Susan Sarandon, Mary Elizabeth Masterantonio and my favourite Alan Rickman (drool!). Not many of you may know the film but I think Marianne will. It was as good as I remember it. We took it back on to the shop to trade it and got another braw film, House of Flying Daggers. We've no watched it yet, but the flexibility of a braw wee laptop and we can watch it at oor leisure! :-) And, you'll never guess... we've got ITunes on our wee computer. Its the BEST invention! </p> <p>Sorry back to the trip! We also bought a car. Its a wee 1987 (the cars here last years) White Toyota Corolla 1.5. The longest distance on the North Island (approx) is about 900km (I think), so there's no way we'll be covering the same distances like we did in Australia in Bertha. So far, we've got as far as Paihia. Its 200km ish north of Auckland. For the first night, we were in the same room as our roomates from Auckland (Lana and Paul)! Go figure!!!! We did consider taking the car further north, but spotted a day trip that would take us there and back. We did that Wednesday 7 June. 7:15 (yes in the am!) set off, and journeyed north up to Cape Reinga. Stopped off at Doubtless Bay for coffee (I would go into all the history about the names but we'd be here for hours). Then onto Puketi Kauri Forest to see Kauri trees that are bloody huge and about 600 years old. The oldest (further south) is 2000 years old, but they can grow to 4000 years!!!!! After that a drive along '90 mile beach'. Its not actually 90 miles, only 64. But apparently measured by cows! Yeh, I didnt know they could count either! Actually, cows were used to measure it. A landowner would takes his cows down the beach to sell at the market at the other end, and 'its well known' that cows can cover 30 miles a day, and yes you guessed it, it took them three days! Lazy cows if you ask me! We stopped on the beach because there was a 90% submerged Merc. Been there about four months and alomst completely engulfed by the sand! Lots of pics... Anyways, as you come off the beach along 'Te Paki (quicksand stream) theres some crackin' dunes to sandboard down. But after the very steep walk up, I passed. It was an absolute KILLER of a climb up! Already done sandboarding though (and after Paul managed to damage his knee so badly on another trip, kinda put me off!). Then we were away off to a beach (apologies for the lack of a name, cant remember! Maybe Houhora...) for lunch. The guide (Craig) went off for him daily swim and was joined by three of the group. (One of which went naked cos he didnt have any swimmers and thought it couldnt be much worse than his hangover!) From there, we headed up to Cape Reigna. Its the most northerly point and very spiritual for the Moaris. Its absolutley stunning (got pics promise will post). We then started our trip south. Apparently there are two days of the month that you can drive up and down the beach (normally tide times allows you only one way) and guess what, we were lucky enough to go back along the beach. However on the way back we passed a car that had got stuck in the river leading to/from the beach. If you stop for anything longer than seven seconds, thats it, you need towed oot! So between Craig and a 4x4 they got them out, with the coach as a willing audenience! Unfortunatley that added a little time to our beach drive so we (sorry, Craig, we just sat there and watched) had to circle four times to get the timing right to get round some rocks! Its all good fun :-) After we got off the beach we made our way to a wood carving workshop - Ancient Kauri Kingdom. They use the wood from the really big trees (they dont cut them down - ilegal!). They actually use wood from trees that have been 'buried' by swamp! Apparently 4 layers, and I think they're only on layer 2! These go back millions of years (MILLIONS!). COOL!!! </p> <p>On the last leg now, and we stopped off for 'fush'n'chups' at Mangonui (I think). Mmmm, braw. Final 'stoppette' was a wee roadside fruitstall. The guy (Stewart I think) grows his own fruit and doesnt seem to have changed his prices in the years he's been trading. $1.20 for atleast 10 kiwi fruits! (Thats about 50 pence)! I know MADNESS!!! Def. a worth while trip. Craig (driver, guide, comedian) was really good. Knew his stuff. Even made reference to Billy Connolly's tour of New Zealand! </p> <p>Onto Opononi next (first a wee boat trip out to Hole in the Rock)....</p> <p>Cheery</p> <p>Jo X </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/06/13/auckland_to_paihia~875244/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-06-01:/2006/06/01/new_zealand~845303/jcorben2006-06-01T06:48:04+02:002006-06-01T06:48:04+02:00 <p>Hello all.</p> <p>Just a brief entry. Ill expand more next time - short on internet time...</p> <p>Caiguna to Nundroo. Just stop offs for the night on the Eyre Highway Unfortunatley we had three (yes three) encounters with the police....</p> <p>1. Derek driving. <em>S'cuse me sir do you know you have no front number plate?</em> Yes, a new one has been ordered and we're heading back to Adelaide to collect it. (you can only get a new reg. plate in the state the car was originally registered!)</p> <p>2. Jo driving. <em>S'cuse me maam, (I know MAAM!!! how old do I chuffin look, I know Im nearer 30 now than 25 but theres no need to be rude!) do you know you have no front number plate and your side light is out?</em> Yes, we'er heading to Adelaide to collect said plate and the side lifgt went out yesterday and you cant buy (chuffin) bulbs on the Nullabor!</p> <p>3. Derek driving. <em>S'cuse me sir, do you know you have no front number plate?</em> WE BLOODY KNOW! (no we were very nice!) </p> <p>FYI. In the time the plate fell off (origanally back told by police to swap it), and getting to Perth (east to West) NO HASSLES! But, I tell you, when you go west to east, the chuffin idiots are on you like flies on.. well you know! THREE TIMES!!! Have they nothing better to do. </p> <p>Got as far as Port Augusta (about 300km north of adelaide) and poor old Bertha just couldnae take it any more. The alternator packed in. And of course it was a saturday evening so we decided to just stay in PA until she was fixed (we did call out RAA - AA, but only got us a further 3km down the road!)<br> We left there on Tuesday and got into Adelaide. We dstayed there two nights, so we were just a day late in gettin into Melbourne. We were flying out from there so decided to spend as much time in one place to organise ourselves. We sent home 4 boxes (I know!) of 'stuff' that we just had no reason to be carrying around! Bertha got sold and Dereks bike has good home. </p> <p>The three and a half hour flight yesterday was pretty good. I watched Greyfrairs Bobby (the new one). It was a bit twee but good all the same. James Cosmo is always good <img src="/img/smilies/icon_wink.gif" alt=";)" class="middle" border="0"></p> <p>We're staying in Auckland International YHA for three nights, and we'll work out the rest of our plans from there. The main plan is as we only have a month here, spend two weeks in North Island and two weeks in South Island. Bungy Jumping, skydiving and Zorbing all to be mastered :-) (not sure if my insurance covers all that... mmm. I must look into that <img src="/img/smilies/icon_lol.gif" alt=":DD" class="middle" border="0"></p> <p>Apologies for the lack of photos. I did try to get some on, but I havent mastered it yet. Keep forgetting to reduce the size and I get all flustered so just give up. I promise to get the on SOON.....</p> <p>Ill away the noo.</p> <p>Take care.</p> <p>Love you all.</p> <p>Jo X</p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/06/01/new_zealand~845303/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-05-24:/2006/05/24/hi_there_still_here~825064/jcorben2006-05-24T10:43:28+02:002006-05-24T10:43:28+02:00 <p>Hello</p> <p>Ill start off with the usual 'I know its been ages, sorry' line. Derek is far better at this than I am! </p> <p>When we left Margaret River (that seems so long ago) we made our way to Perth but just took our time. We stopped off </p> <p>at Bussleton and walked along the jetty (2km) and visited the Under water Observatory. It was really cool, but I </p> <p>still managed to get the wobbles and we were safely behind glass! </p> <p>We got into Perth about teatime (I think, so long ago!) We had booked into the new Perth City YHA. It used to be the </p> <p>St Johns Ambulance building and restored to maintain the Art Deco style. It looked lovely but they hadnt done a very </p> <p>good job with the layout inside or the 'features'. I had a couple of manipulative phusio sessions (backs been </p> <p>playing up again!). Kate (physio) was very nice but not a patch on Susan. We spent time wandering round. We visited </p> <p>Swan Bell Tower, Kings Park and of course we did Sexpo! We were there six nights (i think) and then we moved to </p> <p>Coolabah Lodge (Derek had stayed there on his previous stay in perth). Lorraine (owner) was very pleased to see him </p> <p>back. We booked a few trips through her, Wine tour, Pinnacles and Rottnest Island. (In that order). It was very well </p> <p>plced as the wine tour fell on Dereks birthday. I had promised not to say anything, but I couldnt let it go </p> <p>unmarked, so I quietly pass a comment to the guide. On our way back into the city we all sang happy birthday and </p> <p>Derek got a grand bottle of Port. Appartently if they know in advance, one of the winerys (linked to a restaraunt) </p> <p>provides a slice of cake and a candle. Quite pleased it was just contained to the bus tour rather than the entire </p> <p>winery! I may have been sent home ;-)</p> <p>Anyhoo, the following day was a very early start for the Pinnacles tour. This was a strange one. On a off road bus, </p> <p>but it was an all day trip taking in a wildlife park, many 'facilty' stops, driving over dunes and sand boarding and </p> <p>the Pinnacles. the Pinnacles were amazing, and the sand boarding was braw, but the rest of the trip was just to </p> <p>break up the long drive and the driver (graham) was a little monotone! </p> <p>Friday, we gave ourselves a day off and just relaxed. The last trip we had booked was a crossing to Rottnest Island. </p> <p>We had another very early start. This was more 'self guided'. The ferry took you across and as long as you were back </p> <p>for half three, the day was yours. We did the bus tour round the island, then went of a glass bottom boat to see the </p> <p>fishes and two ship wrecks (one from Glasgow!). However, being at the bottom of a boat, watching fishes made Derek </p> <p>and I feel particularly unwell. We werent sick but man, we were close! Spent a little time on one of the beaches, </p> <p>then back for the ferry crossing back to the mainland. </p> <p>Sunday was another day off. We decided to have one more day before heading away to Kalgoorlie on Monday. We re-</p> <p>traced Dereks 'steps from Perth - Kalgoorlie. We arrived in Kalgoorlie late evening. A wee wander round town then </p> <p>bed. I wasnt feeling to well. The following day we did a little more. We spent time up at the Superpit (theres gold </p> <p>in them thar hills I tell you!) very cool (again have pics will post soon). We then ventured out to Broad Arrow </p> <p>Tavern, a pub basically out in the middle of nowhere. It never used to be like this. It was a busy settlement when </p> <p>the goldrush hit, but unfortunately this didnt maintain a lifestyle, so there is now only a few people still there. </p> <p>And of course, we had a few pints at the local 'skimpies' bar. Yes, the lassies do get their kit off! </p> <p>We were due to head of from Kalgoorlie the following day, but dereks cold had taken hold so we just lazed about. </p> <p>The following day, we left there and made our way towards Adelaide. We stopped off at Caiguna for the night. </p> <p>And that folks is as much as I can remember until I get my diary out. Sorry about that, that'll teach me for not keeping it up to date more often! </p> <p>Cheery the noo, pees oot and a' that.</p> <p>Jo XXX </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/05/24/hi_there_still_here~825064/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-05-01:/2006/05/01/i_know_i_know~767655/jcorben2006-05-01T07:36:54+02:002006-05-01T07:36:54+02:00 <p>Its been ages. For those that have Dereks log address, Im sure youve all caught up with the fact I wisnae very weil! All good now. </p> <p>Left Adelaide (a day later than planned) and made our way upto Port Augusta. Just another Holiday park. Very small cabin but it did the job. Following day made our way to Streaky Bay. The name sounded interesting so we had to go <img src="/img/smilies/icon_smile.gif" alt=":)" class="middle" border="0"> Then from there across the Nullabor. About 2000k of road that runs through some very dry lands. Every 100k or so there were roadhouses. So easy to get fuel, beer, pool and sleep. The last night we were there stayed at a roadhouse called Balladonia. I actually won a game of pool. Yes thats right folks I beat Derek at pool! You should have seen my last shot on the black! It was beautiful! </p> <p>Anyhoo, left Balledonia and made our way to Esperance. Usually we're covering about 400 to 600k a day. Spent two nights in Esperance. The first night we deceided to head to the nearby pub for 'one' drink (the hostel was playing host to about 48 med students and they were not a quiet bunch!) Anyways, the one drink developed into several and more pool. We even got a couple of games in with the locals. We even saw Sea Lions! (No not in the pub that would be silly!)</p> <p>Left Esperance and made our way to Albany. The couple that ran this hostel (another yha) were really nice. Very friendly. The only down side was the place got really cold at night! Brrrr.... </p> <p>We stayed and extra night cos the weather the first day was poor, so we did some touristy stuff the next day. I cant remember all the names but we covered a military museum (we got to play on the big guns, it was braw), then round to Halls Gap and the Natural bridge and the Blowhole. The only down side was at the Gap and Bridge there were two coach loads of Italian tourists (youngest about 65) and they insisted on walking VERY slowly and in rows of four! Four women even sang at every damn operchancity! They couldnt sing in tune AT ALL! </p> <p>Anyway back to the hostel for fish and chips (Im afraid the Australians dont know how to do fish and chips, but the fish - shark was loverly!) beer and scrabble! We treated ourselves to our own board game. Ive even beaten Derek a few times! </p> <p>Left Albany and decided to cover the 500k (ish) a got to Margaret River yesterday. We stopped off at the Valley of the Giants tree top walk about 200k ish from MR. We had good weather so took our time going round. It was lovely and very peaceful. </p> <p>We're in a kinda guest house set up in this hostel (yha - youre fairly sure of a good hostel and fairly reasonable prices) We're here for two nights and going to make our to Perth. Going to try and sort visa stuff for US in Perth and see if we can get Bertha in for a service. We're still trying to decide how far north we'll go, but we do want to do Ayers Rock. We've only got a month left till we leave here and head to NZ, so we'll have to see how the time will work. </p> <p>I think thats it for now. Im sure Ive forgotten something but as usual log is back at the hostel. Im sure Dereks log will have the bits Ive missed. He's got a bloody good memory for all this stuff! </p> <p>As ever, take cares.</p> <p>Cheery peeps.</p> <p>Jo X </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/05/01/i_know_i_know~767655/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-04-17:/2006/04/17/a_quickie_again~732851/jcorben2006-04-17T02:30:19+02:002006-04-17T02:30:19+02:00 <p>running out of internet time so just a brief entry the noo.</p> <p>Did the Neighbours tour last monday. It was a laugh. Got pics (no 'stars' though) will post them soon.</p> <p>Left Melbourne on Tuesday and we were joined by two fellow travellers Martyn and Jihyne. They wanted to see the Great Ocean Road so came along for the ride. (Got pics, will post soon)</p> <p>Spent time in Apollo bay, Warrnambool (spelling?) Halls Gap and Pendleton Farm Retreat (just south of Keith). Arrived in Adelaide yesterday. </p> <p>We're here for a couple of days and plan to head up to Alice Springs before heading westward again. </p> <p>Will be back in touch again soon.</p> <p>Cheery the noo.</p> <p>take care y'all.</p> <p>Jo X </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/04/17/a_quickie_again~732851/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-04-09:/2006/04/09/mmmm_not_workin~714165/jcorben2006-04-09T12:52:09+02:002006-04-09T12:52:09+02:00 <p>I tried to get more pics on but it hasnt worked. I managed a few though. Ill try and get more posted soon.</p> <p>Tara the noo.</p> <p>Jo XX </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/04/09/mmmm_not_workin~714165/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-04-09:/2006/04/09/pics_part_two~714143/jcorben2006-04-09T12:43:15+02:002006-04-09T12:43:15+02:00 <p>As promised, some more pics. (by the way, if you click the picture on the previous entry you get a description, I saved it the wrong way!) </p> <p>Cheery</p> <p>Jo XX<a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=468517"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/517/468517_7406a5777d_s.jpeg" align="" alt="Picture 001" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=468519"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/519/468519_4757fa4f92_s.jpeg" align="" alt="Picture 002" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=468520"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/520/468520_3903283882_s.jpeg" align="" alt="Picture 003" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a> </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/04/09/pics_part_two~714143/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-04-09:/2006/04/09/hit_and_run~714051/jcorben2006-04-09T11:59:20+02:002006-04-09T12:24:43+02:00 <p>I was involved in two hit and runs the other day... first one was a double - two butterflies and the second was a pigeon. Its amazing the impact a car has on such creatures. The only thing left of the bird was a single feather stuck in the windscreen wiper... </p> <p>I ken its been a while since I last made an entry. Been a bit out of the whole internet thing the last wee while. But Im back <img src="/img/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif" alt=":D" class="middle" border="0"></p> <p>After we left Cairns (the second time once we got Bertha back) we headed to Undara. (I know, it does sound like a place from Thundercats!) We stayed in a swag tent. It was really cool. The place was made up of a mixture of accomadation from tents to train carriages. It was a beautiful place. I saw lots and lots of Kangaroos and wallabies. We even enjoyed a night singing (I know, I mimed!) by the camp fire. I even had a go on the wobble board... you need strong arms for that! Because we were so isolated, there was no light pollution so you could see the stars so clearly. Ive never seen the sky like that before. It was stunning. </p> <p>After Undara, we headed back to the coast to Yeppoon. Camp for the first time in Dereks tent. In theory great idea, unfortunatley as we were still in the tropics, it was far too hot to sleep. But we were right by the beach. It was lovely. </p> <p>We left there and headed to Carnarvon Gorge. We considered staying there but the wanted $80 for one night! So we decided to keep heading south. Just spent the next couple of nights in wee places on the way down. Spent a couple of nights in Lithgow just outside the Blue Mountains. We got to Melboune on Friday night (having driven 900km cos I wanted to spend my birthday here) Went out last night and got very very very drunk. It was grand <img src="/img/smilies/grayyes.gif" alt=":yes:" class="middle" border="0"></p> <p>Anyhoo, as promised some pics (ive made two entries to try and catch up for my laziness)<a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=468450"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/450/468450_54a654c6a8_s.jpeg" align="" alt="Picture 001" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=468456"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/456/468456_40b664aa97_s.jpeg" align="" alt="Picture 002" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=468457"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/457/468457_e8abb52b63_s.jpeg" align="" alt="Picture 003" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=468458"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/458/468458_79de6052c5_s.jpeg" align="" alt="Picture 004" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=468459"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/459/468459_84854b6811_s.jpeg" align="" alt="Picture 005" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a><a href="http://www.blog.co.uk/srv/media/media_item.php?item_ID=468460"><img src="http://data1.blog.de/media/460/468460_4d822700eb_s.jpeg" align="" alt="Picture 006" vspace="5" hspace="5"></a>....... enjoy and Ill be back soon. </p> <p>Jo XX </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/04/09/hit_and_run~714051/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-03-26:/2006/03/26/poor_thing~674983/jcorben2006-03-26T07:21:04+02:002006-03-26T07:21:04+02:00 <p>Well, Bertha (the car) has finally told us she's no a happy bunny! We were headin north to Cooktown and decided to go via Cape Tribulation. Lovely drive, a wee ferry trip (it is croc. land you know) and lots of hills. Managed to get into a hostel but the weather turned and the rain became quite heavy. There are a lot of creeks up this way and they were quite fast and heavy flowing. I think Bertha objected. She did a grand job getting us through them (I walked through one for a photo opp. I KNOW Ill post pics soon)! JEEZ!!! But then she started flashing lights on the dashboard... never a good sign. So we decided the best thing to do was head back to Cairns for now and get her serviced. </p> <p>Post cyclone, a lot of areas have been badly effected by the strong winds. There's still a lot of debris around and I think it will take a long time to clear. Appartently theres been one death. Think they were in a caravan (I KNOW! Even Im no daft enough to sit in out strong winds in scotland in a caravan never mind a chuffin' CYCLONE!)</p> <p>Anyhoo, running out of time again. I will try and be more organised... but hey why change the habits of a lifetime! </p> <p>Pees oot! </p> <p>Ta-ra</p> <p>Jo X </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/03/26/poor_thing~674983/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>tag:roondtheworld.blog.co.uk,2006-03-23:/2006/03/23/a_quicky~668082/jcorben2006-03-23T04:50:40+01:002006-03-23T04:50:40+01:00 <p>Hello all,</p> <p>Im afraid its just a brief one today as Ive rapidly run out of time! </p> <p>For those that heard about Cyclone Larry, we are safe and sound. We were on the edge of it, but it did hit a few towns just south. One of which we left only a couple of days before hand. It was just very windy and heavy rain. Actually we felt quite at home (except it was very warm!) </p> <p>On a different note, I WON a game of pool against Derek! Its a miracle! </p> <p>Anyhoo, we're heading north the morn. (Cant head south cos the roads are still closed due to the cyclone!) </p> <p>We waved cheerio to Mark and Isabel (Dereks friends from his trip to Kangaroo Island). Mark is heading home to Holland, Isabel is taking another six weeks and heading to Asia. </p> <p>I promise Ill update on more detail soon.</p> <p>Cheery bye the noo.</p> <p>take care</p> <p>Jo X </p> <p> <small> <a href="http://roondtheworld.blog.co.uk/2006/03/23/a_quicky~668082/#comments">Comments</a> </small> </p>