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Italy

By
Rupert Diggins
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Bolzano, Italy
Bolzano, Italy
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There are not many people of us who don’t love all things Italian. A beautiful country with beautiful people combined with pizza, pasta, passion, and Pavarotti …..I’d call that perfection! As I was growing up my father often used to mention, on a fairly regular basis and egged on by my mischievous mother, his adoration for Sophia Loren, the beautiful Italian actress from the latter half of the 20th century.

She epitomized Italy in the ’50s and ’60s with her grace, her style, and class. It puts my teenage crush on the 80’s singer now gardener Kim Wilde into perspective – oh well each to their own eh! When I sit back and think about it perhaps I shouldn’t love Italy as I do. So much of it is the mirror opposite of what draws me to a country – the roads are chaotic, screaming kids (and adults) run amok in restaurants, the people love to show off, personal space on beaches rarely exists, and the political scene is a shambles and everything is last minute……yet somehow none of that matters as you just get wrapped up in the magic of a country that just takes your breath away at every turn.

Key Information

Continent Europe
CapitalRome
CurrencyEuro
LanguageItalian
VisaFCO Advice
VaccinationsVaccination Advice
Tourist OfficeItalian Tourist Office

Memories Of Italy

Over the years I have visited Italy on several occasions and each time I have questioned why it took me so long to return. I get that feeling about a lot of places but Italy perhaps more so than most! 

I think for a long time I saw Italy just as a weekend or city break destination which it is but there is of course so much more. I perhaps overlooked the idea of a full summer holiday as in my twenties and thirties other hotspots were offering the bright lights and boozy nights for a fraction of the cost. As I have gotten older though, and it comes to us all, places like Italy and Croatia which have so many similarities, have become much more my scene.

Now, of course, the idea of a week or two in a Tuscan villa with a pool overlooking olive trees and vineyards, or an island escape, a cultural adventure, or a Venice and Rome two-centre holiday with added-on experiences like wine tasting, truffle hunting, olive oil making is exactly where I am now at!

Something I have also always dreamed of doing is touring Italy in an open-top sports car. I did do that on the island of Sicily back in the ’90s but the thought of travelling the Mille Miglia route of the fifties in an iconic Rosso red Ferrari Dino 206 GT is the stuff of schoolboy dreams as opposed to my reality of cruising stressed as hell through the crazy streets of Palermo, Sicily in rush hour in 1996 in a Renault Megane – it was a convertible mind… but silver….and French!

Places To Stay in Italy

There is a huge variety of accommodation options in Italy including family hotels, boutique properties, youth hostels, self-catering villas, family-run B&Bs, villas, mountain monasteries, and rural farmhouses.

In recent years Agriturismo has become popular although, it originated back in the 50s with so many of us conscious of what we consume, the healthy organic homegrown farm stay has taken off. Many of the farms are suitable for the family as they allow the kids to interact with the farm animals.

Italy can be whatever you want it to be…. I love to experience the real Italy rather than the glitzy 5-star hotel offering impeccable service. and fine cuisine.

Spoilt For Choice

Cities like Rome, Naples, and Florence in Central Italy are home to some of the country’s best cultural attractions. As you head to Southern Italy, the sun-drenched coastal towns like Sorrento or the Bay of Naples area, offer traditional Italian life, authentic experiences, excellent food, and wonderfully fresh locally grown produce.

Italy is also full of romance and iconic places to visit, such as Rome’s Colosseum, the amphitheatre in Verona, the Northern Italian lakes of Garda and Como, and then there is also Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast and of course you have the Vatican.

I have been fortunate enough to spend a lot of time on some of the Best Italian Islands particularly Sardinia back in 1998 when I lived in Corsica. I used to regularly make the short 45-minute ferry crossing and visit Sardinia’s wild coastlines and secluded coves as well as the glitzy seaside towns of the Costa Smeralda or the historic old town of Alghero. If you’re after culture, then Sicily is packed with sights to see too, the original Greek settlement in Syracuse, the mystical village of Corleone, or the majesty of the smoking Mount Etna.

Whilst these are the iconic hot spots, I get just as much, if not more enjoyment from undiscovered Italy, the off-the-beaten-track retreats, the little villages, those cobbled streets in the twilight hour, that knockout coffee hit at breakfast or as I remember like it was yesterday, the Pecorino Romano cheese soaked in rosemary oil washed down with a glass of Chianti in stunning Lake Como.

Italy On Film

Now when people start talking to me about Italy there is strangely a moment from the world of football that I believe sums up this country.

It was back in 1982 at the World Cup in Spain when an Italian team who were slow out of the blocks at the start of the tournament hit their straps and made it to the World Cup Final against an unbelievable Brazillian team.

Against the odds Italy won the final and in doing so scored a goal by Marco Tardelli which had one of the greatest goal celebrations ever and it still gives me goosebumps to watch it today … and I am English! Even if you hate football have a watch – it’s just 50 seconds.

Watching this clip, listening to the Italian commentary, and seeing that excited elderly gentleman in the crowd maintaining his style just sums up this nation – Italians are emotional, they are passionate, they are flamboyant, yes they are loud, and yes they are at times crazy but mamma mia….. put this all together and its dynamite.

There is a saying in Italy – “La vita è un sogno” – which means “Life is a dream”. Welcome to Italy!

Getting Around

The main international airports in Italy are Malpensa Airport in Milan and Leonardo da Vinci Airport (also known as Fiumicino) in Rome. Visitors also frequently fly to smaller airports, including Venice Marco Polo, Naples and Comiso. In Sardinia, there are three main airports – Olbia, Alghero and Cagliari whilst in Sicily there is Catania.

Hiring a car in Italy is highly recommended if you planning to get out of the city for a reasonable amount of time. I have hired cars in Sicily and Tuscany and loved the freedom! If you are on a city break then bear in mind the streets are going to be crazy busy with traffic and scooters and even in some places cars are not allowed like in the old town of Florence. To hire a car in Italy, you must be at least 18 years old and have held your license for 1 year. An International driver’s License is expected. On average car rental works out to about £20-£25 per day so it is pretty cost-effective. Make sure you take out all the different covers as if you do venture into the cities losing a wing mirror is a distinct possibility!

The choice of both domestic and international ferry options in Italy is mind-blowing but when you consider that the majority of Italy is surrounded by sea then it is no surprise. International ferries operate in countries such as Albania, France, Spain, Sardinia, Corsica, Greece, Croatia, and many more. A useful website when planning is this is Aferry although, of course, your travel agent can often pre-arrange these itineraries in advance.

Taxis in Italian cities are usually yellow or white and as always are best hopped in at official taxi ranks for instance at railway stations, airports, and in town centres. It’s not usual to hail them on the street although you may get lucky. Taxis should have a meter, which I would advise you to check is switched on. If it’s not then agree on the fare before setting off. Taxi journeys in Italian cities aren’t for the faint-hearted with drivers regularly ignoring speed limits so it’s your call! Fares are set by the local authorities. There are often supplements should you have luggage, travelling at night or to the airport. Tipping is not expected although it’s common to round up the fare to the nearest euro.

Trains in Italy are a fantastic way to travel around. On the whole, they are cheap and reasonably reliable, although some of the older trains are not particularly comfortable. All are now non-smoking which is great news. Italy’s railway coverage is very good although of course up in the mountains and rural areas you will need to seek the use of other transport. Train services in Italy are mostly run by the state company Trenitalia. There are also a few privately run local lines. Always research your journey in advance and note the different fare classes. Once you have your ticket you are restricted to that type of service – as in the UK if you are caught using a different service then there will be a charge. I loved travelling by train in Italy – it’s easy, it’s exciting and as always letting the train take the strain allows you to marvel at some of the country’s beautiful countryside.

Top 20 Things To See & Do In Italy

  1. Explore the ancient ruins of Rome, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon.
  2. Marvel at the art and architecture of Florence, home to iconic landmarks such as the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery.
  3. Cruise along the stunning Amalfi Coast, with its dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and azure waters.
  4. Take a gondola ride through the picturesque canals of Venice and visit St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace.
  5. Discover the historical and cultural treasures of Sicily, from the ancient Greek ruins of Agrigento to the bustling markets of Palermo.
  6. Hike through the breathtaking landscapes of the Cinque Terre, a series of colourful cliffside villages overlooking the Ligurian Sea.
  7. Sample authentic Italian cuisine in Bologna, known as the “food capital” of Italy, and enjoy traditional dishes like pasta Bolognese and mortadella.
  8. Explore the historic city of Pompeii, preserved in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
  9. Visit the iconic leaning tower of Pisa and explore the architectural wonders of Piazza dei Miracoli.
  10. Experience the romance of Verona, the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, and visit Juliet’s balcony.
  11. Take a scenic drive through the Tuscan countryside, dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and medieval hilltop towns.
  12. Explore the ancient city of Pompeii, buried under ash and lava after the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
  13. Relax on the sun-kissed beaches of the Italian Riviera, such as those in Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure.
  14. Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Milan, including the magnificent Duomo and the iconic Last Supper painting.
  15. Embark on a wine-tasting tour in Tuscany, sampling world-renowned wines like Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino.
  16. Wander through the charming streets of Siena, known for its medieval architecture and annual Palio horse race.
  17. Explore the picturesque lakes of Northern Italy, including Lake Como, Lake Garda, and Lake Maggiore and towns such as Bolzano, Brescia, Bergamo, Vicenza and Padova.
  18. Visit the ancient city of Pompeii, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD.
  19. Discover the beauty of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning alpine scenery and outdoor activities.
  20. Experience the vibrant culture and nightlife of Naples, home to delicious street food, lively piazzas, and centuries of history.

Pre-bookable Excursions

Contact Information

For more information on visiting Italy contact the Italian Tourist Office or contact your local travel agent or tour operator.

Antarctica – The Land of the Penguin

By
Danny Giles
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0
Antarctica Travel Blog
Antarctica Travel Blog
Home » Travel Blog

Explore Antarctica

As a teenager, I was always fascinated by the great polar explorers like Amundsen, Scott and Mallory. I was contacted recently by a travel industry chum who I used to work with at the tour operator Balkan Holidays. Since those days back in 2010 – Danny Giles has gone on to represent two lovely companies that have at the heart of their business, exploration – Hurtigruten and Silversea.

In 2012, Danny worked for Hurtigruten and he got the opportunity to take to the seas and enjoy his very own expedition, albeit it in a little more comfort than Messrs Scott, Amundsen and Mallory, as he boarded the MS Fram for an adventure taking him in the footsteps of those fabled explorers. Here is his journal and some of the experiences and sights that he encountered as he set out to Explore Antarctica – The Land of the Penguin

Day 1 – Glasgow to Buenos Aires

This tour of Antarctica started with me flying from Glasgow via Amsterdam to Buenos Aires with KLM Airlines. After a comfortable 14-hour flight I collected my luggage and headed straight to the Emperador Hotel. This is one of the best luxury hotels in the Recoleta neighbourhood of town and is known for its 5-star service, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, indoor swimming pool, sauna, solarium, spa treatments and more.

Just after 10 pm, I was advised to leave my luggage outside my room as in 10 minutes it would be taken away that night and checked in for the flight to Ushuaia.

Day  2 – Buenos Aires to Ushuaia

An early rise and a substantial breakfast set me up for a comfortable 3.5-hour flight to Ushuaia on the southern tip of South America. We landed in the most beautiful surroundings just 4 km south of the centre of Ushuaia city and were met with some rather nostalgic stairs.

Luggage collected I headed outside to be greeted by a team of friendly staff who showed us where to put our cases before boarding a coach for a tour of the Tierra Del Fuego National Park.

The park was stunning with a strong feel of Norway about it. There are numerous hikes and activities of varying degrees of difficulty available however the combination of the beauty of the park, the history of Tierra del Fuego’s native inhabitants and the views of the Beagle Channel make this a must-visit experience.

A popular day trip from Ushuaia is the End of the World Train which is a replica of the prison train that once transported convicts between Ushuaia Prison and what is now the Tierra del Fuego National Park.

After our brief visit, we headed back to the quay ready to board the MS Fram for the start of our Antarctica voyage and just after 6 pm set sail in the direction of the Drake Passage.

Day  3 – Sailing the Drake Passage

A long day ahead of sailing across the Drake Passage and luckily we had the Drake Lake. The passage is widely considered to be an unpredictable area to cross and quite often the waters can be rough however on occasion they can be calm and in these cases, it is referred to as “Drake Lake”.

During this journey, I attended several lectures and enjoyed our first view of wildlife as we spotted Finn whales off in the distance.

Day  4 – Yankee Harbour

More lectures were then followed by an IAATO ( International Association of Antarctica Operators) mandatory briefing, which, without attendance, you will not be allowed to go ashore on the Antarctic Peninsula. In the afternoon we sailed into Yankee Harbour where we caught our first glimpse of penguins.

As the snow came in, the expedition team went ashore to prepare for the landing as we all held our breath for the Captain to give the go-ahead for the landings to commence. The call came and the first group headed off. We were treated to spending time taking photographs and watching a large Gentoo colony – the third largest of the penguin species.

Day  5 – Cuverville Island – Andvord Bay – Brown Station

Morning came and we had arrived at Cuverville Island with the sound of ice against the hull. Small icebergs surrounded the ship. I was in the first boat group for the landing to finally explore Antarctica and decided to hike to the vantage point overlooking the bay for a fantastic view.  The Gentoo’s were also in fine voice on top of the ridge.

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In the afternoon we sailed through the stunning Andvord Bay in silence before heading to our next stop which was to be the Argentinean research station, Brown Station. This would also be the venue for an overnight camp and everyone gathered in the observation lounge to hear who the lucky few spending a night on the Antarctic ice would be. Sadly it was not me.

Day  6 – Brown Station – Port Lockroy – Lemaire Channel

The next stage of this tour of Antarctica involved a morning landing at Brown Station and a chance to listen to the camper’s stories from their night on the ice while all around us there were more Gentoo’s accompanied this time by three Weddell seals who were basking in the beautiful sunshine.

The afternoon we spent exploring the UK Antarctic heritage and research site at Port Lockroy. This was an opportunity to send a postcard back home and spend some money at the only shop around.

The evening we attempted to head through the Lemaire Channel but we didn’t make it as we were blocked by an iceberg corking the channel.

Day  7 – Petermann Island – Lemaire Channel

After a lengthy detour through the night we arrived at Petermann Island, the furthest South we would land.

Today brought a different species of Penguin as we met our first Adeilie penguins. This is the smallest and feistiest species of penguin in the Antarctic. While it might appear that cute and cuddly penguin it has been known to fight back against its predators like birds and seals and it occasionally has a pop at a visiting researcher.

I also took the somewhat chaotic opportunity to go for a swim in the Antarctic ocean – yes it was cold however a dip in the Jacuzzi soon after warmed me up.

The afternoon plan was changed as the weather was spectacular so the expedition team decided to take everyone on a Polarcircle cruise in the Lemaire Channel. This was an amazing afternoon and probably the highlight of the voyage. The iceberg that had corked our path the night before had broken up which allowed us to sail back through the channel which included a sighting of a couple of magnificent Orca.

Day  8 – Whalers Bay on Deception Island – Half Moon Bay 

Today’s sailing was accompanied by the worst weather we had encountered on the voyage and yet it still wasn’t too bad. We arrived at Whalers Bay on Deception Island (an active volcano) and I chose the hike over the top of the ridge to a colony of Chinstrap penguins on the other side. Chinstraps are my favourite penguins and are instantly recognizable by their black band. They are also the most abundant penguin in the Antarctic.

Strong winds and snowy conditions made it a tricky ascent and descent but it was so worth it when we got there.

In the afternoon we headed to Half Moon Bay and the last of our landings. Inhabited by more chinstraps and a large seal basking in the sunshine we were joined by the local research team who came along to say hello and check the nearby station.

Day  9 – Drake Passage

The return journey, leaving my tour of Antarctica behind, started as we crossed the Drake Passage once more and again the Drake Lake greeted us as we were treated to more fantastic lectures and a crew show that entertained everyone onboard.

Day 10 – Cape Horn

We sailed to within just 3 miles of Cape Horn, the rocky headland on Hornos Island in southern Chile’s part of Tierra del Fuego. The view from this close was fantastic and pretty rare as this doesn’t always happen on every voyage as there is a 12-mile exclusion zone around the cape.

Day 11 – Ushuaia – Buenos Aires

We arrived in Ushuaia and got the chance to explore the city and take in some shopping before heading back to the airport for the flight back to Buenos Aires. Ushuaia is of course most known for being a gateway to Antarctica however it also boasts some ski resorts and the town itself has shops many of which have souvenirs including pinguinos (painted penguin jugs), snowglobes, carved husky statues, chocolate or various leather goods.

That night we headed to the world-famous Carlos Gallardo tango show for steak and a wonderful evening of entertainment and Tango.

Day  12 – Buenos Aires – Paris – Amsterdam – Glasgow

The morning before the journey home was a hot one and with it being a Sunday my choices were limited of where to go. I decided to walk to Recoleta cemetery to visit Eva Peron’s grave. After a good 20-30 minutes of searching, I found it. The flight home with Air France via Paris and Amsterdam was long but uneventful.

This Antarctica voyage was truly a magnificent experience and one that I would recommend to anyone I meet.

What to Pack to Explore Antarctica?

Warm winter jacket
Wind and water-resistant trousers, long thermal underwear and top (we recommend wool)
Warm cap or headband
You should also bring swimwear for use in our on-deck whirlpools
A scarf or fleece tube
Warm woollen jumper and fleece jumper/jacket, remember layers are essential
Sunglasses with UV filter lenses
Gloves and mittens, fleece and wool
Warm socks
Bring extra batteries for your camera, as battery life is shorter in cold areas
Shoes with good soles are recommended for outdoors, on deck, and for excursions ashore. Make sure they are worn-in walking boots.  

Contact Information

All Hurtigruten voyages to Antarctica are available to book via a range of UK tour operators and they in turn are best booked with your local travel agent.

Australia

By
Rupert Diggins
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Australia Travel Blog
Australia Travel Blog
Home » Travel Blog

Introducing Australia

Australia – one of the United Kingdom’s sporting rivals with straight-talking, easy-going folk with a great sense of humour. I like Australia.

Australia is huge yet one of the least populated countries based on its size in the world. Getting around is easy on the wide range of internal flights with the only difficulties being the shifting time zones and the different weather patterns.

From its tropical rainforests to its barren dry red deserts, it is a country with so much to offer those seeking adventure, sunshine, beaches, and fun.

The range of cities is impressive with Sydney always grabbing the headlines, particularly over New Year but there is Perth, Melbourne, Adelaide and so many more.

An all-action and outdoor lifestyle is perfect for those wanting to experience the iconic surfing beaches, diving on the Great Barrier Reef, the magnificent Gold Coast, or the rainforests of Daintree. The outback and the indigenous culture and history of the Aboriginal people. 

There is the unusual and endemic wildlife from Kangaroos to Koalas and my personal favourite – the Echidna – a kind of Hedgehog with a long snout for digging out those worms.

Finally, and this is a biggie, they have one of my favourite songs from my teenage years – Down Under by Men At Work! What more could you ask?

https://www.silversea.com/

Key Information

Continent Oceania
CapitalCanberra
CurrencyAustralian Dollars
LanguageEnglish
VisaFCO Advice
VaccinationsVaccination Advice
Tourist OfficeAustralian Tourist Board

Getting Around

With so much to enjoy about the country where do you start when planning?

If you are touring then the recent documentary on ITV with Griff Rhys Jones has highlighted the Perth to Sydney train journey called the Indian Pacific. It takes 3 days and sets you back between 900 and 2300 Australian dollars. It’s a great way to understand the vast nature of the country.

Flights are of course available in most key locations and as an idea, the Perth to Sydney route from the west to the east coast is a 6-hour flight.

Of course, for those wanting a taste of Australian life, you can take the road and whether it’s in a camper van or a hire car this is a fantastic way to discover off-the-beaten-track gems.

Sydney, Australia copyright Plumbwell Plumbing Services
Sydney, Australia photo copyright Plumbwell Plumbing Services

Top Things To See & Do

Blue Mountains National Park
The Blue Mountains, a stunning natural wonder 80 km west of Sydney, Australia, captivate visitors with their rugged beauty and lush wilderness. Renowned for their distinctive blue haze created by eucalyptus oil in the air, these ancient mountains are a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Discover breathtaking landscapes of towering cliffs, deep valleys, and cascading waterfalls as you explore winding hiking trails and scenic lookouts. Immerse yourself in the rich Aboriginal heritage and explore hidden caves adorned with ancient rock art. Whether bushwalking, abseiling, or simply enjoying the serenity, the Blue Mountains offer an unforgettable escape into the heart of nature.

Bondi Beach
Just a 15-minute drive from Sydney Bondi Beach is the original surfing centre of the world and an iconic location for backpackers and toned beach bodies.

Daintree National Park
The biodiversity of this World Heritage site is incredible as the tropical rainforest meets the fine white sands of the Coral Sea.

Great Ocean Road
As road trips go this is pretty special. A 300km drive takes you along the southeast coast including Port Campbell National Park and the Twelve Apostles Rock Formation.

Fraser Island
The largest sand island in the world and a world heritage site where visitors come to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities.

Kakadu National Park
This is the largest national park in all of Australia and is teeming with wildlife, rainforest, swamps, and ancient rock paintings.

Kangaroo Island
Easily combined and accessed from Adelaide this is a nature lovers’ paradise.

Melbourne
Located on the Yarra River, Melbourne is a popular attraction for visitors looking for culture and style as the city is full of restaurants, shops, galleries, and theatres.

Perth
Surrounded by the Australian outback and the Indian Ocean Perth is the capital of Western Australia and boasts great weather and beaches.

Sydney
Visit the opera house, walk across Sydney Harbour Bridge, party the New Year in or just revel in the cosmopolitan nature of Darling Harbour. The beautiful city of Sydney is a must on any visit to the land down under!

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park
The Great Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a natural wonder of unparalleled beauty and biodiversity. Stretching over 2,300 kilometres along the coast of Queensland, Australia, it is the world’s largest coral reef system, comprising thousands of individual reefs and islands. Home to an astonishing array of marine life, including colourful coral formations, vibrant fish species, and majestic sea turtles, the reef offers unparalleled opportunities for snorkelling, diving, and eco-tourism adventures. As a vital ecosystem, it plays a crucial role in supporting global marine biodiversity and is a testament to the awe-inspiring wonders of the natural world.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Deep in the heart of Australia and formerly known as Ayers Rock this is one of the most photographed locations in the world and a world heritage site.

Pre-bookable Excursions

More Information

The Australian Tourist Office provides a wide choice of useful information including places to go, things to do and what you can expect from the weather.

Why not check out my Australia For The Weekend Blog that describes my mad dash to make the Rugby World Cup Final in Sydney in 2003?

Australia For The Weekend

By
Rupert Diggins
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Australia 2003 Rugby Weekend
Australia 2003 Rugby Weekend
Home » Travel Blog

Australia 2003 Rugby World Cup

Back in 2003, I was doing what I have done for the past 20 years – attending an overseas travel conference. This time it was the conference of midlands-based company Kwik Travel and I was staying at the Hotel Elba Sara in Fuerteventura, in the Canary Islands, Spain. Naturally, I was working hard although, in my spare time, I was gracing the soft Spanish sands playing volleyball. However, this trip was a little different in that the Australia 2003 Rugby World Cup was taking place down in Australia and with every spare moment an eye was kept on the scores coming in from the land down under.

I remember the conference schedule was adjusted so that we could all pile into a local Spanish bar to watch the semi-final where to everyone’s delight, apart from a few pesky Scots, we put the French to the sword.

Now Max, my old mate from school days – in later years he was to be my best man and I subsequently was his – had been in Oz following England and he had made a last-minute decision after that semi-final to stay on and chance his luck for a ticket to the final.

Monday 17 November 2003

Sure enough, Max got lucky. He got doubly lucky as he managed to secure a couple of tickets to the biggest rugby match in England’s history. The only problem was the tickets were in an office block in Singapore and the mate he invited, that was me, was working at a travel conference in Fuerteventura. What followed was perhaps the wildest week of my life and all of it was coordinated through a Nokia 6310 – remember those?

Upon securing the tickets Max dropped me a text – “One More! I have a spare ticket – you coming?”.  “One More” was a reference to Martin Johnson, the captain of England saying to his team after that semi-final victory that they now had just one hurdle to overcome – the Aussies in the final in Sydney.

That text arrived mid-morning Monday. I was in a conference session probably listening to a presentation on best travel marketing practices which in those days would have included the faxing of offers, the benefits of placing ink-smudged 5X1 adverts in national newspapers and how to get the most return from one of 300 pages of scrolling beach holidays on Teletext.

Now the game was just 6 days later in Australia so after the initial excitement, reality kicked in as I considered all the elements that I would need to overcome to make this the trip of a lifetime.

The first question was “Could I get there in time”? Well, I was at a travel conference so I guess I was in the right place to get that answered! Surely there was someone who could get me a flight ticket to Oz for Saturday. Little did I realise that half of the UK was heading to Sydney for the Australia 2003 Rugby World Cup final.

Lunch & A Bonus

Over lunch, at La Barca Restaurant in Caleta de Fuste, I frantically explained my predicament to the table and it just so happened that fellow volleyball maestro Tracey (a non-pesky Scot) from Gold Medal was able to make a call, scribble down an itinerary on the back of a fag packet (well her lunch invite) that I still have to this day and miraculously she secured a flight option.

The only problem was that it involved a rather daunting and somewhat arduous route that would scare many but not someone who, when he gets the sniff of a major sporting occasion, will almost certainly make the most irrational of decisions to attend.

The route that Tracey had offered me as my only chance of getting to the game was departing Fuerteventura in two days – thankfully as the conference was ending…

Dep Wednesday
Fuerteventura – Gatwick (quick change) – Manchester – Dubai – Perth (overnight) – Sydney, Australia

Dep Tuesday
Sydney – Perth – Dubai – Manchester – Gatwick

Once I’d got my head around that, the next hurdle was cost and getting the time off work. With a price of circa £1,200, it was not cheap but a call to the boss soon allayed those fears.

He responded far better to my plea than I could ever have imagined by saying we had enjoyed a fantastic year of sales this could be my bonus and there was no issue in taking the leave.

I promptly thanked the boss, confirmed with Tracey and told Max to get that golden ticket from Singapore DHL’d and guaranteed as I was on my way!

Australia 2003 Rugby World Cup, Emirates

Tuesday 18 November 2003

The conference continued but there was the matter of a small rugby match on my mind.

Wednesday 19 November 2003

Looking back nearly 20 years I don’t recall the journey from Fuerteventura to Gatwick and then to Manchester too much – I have a recollection of trying in vain to buy some England merchandise at Manchester airport but everything was sold out as most fans had already departed.

At last, I could relax on the flight – well that was the plan. I ended up sitting next to Hilary, this wonderful older lady whom I even still have a photo of to this day. She had never travelled so far before and was a little nervous so my caring side kicked in and I soon put her at ease with 7 hours of continuous chat even though I was doing myself a favour too as I am not the best flyer myself – yes you heard that right!

One moment always makes me chuckle as I recall her asking me where I was staying and it was only then that it fully dawned on me that I had not booked or even thought about any accommodation – not in Perth or indeed in Sydney – I mean why would you?

Before long we were landing in dusty Dubai, parting company and heading off on our exciting adventures. I would love to think she is still reciting memories of her trip to Dubai to see her daughter and newlyborn granddaughter as well as that nice bloke she sat next to en route.

Thursday 20 November 2003

I arrived in Perth late in the afternoon and feeling a little jaded all I wanted was to find an airport hotel and to crash for the night. Actually, that’s a lie – I wanted to go into Perth and discover this city on what was my first ever night on Australian soil but yes I was tired and let’s face it – I needed to save myself for the next few days.

After a little difficulty and via the airport information desk, a grubby cheap motel about 15 minutes away from the airport was located and booked and I soon got my head down.

Friday 21 November 2003

Having spent most of the night worried that a Huntsman spider the size of a dinner plate was going to appear from behind the stained and rather grim curtains I promptly got the hell out of that grubby motel room and it was back to the airport.

I was booked on the early morning Qantas Airways “red eye” flight to Sydney. I remember reading somewhere that Qantas in all their years had never had a plane crash and was the safest airline in the skies. That turned out to be a reassuring blessing as I recall a pretty nasty storm halfway across Australia. We were thrown around at 30,000 feet and as I gripped the armrests I kept thinking that today would not have been a great day to die – at least leave it till after the game!

The weather continued to be unkind as I arrived in Sydney during another torrential rain storm. I was met by Max and another old pal from college Pete who now lived in Sydney. We jumped in his car and dropped my bag at the hotel in Darling Harbour that somehow Max had managed to source. Within a couple of hours of landing, I was excitedly staring at a match ticket whilst holding an ice-cold pint of the amber nectar on a Friday night in Darling Harbour looking out across to the Sydney Opera House – I had made it … I was in Australia. Soon after more rugby friends arrived in the shape of Adam and Bernie and we were ready – bring on game day!

Australia 2003 Rugby World Cup, Darling Harbour

Saturday 22 November 2003

With dark skies overhead we enjoyed a somewhat rain-interrupted look around Sydney where we bumped into former England player Rory Underwood before a long lunch in Darling Harbour washed down with plenty of liquid refreshment to calm the nerves.

Then we excitedly boarded the train for the Telstra stadium outside of Sydney for the match. Not being able to get any England merchandise at Manchester airport came back to haunt me as I spent the day wearing a ridiculous St George bandana….the things you do!

Without a doubt what followed that train journey was one of the greatest rugby matches in history and certainly the best final. Favourites England could not build a healthy gap and with a tenacious Australia team levelling the game in the final moments, the game went into overtime.  

As the rain continued to fall and with my body aching, my head pounding, my clothes soaked, my voice gone, Jonny Wilkinson kicked that iconic drop goal that would ultimately secure victory and history was made. England had won the Australia 2003 Rugby World Cup. The stuff of dreams for every England sports fan. Suddenly all those ailments were gone and a party like no other commenced. The Aussies kindly then decided to shut the bars in the local area so we headed into town to celebrate long into the night and beyond!

Sunday 23 November 2003

I believe it was 6 am and we were queuing in the rain to get into the only open bar in all of Sydney in the seedy Kings Cross area. We were not alone though as I recall laughing at the queue of what seemed like hundreds of deliriously happy yet somewhat exhausted and bedraggled England fans. I mean come on you don’t win the World Cup every year so best celebrate it in style!

After one last beer and the 596th recital of “Oh Jonny Jonny….Jonny Jonny Jonny Jonny Wilkinson,” we headed back to the hotel for a quick powernap and a change before going to Bondai or was it Manly Beach for a long lunch. It was all a blur.

Monday 24 November 2003

Monday involved checking out as much of Sydney as we could. To start it was a visit to see the Koalas at Taronga Zoo followed by a stroll around the Sydney Opera House where for some incredulous reason I bought a six-foot-long carved wooden didgeridoo. That night we checked out some more local hotspots for yet more celebratory beverages and then attended a packed German-themed Lowenbrau bar and restaurant for steins of beer, bratwurst and a raucous German band – as if we needed it.

I recall that evening queuing in the rain (yes it was still raining) to get in a phone box to call home to confirm that I was in Australia and still alive although to be fair I am not sure that was entirely accurate!

Tuesday 25 November 2003

After a brunch discussing the magic of the past few days I was off to the airport, my head hurt, I was tired, it was still raining and I just needed to get myself and my six-foot didgeridoo back home which happened to be on the other side of the world.

Sometimes opportunities come up in life that you cannot put a price on and you just have to take. If you don’t you will only have feelings of regret and one thing I have learned is that regret drains the life out of you. Yes with sport it is so often the hope that kills you but these are the moments, win or lose, you will remember for the rest of your life.

Whilst I would never seriously suggest a weekend break to Australia I would always say you should go with your heart.

My boss who kindly paid for the flight used to have a rubber stamp in his office, probably next to his fax machine – it said JFDI – meaning “Just F***ing Do It” – well just like England… I did and loved every second of my impromptu wet weekend break to Australia.

I loved it so much that the same happened again 4 years later …. but more of that for another time…

Contact Information

While the Australia 2003 Rugby World Cup scenes can’t be repeated, you may be planning a trip to Australia. If so please contact your local travel agent, tour operator or the tourist office.

Sydney, Australia copyright Plumbwell Plumbing Services
Sydney, Australia photo copyright Plumbwell Plumbing Services

Antarctica

By
Rupert Diggins
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0
Antarctica Travel Blog
Antarctica Travel Blog

Introducing Antarctica

It is strange to write about a continent where nobody permanently lives due to the region’s harsh and hostile terrain and weather.  With wind speeds of up to 220 mph and an ice layer 4.8 km deep which is deeper than many of the world’s great mountain ranges, this is a continent like no other on earth.

Antarctica is the world’s least visited and as such a relatively undiscovered continent. Yet it holds the key to all of our futures when we talk about global warming and climate change. Here researchers and scientists have uncovered the signs that our planet is crying out for help.

Thankfully the many expedition ships and cruises that pass through these icy waters work with authorities to ensure the minimum damage is done to the environment. They also educate visitors on eco-tourism, sustainability, and a wide range of measures aimed at ensuring this experience will be available for years to come.

Polar Routes

Many expedition ships such as Ponant, Silversea, Hurtigruten, and Holland America offer amazing itineraries to this remote part of the world. Some also allow you at certain locations to get out on the water on Kayaks or Zodiacs. This allows you to get up close to marine animals and also icebergs that the larger ships cannot access.

There are plenty of activities and trips you can do in Antarctica. One of the most popular is penguin watching with six species regularly seen on trips – Adelie, Gentoo, Rockhopper, Chinstrap, Macaroni, and the King of them all, the Emperor.

You can visit and get a true understanding of what happens at one of the many Antarctica research stations where they study all manner of different subjects such as meteorology, ecology, seismology, and physics.

A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity may also present itself in that you can camp out under the stars either under a tent or simply in a sleeping bag on the ice looking at the stars.

Underwater, there are scuba opportunities and also if you need a quick burst of refreshment there are places you can take a brief plunge to clear the senses!

For more expert advice why not check out one of my guest blogs here “Tour Of Antarctica“.

Antarctica Travel Blog
Antarctica Travel Blog

Top Things To See & Do

Ushuaia
The capital of Tierra del Fuego and the gateway to Antarctica. Located close to the beautiful Tierra del Fuego National Park there are opportunities for hiking and sightseeing. You can take a trip up the Beagle Channel, discover the Vinciguerra Glacier or go dog sledging.

Deception Island
This volcanic island has a safe and natural harbor making it a popular stopping point en route to further adventures. It was also the home to the region’s whaling industry in the early 20th century.

Blood Falls
This strange natural phenomenon is an iron oxide-tainted stream of salt water that flows from the Taylor Glacier.

Trinity Church
The Holy Trinity Church is a Russian Orthodox church on King George Island. The site is also close to Bellingshausen Station which is a Russian research station. 

The Drake Passage
The stretch of sea from the tip of South America to the Antarctica peninsula has a reputation for being one of the most dangerous in the world. This is due to the considerable ocean currents flowing through the channel. However, for the adventurous, it is the only way to travel.

Mount Vinson
This is Antarctica’s tallest mountain at 4,897 meters. It can be climbed however it takes practice, training, and a skilled team to embark on this challenge.

Port Lockroy
The harbour of Port Lockroy is a scientific research base as well as a museum. There is also a post office where the tradition is you send a postcard home. Better than a text I reckon!

Discover 8 Unmissable Highlights of Bolivia

By
Caroline Joyner
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Highlights of Bolivia
Highlights of Bolivia
Home » Travel Blog

Highlights Of Bolivia

I love reading about South America…. aside from the two poles I always feel this is the continent that has always seemed the most inaccessible and perhaps the one that as a kid I wondered if I would ever visit. Of course today it’s perfectly accessible so what are we waiting for? The countries that make up the continent are all so different yet each one has an appeal to me for a variety of reasons. One of those countries where I will hold my hands up and admit to knowing very little is Bolivia.

With my wildlife hat on I do know that it is home to some rare pink dolphins along a small stretch of the Amazon. I also know that its football team has an advantage when playing at home as their stadium in La Paz is considered to be the one with the highest altitude in the world thus making visiting teams struggle to accustom themselves to the conditions. More on that to come in another blog!

So with that pretty limited knowledge over to Caroline Joyner from the Travel Counsellors who shares her experiences of this incredible country.

Flavours of South America

If you are searching for the real South America, it doesn’t get better than the highlights of Bolivia. As the continent’s most indigenous country, Bolivian street life explodes with South American flavour; an indigenous culture which is alive and well, ancient relics, well-preserved colonial cities and modern Latino vibes.

A country of pure superlatives, its contrasting scenery provides a feast for the adventurous traveller. Snow-covered Andean peaks, coloured salt lakes, lush cloud forests and the steamy Amazon can all be a base for wildlife spotting, culture vultures or adrenaline junkies.

Salar de Uyuni

One of the highlights of Bolivia is to take a 3-day, 4-wheel drive tour through this breathtaking, other-worldly landscape from Uyuni. The Salar de Uyuni is the world’s highest and largest salt flat, but as well as miles of flats and various buildings made out of salt, you will also see volcanic lakes dotted with pink flamingos, geysers, hot springs, a train cemetery, and an island full of Cacti – this is no normal trip!

A 2-3 day trip here is a must-do for your Bolivian itinerary. Food and accommodation is usually included, but be warned that accommodation on a standard tour is in basic stone lodges and temperatures can get below zero at night during the winter months (June-September) so warm clothes are a must!

La Paz

With a location as jaw-dropping as Rio and culture arguably richer than most Latino cities, Bolivia’s de facto capital is the beating heart of the Andean nations. Spend time wandering through the cobbled alleys, up and down the hilly streets wondering at the beautiful colonial buildings and churches while all the time watching the local life unfold.

Take a ride on the world’s highest and longest urban cable car, “Mi Teleferico”. The views from the cable car platform in El Alto are nothing short of spectacular. The sprawling city of La Paz climbs the sides of a giant natural bowl and the snow-capped peak of Mount Illimani looms on the horizon.

Death Road Cycle Ride

For the far more adventurous how about careering down Bolivia’s infamous “Camino del la Muerte” on a mountain bike taking in the stunning views along the way (just don’t look down!). The trip starts in La Paz where riders are driven an hour to the La Cumbre high pass at 4800m.

From there it’s a 4-5 hour cycle down to Yolosa at 1100m. From Yolosa you can either head back to La Paz or hop on a bus to Coroico – see below. Recommended tours are with Gravity Bolivia.

Lake Titicaca

The jewel in Bolivia’s crown and another must-see. Backed by snowcapped peaks and home to ancient Incan islands, the highest navigable body of water in the world simply glitters. Take a boat from Copacabana (which later gave its name to Rio’s more famous version) to ancient Isla del Sol, and take a hike around its Mediterranean landscape and Incan ruins.

If you have the time, do as the crowds don’t do and spend a night here. The birthplace of the sun does not disappoint.

Corioca

Bolivia’s centre of ‘chillaxing’ is a mere 2 hours from La Paz by minibus. Soak up the heat, swim in your hostel pool and take in the beautiful views. If you’re feeling a little more active you can hike to waterfalls and natural pools or fly over the tree tops of the tropical forest www.ziplinebolivia.com.

For animal lovers, La Senda Verde Animal Sanctuary is a must.

Rurrenabaque

Known as “Rurre”, and located in northern Bolivia’s steamy Amazon basin, this is Bolivia’s slice of the jungle for travellers. The bus ride from La Paz is long, bumpy and hair-raising (18-20 hours) making flying a far more attractive option (45 minutes from La Paz on Latam or Amazonas.

This tiny town is crammed with hostels, tour agencies and western cafes. Jump on a boat to a multi-day jungle adventure, or simply sway in your hammock soaking up the atmosphere.

Sucre

The constitutional capital is without a doubt one of the highlights of Bolivia and probably its most beautiful city. A UNESCO World Heritage site, whitewashed buildings and colonial squares abound. An overnight 12-14 hour bus journey on a near decent road makes Sucre a popular stop for backpackers as does its pleasant year-round climate and easy-to-breathe air.

Potosi

One of the world’s highest cities at 4090m above sea level, Potosi was once the wealthiest city in the Americas and the seat of the Spanish mint. It’s Cerro Rico or “Rich Hill” was the site of the infamous silver mines, the horrendous conditions of which can still be experienced today.

On a more cheery note, the city has fabulous churches and colonial architecture which are worth the 10-hour bus journey or short flight from La Paz.

Getting Around

Air

Bolivia is a massive country and road journeys between some of the sights are long. Domestic flights can save you long, bumpy journeys. Regular flights operate between Bolivia’s major cities.

Private Car

A private car and driver for shorter journeys is recommended and can be arranged by your travel agent.

Bus

If you are an independent traveller then Bolivian buses will provide you with an adventure and a huge insight into Bolivian life. There is a huge choice of bus companies. Overnight journeys can be done on the more luxurious “full cama” buses and shorter journeys either by coach-style buses or minibuses.

Recommended companies include El Dorado, Flota Boliviar, Trans Copacabana, Todo Turismo and Trans Touristico Omar. All these companies go between the major cities and you will find their booths in bus stations. 

Examples of journeys:

La Paz to Sucre: 100 Bs for 10 hours, semi-cama seat
Sucre to Potosi: 15 Bs for 3 hours, normal seat
Potosi to Tarija: 80 Bs for 10 hours, semi-cama seat
Tarija to Tupiza: 80 Bs for 7 hours, semi-cama seat
Potosi to Cochabamba: 60 Bs for 7 hours, semi-cama seat
Cochabamba to La Paz: 70 Bs for 9 hours, semi-cama seat
La Paz to Lake Titicaca: 40 Bs for 3/4 hours, normal seat

Bus companies vary greatly between routes and companies and even within companies sometimes, so it’s best to talk to other travellers at the time. For longer journeys always buy your tickets at the bus station where you can check out all the companies running the route you want and compare. A good general rule is to go for the most luxurious option available since this will be cheap in Bolivia and likely to get you the most comfortable ride!

Bus Stations

The Terminal de Buses (Plaza Antofagasta) is a 5-minute taxi ride from downtown/ Sagarnaga which should cost around 5-10bs. Interestingly this stand-out art deco building was designed by  French architect Gustave Eiffel! This station serves many of the main inter-city and international routes (such as most routes into Peru and Argentina).  Don’t forget to pay the little-advertised “Bus station tax” of 3bs. This must be paid before boarding your bus at the ticket booth in the centre of the bus station – keep your tax ticket to show as you board the bus.

The Cemetery bus terminal (Terminal Cemetario) is further to the west of the city (no more than 15 bs in a taxi from downtown) and serves shorter routes to Copacabana, Tiwanaku and Sorata.

The Villa Fatima bus terminal is about 1km uphill from Plaza Gualberto Villarroel (around 15-20bs in a taxi from downtown) and serves the Yungas/Amazon region with mainly minibuses (micros).

When To Go

Bolivia has just about every climatic zone – high altitude destinations can get down to arctic temperatures, whilst the Amazon basin can be stiflingly hot.

November to April are the rainier months leaving wintertime (May to September) as the most desirable months to travel. During this time you generally find blue skies and sunshine at high altitudes, with cold nights, and hot weather at lower levels.

Contact Information

With thanks to Caroline Joyner from the Travel Counsellors for this blog. If you are interested in a holiday to Bolivia or any part of South America please get in touch with her on the details below.

T: 07801 591350
E: caroline.joyner@travelcounsellors.com

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