Ken Bibby.

BELGIUM.

admin — Wed, 15 Feb 2012 14:44:04 +0000

Well,here we are hot & sunny again. This time in the “European capital” — where they make all the rules that only us daft Brits follow & the rest of Europe ignore. Temps have been 25 C to 29 C all week here but I`ve just heard that its 13 C in Redcar and that there`s been so much rain that many roads are flooded & closed.
Doing a tour of Belgium this time involving 2 flights,6 train journeys , bus journeys , a long tram ride and a sail up the Napoleon canal in a paddle steamer to Bruges. No story or missions this time — just some pretty pics to follow later.
Broadband is so slow here you wouldn`t believe ! I honestly thought it was dial-up at first.Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Graham » 18 Jul 2009 12:00 am

Looking forward to seeing some photos soon, Ken. Have a good time.Graham

Graham

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 18 Jul 2009 02:11 pm

Thanks Graham. Its a beautiful place but so expensive. A pint in Poland was 90p . Here in Belgium its £6 !
The Grote Markt in Brussels is an architect`s delight. The pic above is of the city museum :-Ken.

Ken
Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 19 Jul 2009 09:01 am

My tour this time is simply a relaxing one to revisit areas I haven`t been to for over twenty years.
Which ever way you turn there are beautiful buildings such as these :-And this :-Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 19 Jul 2009 09:31 am

And then on another side is the Hotel de Ville or Old Town Hall :-Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 20 Jul 2009 10:01 am

The choice of restaurants seems endless :-Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 20 Jul 2009 10:26 am

For the ladies is the huge and classy Galeries Royales Saint Hubert shopping precinct :-Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 20 Jul 2009 10:34 am

But its well worth the menfolk tagging along — as just on from the end of the Galeries is the famous Mort Subite :-This restaurant has featured in many movies. Its so full of character AND good beer — brewed on the premises.
The best one to sample is the Lambic Blanc.
Employees working at the National Bank of Belgium passed their lunchtime in the pub playing a dives game called “421″. Before returning to the office , the employees played a quick last game and the one who lost was called the: “MORT SUBITE” or the sudden death.Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by WillyLad » 20 Jul 2009 05:52 pm

Brilliant Ken. Looks like a great place. And the Lambic Blanc ? I can taste it from here !

WillyLad

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 20 Jul 2009 07:03 pm

Yes. It was one of the best pints I`ve had.
And now , duly refreshed , we leave Brussels and head for the fascinating little hamlet of Damme.
The local carriage provides a pleasant trip to the canal :-Where we board the paddle boat to take us up the Napoleon canal to Damme :-Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Michelle » 21 Jul 2009 06:38 pm

Lovely pics. Cant wait for journey to continue.
Michelle

Michelle

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Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 23 Jul 2009 12:02 pm

The tiny hamlet of Damme is quite remarkable :-Many years ago an horrendous storm cut a huge creek in the coastline,turning the city of Bruges into a port almost overnight. They then extended port accessibility even further inland to Damme,which itself became a very busy & important little port.More than 300 different types of goods were imported through this tiny hamlet. A herring processing industry was established here in the 15th century and in this little “Haringmarkt” (now a small green bordered by about a dozen converted houses) almost 30 million herring were processed here annually :-Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 23 Jul 2009 07:01 pm

And as we make our way back to the canal for anther boat journey , we see the windmill where so much blood was spilled in the notorious “Battle of the Windmill ” :-Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 23 Jul 2009 08:22 pm

Then to the coast and the seaside resort of Blankenberge followed by a pleasant tram trip down the coast to Ostende.
Neither of them my cup of tea, so no pics except this one to show how the old promanade hotels have been replaced by the more functional modern apartments :-Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 24 Jul 2009 10:37 am

And now on to Bruges — a city which really does justify some pics. This is perhaps the most famous view :-

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 25 Jul 2009 10:17 am

The old market square :-Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 25 Jul 2009 10:20 am

And at the other side —- The Belfry :-—- and the view I took from the top of it :-Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Michelle » 25 Jul 2009 07:04 pm

Makes me feel dizzy just looking at photo !
Michelle

Michelle

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Graham » 25 Jul 2009 07:06 pm

Me too Michelle. But what a beautiful place. Shown in the best possible light by Ken!

Graham

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 26 Jul 2009 01:41 pm

Thanks Graham. Yes Bruges is beautiful , but as I said before quite expensive. I soon ran out of euros and had to resort to a bit of busking ! :-Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by WillyLad » 27 Jul 2009 10:22 am

Ken wrote:I soon ran out of euros.

Go on ….. pull the other one !
I hear Alastair Darling even borrows from you.

WillyLad

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 27 Jul 2009 06:11 pm

Alistair Darling borrows from everyone doesn`t he ??Almost everywhere you wander here there`s peace and tranquility.Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Wiccan woman » 29 Jul 2009 08:27 am

Great photos Ken, I love Bruges and I even made it to the top of the Belfry when we were there, very narrow stairway but the scenery once at the top made it worth the trip up, I needed to sit down for quite a while before I made it back down. but I was chuffed I managed the trek to the top

Wiccan woman

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 29 Jul 2009 07:38 pm

Yes. It was quite a climb — particularly with my dicky ticker !
However it was nothing compared to the Statue of Liberty which is higher,narrower,steeper,hotter and more claustrophobic.
Back in Bruges the evening strolls were made even more relaxing by the classical street musicians.Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Graham » 29 Jul 2009 11:55 pm

Well if Darling borrows from us he forgets to pay it back. I think the word TAKES is more appropriate lol!
Great pics Ken, thanks!Graham

Graham

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 30 Jul 2009 05:22 pm

Good point Graham !
Many of the buildings in Bruges are simply stunning :-Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Chel » 30 Jul 2009 08:07 pm

Can you stick me in your cases on your next hols ? Mine had to be cancelled due to car not running. Love the pic’s by the way.

Chel

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 02 Aug 2009 11:59 am

Cheers Chel. Hope you get your car fixed soon.Here`s afew more pretty pics of the canals of Bruges :-Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 02 Aug 2009 06:16 pm

The quiet outer canal which encircles the city :-

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Kattaddorra » 03 Aug 2009 03:54 pm

What great photos Ken ! They are so clear. I do enjoy travelling ‘with’ you.
Katt

Kattaddorra

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 08 Aug 2009 12:13 pm

Thanks Katt. Here`s a few more.
I`ve never seen a city with so many horse & carriages :-There are even ornate drinking fountains just for the horses :-Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 10 Aug 2009 07:00 pm

Bruges is of course famous for its lace making :-I wonder if this was one of Chel`s relatives ? Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 11 Aug 2009 11:15 am

The first thing most visitors to Bruges will see is Lake Minnewater (also known as The Lake of Love ) :-This is where the sea estuary used to enter the city. Its hard to imagine that up to 150 boats & ships would be anchored here. These must be the most beautiful docks in the world !On the edge of the lake sits Minnewater Castle — now a chateau-style restaurant :-Despite the fact that its in such a lovely location,sadly its now abandoned.Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 14 Aug 2009 09:30 pm

Further on towards the city centre is the quaint Bonniface Bridge :-And just down from the bridge, a couple of the many very pretty cottages of Bruges :-Ken.

Ken

Re: Ken`s JULY Postcard.

by Ken » 15 Aug 2009 10:03 am

And that`s it.Good Night Bruges.Ken.

Ken

by WillyLad » 23 Aug 2009 04:18 pm

Cheers Ken. Another interesting collection of pics. Keep them coming

From the Air

admin — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:13:45 +0000

As you`ve probably guessed , I wouldn`t be able to resist boring you with our Shildon.net adventure team`s recent pics.
This was the 1st one I took of the burners getting us airbourn:-

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by Ken » 30 Aug 2005 11:54 pm

I was fortunate enough after I retired from I.C.I. to work for David Bellamy & the Wildlife Trust for 6 years. He will now tell you that wind turbines are not only a waste of time —– they are a blot on the landscape.
We old residents of Redcar are fighting tooth & nail to stop an enormous bank of these monstrocities being built within a mile of our lovely coastline.
As we peacefully sailed over the beautiful countyside this evening we came across these supercilious attempts to placate the Kyoto agreement :-

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by Ken » 31 Aug 2005 12:10 am

On the bright side however , we did have our Shildon.net team simply enjoying themselves !!

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by Kattaddorra » 31 Aug 2005 10:16 am

Those photos are amazing ! Thank you for sharing with us Kat

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by Ken » 31 Aug 2005 10:31 am

Took this one just after take-off :-

Ken.

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by Jaynie Girl » 31 Aug 2005 07:27 pm

brill pics Ken…thanks!Looked like you had a great time up in the balloon

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by Phil » 01 Sep 2005 11:50 am

I am due to go on one of these ballon trips in October from the York. I hope the weather will be as good as you had, Ken. When did you drink the champagne? As Dutch courage before you started or as a nerve calmer after you had landed?

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by Kristof » 02 Sep 2005 07:19 pm

There was no sign of the champagne until we had packed the balloon back into it’s big bag and heaved the basket back onto the trailer.I think if they had given it to us before we might not have helped with the graft.

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by Kristof » 04 Sep 2005 07:48 pm

If Ken can bore you with some photos of our daring expedition into the depths of darkest Durham then so can I.Here is one to show just how big the balloon is, the pilot was checking all was Ok before take off.

Last edited by Kristof on 04 Sep 2005 07:54 pm, edited 1 time in total.

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by Kristof » 04 Sep 2005 07:50 pm

Getting some hot air into the beastie, I’m sure my wife could have done it faster

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by Kristof » 04 Sep 2005 07:52 pm

And that grand moment when it starts to stand up straight.

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by Black Knight » 04 Sep 2005 08:42 pm

They are all brilliant pics Kristoff and Ken.I never imagined those things were so big. Well done & as Kattadorra said thanks for sharing the experience.
B.K.

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Redcar Steel Gala

admin — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:12:31 +0000

Here`s a few pics of the floats that have just gone by :-1)Grease.

2)Oliver.

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by Ken » 02 Jul 2006 05:44 pm

And here`s a couple more :-3)Heroes.

4)Willy Wonka.

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by Ken » 03 Jul 2006 01:02 am

Last two to follow tomorrow.Ken.

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by Chiana » 03 Jul 2006 02:23 pm

Thanks Ken, I lo ve watching the floats and walkers going by, they put a lot of effort into what they are doing.

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by Benny » 03 Jul 2006 03:26 pm

Was the Gala early this year, Ken?
We’ve been to the last two and had it in mind that it was in late July.
What a shame, it’s a good day out.

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by Kristof » 03 Jul 2006 04:04 pm

The easiest way to remember it is that they always have the gala on the first Sunday in July.

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by Benny » 03 Jul 2006 04:46 pm

Kristof wrote:The easiest way to remember it is that they always have the gala on the first Sunday in July.

Is it?! The old mind is clearly not what it was!
I’ve added it to my Outlook calendar for next year.
Cheers.

Ben

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by Ken » 04 Jul 2006 02:06 pm

I should have posted this next one first. When I first looked out the bedroom window & up the road , I saw what I thought was a large vehicle well on fire. I dashed off for my camera & then realised it was a “performing fire-engine”. Not only did it periodically belch huge flames up in the air , it kept on doing “wheelies” in the road ! :-

Ken.

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by Michelle » 09 Jul 2006 11:29 am

Ken wrote:Last two to follow tomorrow.
Ken.

Oh yes ??

Michelle.

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by Ken » 15 Jul 2006 03:04 pm

O.K. One last one :-

Ken.

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by Black Knight » 16 Jul 2006 09:42 am

I like that one Ken. AND its topical. I see that each float is done by a different school. Nice to see schools in that area putting the kids to something like that.
B.K.

ITALY

admin — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:11:08 +0000

What extremes of temperature. It was in the eighties down by the lakeside but in the thirties up at the top of Monte Bolda which you can see in the background.(Only 10 minutes away by cable car).I dont ever remember a decent bottle of Italian wine in England but they were all superb here. They must keep the best for themselves!
Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 28 May 2006 10:38 pm

Apart from the above shot from bedroom window , this has to be the starting point. A pic I took last month whilst over there for the Boro game.

To me , still the most awe-inspiring arena of all time. The corridors in the base are where the contestants stayed and there are channels to drain the blood away. The Romans were notorious for writing their own version of history and even today the Italians are no different. They will tell you that no Christians died here —- just criminals & undesirables !
Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 28 May 2006 11:00 pm

And here`s another Roman amphitheatre. This time in Verona :-Not quite as impressive but more utilised . They hold operas here and the atmosphere is beyond belief.

Ken.

Ken

by Wiccan woman » 29 May 2006 08:57 am

Brilliant pics Ken love the view from your room, i know what you mean re: the wine a friend of ours brought us a bottle of red back from Lake Garda last year “Vermocelli” i think cost about Â£15 a bottle and he said it is gorgeous wine but darent open it as it cost so much am keeping for a special occasion, but that could be when the weather gets hot HA! any day now

Wiccan woman

by Ken » 29 May 2006 11:20 pm

It would only cost that much over here. The price of fine wines around lake Garda itself was amazing . You could buy an excellent bottle of Bardolino for less than Â£2 !
I was surprised at how much wine comes from such a small srea –Custoza , Valdadige,Lugana,Soave,Vermocelli,Valpolicella , etc ., etc.
This is the beautiful little town of Malcesine where we stayed :-That`s a mountain in the background by the way — not a cloud !

Ken.

Ken

by Wiccan woman » 30 May 2006 10:06 pm

It looks a gorgeous place beautiful scenery especially the cloud oopps sorry i mean mountain.. seriously though i love nice scenery and that is gorgeous. It must be lovely to wake up with a view like that all your life, but then again we probably wouldnt appreciate it as much maybe.

Wiccan woman

by Ken » 30 May 2006 11:51 pm

It was a real moutain up there btw W.W. and a very cold one at that !Ken.

Ken

by Wiccan woman » 31 May 2006 06:35 pm

ooh yes it does look cold. We went up the Troodos mountains in January while we were in Cyprus and it was freezing and snowy..was a bit of a shock as it was quite nice down below near the sea and of course i did not dress properly typical eh will know for future as i would love to go there again.

Wiccan woman

by Ken » 24 Jul 2006 11:56 pm

If there`s one thing I love about Italy its the beautiful Lombardy poplar trees :-

Ken

by Ken » 02 Aug 2006 11:41 pm

A romantic boat ride in Venice :-

Ken

by Northernstar » 03 Aug 2006 10:06 am

It’s been many moons since I have been to Venice as i was only 16. My memories of Venice are certainly not romantic but of stench and expence..yuk. Maybe my opinion would differ now as an adult

Northernstar

by Ken » 03 Aug 2006 09:01 pm

You`d find a big difference now. They`ve really cleaned up their act. No litter. No smells—- and reasonable prices. We enjoyed our best ever pizzas at less than Â£2 and similarly ice-creams at less than Â£1 for huge doubles.
Couldn`t find any hand-pulled real ales so can`t comment on that one !
Ken.
P.S. The water may not look crystal clear but the fish seem quite happy so it cant be very polluted :-

Ken

by Northernstar » 04 Aug 2006 06:09 am

Sounds like it has improved. When I was there back in 79 it cost Â£1 for a cup of coffee and i didn’t get to have a go on a gondola cos it was too expensive .
I remember the toilets being unisex no toilet as such but hole in the ground I promptly turned around and waited till I got back to the hotel.
Over all I did enjoy my day in Venice and seeing the sights and history and maybe one day I will go back, goodness knows when though.

Northernstar

by Ken » 06 Aug 2006 09:29 pm

Here`s one I took as we approached the city :-

Ken

by Michelle » 12 Aug 2006 08:36 am

Nice pics Ken. You certainly get around a bit. Where are you off to next ?
Michelle.

Michelle

by Ken » 12 Aug 2006 10:23 pm

Its been a good year for travelling for me Michelle. Off next week to get a feel for Bohemia ( an old silver mining area — Kutna Hora ).
Then back for a few weeks in which I hope to do the Great North Run with Laurence and off again to the south of France —- Nice , Cote D`Azur & Provence.
Ken.

Ken

by Chiana » 13 Aug 2006 06:54 am

Very good pics, beautiful places. I like the second pic, very atmospheric.

EGYPT

admin — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:10:11 +0000

Yes — you`ve guessed it . I`m going to bore you with some pics of Cairo/Egypt. Laurence & I ( with the blessing of my wife , I might add ) set off a couple of weeks ago to explore Cairo, the upper Nile Delta & the desert. We took in all the tourist attractions & then hired an Arab + his car most days to go off the beaten track. I`ve combined her pics with mine & between us we got some great shots. I`ll have to be selective as there are so many unusual ones , but I`ll start with the one bit of comfort & luxury we did indulge in — a trip down the nile. Here we are being waited on :-

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by Ken » 17 Mar 2006 08:51 pm

kattaddorra wrote:Another great photo Ken, I’m looking forward to seeing the rest Kat

Cheers Kat. I`m off to Rome now. Will post a few more when I return.
Ken.
Here`s one to be going on with. This was one of the many “way-out” villages we visited :-

Last edited by Ken on 17 Mar 2006 09:09 pm, edited 3 times in total.

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by Ken » 17 Mar 2006 08:53 pm

wiccan woman wrote:Ken have a wonderful time are you trying to do the “Round the world in 80 days”

_________________
There is nothing new under the sun

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by Ken » 17 Mar 2006 08:56 pm

Yes. Just got back from Rome this morning ( see my pics under “Hobbies” — “Footie” ) & off to Venice next month. Here is a good one taken by Laurence. The broken umbrella was being used by an arab as a water bowl for his camel !
Ken.

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by Ken » 17 Mar 2006 09:18 pm

Wow. After all that editing & shifting posts back here, its time for relaxation. Here`s Laurence & I doing just that ! :-

Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 17 Mar 2006 09:26 pm, edited 1 time in total.

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by Ken » 17 Mar 2006 09:26 pm

And here`s Laurence well relaxed ! :-

Ken.

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by Black Knight » 17 Mar 2006 09:30 pm

Or well on fire as the case may be !
Are you sure those things are legal ?
B.K.
Nice pics tho. Keep them coming.

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by Ken » 18 Mar 2006 10:04 am

Here`s a nice one Laurence took of a family outing in Cairo :-

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by Daffy » 18 Mar 2006 11:44 am

Wonderful photos Ken, was there much poverty? Daffy

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by Chel » 18 Mar 2006 08:27 pm

I am loving these photo’s. I told you to pack me in your suitcase

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by Ken » 19 Mar 2006 12:13 pm

Cheers Chel & Daffy. Yes. Once we got off the beaten track there was poverty everywhere. We were torn between possibly offending these poor people and wanting to bring back a record. We tried to be as discreet as poss. Here are a couple of typical “homes”. One room shared with donkey and chickens. At least they are “detatched” — we saw much worse.

Ken.

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by stewart » 19 Mar 2006 04:59 pm

Terrible

stewart

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by Wiccan woman » 20 Mar 2006 12:35 pm

Yes when you look around the world, we really have got to be thankful for what we have, even though sometimes we may feel that it is not much, but it is a hell of a lot more than some !!

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by Daffy » 20 Mar 2006 03:18 pm

Was it safe Ken, or did you feel vunerable while you were out and about? More photos please!! Daffy

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by Ken » 20 Mar 2006 06:29 pm

A bit of both depending on the situation. Laurence & I both had several attempts to get our Arab to take us to a place on the S.E. outskirts of Cairo called “The City of The Dead”.At first he pretended not to understand and then not to know where it was , and then persuade us not to go.
Its a huge area the size of Shildon which used to be the burial area of Cairo — graves , tombs and small roofless crypts. The poor of Cairo have moved in there. These are people with no records of their exhistence.No aid from anywhere — they scavenge or starve. Some have tunnelled into tombs , others made makeshift “dens” out of palm leaves,bit of wood and cardboard. The whole area is a gruesome mix of the dead and the living.
This will give you an idea :-

When I got our man to stop , this was the only time we`d known him refuse to get out (as did Laurence). I foolishly ventured out & strayed too far from our car. I ended up literally running for my life !I`d been cautiously creeping around between metre high tomb walls , looking over my shoulder & constantly on guard for inhabitants whilst taking loads of pics. I`d completely forgotten about the warning my G.P. had given me about watching out for dogs in Egypt as they carry rabies.
This is the last pic I took before breaking my 200 metre record :-
Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 26 Mar 2006 06:47 pm, edited 1 time in total.

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by Ken » 20 Mar 2006 08:49 pm

On a lighter note , here`s one we took as we passed through one of the many quaint little towns we saw– a fair way south of Cairo but still not far from the banks of the Nile.

Ken.

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by Daffy » 20 Mar 2006 09:25 pm

Thanks for the photos and information Ken absolutely brilliant Daffy

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by Laurence » 20 Mar 2006 09:38 pm

Ken wrote:When I got our man to stop , this was the only time we`d known him refuse to get out (as did Laurence).

Laurence has more sense than Ken !

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by Daffy » 20 Mar 2006 09:52 pm

A girl after my own heart Laurence Daffy

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by Wiccan woman » 21 Mar 2006 02:51 pm

Ken we passed the “City of the Dead” it is a very strange place and the guide we had did tell us that their government are trying to get the people out of there and into proper housing, but the amount of people living there it will be a very difficult task i think. The whole of Cairo was scary i thought, there was just too many people and you just couldnt move, i dont have that horrible disease where you are scared of crowds but i think i could possibly develop it if i had to live there !!

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trip

by tigerrag » 21 Mar 2006 10:12 pm

Hello Ken and all
I just popped in to say your photos are fantastic Ken (please don’t forget you are not Indiana Jones tsk going into those dangerous places ) looking forward to more.

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by Ken » 21 Mar 2006 11:41 pm

Welcome Tigerrag & thanks for the interest from all. I wish I`d try to keep these pics in some sort of order now. On our little venture into the desert , we came across quite a few groups of arabs on camels trudging their way from God knows where but here is one with ponies & carts just for a change ! :-

P.S. — & boy , was it hot when I took that ! How on earth they wear all those long clothes I do not know !
Ken.

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by Laurence » 22 Mar 2006 12:16 am

From the barren to the lush . What an extreme ! The day after Ken took that last one , I took this, a bit further South & back within a kilometer of the Nile ….

The land within a few hundred metres either side of the Nile is incredibly fertile. We saw peanut fruit bigger than melons , carrots 50 cms long and cauliflowers so big I wouldnt ave been able to carry one !
Just outside that band is desert for hundreds of miles.

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by Northernstar » 22 Mar 2006 09:45 am

Fabulous pics….keep em coming.

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by Ken » 22 Mar 2006 08:41 pm

Another interesting area we got into was the old Khan Khalili bazaar. This is the normal extremity of the “tourist” route :-

but beyond is a vast & fascinating labyrinth where the locals shop for virtually everything.
Ken.

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by Ken » 22 Mar 2006 11:48 pm

Further inside it became more interesting :-

The local Pizza delivery man ?

Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 24 Apr 2006 06:09 pm, edited 2 times in total.

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by Ken » 23 Mar 2006 01:13 am

Here`s Laurence — bravely making freinds with the locals ??

The truth is that she hadn`t noticed him & these people aren`t too chuffed at being photographed !

Ken.

P.S. Laurence had the black shawl because in some of the areas we ventured to it was necessary to wear it over her head shoulders and bare arms.

Last edited by Ken on 26 Mar 2006 10:52 am, edited 1 time in total.

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by Graham » 25 Mar 2006 10:56 pm

Tell you what, Ken, you have done a fantastic advertising job for Egypt with your great photos. Very enjoyable!

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by Ken » 26 Mar 2006 10:48 am

Well thanks Graham. We took most pics well off the beaten track , however, where its not quite as colourful,more scary but just as fascinating. I only intended to post a couple of the Khanel-Khalili area but its difficult to decide which to leave out. We were advised not to leave the main street but we did. In fact I think we must have explored every side-street & alley in the area. It was worth it for the experience and the pics.
Here`s another. This shop sold an amazing variety of foods & spices. I can still smell the overpowering but beautiful aroma :-

Ken.

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by Chiana » 30 Mar 2006 05:45 pm

My daughter would love to go to Egypt, think I would be a bit worried if she went anywhere she wasn’t supposed to.. they are good photos though.

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by Ken » 01 Apr 2006 08:25 am

Thanks Chiana. Just a couple more of Khan el-Khalili & then I`ll move on.
We saw lots of furs on sale (VERY cheap) , not that I`d ever buy real fur, but these were really gruesome (skins,cushions,stoles, etc). When you examined them close up , they still hade bits of uncured flesh,congealed blood and even bone particles on them !

Ken.

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by Firefly » 01 Apr 2006 03:39 pm

Yuk. how gruesome. fab photos though Ken. Hope you got some more up your sleeve.
Babs

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by Daffy » 04 Apr 2006 08:44 pm

Any more photos Ken, this armchair traveller is looking forward to some more please Daffy

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by Ken » 05 Apr 2006 10:36 pm

Just a couple more of el-Khalili then I`ll move on. Here`s where the locals buy their Sunday best :-
Ken.

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by Laurence » 07 Apr 2006 08:22 pm

Ken has asked me to chose the last el-Khalili one & I gone for the musical instrument one —

The ones you see hanging are very popular in Egypt . They are called Ouds and originate from Persia.

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by Ken » 05 Nov 2006 11:29 am

It wasn`t my wife I went with btw – it was my good friend ( & running partner till my recent op.) , Laurence.
My wife would have been far too scared but Laurence likes a good adventure. Yes — we did have some hairy moments but it was an experience of a lifetime.
This is the scroll I bought from the papyrus factory that you went to :-

It depicts a story too long to tell here. Annoyingly, a few days later we came across an Arab in the desert miles away from anywhere who approached us & offered a selection of these scrolls at a fraction of the price we`d paid at the factory !

Ken.

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by Laurence » 11 Nov 2006 11:52 am

This is a good one to show how Cairo suddenly becomes desert :-

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by Kattaddorra » 11 Nov 2006 04:15 pm

Wonderful photos thank you ! I really enjoy my armchair travelling on this forum
Katt

CZECHOSLAVAKIA

admin — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:09:09 +0000

We`ll start with the centre of Prague

—— before moving on to see a bit more of the country.

This is the beautiful old silver mining town of Kutna Hora :-

Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 31 Aug 2006 08:38 pm

Bohemia is a strange place with few inhabitants per square mile. Kutna Hora is no exception, despite being one of the principal towns & for centuries the source of all Czechoslovakia `s silver & coinage.It is eerie & you dont see many people. You have to press a buzzer on the front of many of the shops to get service and a hatch opens where you have to peer inside & point at what you want !
Nevertheless , its very pretty :-Ken.

Ken

by Daffy » 31 Aug 2006 09:01 pm

It looks very clean and well maintained. What is the food like? Are the locals friendly? Thanks for another interesting thread. Daffy

Daffy

by Ken » 31 Aug 2006 09:54 pm

The food is excellent and very cheap but most true bohemian dishes come with “dumplings”. These come in slices like bread & have all sorts in them. There are usually too many but they go really well with the superb bohemian goulash as they`re useful for soaking up the gravy.
More importantly, you can buy a good pint for 17 crowns ( about 42p ).Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 31 Aug 2006 10:00 pm

How would you like this chandelier in your lounge ? :-Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 13 Sep 2006 09:19 am, edited 2 times in total.

Ken

by Black Knight » 31 Aug 2006 10:44 pm

Yes please. Can you get me one next time you`re over there ?
B.K.

Black Knight

by Ken » 01 Sep 2006 05:21 pm

How about this one as well then B.K. ?It would make a nice pelmet for your lounge curtains !!Ken.

Ken

by Firefly » 02 Sep 2006 05:59 pm

Yuk !!
Looks like a nice country tho. Have you any on Prague . see my other post.
Babs

Firefly

by Ken » 03 Sep 2006 10:35 pm

Yes. I`ll try to find time tomorrow.Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 04 Sep 2006 09:45 am

The author Franz Kafta once wrote :-
“Prague is dear Mother but she has sharp claws and will never let go of you.”
How true this is. Its the only city in the world that I feel drawn back to.Here`s a nice view of the Charles Bridge and Castle area of Prague :-Ken.

Ken

by Chel » 04 Sep 2006 11:17 am

These are lovely, makes me want to get a passport and go travelling Keep them coming.

Chel

by Kattaddorra » 04 Sep 2006 01:23 pm

They are amazing photos Ken. I don’t like travelling, so it suits me to see the wonderful places of the world, this way.
Katt

Kattaddorra

by Ken » 04 Sep 2006 09:48 pm

Thank you Chel & Katt. There really are so many lovely places in & around Prague.
A good place to start is Wenceslas Square. Its full of life & bustle. Its a good place to go on your 1st day if you`re sussing out local food as there`s a great choice of snacks from stalls. The best hotdogs I`ve ever tasted made from a choice of every type of sausage you could imagine for about 40p . Czech goulash is also to be savoured.
Apart from the impressive statue of the good king himself , Wenceslas Square ( which is actuall a long sloping oblong) was the scene of the relevently recent ” Velvet revolution” when the Czech people had had enough of soviet domination & decided to pull together & speak their minds. The communist regime collapsed in December 1989.Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 04 Sep 2006 11:40 pm

From there, stroll to the bottom & take any one of the charming little alleys to continue forward :-Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 04 Sep 2006 11:47 pm

They all lead to the beautiful old town square :-Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 05 Sep 2006 12:18 am, edited 1 time in total.

Ken

by Ken » 05 Sep 2006 12:05 am

With its unique old astronomical clock on the old town hall :-Its hard to believe that its not so long ago that the locals were throwing molatov cocktail bombs at Russian tanks just here.Ken.

Ken

by Chel » 05 Sep 2006 09:05 am

I like you telling us about the history of the places you have beeen also. Keep them comming

Chel

by Daffy » 05 Sep 2006 09:38 am

Yes thank you Ken, it is hubby’s 5oth birthday next year may have to treat him to a weekend break in Prague Daffy

Daffy

by Ken » 09 Sep 2006 11:05 pm

Sorry about delay/break in continuity. Been very busy this last week. Will post a few more tomorrow.
Ken.

Ken

by Chiana » 12 Sep 2006 08:29 pm

They are beautiful photos Ken, and the places look so clean.

Chiana

by Ken » 12 Sep 2006 08:55 pm

Yes,Chiana. They are. Even the underground system is quite beautiful. The standard you`d expect in a 5-star hotel :-Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 12 Sep 2006 09:42 pm

And so safe :-Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 12 Sep 2006 11:07 pm

However — back to the old town square & its stunning buildings :-Each so different in style:-Ken.

Ken

by Kattaddorra » 16 Sep 2006 04:20 pm

You must have taken loads of photos Ken.I’m looking forward to seeing more
Katt

Kattaddorra

by Chel » 16 Sep 2006 09:06 pm

Still waiting Ken

Chel

by Ken » 16 Sep 2006 10:33 pm

A little bit of dialogue here before the next few pics. I`ve already replied with this to all who`ve PM`d & e-mailed me so for those , please bear with me.
Prague must be the tourists guide`s dream. One fascinating area leads to another, another & yet another.
From Wencesles Square to the old town centre & now through some charming old alleys to the Charles Bridge.
Its featured in so many films ( & adventure games! ) . So beautiful & full of history. Bohemian nobles`s heads were hung from here during uprisings. The bridge itself is an experience to cross. Bohemian glass, artists , puppetteers, the views down the Vitava river , the black & gold statues & then over to the incredible “Castle Area”.
One of the beautiful statues as you cross the Vitava has a well worn gold part. Legend has it that if you place your hand on this you will never be able to resist returning. I made the mistake of placing my hand there !Ken.

Ken

by Michelle » 17 Sep 2006 09:55 pm

It looks lovely Ken. My first priority for next year.Michelle.

Michelle

by Chel » 25 Sep 2006 06:21 pm

I have walked over that bridge. Broken sword pc game I think

Chel

by Michelle » 01 Oct 2006 08:06 am

How about continuing the tour if you`re feeling up to it now Ken.
Michelle

Michelle

by Ken » 08 Oct 2006 11:12 am

O.K. Will continue some time over the weekend..
Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 15 Oct 2006 09:45 am

And so we proceed over the Charles Bridge and into the beautiful “Castle area”.The huge building with the Gothic towers at the top is St.Vitus Cathedral.
St.Vitus had a rough time. He knew quite a bit about medicine and concocted cures for many illnesses.When he refused to sacrifice to the pagan gods in celebration, his cures were attributed to sorcery, and he was tortured, and condemned to death.He was thrown to the lions but the lions would not touch him, so he was then thrown into boiling oil .
At the moment of his death, an immense storm destroyed several pagan temples in the region.
The term “St.Vitus dance” originates from the belief that folk could ensure a year`s good heath by dancing vigorously in front of his statue on his feast day.Ken.

Ken

by Kristof » 15 Oct 2006 10:04 am

Well done Ken. It is good to have a bit of history and background with your photos. I have learned something already and it is still early morning in the Kristof household.

Kristof

by Michelle » 18 Oct 2006 09:08 am

Me too. Keep them coming Ken.
Michelle

Michelle

by Ken » 26 Oct 2006 01:30 pm

This is an interesting little area up in the Castle district called Golden Lane.
The streets are very narrow with many of the little houses & shops built onto the side of the castle walls. Its where all the alchemists and magicians used to live in the middle ages.Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 01 Nov 2006 10:11 pm

I`m posting this next pic more for its interesting past and more as a recommendation than for its photographic merits. Its the Cafe Slavia on the banks of the Vitava :-The cafe used to be frequented by artists , writers & students. Because most of them were dissidents & not afraid of speaking their minds, the communists (and later the policie) regularly raided & closed the place.The dissidents would return in the middle of the night & re-open for business.
The authorities eventually got sick of this & gave up.
Its continued to thrive to this day. Its a beautiful cafe with a vast menu. Everything is reasonably priced and you can get an excellent meal for a few pounds. The beer is good as well !Ken.Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 19 Nov 2006 05:41 pm

Here`s another interesting one & also very topical. Its actually one of the embassy buildings in Prague but any of you seeing the new Bond film will see it as the Casino Royale :-Ken.

Ken

by Michelle » 03 Jan 2007 12:44 am

Hope you didn`t lose too much !
Any more pics ? I still haven`t been yet.
Michelle.

Michelle

by Ken » 03 Jan 2007 10:44 am

Nearly finished the tour now. Will dig a last couple out over the next few days.Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 13 Jan 2007 12:20 pm

Prague was quite badly damaged during the war but thankfully the old part has been fully restored to its former glory.
Much of the newer area (Novo Mesta ) has been built more recently but even the modern buildings are quite beautiful and Bohemian in style.
This one is known as “The Dancing House” :-The original house was destroyed during bombing in 1945, its remains finally removed in 1960. The neighboring house (with a small globe on the roof) was co-owned by Czech ex-president Vaclav Havel. Frank Gehry was commissioned to design the house on an almost unlimited budget. The construction started in 1994 and the house was finished in 1996.Ken.

Ken

by Graham » 13 Jan 2007 12:48 pm

These pictures have been a real eye opener to me, Ken. I never realised what a lovely place it was.
Seeing that last picture (what a great building) reminds me of the beautiful traditional architecture of Barcelona sitting side by side with Gaudi’s work, in complete harmony.

Graham

by Daffy » 13 Jan 2007 03:03 pm

Ken that last pic is fantastic, thanks so much for sharing them all, Daffy

Daffy

by Ken » 18 Jan 2007 01:32 am

Thanks Graham & Daffy. Only one more to go now so I`ll have to choose carefully !Ken.

Ken

Cleveland

admin — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:07:07 +0000

Did anyone read about the Hartlepool fisherman who went missing ? His boat was found with the engine still running. I took this from our bedroom window when they were searching :-

Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 04 Feb 2007 01:19 am, edited 1 time in total.

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by oldtimer » 08 Apr 2006 10:57 pm

Ken wrote:Here`s another lovely one from Oldtimer :-

Sorry Ken, I think I posted that one on the wrong thread…….Taken this evening and although colourful, it is completely untouched..

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by Daffy » 09 Apr 2006 07:14 pm

Is that near the cinema? or is it a nightclub? Don’t know Redcar very well apart from the seafront but love a walk at South Gare. Daffy

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by oldtimer » 09 Apr 2006 10:08 pm

Yes Daffy, I was stood just a little past the cinema…
Had a walk under Huntcliffe at Saltburn tonight as it was low tide and looking back towards the Pier was almost like fire…A brilliant evening for any snappers to try out their digi cameras..

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by Chiana » 10 Apr 2006 05:19 pm

They are beautiful photos, really relaxing. So romantic, I love walking and watching sunsets.

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by oldtimer » 12 Apr 2006 11:50 pm

It is not hard to see why I take more sunrises and sunsets than most other stuff..here in Redcar we have the most startling effects and almost every day sees something different….I take a jog along the beach most mornings just after sunrise and usually take a camera of some sorts with me so not surprising I get a few decent shots…who wouldn’t ?

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by Benny » 02 May 2006 10:03 pm

All this talk of photography has got me searching through my files! I was quite keen on the hobby in my youth and although my Pentax ME Super is long gone, I still carry my trusty digital with me everywhere I go.
This shot was taken on the Cleveland way at Skelton Green, the path leads to Skelton and onto Saltburn, the sea is usually visible from here but that mean looking cloud blocked it out.
This was taken at 07:30 one March morning last year, whilst Doug and I were attempting the penultimate leg of the long distance walk.

Thanks to Jaynie & Ken for your help.

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by Ken » 02 May 2006 10:58 pm

You certainly can , Benny. That is such a magnificent pic. To avoid the usual accusations of favouritism, I`ll resize it for you.
Jaynie`s suggestion is a good one. Personally I use Adobe Photoshop. It only takes a few seconds to reduce to the accepted size.
Ken.

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by Benny » 03 May 2006 12:51 pm

Yes, that was the second to last leg of our project to walk the Cleveland Way in stages.
The day of the photo, we set off at 07:00 from The Fox & Hounds, Slapewath and trekked as far as Skinningrove, if not for the weather, we would have made it home.
As you said, we must do it again, sometime….preferably in Summer!
With a supply of Extra Cold Guinness laid on!The attached photo is taken in the opposite direction to the first, from Skelton Green towards Slapewath.

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by Daffy » 03 May 2006 09:03 pm

Wonderful photos Benny, how come I hate winter but love snowy photos! The Fox and Hounds at Slapewath is a favourite Sunday lunch place for us.

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by Ken » 03 May 2006 09:56 pm

I took this one this morning in front of my house :-

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by Bullboy » 03 May 2006 09:59 pm

looks like they’re all bringing you gifts

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by Ken » 03 May 2006 10:05 pm

I was amazed.I thought I was dreaming. They came out of the sea all wet and with plant pots on their heads !!

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by Benny » 03 May 2006 10:10 pm

Ken, what on earth was going on?

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by Ken » 03 May 2006 10:22 pm

Benny wrote:Ken, what on earth was going on?

It was all quite bizarre. The first woman to come out of the water was blowing a large conche shell. The sound was amazing. It must travel for miles. They then appeared to break things that looked like coconuts on a large rock in the shallow water. Then a guy appeared with a huge plant pot on his head with water dripping all over him from it. Others then followed with plant pots full of sea water and pretty plants on their heads.
I was just off to the barbers when I spotted them emerging from the sea from the bedroom window. I decided to take my camera with me & took several shots on the way.
Funny old place — Redcar !!
Ken.

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by Benny » 03 May 2006 10:27 pm

Funny old place — Redcar !!And I thought the inhabitants of our village were odd! Blimey, that makes Doug look normal!

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by Ken » 03 May 2006 10:30 pm

Here`s another :-

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by Jaynie Girl » 03 May 2006 10:59 pm

so what were they doing??? did you not ask? I would of done cos I am nosy

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by Northernstar » 04 May 2006 06:01 am

Could it be part of a wedding? Also I noticed that two people were wearing rosettes….strange maybe it is a political ceremony..

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by Douglas » 04 May 2006 08:13 am

They are actually blessing their new chruch.They believe that the river Gangees is sacred, (as you probably already knew). They also believe that spiritually, ALL rivers and seas are conected, so that technically the North Sea is as holy to them as some of their most religious rivers in India.

By taking ‘holy water’ from Redcar beach, they are bringing good luck to their new church.

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by Chiana » 04 May 2006 06:57 pm

Very colourful, not something you normally see on the beach Bet that water was cold though.

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by Benny » 05 May 2006 01:36 pm

Had to nip over to Redacr this morning, so as I was in the area I went up to Skelton Green and took this photo from the same spot I took the snowy one. It was beautiful up there, I could see for miles.

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by Douglas » 05 May 2006 01:50 pm

Goodness, it looks like a totally different place!Did you take anymore of the local environs Benny?

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by Benny » 05 May 2006 02:18 pm

Douglas wrote:Goodness, it looks like a totally different place!Did you take anymore of the local environs Benny?

Sure do.
This one is overlooking Skelton, with Redcar and Hartlepool in the distance. Skelton castle can be seen in the rh side/middle. The village of Upleatham and New Marske woods are to the left of the pic.

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by Ken » 04 Feb 2007 01:19 am

Does anyone remember the ha`penny bridge at Saltburn ?
This one was taken only moments before it was destroyed :-

Ken

PROVENCE

admin — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 17:04:27 +0000

Hello All from a very sore Ken. This morning I got well bitten on the arms & legs by mosquitos when I set foot in the paddy fields in search of wildlife. My guide mentioned a good local cure & when we got back to the jeep he burned each one with the tip of his cigarette. It seems to work . I`ve had no itching nor swelling — just lots of cigarette burns !!
I hadn`t got far when I disturbed a beaver but I wasn`t quick enough with my camera & it looks just like a black dot. I`ll try to blow it up later to post it.
In the meantime we soon came across these wild black bulls trying to keep cool :-Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 30 Jun 2007 02:59 pm, edited 1 time in total.

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by Kattaddorra » 22 May 2007 07:17 pm

OUCH ’the cure sounds worse than the disease’ as they say, Ken !
That’s a great photo of those bulls and the wading birds.I hope you can blow up the beaver one to post too.
Have fun ….
Katt

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by Ken » 22 May 2007 10:32 pm

Cheers Katt.
The “waders” were actually greater flamingos. They were everywhere.Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 26 May 2007 10:36 pm, edited 1 time in total.

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by Ken » 22 May 2007 10:42 pm

And here`s the enlarged pic of the beaver. Not a very good one I`m afraid , but it took me so much by surprise.I was concentrating more on the paddy fields themselves.They were gruesome — about a foot deep but with a very thick layer of “gunge” at the bottom.All slimy & full of all sorts of reptiles and insects.The rice crop was only a few inches high at the time & each field was surrounded by masses of high bamboo.Ken.

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by Ken » 22 May 2007 10:58 pm

This shot gives some idea as to what it was like :-It was here that I got bitten most. My legs & arms ended up covered in small streaks of blood.Ken.

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by Michelle » 23 May 2007 08:26 am

Brilliant pics again Ken. You certainly get around. I cant think where this could be though with such an odd mix of animals & birds.
Any more clues?
Michelle

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by Wiccan woman » 23 May 2007 09:01 am

Fantastic pics Ken, thanks again for bringing them to us.
Is it somewhere in SPAIN ?

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by Ken » 23 May 2007 08:15 pm

Wiccan woman wrote:Fantastic pics Ken, thanks again for bringing them to us.
Is it somewhere in SPAIN ?

Although its not Spain, unfortunately many of these lovely animals end up in Spanish bull rings because of their speed (which I can vouch for! ) & their agility :-

My next two pics will give the game away as to where I took the pics yesterday. Tonight I`m staying in comfort at what was once the home of a famous painter.

Ken.

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by Ken » 23 May 2007 08:35 pm

This area is also famous for its wild white horses. I saw herds galloping but the only decent pic I managed to get was of these two just before they ran off as well :-Ken.

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by Ken » 23 May 2007 08:49 pm

This place is very hot. It was 35 degrees C. when I took the pics & the rate of evaporation is 3 times higher than the rainfall.
Nearby on the flat shore marshes , salt is deposited at an incredible rate :-The two main exports from here are rice and salt.Ken.

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by Michelle » 23 May 2007 10:01 pm

It can only be The Camargue.
Brilliant pics Ken. As Wiccan woman said “Thanks for sharing them with us.”
Michelle.

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by Ken » 24 May 2007 08:45 am

Spot on Michelle.
Here`s one of Ken taking a break on the way back to base :-Ken.

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by Wiccan woman » 24 May 2007 09:07 am

Lovely pic of you Ken….tip-toe through the poppies…..Poor bulls dont like the Bullfighting in Spain….i think it is horrendous they are such proud beasts and should not have to be put through something like that!!!! they dont stand a chance….. But brilliant pics once again Ken..thanks. x

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by Daffy » 24 May 2007 10:37 am

Thank you Ken, once again for sharing your travels, wonderful photos and news.Daffy

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by Benny » 24 May 2007 12:13 pm

Where’s The Carmargue, Italy?

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by Michelle » 24 May 2007 04:57 pm

The Camargue is a massive delta (360 square miles) at the very south-westerly tip of France ,west of the French Riviera.
Apparently there are only a few safe times of year to visit because of tides and bandits.
Here`s a bit from Wikipedia :
The Camargue is home to more than 400 species of birds, the brine ponds providing one of the few European habitats for the greater flamingo. The marshes are also a prime habitat for many species of insects, notably (and notoriously) some of the most ferocious mosquitos to be found anywhere in France. It is also famous for bulls and the Camargue horse.
Michelle

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by Benny » 24 May 2007 06:22 pm

Thanks, Michelle.
I hadn’t heard of the place but it looks and sounds very interesting.
Bandits?

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by Ken » 25 May 2007 10:25 pm

Provence is a lovely part of France. There are hundreds of these little so-called “perched” villages scattered around with houses cut into cliff faces or built precariously on top of them :-Ken.

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by Kattaddorra » 26 May 2007 08:02 am

Wonderful photos Ken, this ‘armchair traveller’ is really enjoying your trip
Katt

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travels

by tigerrag » 26 May 2007 11:15 am

lovely photos Ken – you do like your travels I heard of a little tip to do with mosquitos (but you know how gullible I am) eat lots of garlic – they hate the taste (actually so do I)

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by Ken » 26 May 2007 09:48 pm

Thanks Katt & Tigerrag. ( Nice to see you posting again Tigerrag btw).
As well as so many beautiful places in Provence , there`s also some very interesting ones. For example , high up in the Luberon mountains is a little village called Roussillon which is the major supplier of ochre to the art industry :-Ken.

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by Ken » 26 May 2007 10:00 pm

We walked for half an hour through the quarries which resembled a wooded fairyland. The colours of the earth were breath-taking :-Ken.

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by Ken » 26 May 2007 10:10 pm

It was so hot & humid but worth it. Those suede shoes I was wearing ended up rainbow colour. At times we were walking through ochre powder about 3 inches deep.Ken.

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by Ken » 26 May 2007 10:25 pm

I have to admit that I`m not usually impressed with the famous French cuisine(sorry Laurence) — nor its price! , but lunch here was the exception , delicious,reasonably priced & accompanied by a decent beer.
The view from the balcony on which we ate was even better — the village to our left with its shades of ochre-coloured houses :-Ken.

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by Ken » 26 May 2007 10:34 pm

And the cliff faces to our right :-Ken.

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by Michelle » 27 May 2007 11:18 pm

Ken wrote:Tonight I`m staying in comfort at what was once the home of a famous painter.
Ken.

Tell us more. Who was the painter ?
Michelle.

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by Ken » 28 May 2007 09:40 am

This is a pic of his house & the drive lined with plane trees. He painted this scene several times :-Ken.

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by Ken » 28 May 2007 10:58 am

I might as well make it a double — I enjoyed the odd beer at this little cafe which an even more famous painter used to frequent. In fact it was his local & features in one of his most famous paintings :-Ken.

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by Nortonbeak » 28 May 2007 01:11 pm

I asked my friend Anne about these photographs and if she recognised the scenes.It was Paul Says Anne

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by Ken » 28 May 2007 04:01 pm

Very good Nortonbeak !
I didn`t think anyone would get the first one. The second is the most famous and the easiest. See if your friend can lend an ear again!Ken.

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by Nortonbeak » 28 May 2007 04:57 pm

Ken wrote:The second is the most famous and the easiest. See if your friend can lend an ear again!Ken.

I think it has all gone “black again” or as they may say in French, Re-noir

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by Benny » 28 May 2007 06:14 pm

An ear?
Vincent Van Gogh?

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by Ken » 28 May 2007 08:39 pm

Yes. Both right. The first was Paul Cezzane and the second Van Gogh.
Here`s Van Gogh`s painting of that cafe at night :-Ken.

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by Benny » 28 May 2007 09:40 pm

That’s loads better than that piece of rubbish ‘Sunflowers’ that he did.
Actually looks like something.

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by Ken » 28 May 2007 10:26 pm

Depends which one you mean. He painted dozens of sunflower still life portraits ,perhaps the most famous being sold to a Japanese insurance company for $34,000,000 in 1987.
He led a very tormented life. He was a kindly soul in his youth & gave his worldy possessions to the poor. He lived in Arles (where I took the pic) in poverty & suffered ill health through malnutrition. He was a deep thinking philospher ( a big mistake ! ) and gradually went mad.
He set up an artists “union” in Arles but fell out with his mates,blamed himself & cut off his own ear as a penance. Being the generous man he was, he gave his ear to a poor local prostitute.
He eventually realised he was going doolally & admitted himself to the local asylum.
The infamous “Mistral Winds” of Provence were initially blamed as they are known to have sent so many people mad but eventually he came to suspect the heat of Provence & left his beloved Arles for a cooler Paris where he died at the age of 37.Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 28 May 2007 11:24 pm, edited 2 times in total.

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by Ken » 28 May 2007 10:41 pm

Further North West of Arles ,still in Provence, is the Pont du Gard – an incredible achievement of Roman architecture & building.
The Romans were in the throes of founding the very important city of Nimes but realised that the local water supply would never be adequate. They scoured a vast area & found that the only source big enough was at Uzes some 20 miles away.
The difference in height between Uzes & Nimes was only a matter of feet & so a very carefully planned route had to be plotted to maintain the gravitational flow. The route had to cross a huge valley.
2000 years ago over 1000 people worked for 5 years on the construction of the Pont du Gard aquaduct.
The objective was to bring water to the city of NÃ®mes via a 34mile long route.Ken.

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by Michelle » 29 May 2007 02:43 pm

Some fascinating bits of info there Ken as well as more interesting pics.
I recognise some of the places from watching “A Year in Provence”.
More please if you have any.
Michelle.

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by Ken » 29 May 2007 10:43 pm

O.K. Enough of the history lessons. I`ll post a few of the pretty little towns which featured in “A Year in Provence”.
Here`s the little square in the lovely village of Lourmarin. Early morning so no takers for lunch yet :-and here`s the little shop(on the left) where the author of the book ,Peter Mayle,still buys his morning paper :-Ken.

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by Ken » 29 May 2007 10:56 pm

There`s a beautiful chateau on the outskirts of the village & this is where he bought his wine from :-And of course Ken couldn`t resist sampling a few :-

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by Daffy » 30 May 2007 02:11 pm

Ken thank you so much for posting all these photos and the wonderful stories to bring them alive.Daffy

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Ochre cliffs

by Rosebudkid » 30 May 2007 08:00 pm

Really enjoyed your photos Ken,especially the ochre ones. Never seen anything like it,really beautiful. Is there any danger of the coloured earth being used up entirely by over-extraction? It would be interesting to know the reason for all that wonderful colour-is the ground rich in iron ore or something else?

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by Ken » 31 May 2007 09:04 am

Cheers Daffy & Rosebudkid.
A fairytale village such as Roussillon deserves a much better explanation than “iron ore” though.In fact this is how the earth came to be different shades of red :-
Raymond d’Avignon was the Lord of the village who spent all his time hunting. His beautiful wife Sermonde felt lonely and fell in love with a troubadour called Guillaume. Unfortunately, her husband discovered their love affair. He invited Guillaume for hunting and killed him in the woods. When he came home at the castle, he prepared for his charming wife a delicious meal. Once she had finished her dinner, he announced her that it was her lover’s heart she had been eating. Sermonde was extremely upset; she ran to the window and jumped out. Her blood coloured the earth around Roussillon for ever.Ken.

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by Ken » 31 May 2007 10:26 pm

Another unusual hilltop village in Provence :-Ken.

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by Chiana » 01 Jun 2007 09:44 pm

Lovely places Ken, love that last one, all the buildings nestled among the rocks.

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by Ken » 02 Jun 2007 04:34 pm

Yes. It makes you wonder if the builders are incredibly skilled — of just take risks ! Ken.

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by Michelle » 04 Jun 2007 08:55 pm

They all look so beautiful but I dont think I`d chance buying one !
Michelle

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by Chel » 05 Jun 2007 06:42 pm

Wow, I love just sitting back and seeing the places you go to. Saves me a bob

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by Firefly » 06 Jun 2007 03:49 pm

Me too Chel. i cant travel any more so i love reading about Kens. where you off to next Ken ?
Babs

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by Ken » 13 Jun 2007 09:39 am

Thanks Chel & Firefly. Nice to know someone else enjoys them. In answer to Firefly my next travels will be in Poland in a couple of weeks.
I`ll edit this topic later in the day , shift it to “Photographs” and see if I can find a couple more interesting ones to add.Ken.

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by Graham » 13 Jun 2007 11:59 am

Thanks for showing us your pictures Ken. I thoroughly enjoyed looking through them. Looks like you enjoyed yourself too!Graham

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The filming of Atonement

admin — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:58:28 +0000

As the topic under “Odds & Sods” will soon reach its life expiry and disappear for ever ( as do all the Odds & Sods topics eventually) , I`ve been asked to preserve a selection for reference.
I`ll do that over the next few days so please excuse this topic for looking disjointed for a while till I get it sorted.Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 15 Oct 2006 10:21 am, edited 1 time in total.

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by Ken » 21 Jul 2006 03:53 pm

In April,2006,we heard that the Dunkirk scenes in the blockbuster film “Atonement” were to be filmed at Redcar. Several of our members applied for parts and some were successful.
The following is a collection of pics taken by our members, some by those just visiting for the day showing the sets being built and some taken by members (who got parts) during the actual filming.
This was one of the first bits to be built — the bandstand :-Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 15 Oct 2006 10:29 am, edited 1 time in total.

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by Ken » 21 Jul 2006 07:40 pm

The Olympia gym being extended & “converted” :-Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 15 Oct 2006 10:31 am, edited 2 times in total.

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by Ken » 04 Aug 2006 10:35 pm

I`m afraid more bombs fell last night. I`ve had to board up our bedroom window & I write this from what`s left of my study. :-Its getting a bit chilly up here !

Ken.

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by Phil » 13 Aug 2006 11:02 pm

Ken as you and your son are going to be local boatmen will be in charge of the Thames Barge pictured below? This is a steel barge built to orginal plans by a cousin of mine in his back yard. He has built this over the last few years . It is being brought up to Redcar this week to be placed on the beach as part of the set for Atonement. How they will get this on the beach I don’t know.

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by Ken » 16 Aug 2006 01:59 pm

Ken got a part as a despatch rider ( or was it Corporal Jones ?) :-A few days later the make-up girls knocked 20 years off me but I had to endure a “short back & sides” as well as losing my tash.

Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 19 Oct 2006 10:27 pm, edited 1 time in total.

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by Michelle » 16 Aug 2006 11:04 pm

Yes. Well done Ken. There`s a big write up about it in today`s paper. It says that only a fifth of the 6,000 who applied for parts actually got them.
The film is costing Â£35 million to make.
Michelle.

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by Kristof » 19 Aug 2006 07:29 pm

We had a run through to Redcar this afternoon and what a difference they have made in just a couple of weeks. There was lots of activity on the beach, roads closed and military vehicles everywhere. Here`s a pic of the beached boat:-

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by Ken » 19 Aug 2006 08:45 pm

Yes. Its quite spectacular now. Just come in off the beech & taken this one :-Ken.

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by Ken » 19 Aug 2006 08:55 pm

They`ve renamed the Coatham Hotel — “Lhirondelle” :-

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by Chiana » 20 Aug 2006 08:37 am

Wow, it’s really looking good.

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by Kristof » 20 Aug 2006 04:06 pm

They were burying some of the cars in the sand, presumably to make it look like they had got stuck on the beach. I hope the tide doesn’t come too far in or they might.

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by Ken » 20 Aug 2006 04:58 pm

Kristof wrote:They were burying some of the cars in the sand, presumably to make it look like they had got stuck on the beach.I hope the tide doesn’t come too far in or they might.

You were saying ??

Ken.

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by Ken » 20 Aug 2006 08:27 pm

The CAFE au CADRAN SOLITAIRE is looking a bit sad , but they were still serving tea outside ! Ken.

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by Ken » 21 Aug 2006 10:20 pm

Wow. Have I got a tale to tell. Its been a long,long day but what an incredible experience. I`ve only just got home & its after 10pm.
This morning I had 3 different costume fittings in “wardrobe” dept. & then FIVE different make-up departments to attend in succession. Met the director Jo Wright and was introduced to four of the stars. The crowning glory was shooting an incredible scene with James McAvoy late in the afternoon on the beach. NINE takes and the ninth one at 7.30 pm was perfect. The weather couldn`t have been kinder and the late evening sun & shadows were superb.
Off for a nice hot bath now to get all the grease paint & make-up effects off. Up early again tomorrow when I`ll be drinking beer ( I hope its real !) and playing cards on a barrel on the prom.
Ken.
P.S. If any of you haven`t been down to Redcar yet to see the filming , go tomorrow. Its a sight to be seen.

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by Ken » 22 Aug 2006 10:57 pm

Another long , hard day filming. Didn`t get in till after ten this time. Filming from mid afternoon till almost dark.
What a wonderful day. I featured in several scenes with James Mc.Avoy & when Director Jo Wright was briefing me with his arm round me , someone took a pic & has promised to send it to me.
The scenes were beyond belief. Bombs , fires , thick smoke , injured , dying. Although cameras were not allowed, I smuggled mine on set & took some discreet but remarkable shots whilst filming.
Dont have much time left tonight, but here is one of what used to be the prom :-Ken.

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by Jaynie Girl » 22 Aug 2006 11:09 pm

Thanks Ken, good piccy. Not often you get to take a piccy of a film set like that

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by Ken » 22 Aug 2006 11:35 pm

Thanks Jaynie. I couldn`t got to bed tonight without showing you the last pic I took as the day faded away :-Ken.

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by Benny » 23 Aug 2006 12:12 am

That second photo is brilliant, Ken. If it was in b&w, you could believe it was taken in wartime.
Glad you are enjoying it, keep us posted.

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by Chiana » 23 Aug 2006 06:25 am

They are brilliant photos, wish I got my form in on time.
It was on the news that it is going to be shown next year.

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by Ken » 23 Aug 2006 05:47 pm

I thought the book was excellent. We were told that the film should be the blockbuster of 2007. The preview is planned for next July & should be showing locally soon after.
Here`s one of the big guns :-Ken.

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by Ken » 23 Aug 2006 11:23 pm

Its been suggested that I move the pics from here to “Photographs” as that`s the most appropriate place & also to keep them as a record ( Odds & sods topics are deleted after a month if they haven`t been added to ).
I`ve quite a few more remarkable ones to post so if no-one has any objections , I`ll edit the “Odds & sods” chitchat bits & move those posting or commenting on the pics.
In the meantime here`s one of the refugees :-Ken.

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by Ken » 24 Aug 2006 12:12 am

I got my target dates of preview & big screen from the film director himself. Whilst he was giving me directions for my squad`s movements , a reporter asked for a pic.. I caught up with him later & he promised to send me it. It will hopefully show me in conflab with Atonement`s wizz-kid director , Joe Wright.
What a nice guy he is. He not only directed the filming down to every detail, he rallied the troops and almost made us believe we were actually in Dunkirk. The comerade was incredible. This was a pic I took during actual filming having just emerged from my squad`s dug-out. I had the camera hidden under my leather over-jacket so many of the pics came out at odd angles. This one was level and shows some of my buddies for the day from a nearby squad :-Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 26 Aug 2006 11:53 pm, edited 1 time in total.

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by Ken » 24 Aug 2006 12:32 am

Before some of the scenes , the director would get the mood right by wandering amongst the “troops” and repeating the background as to why they were there — how bored they were and how frightened they were , surrounded by the Germans who could have wiped them all out at any time.
In one of the most moving scenes he had a lone piper playing. With the smoke everywhere drifting over the wounded it was eerie. The biggest scene of all started with a group of soldiers singing hymns from the bandstand. Here is a pic I took as they were getting together ready for Take 3 of the big one :-Ken

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by Ken » 24 Aug 2006 08:50 am

For those who haven`t been near the place it might still be worth a visit though –if only to see how they`ve transformed the prom & houses.
As far as my bike`s concerned , B.K. , I`m afraid I had to dump it !
There was no where else to ride to. Ken.

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by Ken » 24 Aug 2006 09:41 pm

They didn`t !! After lunch you made several loo trips before going on to the beach. You were then allocated 500 mls of water & a couple of mars bars to last the rest of the day out. This meant your fluid intake was used up. However the older guys did still start to feel a bit uncomfortable after several hours.
I was fortunate in having a small squad in charge of the fuel dump. This is me (with the brown leather dispatch-rider`s overjacket) taking a break between takes :-As our barrels of fuel (a mixture of kerosene & parrafin) had modern Shell signs on them, we had to keep them well covered with a tarpaulin.
This was very “convenient” !

Ken.

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by Firefly » 25 Aug 2006 09:48 am

Thanks for sharing these experiences Ken. i`ve been following them with interest. its a chance in a lifetime & almost like being there just looking at the photos. i`ve seen lots in the papers but none from such a privleged position with all those people on them.
Fasinating ! i hope youve more.
Babs

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by Michelle » 26 Aug 2006 08:17 am

How true Babs. The pics in the papers were good but these are far better. Much more realistic with all the people in them.
By the way Ken. When I managed to get down there I noticed lots of horses. What was their part ?
Michelle.

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by Ken » 26 Aug 2006 06:42 pm

Michelle wrote:How true Babs. The pics in the papers were good but these are far better. Much more realistic with all the people in them.
By the way Ken. When I managed to get down there I noticed lots of horses. What was their part ?
Michelle.

There were 18 of them & they were specially trained “stunt” horses. The french decided to shoot them . As soon as the gun was fired , the horse was trained to “drop down dead”. When the double klaxon went at the end of each take, the horse got up again as if nothing had happened.
If only I had the time I could relate lots of interesting little bits & pieces like this. I have a busy week coming up but I`ll try to find time when I can. In the meantime , I`ll try to dig out a pic of the stunt horses.

Ken.

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by Ken » 26 Aug 2006 09:17 pm

Stunt horses :-Ken.

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by Ken » 26 Aug 2006 11:48 pm

After some instructions from the film Director , Joe Wright, re the next take & what my squad should be doing, someone took this pic of me with him —Mr. Big himself !! This is definitely one for the family album. Ken.

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by Daffy » 27 Aug 2006 11:56 am

Ken you look so proud and rightly so, thank you again for sharing your experience. There was a wonderful full page advert in last nights local paper from the film makers thanking the people of Redcar, sadly it is too large for our scanner so I can’t post it. Wonder if that is normal or if they have a soft spot for us. Daffy

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by Chiana » 27 Aug 2006 04:44 pm

You look a bit tired Ken, is it catching up with you?

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by Kristof » 27 Aug 2006 06:30 pm

Nice one Ken. I wish I didn’t have to go to work, I would have been there with you.

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by Ken » 01 Sep 2006 05:32 pm

chiana wrote:You look a bit tired Ken, is it catching up with you?

Yes,it was. Sorry I haven`t had a chance to reply. As you may have seen since (under other topics), I was off on my travels again soon after.
—— & yes , Computerlass, it was a fantastic experience but they were long days.
Up at 6.30 am & not home till 10 pm.
The Director, the stars & the whole crew were so friendly & accomodating.
I have a few more unusual pics if anyone`s still interested.

Ken.

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by Daffy » 01 Sep 2006 06:12 pm

Yes I am also still interested Ken so please keep them coming, Daffy

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by Ken » 01 Sep 2006 07:35 pm

O.K. Here`s one fooling about with one of the stars , Paul Marshall, between takes :-Boy — is he one big guy !

Ken.

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by Daffy » 01 Sep 2006 07:38 pm

Is Paul Marshall the big guy? (sorry not up on film stars) and is he holding your hand Daffy

Last edited by Daffy on 01 Sep 2006 09:18 pm, edited 1 time in total.

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by Ken » 01 Sep 2006 09:16 pm

Daffy wrote:is he holding your hand Daffy

Do you mind ?? Certainly not ——- he`s cuddling my mate actually !
Here`s a pic of the big guns :-

Ken.

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by Graham » 01 Sep 2006 10:20 pm

Fantastic subject this. Love your photos Ken.
How I wish i could have got to Redcar to see all this going on. Still,
the film is top of my list to see when it comes out.Well done, KenGraham

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by Ken » 01 Sep 2006 11:04 pm

Thanks Graham. The photo opportunities were limitless. Every cameraman`s dream I think.Ken.

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by Ken » 01 Sep 2006 11:11 pm

There were some nice shops as well :-Ken.

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by Ken » 01 Sep 2006 11:25 pm

During the filming of the main scene,all sorts of remarkable things were happening as James McAvoy wandered round the troops on the prom & the beach. The big coloured guy threw a drunk through the air , a cyclist rode full speed off the prom & nosedived into the sand, there was a spectacular brawl where both landed on the concrete slope still punching each other in the face ( with us cheering them on ! ), a drunk was hanging on to the ferris wheel as it went round, horses were shot & appeared to drop dead etc.,etc.
Here are a few of the lads who ran down across the beach & into the sea , covered in oil & stark naked. I took this whilst their modesty was covered but it was amusing to see the make-up girls applying black oil to all parts of their naked bodies between each take without batting an eyelid !Ken.

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by Ken » 01 Sep 2006 11:32 pm

Here`s one of me taking a breather during rehearsals :-Ken.

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by Ken » 02 Sep 2006 04:37 pm

Not much to shoot at today ! :-Ken.

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by WillyLad » 03 Sep 2006 05:28 pm

Thank you for this insight Ken. It must be only once in a lifetime that such a thing happens in our area. Although I wasnt at Dunkirk myself I know some who were. I wish I could have been in the filming of this. I`d have been over the moon to have been a bit of seaweed on the beach.
Is there any chance of sending me a few photos ? Naturally I`d pay whatever costs.
Thank you ,
Bill

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by Ken » 08 Sep 2006 08:48 am

Daffy wrote:Ken you look so proud and rightly so, thank you again for sharing your experience. There was a wonderful full page advert in last nights local paper from the film makers thanking the people of Redcar, sadly it is too large for our scanner so I can’t post it. Wonder if that is normal or if they have a soft spot for us. Daffy

Here it is :-

Ken.

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by Douglas » 08 Sep 2006 12:18 pm

What a lovely thing for them to do.

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by Mysterio » 11 Sep 2006 06:05 pm

The rest of the naval contingent (all in different uniforms)

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by Ken » 11 Sep 2006 06:38 pm

Here`s one of the make-shift NAAFI :-Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 15 Oct 2006 10:52 am, edited 2 times in total.

Romania

admin — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:56:51 +0000

Bucharest is a city of such contrasts , I thought it might be worth posting a few pics. Here is the 1st one showing Ken queueing to get into a downtown nightclub ! Ken.

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by Benny » 24 Apr 2006 10:59 am

That looks like Redcar High Street, Ken!
Do you remember the ‘drinking club’ Tip’ls? It looked a bit like that but was nowhere near as classy!!

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by Ken » 24 Apr 2006 11:02 am

The Soviets knackered up Romania more than any other Eastern European country I`ve visited.
Before the revolution , they were in the throws of tearing down the beautiful old buildings and replacing them with dreadful,characterless utilitarian ones.
This is a typical scene with the lovely old typical Romanian,red-roof building in the forefront,another partially hidden by the billboards and behind the big ugly block built by the Soviets.Ken

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by Chiana » 25 Apr 2006 05:49 am

I far like the red roofed building, it has character, beautiful instead the monstrosity behind it.

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by Michelle » 25 Apr 2006 11:38 pm

Yes. Me too. Have you any more of the nice ones ?
Michelle

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by Ken » 26 Apr 2006 01:54 pm

Yes. Here`s one of the lovely buildings they hadn`t yet got round to “altering”. Its the Parliamentary Building:-

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by WillyLad » 13 Nov 2007 11:57 am

Only 3 pics on Romania Ken ?

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by Ken » 15 Nov 2007 07:56 pm

Oops. Sorry — forgot about this one. I`ll dig a couple more out when time.Ken.

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by Ken » 17 Nov 2007 02:55 pm

Romania is a country of contrasts. The Soviets were in the throes of ruining it with their ugly utilitarian establishments :-Ken.

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by Ken » 22 Nov 2007 12:50 am

Fortunately when the soviets went bankrupt & were kicked out of Eastern Europe, the Romanian government stopped the rot.
Work ceased on buildings like the above ( most have been dismantled now) but lovely old buildings like this were restored :-Ken.

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by Wiccan woman » 22 Nov 2007 10:16 am

Thats a really pretty picture Ken. what a shame they ruined a lot …….. Pleased all the horrible buildings were stopped or scrapped. I always think when looking at some Eastern Europeans they look a little miserable now i know why!!!

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by WillyLad » 27 Nov 2007 09:53 am

Its a pity they dont do the same over here …. restore the nice old buildings and put more thought into the appearance of new ones.
Any more here Ken?

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by Ken » 02 Dec 2007 06:52 pm

Yes. I`ll dig out a couple more before putting this one to bed.Ken.

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by Ken » 11 Dec 2007 09:48 pm

The Steaua Bucharest ground was incredibly basic for such a big team.The seats were just long concrete benches. There was only 2 portaloos to serve 30,000 people but fortunately the ground was surrounded by scrub and bushes within the perimeter fences. It was just a question of finding a vacant bush !Ken.

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by Douglas » 24 Dec 2007 09:38 am

It was not so much the Soviets that knackered up Romania Ken, but more specifically Ceaucescu. He was a truly unpleasant man in a cast of horrible people in Eastern Europe in the late 1980′s.His policy on orphanages was particularly nasty.It’s the anniversary of his death by firing squad tomorrow, Christmas Day 1989.We should all raise a glass, and curse his ghost.

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by Kattaddorra » 24 Dec 2007 11:01 am

Lovely to see more of your photos Ken,I really miss them when you are too busy to post. I think most of us do understand, and sympathise, about how ‘the other half’ have to live, but some of us can help more in our own little corner of the world…..and we do, both people and animals are all living feeling beings.
Happy Christmas
Katt

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by Benny » 24 Dec 2007 12:27 pm

Douglas wrote:It was not so much the Soviets that knackered up Romania

No Doug, the Soviets were lovely people, they certainly knew how to run a country.

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by Douglas » 24 Dec 2007 12:31 pm

Benny wrote:

Douglas wrote:It was not so much the Soviets that knackered up Romania

No Doug, the Soviets were lovely people, they certainly knew how to run a country.

My point, Benwell, was that of all the Warsaw Pact countries, Romania was probably the least Pro-Moscow state of the lot. Ceaucescu was an inherently nasty man, whose policies killed many hundreds of thousands of his own people, as did the other Eastern Bloc nations.

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by Benny » 24 Dec 2007 12:31 pm

Oh, ok. Sorry.

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by Michelle » 28 Dec 2007 11:04 pm

Ken wrote:There was only 2 portaloos to serve 30,000 people but fortunately the ground was surrounded by scrub and bushes within the perimeter fences. It was just a question of finding a vacant bush !Ken.

What a way to spend a leu !
Michelle

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by Michelle » 10 Jan 2008 10:34 am

Any more Romanian ones ?
Michelle

The Sahara

admin — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:55:51 +0000

Safely away from Algeria now and 4 days into the Sahara :-

—- landscapes as beautiful as any in their own sort of way.You wouldn`t believe the height of these dunes.

It is quite hot ( 35 .C. ) here with the most intense pure blue sky I have ever seen.

We travel from oasis to oasis.The journeys are long and hard but worth it.

I hope to post some memorable oasis pics later.

Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 03 May 2008 09:10 am, edited 1 time in total.

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by Firefly » 18 Mar 2008 11:00 am

Glad to see your back on your travels Ken. Look forward to more pics. Wont be posting much(cant type now) but I`ll be reading them all with interest.
Babs

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by Catweasle » 18 Mar 2008 04:34 pm

Ken …have you squared the oasis photos with the Gallagher brothers ?

Thats a bramer picture of the sand———–at Redcar after the tides gone out.

Seriously though,do enjoy every moment of another countrys lifestyle.
and keep the diary going.

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by Ken » 18 Mar 2008 10:29 pm

Cheers Firefly and Catweasle. Unfortunately I`m having probs posting pics but will try again as soon as poss.

Ken.

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by Ken » 18 Mar 2008 11:55 pm

After a long hard thirsty days journey , water at last :-

A boat as well ? —- and some rocks ?

Not so I`m afraid . This is actually a mirage ( they can be photographed after all ! ). There was nothing there — just like a rainbow that gets no closer. Just another 80 miles of barren nothingness.

Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 19 Mar 2008 12:15 am, edited 1 time in total.

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by Ken » 19 Mar 2008 12:08 am

Worth it in the end though — civilisation nears !! :-

I hope they have a hand-pulled pump !

Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 21 Mar 2008 11:34 am, edited 1 time in total.

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by Benny » 19 Mar 2008 07:41 am

As always Ken, superb photos.
Have a great trip and keep the ‘home thoughts from abroad’ coming.
Good luck with the hand pulled ale!

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by WillyLad » 19 Mar 2008 12:46 pm

Agreed ! Brilliant pics. Keep em coming.

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by Ken » 19 Mar 2008 07:10 pm

The oasis varies considerably — from a picturesque one as in above pic to a small group of palms in the middle of nowhere like this one :-

Wherever water nears the surface –even in very small quatities.

Ken.

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by Ken » 19 Mar 2008 07:24 pm

This one , taken as we left Algeria through the Selja Gorges , shows in the background,a larger,more elongated oasis in a higher , more rocky situation:-

Ken.

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by Ken » 19 Mar 2008 07:42 pm

By the way , not all my modes of transport have been as comfortable as the one shown above :-

Ken.

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by Ken » 19 Mar 2008 08:03 pm

Others are quite vast,such as this one which contains over a hundred thousand palms :-

Ken.

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by Chel » 20 Mar 2008 09:25 am

All I can say is wowwwwww.

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by WillyLad » 20 Mar 2008 02:42 pm

Yes me too. They just get better. It looks quite warm out there Ken. What sort of temperatures ?

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by Kristof » 20 Mar 2008 06:47 pm

All good stuff Ken, keep up the posts.

Chris.

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by Ken » 20 Mar 2008 11:32 pm

Cheers. Its always reassuring that some of you enjoy some of the pics as much as I do sharing them.
Back to the various types of oasis — many of the ones we got to were only accessible by 4×4 , camel or donkey and it was sods law that the most beautiful spots we got to were the most difficult.
Its hard to imagine the sahara being anything other than flat but believe me it can be anything but :-

Ken

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by Ken » 21 Mar 2008 12:01 am

Whilst some are hidden & islolated in gorges such as this :-

Ken.

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by Kattaddorra » 21 Mar 2008 07:56 am

Wonderful pictures Ken ! I’m enjoying your travels with you, as always.
Katt

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by Daffy » 21 Mar 2008 10:28 am

Thanks from me as well Ken for sharing your journey, fabulous Daffy

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by Ken » 21 Mar 2008 05:59 pm

Again — cheers !
Benny mentioned people & cultures. I`ll just post one last oasis pic & then as we progress much further East , I`ll touch on the different peoples we`ve had the pleasure to meet.

Ken.

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by Wilf » 21 Mar 2008 10:50 pm

Hope you haven’t copyrighted these Ken, ‘cos they make pretty good desktops.
Wilf.

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by Ken » 22 Mar 2008 02:37 pm

Not at all. Please feel free to use whatever you fancy.

Ken.

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by WillyLad » 25 Mar 2008 02:46 pm

Ken wrote:Benny mentioned people & cultures. I`ll just post one last oasis pic & then as we progress much further East , I`ll touch on the different peoples we`ve had the pleasure to meet.

Yes please.

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by Ken » 25 Mar 2008 09:10 pm

This next pic is a good example of the different types of desert :-

In the foreground is the edge of the “rocky desert” , then a barren stretch of the sahara , then the grey/blue of the “chott desert” ( more on that later ).

Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 25 Mar 2008 10:10 pm, edited 1 time in total.

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by Ken » 25 Mar 2008 09:57 pm

Those palms are part of a “rocky oasis” resulting from this spring at the head of the valley :-

Ken.

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by Benny » 26 Mar 2008 07:37 am

Simply marvellous, Ken.
Please keep them coming…and oasis of warmth on these wintery days! The coldest Easter for 40 years, I’m told. I’d rather be where you are.

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by Ken » 26 Mar 2008 12:59 pm

Yes — its been fantastic weather. Pure blue skies and temps ranging from 26 to 32 degress C.(The 35 degree afternoon was an exception.).
Most of the locals we met were of course Arab (as was my trusty guide for most of the journey) but we also came across many Beduines and even more Berbers , the latter being the most freindly and also colourful :-

Ken.

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by Ken » 26 Mar 2008 05:25 pm

The Beduines were much more difficult to get to meet as they were always on the move in remote places or camped up somewhere (and I was a bit reluctant to knock at the door & ask for a chat !) :-

Incidently , things have been made much easier for me to understand by my exellent Arab guide ( with the exotic name of Sammy would you believe ? ) and also thanks to my friend Catherine, who sits next to me at The Riverside & who`s been teaching me Arabic for the past few months whilst waiting for kick-off .

Ken.

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by Ken » 27 Mar 2008 10:47 pm

The Arabs of the north are relatively pale skinned but the further south you go , the darker they get :-

Ken.

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by Michelle » 28 Mar 2008 12:55 pm

Lovely pics and an interesting journey Ken.
Michelle

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by Benny » 28 Mar 2008 01:08 pm

I agree, Michelle. The photographs are superb, the colour is astonishing, the light quality must be perfect…..and the bloke behind the camera obviously knows what he’s doing.
Keep ‘em coming, Ken

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by Ken » 28 Mar 2008 06:47 pm

Benny wrote:….and the bloke behind the camera obviously knows what he’s doing.

If only !! The bloke behind the camera actually had a camcorder as well —- till he dropped it on the second day.
The annoying thing is that I`ve spent 98% of the time over sand or soft ground but I had to drop it on rocks !
Yes the light is perfect and some of the colours astounding.All the pics I`ve posted were taken with a tiny Nikon S3 which slips comfortably into my shirt pocket.
The spice markets are so atmospheric — the colours ,the lovely exotic smells & the constant chatter of arab bartering. The chanting of that day`s verse from the Koran from the top of the minnerets just adds to it all.

Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 30 Mar 2008 11:09 pm, edited 1 time in total.

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by Ken » 28 Mar 2008 08:21 pm

First though another interesting type of people — the Trogdolytes , who still live in caves and holes in the ground where the Sahara meets the Jabal Dahar mountains on the border of Libya.
Some of these homes you can see from a distance but others,like this one,you could easily fall into. They climb in through the rim or an opening as in the case of this one :-

— and then climb down to the base on a rope or poles knocked into the wall. I took that one at night from ground level using a flash.

Ken.

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by Ken » 29 Mar 2008 12:00 pm

Whilst the “courtyards” of some are reached through narrow cuts such as this one :-

Ken.

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by Ken » 29 Mar 2008 12:02 pm

On reaching these “courtyards” , I found some of them empty & abandoned :-

whilst others were obviously still being lived in & contained simple pieces of furniture :-

In which cases I beat a hasty retreat , not wanting to intrude on peoples privacy. However, the following day provided an excellent opportunity to see for myself at close quarters how these people lived,when my arab guide,”Sammy” arranged for me to meet a family in their home.

Ken.

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by WillyLad » 29 Mar 2008 12:51 pm

Ken wrote:In which cases I beat a hasty retreat …….

Blimey … that sounds dodgy. Dont think I`d have dared venture out in the dark at all, let alone snoop around strange holes in the ground !

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by Last_Tuesday » 29 Mar 2008 01:51 pm

Didn’t Luke Skywalker live in one of those?

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by Kattaddorra » 29 Mar 2008 02:10 pm

Welcome home Ken ! I’ve enjoyed armchair travelling with you very much again this time. Wherever are you off to next ?
Katt

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by Ken » 29 Mar 2008 06:54 pm

Yes. I enjoy travelling but its nice to be home again — although as you know , Katt , I`ve had a pretty grim last few days.
On the night I took the last few pics , I got bitten on the leg. I developed an infection which put me into a 2 day fever , during which I dehydrated & got a kidney infection. In good care now though & had a good day today.
It was my own fault. I knew full well that I should wear high-sided shoes and long trousers at night in that sort of climate but on that occasion forgot !!
In answer to your question , Katt —- nowhere adventurous. Just a relaxing holiday in Madeira next month. ( I`ve a few other surprises lined up over the rest of the year though ! ).

Ken.

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by Ken » 30 Mar 2008 11:02 am

This was the “courtyard” of the family we met :-

Ken.

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by Kristof » 30 Mar 2008 11:34 am

Ken wrote:

Ken.

Is it just me or does anyone else see a resemblance to Alan Wicker in some of these pictures.

You could have a future in broadcasting if you keep this up Ken. Keep up the good work.

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by WillyLad » 30 Mar 2008 04:07 pm

Spot on Kristof .
I`d been wondering who it reminded me of !

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by Daffy » 30 Mar 2008 06:03 pm

This is wonderful, thank you so much for sharing it, Daffy

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by Ken » 31 Mar 2008 09:40 am

It was certainly an eye-opener, Daffy. The people of this area are so poor and have had such a rough time. Their “wealth” in any one year can be measured in olive oil. They live mainly on olive oil,grain,honey and oranges & any left over buys luxuries like fabric , a replacement donkey,etc.
They are very isolated and almost totally self-sufficient.They are also very proud — this family shared food with us but wouldn`t think of taking any payment ( we made sure that “Sammy” went back with a generous gift after we`d gone ).
Here`s how they still grind the “flour” for the daily bread ration :-

Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 01 Apr 2008 11:06 pm, edited 1 time in total.

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by Ken » 31 Mar 2008 06:34 pm

The bedroom was surprisingly civilised :-

This was similar to the one I slept in. The beds are strange though. They`re on sort of rock stilts and are very hard. This suited my back injury to a tee & I slept well. There`s no need for air-con as these rooms are very cool — even when the temp is around 30 degrees C outside.

Ken.

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by Ken » 01 Apr 2008 06:11 pm

Sadly, fate has dealt these people a cruel hand. They struggle to survive as it is ,but no-one could have envisaged the devastation which befell them a few years ago and wiped out more than half their population over the whole of North Africa.

Ken.

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Ken’s March Postcard

by Rosebudkid » 04 Apr 2008 08:31 am

Ken-I’d just like to add my thanks to the many others-your photos were very interesting and informative to ‘stop-at-home’ types like me. Well done.
And to think WE grumble about life’s little inconveniences….!

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by Benny » 04 Apr 2008 09:33 am

And the same from me, Ken.
I’ve done my share of travelling in my time but not to as many unusual places as you.
Keep them coming and thanks again.

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by Black Knight » 04 Apr 2008 04:10 pm

Lets hear about the devastation then.

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by Nortonbeak » 04 Apr 2008 06:16 pm

Black Knight wrote:Lets hear about the devastation then.

I don’t know if this is the devastation that Ken referred to

http://www.pbase.com/beunard/agadir_earthquake

But, it was devastating

MADEIRA

admin — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:54:25 +0000

Weather superb here — hot & sunny on this lovely sub-tropical island , noted for its beautiful trees & flowers and the incredible range of levadas .

Pics on both these to follow later.

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by Firefly » 27 May 2008 12:02 pm

My friend who does my typing says this must be Madeira. Cant wait for these Ken. Your Sahara ones were fantastic and I always look forward to these travels of yours. Wish we had a bit of that warmth and sun over here !
Babs

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by Kattaddorra » 27 May 2008 12:44 pm

I’m looking forward to your pictures too Ken, and yes, please bring us some sunshine home when you come
Katt

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by Ken » 27 May 2008 07:46 pm

Cheers Katt & Firefly. Hope you`ll enjoy.
The only trees ,climbers & flowers I`ll be posting will be uncultivated ones I came across in the sub-tropical forests , the hills, valleys and levada walks.
I had to make an exception of this one :-—- as its so abundant right across Madeira. Its known as the “Bird of Paradise” flower and its in most parks , gardens & where its spread to wild areas. There are many variations , but this one is the most common.

Ken.

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by Ken » 27 May 2008 10:47 pm

And of course the tulip tree :-This particular one is taller than a three storey building.

Ken.

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by Ken » 28 May 2008 03:20 pm

Madeira was totally unpopulated when discovered by accident by the Portugese about 590 years ago.
As most of the rainfall is to the North of the island , over the years hundreds of “levadas” have been carved out of the mountain sides to carry water to most parts of the south.
These lavadas consist of stone channels about 10″ wide & 10″ deep. They have a stone ledge at the side (also about 10″ wide) and this provides fantastic walks where otherwise it would be impossible to go. Many are not for the faint hearted — as I hope some of my pics will show.Ken.

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by WillyLad » 29 May 2008 01:09 pm

Great stuff Ken. and did you get plenty of that fine Madeira wine ?

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by Ken » 30 May 2008 09:49 am

Yes.Lots thanks — and funnily enough I never bought a single glass. There`s folk giving you a glass for free all over the place. You usually get a complimentary glass when you pay your bill at restaurants (sometimes before you order as well as after you pay!). Also in many shops & even the fruit market.
Actually Madeiran wine as such is not so fine. In fact its because it didn`t travel or keep that they hit on the idea of fortifying it with brandy.
The two main products of Madeira are bananas & sugar cane and the latter is used in the brandy making.Its then added to the wine before storing for 5 to 10 years in wooden casks to produce the unique & excellent madeira as we know it.
Back to the levadas. Here`s an easy peasy one (see description of levadas above):-This one has a stone wall on one side & vegitation on the other so you can`t really fall off !
However the tunnel coming up wasn`t easy as it was only about 2 foot in height & you needed to be a contortionist to get through with one leg each side of the water channel on the very narrow ledges.

Ken.

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by Ken » 30 May 2008 11:46 pm

However —– the levada gradually climbs, the vegetation to the left thins out and the sheer drop increases alarmingly :-Ken.

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by Kattaddorra » 31 May 2008 08:20 am

Ken you were so brave to go up there ! It makes me dizzy just looking at the pictures,but what wonderful views I’d never have seen otherwise, thank you.
Katt

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by Ken » 01 Jun 2008 03:48 pm

Yes. I must admit it made me feel a bit dizzy at times as well. This one probably gives a better idea of the sheer drop down into the valley below:-Ken.

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by Ken » 01 Jun 2008 04:39 pm

But the views were incredible . I took this one a bit further on :-The pic doesn`t do it justice. In places the flow/width is comparable to High Force but there is no comparison in height.
High Force is just over 200 ft. This one is about 1,500 ft high.

Ken.

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by Ken » 01 Jun 2008 06:25 pm

The water provided by the levadas is precious and periodically the land owners have to get their application in for their quota. E.g. some may get 8-9am on Thurs & Sun — others 6-9pm Tues & Fri.
The supply is controlled by little “sluices” such as this one :-To the right you see the main supply levada(dark area) , then the sluice in the centre & then the individual supply channel running down northwest.

Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 02 Jun 2008 06:13 pm, edited 4 times in total.

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by Ken » 01 Jun 2008 06:28 pm

The “Levada men” open & shut these sluices according to a strict time table :-Ken.

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by Ken » 01 Jun 2008 11:32 pm

The routes take you from the tranquil banana & sugar cane groves :-—– to the simply breath-taking:-

(If you look carefully at the different coloured fields down near the shoreline,you`ll get an idea of the height.)

Ken.

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by Michelle » 02 Jun 2008 12:00 pm

Brilliant Ken. What a lovely place Madeira looks.
Michelle

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by Benny » 02 Jun 2008 12:14 pm

Look at the colour of that sea!

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by Kristof » 02 Jun 2008 12:36 pm

Brilliant Ken, I wish I was there now.

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by Ken » 03 Jun 2008 05:05 pm

Everywhere you go in Madeira are banana trees so it worth a post or two on these. The banana flower alone is worth a pic :-Its about 25cms (10″ to us oldies) in length & dangles beneath the clump of bananas.

Ken.

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by Ken » 03 Jun 2008 05:18 pm

Here`s one in situ :-The banana tree only produces one bunch in its entire lifetime.

Ken.

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by WillyLad » 04 Jun 2008 10:58 am

How come the plantations dont just disappear then ?

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Maderia

by Jopov » 04 Jun 2008 11:38 pm

We went there at Easter and they had the worst storms for years. The place was devastated. We were on the Atlantic side of the island facing what seemed like a hurricane. You can see in the earlier photo the height of some of the mountain roads. We were at the botttom of a location like that with rocks crashing off the mountain sides and water gushing in huge waterfalls around and on the hotel. One day I hope to go back and see Maderia in the sun.Looks like a lovely place.

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by Ken » 05 Jun 2008 10:55 am

Yes. I heard about the storms,Jopov.You were very unlucky & I`d certainly recommend going back again to see the island in all its spendour.Ken.

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by Ken » 05 Jun 2008 10:58 am

WillyLad wrote:How come the plantations dont just disappear then ?

Because every banana tree has a shoot coming up from its roots which will replace the parent tree & produce next years bananas :-

Ken.

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by Ken » 05 Jun 2008 11:12 am

Some of the plants & flowers, just growing wild by the sides of the levadas, are quite incredible:-and some so colourful :-

Ken.

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by Ken » 06 Jun 2008 09:24 am

The beautiful Jacaranda tree which grows in such abundance all over the island & is in full bloom at this time of year :-Ken.

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by Benny » 06 Jun 2008 10:09 am

I reckon, out of all the trees I’ve ever seen, the Jacaranda is my very favourite. Beautiful.
Thanks Ken.

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Ken’s

by Rosebudkid » 06 Jun 2008 08:39 pm

Great photos Ken-I don’t suppose you managed to get a cutting off the
Jacaranda tree? I suppose our climate wouldn’t really be suitable for it though. Very enjoyable,thanks.

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by Ken » 08 Jun 2008 07:01 pm

Glad you enjoyed pics Benny & no,Rosebudkid, — never thought of cuttings!
Even the cacti (chopped down as weeds in Madeira) showed some nice flowers :-These were out in the wilds. I wait years for mine to produce flowers only a 10th of the size!

Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 08 Jun 2008 11:24 pm, edited 1 time in total.

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by Ken » 08 Jun 2008 07:28 pm

The Angel`s Trumpet could even be found in the forest :-Ken.

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by Ken » 08 Jun 2008 11:37 pm

Not sure what this one was :-Ken.

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by Chel » 10 Jun 2008 06:40 pm

Breath taking. Wow

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by Michelle » 16 Jun 2008 10:22 am

Yes. I agree … lovely pics Ken. Any more to come ?
Michelle

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by Ken » 17 Jun 2008 10:09 am

Yes. Quite a few — mainly pretty and unusual plants/trees.flowers etc.
I`ll then move this topic to “Photographs”. Here`s one to be going on with :-Not so spectacular , but pretty :-

And another :-

Ken.

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by Kattaddorra » 17 Jun 2008 11:15 am

Even more lovely pictures Ken ! Thanks again for sharing them with us.
Katt

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by Ken » 17 Jun 2008 05:57 pm

Thanks Katt. Even some of the climbing vines were quite extraordinary.
This one reminded me of a picture in one of my childhood books of “Jack & the Beanstalk ” ! :-Ken.

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by Wiccan woman » 18 Jun 2008 09:11 am

I see what you mean Ken hope there were no giants at the top

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by Ken » 20 Jun 2008 09:48 am

Some of the “climbers” were just a pretty as the trees & flowers. This green one with red flowers was spectacular as it covered such a wide area :-Unfortunately that`s the only bit I could get in the frame as it was quite a hairy drop down from the levada & I had to lean right out to take that.

Ken.

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by Ken » 22 Jun 2008 01:20 pm

And now for a few strange trees & fruits. I`m not sure what this one is :-or this :-

Ken.

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by Michelle » 16 Jul 2008 03:59 pm

Have you any more on Madeira ?

CHANNEL ISLANDS

Ken. — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 13:23:51 +0000

Its a miracle that I actually got here at all. Had a nasty little accident which put me in hosptal — & then intensive care. Got out of hostpital only two days before flying off to :-(I asked a few of the local inhabitants if they wouldn`t mind posing for me in a little group & they dutifully obliged ).
Recovering slowly on local ice cream, fresh tomatoes and of course,new potatoes.

Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 06 Sep 2008 05:51 pm, edited 1 time in total.

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by DoctorBeaker » 10 Aug 2008 07:17 am

I guess you don’t need a “Jersey” on if it’s hot and sunny I’m glad you were Ok and out of hospital in time for your trip

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by Kristof » 10 Aug 2008 09:47 am

I would have thought Jersey was a bit tame after your recent exploits Ken. But I guess that as you are recovering from a bout in hospital it is probably just what the doctor ordered.

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by Kattaddorra » 10 Aug 2008 11:29 am

Hi Ken, glad you are OK now and enjoying the sunshine. You must definately have a Guardian Angel (or 9 lives like a cat has) !
We’ve missed you.
Katt

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by Ken » 10 Aug 2008 05:13 pm

Cheers Katt & Doc. Feeling fine now (apart from the pain! ) but was only temporarily “released” from hospital & have to go back in soon.

Kristof wrote:I would have thought Jersey was a bit tame after your recent exploits Ken. But I guess that as you are recovering from a bout in hospital it is probably just what the doctor ordered.

Yes. It struck me as being another bit of good fortune in that the “tamest” of all my travels came at this moment. Had intended to cycle every corner of the Channel Isles but obviously couldn`t.
However — completed many walks & still found points of interest.
A bit about the islanders much dwelt upon “suffering” under German occupation later but in the meantime a few interesting bits & pieces.
The steam clock at St.Helier :-

Ken.

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by Ken » 11 Aug 2008 09:40 am

The islanders still make much of the “sufferring” under German occupation. Compared to the rest of the U.K. and many other parts of the world , I think they came off rather lightly.
One short bombing raid resulting in 10 deaths. How many in Warsaw,Stalingrad,London or Coventry ?
Before going,I read several detailed accounts of life there during the occupation. Of course there were some shortages & inconveniences but whilst I wouldn`t go as far as using the word “collaboration”, it struck me that life was rather cosy compared to the rest of the world involved in WW2.
Nevertheless some of the German fortifications are still worth seeing.
This is the entrance to the war tunnels/underground hostpital:-Ken.

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by Ken » 11 Aug 2008 09:56 am

The tunnels are quite extensive :-Ken.

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by Ken » 11 Aug 2008 10:04 am

Whilst others remain unfinished :-

Ken.

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by Ken » 11 Aug 2008 10:49 am

The operating theatre :-—- and a typical ward :-

Ken.

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by Benny » 11 Aug 2008 01:07 pm

Ken wrote:The islanders still make much of the “sufferring” under German occupation. Compared to the rest of the U.K. and many other parts of the world , I think they came off rather lightly.
One short bombing raid resulting in 10 deaths. How many in Warsaw,Stalingrad,London or Coventry ?
Before going,I read several detailed accounts of life there during the occupation. Of course there were some shortages & inconveniences but whilst I wouldn`t go as far as using the word “collaboration”, it struck me that life was rather cosy compared to the rest of the world involved in WW2.
Nevertheless some of the German fortifications are still worth seeing.
This is the entrance to the war tunnels/underground hostpital:-Ken.

I quite agree, Ken. They are far too French for my liking, and we all know how they perfomed in the war.

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by Jopov » 11 Aug 2008 03:00 pm

Over the time of the occupation over 4000 people committed offences against the Reich, some minor but quite a lot were downright resitance to the occupation. Over one fifth of the islanders were active against the Germans. We must have some sympathy for BRITISH people who were abandoned by our goverment (who withdrew all of the arms and troops from the islands). As we have never been invaded by aggressors in overwhelming numbers in recent history, we should not be quick to pass judement. Yes there were lots of other atrocities committed elsewhere, but these people, like the rest of Europe lived with a different kind of fear and stress than on the mainland. Twenty Jersey dissadents were sent to concentration camps in Europe, never to return.

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by Michelle » 11 Aug 2008 04:23 pm

Jopov wrote:Twenty Jersey dissadents were sent to concentration camps in Europe, never to return.

Ken did say compared with other countries.
Half a million Jews were sent to the gas chambers from Poland alone.
Michelle.

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by Jopov » 11 Aug 2008 07:13 pm

Before going,I read several detailed accounts of life there during the occupation. Of course there were some shortages & inconveniences but whilst I wouldn`t go as far as using the word “collaboration”, it struck me that life was rather cosy compared to the rest of the world involved in WW2.

I am not defending or arguing anyone’s case. I am just making the point that no-one got off lightly in WW2.

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by Ken » 12 Aug 2008 10:26 am

Some parts of Jersey are quite beautiful and almost of tropical appearance, particularly in sheltered areas such as this :-That`s not a garden — just a sheltered valley out in the sticks. The water authority keep the grass trimmed in order to maintain access to pipework.

Ken.

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by Ken » 12 Aug 2008 10:41 am

A little glade further down the valley :-Ken.

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by Ken » 13 Aug 2008 12:58 pm

And now, an hour across the water, we find ourselves in Guernsey.
This is the lovely “Little Chapel” built by Brother Deodat of the Order de la Salle :-Its quite tiny & decorated entirely with sea-shells,pebbles and wedgewood pottery fragments.

Ken.

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by Ken » 13 Aug 2008 01:10 pm

Side entrance decorated solely with Wedgewood fragments:-Ken.

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by Daffy » 13 Aug 2008 05:14 pm

Once again Ken, I must thank you for taking the time and trouble to share your travel photos, they are so interesting. I hope that all is well on your visit back to the medics. Daffy

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by Chel » 13 Aug 2008 08:48 pm

Spot on as always Ken
Love the places you go to. I’m of to Scotland soon so I will try and get some pic’s of home for you’sChel

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by Ken » 17 Aug 2008 11:32 am

Cheers Chel. There`s still many WW2 remnants of German occupation in Guernsey as well as Jersey :-

Ken.

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by WillyLad » 18 Aug 2008 05:57 pm

Very informative. You seem to have a knack for sussing out the interesting bits of everywhere!

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by Ken » 21 Aug 2008 11:50 am

The sad thing about Guernsey is the decline in its trading fortunes. Several hotels across the island have had to close recently and the tomato industry is in ruins due to the increasing impact of the E.E.C..
The island is littered with redundant greenhouses :-Spanish tomatoes may be cheaper but they don`t taste the same.

Ken.

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by Ken » 24 Aug 2008 04:47 pm

And finally —- Ken back on his feet again & relaxing in the Guernsey sunshine :-Ken.

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by Kattaddorra » 25 Aug 2008 06:43 am

Thanks again Ken for sharing your travels in words and in pictures.
I’ve enjoyed ‘the journey’ with you, as always.

JAPAN

Ken. — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 14:37:51 +0000

O.K. I`ll start of with a “cutie”. This little girl had never seen anyone from the west before & couldn`t believe her eyes :-

Ken.

by Chiana » 27 Jan 2009 06:09 pm

Awww, isn’t she sweet, great photo Ken.As Kat said ,,,, you should write a book .

You`re our version of Alan Whicker, go for it Ken

Chiana

by Ken » 28 Jan 2009 10:08 pm

Thanks Chiana. Must give it more thought.
The two most dominant religions of the far east are Shinto & Buddhism
One of the most beautiful islands I`ve ever visited is the pacific island of Miyajima .
Its sometimes referred to as Shinto island as its home to one of the biggest Shinto shrines in the far east.
At the approach to the island is a magnificent gate :-

Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 29 Jan 2009 12:36 pm

The shrine itself is built on stilts over the water. It covers quite an area–when I took this the tide was out :-

The interior was stunning :-

Ken.

by Ken » 30 Jan 2009 06:39 pm

The Shinto monks support themselves and their shrine by the manufacture of Saki. Although in simple terms its rice wine, in fact its much more complex than that. There can be as many varieties of Saki both in type and quality as there are of normal wine.
Here`s just a few of them being matured in special casks :-

Ken.

by WillyLad » 01 Feb 2009 12:53 pm

Cheers Ken. Fantastic pics & very informative.

by Ken » 03 Feb 2009 06:41 pm

This part of the shrine is called the Heiden or Hall of Offerings:-

Its where wishes/prayers are made.That`s what all those beige coloured cards hanging in rows towards the left are.

Ken.

by Ken » 04 Feb 2009 05:35 pm

The Shinto priests must feed the local animals with ice-cream because the moment one of us appeared with an ice-cream ,they appeared out of the trees & wouldn`t go away until they`d had some & the ice-cream was finished :-

Ken.

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by Ken » 07 Feb 2009 05:24 pm

And on that note we leave Miyajima & move on.
There was nothing but trees & dense growth on banks of the Taedong River a few years ago. Now there are developements everywhere :-

The day I took that it was so humid that my shirt was permanently soaked.

No chance of any houses here though. At this point the river changed its course evry time it rained :-

Ken.

Coal was so scarce and expensive in this area , it was sold by the kg in shops :-

Last edited by Ken on 09 Feb 2009 07:43 pm, edited 3 times in total.

by Ken » 07 Feb 2009 11:16 pm

And on again we go. After a long hard journey to Kyoto , Ken calls it a day — only to find that his hotel has no beer (just some sort of strange tea) and his bed has no legs!

Ken.

by Ken » 08 Feb 2009 12:00 am

Mny of the most beautiful shrines and temples in the world can be found at Kyoto:-

Ken.

by Ken » 10 Feb 2009 09:48 am

From the outside the Budhist temples are not as colourful as the Shinto shrines but they are just as impressive in their size and majesty :-

Ken.

by Ken » 10 Feb 2009 02:23 pm

Even the entrance gate was impressive :-

Ken.

by Ken » 10 Feb 2009 07:58 pm

Many are set in beautiful locations :-

— and I couldn`t resist taking this one nearby :-

If you could enlarge it ,you`d see that the “English” translation in the bottom half of the white notice reads :-
“WHEN CROSSING BE CAREFUL OF THE FOOTING INFICIENTLY.
UNDERSTAND BEFOREHAND BECAUSE THE RESPONSIBILITY CAN NOT BE ASSURED ABOUT THE ACCIDENT IN CASE AND SO ON.”

Ken.

by Kattaddorra » 11 Feb 2009 11:45 am

Wonderful photos Ken, what an incredible journey ! Thank you so much for sharing your travels with us.
Katt

by Giddion » 12 Feb 2009 06:03 pm

Ken your photos are awesome my friend.
weldone,

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by Ken » 12 Feb 2009 11:17 pm

Thanks Katt & Giddion.
And now we leave Kyoto & head west —— at speed :-

——- about 200 mph to be precise ! The Shinkansen ,as they call the bullet train, is incredibly smooth.
It seemed unreal when the waiter appeared through the carriage,dressed in waistcoat & tails and pushing an ornate trolley on which was a magnificent silver tea urn and serving tea and biscuits on expensive china.

Ken.

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by Ken » 13 Feb 2009 02:33 pm

And on now to Hiroshima. The city was flatted in 1945 by the atom bomb dropped by the Americans :-

(Photo courtesy of the Hiroshima Memorial Museum).

Ken.

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by Ken » 13 Feb 2009 03:06 pm

Most of Hiroshima has now been rebuilt :-

Ken.

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by Ken » 13 Feb 2009 05:55 pm

But not all.
Remarkably one of the few buildings to remain standing after the atom bomb was right under the epicentre of the blast.This and the area around has been left untouched.
Here are a couple of pics I took :-

Ken.

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by Ken » 16 Feb 2009 11:32 am

The developed part of Hiroshima is quite colourful at night with a variety of pretty lanterns all over the place :-

Even the drinking fountain was quite ornate :-

Ken.

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by Ken » 19 Feb 2009 08:11 pm

The Japanese are still very chauvenist & most women who have been divorced or abandoned find that they have very little entitlement.
Many of these are very educated people speaking good English & yet they have no choice but to fend for themselves by any means possible.
Many we spoke to were selling packets of rice in the streets.They save enough for a sack full & then split it into hundreds of packets.If they do well they can sometimes buy equipment & move into something more lucrative.
This was one such lady :-

She`d graduated from rice selling to buying and playing some cheap instrument to saving up for & playing this more sophisticated one.

Ken.

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by Ken » 20 Feb 2009 12:41 pm

And now back on the bullet train to head east. Next stop Mount Fuji.Ken.

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by Ken » 20 Feb 2009 04:37 pm

Its difficult to get a decent shot of Mount Fuji due to the circle of mist which usually shrouds it,

Its very strange up there. One minute ,when there`s clear blue skies & sunshine , its scorching. The next , when the mist surrounds, its freezing !

Ken.

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by WillyLad » 22 Feb 2009 12:59 pm

Fascinating pics & commentary Ken.
Keep em coming.

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by Kattaddorra » 23 Feb 2009 12:12 pm

Just what I was going to say Willylad, keep ‘em coming Ken, your travels are wonderful for us stay at homes to ‘share’
Katt

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by Ken » 25 Feb 2009 12:03 pm

Thanks Willy & Katt. More to come tomorrow.Ken.

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by Ken » 27 Feb 2009 11:40 am

And now off on our travels again — this time by water. This is Lake Ashi.
Its a very long stretch of water which is actually a volcano crater. The volcano is still quite active with small eruptions both bubbling up from the lake and also spewing forth from the surrounding shores(pics of these later) :-

The beautiful ornate building on the left features on some of the Japanese coins.

Ken.

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by Ken » 01 Mar 2009 04:52 pm

A stretch of the simmering surroundings :-

Ken.

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by Michelle » 02 Mar 2009 11:10 am

Another excellent tour …….. & very informative.Michelle

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by Ken » 11 Mar 2009 02:10 pm

And now on to Japan`s colourful capital ——- TOKYO :-

Ken.

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by Ken » 13 Mar 2009 07:45 pm

With its colourful girls in their colourful dresses :-

Ken.

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by WillyLad » 21 Mar 2009 10:56 am

Michelle wrote:Another excellent tour …….. & very informative.
Michelle

Agree.
Any more though? None for 8 days.Hope this one`s not finished.

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by Ken » 24 Mar 2009 05:58 pm

Nope — a few more to go yet. In fact Tokyo has so many variations & places of interest , you could spend 6 months here & still not see half of them.
Because of the vulnerabilty to earth quakes , Tokyo is built outwards rather than upwards & there are very few skyscrapers.
Here`s one & showing their own Eiffel Tower in the background :-

Ken.

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by Ken » 28 Mar 2009 09:32 pm

With Tokyo being so well spread out , contrary to popular belief its fairly quiet apart from rush hour & I go jogging through the streets with less conjestion than Redcar High street.
There`s even large areas that are quite wild & in which you can easily get lost :-

In fact — I did !

Ken.

Ken: Posts: 4038; Joined: 26 Feb 2004 11:32 pm; Location: Redcar

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Re: Ken`s Postcard

by Ken » 03 Apr 2009 01:28 pm

There`s also lots of water and turtles seem to be everywhere :-

Ken.

Ken: Posts: 4038; Joined: 26 Feb 2004 11:32 pm; Location: Redcar

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Re: Ken`s Postcard

by Ken » 10 Apr 2009 07:03 pm

The scourge of many of Japan`s still water areas is the dreaded giant hogweed. It needs constant weeding.Once it gets out of hand its almost impossible to control as this lake in the centre of Tokyo shows :-

Ken.

Ken: Posts: 4038; Joined: 26 Feb 2004 11:32 pm; Location: Redcar

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Re: Ken`s Postcard

by WillyLad » 26 Apr 2009 09:32 pm

Excellent Ken. Any more ?

WillyLad: Posts: 197; Joined: 04 Jul 2004 09:33 am; Location: Ex Willington

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Re: Ken`s Postcard

by Ken » 03 May 2009 10:08 am

Japanese bride & groom :-

Ken.

Ken: Posts: 4038; Joined: 26 Feb 2004 11:32 pm; Location: Redcar

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Re: Ken`s Postcard

by Ken » 10 May 2009 12:13 pm

And finally ——- I`ll finish with another cutie. At a chocolate sculpture competition,this little girl couldn`t resist doing a bit of car maintenance when she thought no-one was looking :-She was just about to open the bonnet & eat the spark plugs !

CROATIA

Ken. — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 22:09:33 +0000

We start off in Slovenia.
I took this pic in one of the world`s biggest cave systems :-

Ken.

Ken

by Catweasle » 22 Sep 2007 10:34 am

Kens still in England,the caravans and pub are both at Redcar He borrowed the props from the film Atonement and he’s visited Mother Shiptons cave and had the films c.g. boys enhance the picture l.ol.

Last edited by Catweasle on 22 Sep 2007 10:38 am, edited 1 time in total.

Catweasle

by Ken » 22 Sep 2007 10:37 am

Nice one Catweasel !
This stalagmite is 20 ft high and known as “The Brilliant” :-

Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 23 Sep 2007 06:27 pm

The journey into the caves is quite an experience in itself. You hurtle along on a little railway at quite a rate of knots for almost half an hour before reaching the most spectacular parts.
Here`s one I took from deep within :-

Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 23 Sep 2007 06:47 pm

This next one will probably give the game away as these caves are the only place in the world where this creature , Proteus , exists naturally :-

Ken.

Ken

by Benny » 23 Sep 2007 07:07 pm

This stalagmite is 20 ft high and known as “The Brilliant”

That gave the game away for me, it’s Slovenia. A beautiful, under-valued destination.
Good choice, Ken.

Benny

by Ken » 23 Sep 2007 10:32 pm

So true , Benny.
Contrary to popular belief , the famous breed of Lipizzana horse originates from Slovenia & the original stud farm still exists there — at the little village of Lipicia ( hence the name ).
These horses are incredible for their diligent footwork :-

However, I can`t say I approve of the way in which the stallions are kept boxed up all day — even on such a lovely warm sunny day as today :-

Ken.

Ken

by DoctorBeaker » 24 Sep 2007 08:14 am

Ken wrote:these caves are the only place in the world where this creature , Proteus , exists naturally :-Ken.

I was just thinking about asking you if there were any live creatures in the cave Ken when I got to the next post and saw those little chaps. I was wondering if is it true, as I thought I remembered, thay have no eyes as they wouldn’t see anything anyway with living in constant darkness,and that they have no real colour either so I’ve been browsing a bit and reading up, they’re such interesting little things! There’s some pictures and videos on here

http://www.arkive.org/species/GES/amphi … s_anguinus

Showing them in water but they’re using their little arms and legs to walk on, as far as I can make out from my reading these little fellows are where we might all have evolved from! It IS true they have no real eyes or colour but when they have been moved from their natural environment they have grown rudimentary, though useless, eyes and their skin colour changed. I’d say leave them be, in their natural environment.

DoctorBeaker: by Ken » 24 Sep 2007 09:05 am

Thanks Doctorbeaker. I couldn`t agree more.
That`s why I deliberately used the words ” …. exists naturally” , because some have been transferred from these Postojna caves in an attempt to introduce them elsewhere.
As you say “leave them be in their natural environment”.Ken.

Ken: Posts: 4387; Joined: 26 Feb 2004 11:32 pm; Location: Redcar

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by Ken » 24 Sep 2007 09:42 am

Well — moving on now to another part of this ex-soviet eastern bloc country. If anyone`s interested in doing a more detailed “virtual tour” of these countries , join Michael Palin every Sunday evening at 9 pm on BBC 1.
Before leaving Slovenia it would be amiss not to post a picture of one of its most beautiful areas in the Julian Alps. Here is the lovely little island in the middle of Lake Bled :-

Ken.

Last edited by Ken on 30 Oct 2007 12:01 am, edited 2 times in total.

Ken: Posts: 4387; Joined: 26 Feb 2004 11:32 pm; Location: Redcar

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by Firefly » 24 Sep 2007 11:44 am

Ken wrote:join Michael Palin every Sunday evening at 9 pm on BBC 1.

Yes. i`ve been watching this series and its very good. if you miss any its on again on Satuerdays at 8.30pm on BBC2.
Your photos are brilliant Ken. You should get a job with Michael Pallin !
Cant wait for next lot of you travels.
Babs.

Firefly: Posts: 152; Joined: 11 Mar 2004 09:58 pm; Location: Shildon

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by Black Knight » 25 Sep 2007 07:54 pm

Couldn`t agree more Firefly. both the Palin series and Ken`s pics are excellent. Lets have a bit more about the peoples of these countries Ken.
B.K.

Black Knight

by Ken » 27 Sep 2007 10:48 am

O.K. When I get a bit more time , B.K..
Moved on to another country now. Here`s the view from my hotel overlooking the Adriatic :-

Ken.

Ken

by Giddion » 27 Sep 2007 02:49 pm

Very nice ken…….your scenery photos are very good, buddy…would make nice backgrounds for the things i do Have you somewhere as to were i can go to have a peek at some of your scenery shots m8….. ?

Giddion

by Ken » 28 Sep 2007 09:21 am

Cheers Giddion. No — I don`t have a website but feel free to use any of my pics you see on here. Also if you`d like a DVD of the originals ( at 2048 x 1536 resolution ) , let me know & I`ll send you one.
Here`s one of the beautiful little town of Novigrad where I stayed :-

Ken.

Ken

by Michelle » 02 Oct 2007 06:38 pm

None for 4 days now , Ken. Any chance of some more ?
Michelle

Michelle

by Ken » 02 Oct 2007 11:42 pm

Yup. Croatia is still recovering from the Serb/Bosnia fighting but it is a most beautiful country. Istria is probably the nicest part. Its quiet , the people are so nice and the coastline is stunning.
Rovinj is acclaimed as being the prime resort but having visited Umag, Porec, Vsar, Rovinj & Novigrad , I rate Novigrad the nicest by far.
Here are a few pics of this lovely little compact city :-

You can relax here with the Adriatic lapping at your feet & watch the wide variety of fish swimming by :-

Its still warm even at 11pm.

Ken.

Ken

by WillyLad » 09 Oct 2007 02:27 pm

Very nice. Keep them coming.

WillyLad

by Ken » 19 Oct 2007 11:01 am

O.K. A few more to come over the next few days.

Ken.

Ken

by Chel » 19 Oct 2007 12:41 pm

Looking forward to them.
Chel

Chel: by Ken » 20 Oct 2007 10:38 pm

Black Knight wrote:Couldn`t agree more Firefly. both the Palin series and Ken`s pics are excellent. Lets have a bit more about the peoples of these countries Ken.
B.K.

Sorry B.K. Forgot this one.
I cant comment much on the Slovenians as I didn`t meet many but those I did I found rather surly. Slovenia also got off rather lightly in the recent wars. Although they were one of the main independence instigators , their part in the war lasted only 10 days, after which they were able to continue to develope.
Croatia`s fate wasn`t as fortunate however & the wars have really set them back. They are a relatively poor country but the Croatians are lovely people — so freindly & helpful.
It also doesn`t surprise me that they top our European Football group. Every village you pass through , you`ll see kids being coached from an early age & local games being played alongside.
Every school has football coaching as an essential part of the corriculum :-

Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 25 Oct 2007 10:55 am

This is the pretty little town of Rovinj which was a pleasant boat ride away further down the Adriatic coast :-

– with its quaint cobbled streets :-

Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 25 Oct 2007 11:25 am

We also saw some local dancers :-

— and some daring divers :-

Ken.

Ken

by WillyLad » 27 Oct 2007 01:43 pm

Wow … nice pics again Ken. cheers.

WillyLad

by Ken » 28 Oct 2007 12:21 am

A couple more of Novigrad coming up & then I`ll dump this one into “Photographs” as well.

Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 28 Oct 2007 11:38 pm

Of all the many places we visited in Croatia , Novigrad was my favourite.
A very compact , friendly little city with quiet quaint streets :-

& yet you could wander through them & still discover a new one even after several days.

Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 28 Oct 2007 11:53 pm

You have to feel sorry for most of the Croatian farmers & wine producers. Some of their smallholdings aren`t much bigger than my rear garden & their agricultural equipment is way behind the times.
However , they produce some lovely wine at a ridiculous price.
A decent bottle at a local supermarket will set you back a pound but you can take your own container to the local vat & get a nice wine for about 40p a litre :-

And my final Croatian pic of the centre of my favourite little city of all time — NOVIGRAD :-

I only hope Flyglobespan retain their flights from Teesside to Pula. Of all the places I`ve travelled to , Novigrad is the one I`d like most to revisit.
If anyone else is thinking of going , drop a line to the Epoca agency there at :- tz-novigrad@pu.t-com.hr
They are so helpful AND we now have a Shildon.net member there ( Luana).

Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 29 Oct 2007 11:46 pm

P.S. Epoca`s website is :- http://www.epocaimmobilie.com/novo/index.asp?j=eng

Ken.

Ken

by Phil » 30 Oct 2007 12:53 am

Did you see any campsites in Novigrad for caravaners, Ken? The link you posted seem to be more for accommodation than camping?

Phil

by Ken » 30 Oct 2007 10:26 am

Its actually a caravaner`s dream , Phil. The trees along much of the coast of Istria stretch right down to the sea and many miles of this coastline is designated for caravans. Most are on the edge of the beach but because of the surrounding trees , you dont notice them till you`re close up.
One of the best sites in fact is at the southern tip of Novigrad.
There was an article recently by holiday critic,Philippa Braidwood,in the Mail on Sunday , in which she describes this as “The New Tuscany” and one of the best sites in the world.
I`ll scan & send you it.

Ken.

Ken

by Daffy » 30 Oct 2007 11:06 am

Ken can I be cheeky and ask that you send me the article as well, it looks so interesting I would love to go there touring, Daffy

Ps thanks once again for the wonderful photos and tales from all of your trips.

Daffy

by Ken » 30 Oct 2007 10:02 pm

Certainly. No problem. I`ve already scanned it for Phil so I`ll e-mail it to you now.

Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 30 Aug 2010 07:33 pm

Mostar bridge , courtesy of Alan Thomson :-

and how Alan saw it earlier this year :-

Alan wrote :- “This is the famous Mostar bridge, now a World Monument, rebuilt after the war. Our guide, who was of the Catholic faith said that the bridge had been demolished by them during the war to stop supplies getting to the enemy, but because they have destroyed it, they had to repay to rebuild it. Apparently you could pay one of the locals to jump from the apex of the bridge, into the river below! I don’t know what it is built with, but it was very slippery to walk on, and quite a steep angle. It is a beautiful structure though.”

“The tall building behind is the local church, rebuilt, and I believe that this is part of that organisation. What ever somewhat different condition to the previous.”

Ken.

Ken

by Ken » 30 Aug 2010 07:42 pm

Also from Alan :-
“This is Dubrovnik, the Old Town. We had a walk around the “Town Walls”, boy did we need oxygen just to walk the steps up to the the top of the wall. The roofs of most of the buildings are a beautiful orange (to me) and the views out to the sea are enjoyable. Mind the proximity of the buildings to each other would be worrying in the event of fire.”

and he comments :- “This is a lovely colour” :-