tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41081643531241178562024-03-13T23:47:58.585+00:00Lynne's Travels Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.comBlogger74125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-12133061700299547922024-03-06T10:28:00.000+00:002024-03-06T10:28:35.046+00:00Yosemite<p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">Yosemite National Park</span><o:p></o:p></u></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: center;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7g0Ojlz3RXITPdU67L9fiO2zL23mzFoJ1N7-ys4-wg7GepEQyVD1U5UN2RK8HkOOhLpjSAK9flhyeTJMzyg_8G2kFO_EU5Zap95-SGZkTPxD58rfHKeWjtLOAoYR2oXlBz_qKdV4pgSyWizLp6YP02v6KmxMxjUUWoWMvlNwKpfEglwJMKJTdCToeSJ4/s3264/2024-01-24%2015.14.46.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7g0Ojlz3RXITPdU67L9fiO2zL23mzFoJ1N7-ys4-wg7GepEQyVD1U5UN2RK8HkOOhLpjSAK9flhyeTJMzyg_8G2kFO_EU5Zap95-SGZkTPxD58rfHKeWjtLOAoYR2oXlBz_qKdV4pgSyWizLp6YP02v6KmxMxjUUWoWMvlNwKpfEglwJMKJTdCToeSJ4/w640-h480/2024-01-24%2015.14.46.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: center;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Having just a short time in San Francisco, and really wanting to see Yosemite, I opted for the (very) long day trip that can be done from there. Leaving at 6am, we were soon travelling through the countryside, with reminders of its “Gold Rush” past (ram shackled houses in old gold mining hamlets) - heading towards California’s Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV0IDBGkN94mj_56V6Z_kTM7x5BIhpnY1nctL-TM7sLqY1xC7A5hrt1QYFMUxnUs6vsWPMWoFpfR25UJz2Nwev_7N1faI9wdVy0btO4UYYOUSPoIn2lXk-eVPGe17yNNQulEDmSRIiRDqUCWw5_2SWQh-XfApSRscqvbp1557EczX_QAFrRg9YUXsNflc/s3342/Yosemite%201%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1825" data-original-width="3342" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgV0IDBGkN94mj_56V6Z_kTM7x5BIhpnY1nctL-TM7sLqY1xC7A5hrt1QYFMUxnUs6vsWPMWoFpfR25UJz2Nwev_7N1faI9wdVy0btO4UYYOUSPoIn2lXk-eVPGe17yNNQulEDmSRIiRDqUCWw5_2SWQh-XfApSRscqvbp1557EczX_QAFrRg9YUXsNflc/w640-h350/Yosemite%201%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdyrtJiT9XiGnxSh0VKV_JkfD73NM1ZTcCBrO5VTyEHVtrQVjplqU2HppM2xrwkdWOhFY9_X3VDMPZeYss12J9M_-K5MPCUxZSXLyCxAsCte4hF3tSPYlkrlIxCZmOjZIKUaA8Sf3TeyS4PIrMj6EmUwrMPDmy0GAmSxTsvMeTfskoQwg2l6GcqSf26s8/s4032/Yosemite%201%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdyrtJiT9XiGnxSh0VKV_JkfD73NM1ZTcCBrO5VTyEHVtrQVjplqU2HppM2xrwkdWOhFY9_X3VDMPZeYss12J9M_-K5MPCUxZSXLyCxAsCte4hF3tSPYlkrlIxCZmOjZIKUaA8Sf3TeyS4PIrMj6EmUwrMPDmy0GAmSxTsvMeTfskoQwg2l6GcqSf26s8/w640-h480/Yosemite%201%20(2).jpg" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">We passed by miles of dead trees – evidence of bushfires (both controlled and not!), and a large canyon described as The Rim of the World. Yosemite is about 170 miles from San Francisco taking about 4 hours’ drive to get there. Yosemite National Park is described as one of the world’s greatest parks - famed for its awe-inspiring landscapes, towering peaks, breath-taking waterfalls and giant, ancient sequoia trees. Once entering the park, the roads meandered for ages, but the views kept me from feeling squeezy – I didn’t want to miss a single minute. Glaciers sculptured out this landscape, leaving polished granite domes, craggy peaks and wide, flattened meadows. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju7x_APoUMJM7Fg8ryLwwp-YCbxpBwkUrgn2ZUSq9Nui1qz7SA7DwjS-1CgfyKWVc__XUkFUDh6OmcsISifzkWIav7UXhyphenhyphen7LhNHVlu368x6vZaanyjvWDyLodwF9ixwB9MaCEAVWQNYibHCqvmI0dFOc1O3SlO4pFgNboKn59zWLJ2fJJqbcDfGdMdoUY/s4896/Yosemite%201%20(16).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3672" data-original-width="4896" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEju7x_APoUMJM7Fg8ryLwwp-YCbxpBwkUrgn2ZUSq9Nui1qz7SA7DwjS-1CgfyKWVc__XUkFUDh6OmcsISifzkWIav7UXhyphenhyphen7LhNHVlu368x6vZaanyjvWDyLodwF9ixwB9MaCEAVWQNYibHCqvmI0dFOc1O3SlO4pFgNboKn59zWLJ2fJJqbcDfGdMdoUY/w640-h480/Yosemite%201%20(16).JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">The first stop we made was at the Tunnel View viewpoint, with the most scenic eastward views of the Yosemite Valley - including the southwest face of El Capitan, Half Dome and Bridalveil Falls. What a first stop! The sun was shining, the sky was perfect and it was as magnificent as I had wanted it to be. A one-way system operates along many on the Park’s roads, so we travelled along the Southside drive, passing several interesting viewpoints. Cathedral Rocks are a prominent collection of pinnacles, cliffs and buttresses. There are three major summits - Higher, Middle and Lower Cathedral Rocks, providing an awesome sight for all visitors. Sentinel Bridge is a renowned location for a breath-taking view of Half Dome and its mirrored reflection in the Merced River. There is also Sentinel Beach and Sentinel Creek. Unfortunately, time didn’t allow us to stop at the Swinging Bridge (that does not actually swing any more); as years of high flood waters had taken its toll. The coach stopped close to Yosemite Valley Lodge and we were given some spare time to explore – not enough, but we managed to fit in as much as possible. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaPOLJF1WBtEsarTvLnrfkL2ybAqzALGz2h_lMdKyv7_acuO4L7z06q9Ixb3ASomUD-zltcjZAEvUt8ecfsHmuVWCliSsw_JqO1DVqYWEZTd1HN8L_k7i6ys4e-Uo7xfXwyswieV2OTsSjvtAxzXBOc43jv30e4nhW68mZXzkM5u00ps5Hb7mioEj_qZo/s4896/Yosemite%201%20(30).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4896" data-original-width="3672" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaPOLJF1WBtEsarTvLnrfkL2ybAqzALGz2h_lMdKyv7_acuO4L7z06q9Ixb3ASomUD-zltcjZAEvUt8ecfsHmuVWCliSsw_JqO1DVqYWEZTd1HN8L_k7i6ys4e-Uo7xfXwyswieV2OTsSjvtAxzXBOc43jv30e4nhW68mZXzkM5u00ps5Hb7mioEj_qZo/w480-h640/Yosemite%201%20(30).JPG" width="480" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Yosemite Falls Trail was the first place to explore – they are the 4<sup>th</sup> tallest waterfalls in the world, (North America’s Tallest Falls) - which are supposed to roar in the spring but fall silent in late summer. We were lucky that although it was a hot late summer day, the falls were still flowing – a wonderful view through the forest. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKnEHZadZKexYT91VJWnxBotBFRmT9KrYyMwNhMndFGPFFYAUAhnUQ00JoYU-i68p8F1bxdReK6jNz6ZjNv0zzWmtOFlEUkoRqxfgqW3FYMc3d1EeR4xpDmfUC_C8Qdj379XNqo_QXhTIGBs4hySTu2TdZ7dmz7v5CV3ifYw7mlKRcHmaSk9OZDTSXdwM/s4510/Yosemite%201%20(38).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3448" data-original-width="4510" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKnEHZadZKexYT91VJWnxBotBFRmT9KrYyMwNhMndFGPFFYAUAhnUQ00JoYU-i68p8F1bxdReK6jNz6ZjNv0zzWmtOFlEUkoRqxfgqW3FYMc3d1EeR4xpDmfUC_C8Qdj379XNqo_QXhTIGBs4hySTu2TdZ7dmz7v5CV3ifYw7mlKRcHmaSk9OZDTSXdwM/w640-h490/Yosemite%201%20(38).JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">The light-coloured boulders and stones lining the stream coming off the falls – were so picturesque against the dense green forest. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUCFfd9oSNCKRQM09xdZKVHkROjy4V4WnrXnA6_SRPeP0dqsuCT1V2sUvx9qXY5Qk-WeKac1L81lcCN0PA_nOEf82rEN7geoUrPvvbR8z0YDy3IuLPxf8XMpseai5eOBX0rlpyhgkzSdGQ7T1Zu_Zss4S80_FO3K9alNNkVRNrVcfgPPH8gyFkGZV1E90/s4005/Yosemite%201%20(21).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3044" data-original-width="4005" height="486" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUCFfd9oSNCKRQM09xdZKVHkROjy4V4WnrXnA6_SRPeP0dqsuCT1V2sUvx9qXY5Qk-WeKac1L81lcCN0PA_nOEf82rEN7geoUrPvvbR8z0YDy3IuLPxf8XMpseai5eOBX0rlpyhgkzSdGQ7T1Zu_Zss4S80_FO3K9alNNkVRNrVcfgPPH8gyFkGZV1E90/w640-h486/Yosemite%201%20(21).JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Carrying along the walking trail, we came to Yosemite Village and its Visitor Centre, where they hold informative lectures and have guided walk information. There is a Ranger-staffed information desk, bookstore, Spirit of Yosemite film, and exhibit hall detailing the park's geology, plant and animal life, and history. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3MHHB6RtShRSh0mohMO1IITnxROJukBKgoBIa_8Mf59wShoRrxGImigVxeLUbmbITuf73rdkidDdbwrXEJye-89IOzkjCMniaOSpbbHYgo-NsgRfbNQk-i3yyXlH7QCJd6wT8_PwSQ-wpLa8MeSyacWDXfD4Eb2BGY3ZUuibuKpLvwJ2SvTB9v155tq8/s4280/Yosemite%201%20(34).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3193" data-original-width="4280" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3MHHB6RtShRSh0mohMO1IITnxROJukBKgoBIa_8Mf59wShoRrxGImigVxeLUbmbITuf73rdkidDdbwrXEJye-89IOzkjCMniaOSpbbHYgo-NsgRfbNQk-i3yyXlH7QCJd6wT8_PwSQ-wpLa8MeSyacWDXfD4Eb2BGY3ZUuibuKpLvwJ2SvTB9v155tq8/w640-h478/Yosemite%201%20(34).JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Yosemite Museum has The Indian Cultural Exhibit which interprets the history of Yosemite's native Miwok and Paiute people from 1850 to the present day. The Gallery has art exhibits throughout the year; and there is also Happy Isles – an Art and Nature centre with natural history exhibits, interactive displays, and art workshops (but that is further down the trail). There is a large café, toilets and medical centre in the village, and you can catch one of the free Shuttles to and from here.<b> </b>The Valleywide Shuttle runs approximately every 15 minutes and takes 90 minutes to do a round trip; whereas the East Valley Shuttle stops at a limited number of stops just to one end of Valley taking only 50 minutes. These are a very good way of saving your legs, especially if you are short on time.<b> </b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxxBP_Z3XAfYK0WVKuHVGgW-GW_kv2jG4EGlcp3hEmzImy-sTOmvoG8HI3PmUuRS_VBM2tJIJNygqpI2KCT1sVcvXjG4X-jMDUUuqGcWKIvCMLJvWni6a7ROdDwECAL58Nqxk_JttrP-A_cYLNyviK7byLDGxIGSuCbnFccncrwJwRBOvBaucpdjNONag/s2593/Yosemite%202%20(1).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1729" data-original-width="2593" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxxBP_Z3XAfYK0WVKuHVGgW-GW_kv2jG4EGlcp3hEmzImy-sTOmvoG8HI3PmUuRS_VBM2tJIJNygqpI2KCT1sVcvXjG4X-jMDUUuqGcWKIvCMLJvWni6a7ROdDwECAL58Nqxk_JttrP-A_cYLNyviK7byLDGxIGSuCbnFccncrwJwRBOvBaucpdjNONag/w640-h426/Yosemite%202%20(1).png" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Nestled in the heart of the valley is Curry Village or Camp Curry – with lodging facilities of all types, cabins, tents, and cozy motel rooms. Above this you will see Staircase Falls (which is usually dry from July); and Glacier Point if you can hike to it - with a commanding viewpoint of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra which is 30 miles away. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4f8C53BSqGbSvpGGVZ_aNTOvgsEjVt7ymgmZ4KsZnzLQaRgXYFCUX08WIQf195t8N5UU_xG-Z8Ri_VL9jenIKlSVdZPQVHdlOzgYWqCA618LywBfDprO2R8FRUdninFMCchBSt7obmlnukhyphenhyphenFVZoo4Ovs1N0mh57XihDPUqNP5ufnnCUlJCh5gpIC3D8/s3656/Yosemite%201%20(9).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2746" data-original-width="3656" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4f8C53BSqGbSvpGGVZ_aNTOvgsEjVt7ymgmZ4KsZnzLQaRgXYFCUX08WIQf195t8N5UU_xG-Z8Ri_VL9jenIKlSVdZPQVHdlOzgYWqCA618LywBfDprO2R8FRUdninFMCchBSt7obmlnukhyphenhyphenFVZoo4Ovs1N0mh57XihDPUqNP5ufnnCUlJCh5gpIC3D8/w640-h480/Yosemite%201%20(9).jpg" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">One of the most prominent features which can be seen from most places, is Half Dome - a well-known rock formation, named for its distinct shape. One side is a sheer granite rock face while the other three sides are smooth and round, making it appear like a dome cut in half. It is nearly 8,800 feet above sea level and composed of quartz monzonite. At its core are the remains of a magma chamber that cooled slowly and crystallized beneath the Earth's surface. A permit is required if you want to try to climb it. At this eastern end of the valley, there are many other hiking trails to more viewpoints, Waterfalls, and Mirror Lake – which I would like to have seen if I had, had more time. I tried to find the Indian Village of Ahwahnee - a re-constructed 1870s Indian village with bark houses, a ceremonial roundhouse, sweathouse, and acorn granaries – but could only see The Ahwahnee Hotel (famous for its dining, décor and architecture that complements the natural setting of the park). On the return drive along the Northside Road, we saw Eagle Peak, the highest of the Three Brothers (Lower and Middle being the others), an independent rocky peak located just east of El Capitan. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYKJJgBuozjVpQEkrqXa0mmJk04Rafls04IeY3LzpP7hq2fqQrCh3II_T9etIp71iMcvS57w9WKxw8AmozPtAtfXgyRybQeErLQxhGxk6lJA4JEvF4PnRpHtrF65XjOC_TZBnP0ESETwQ0uBwglhpXg_woyXbepDlRArW5ZJ8YuHes3qeKtzGP52C09VI/s4326/Yosemite%201%20(27).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4326" data-original-width="3086" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYKJJgBuozjVpQEkrqXa0mmJk04Rafls04IeY3LzpP7hq2fqQrCh3II_T9etIp71iMcvS57w9WKxw8AmozPtAtfXgyRybQeErLQxhGxk6lJA4JEvF4PnRpHtrF65XjOC_TZBnP0ESETwQ0uBwglhpXg_woyXbepDlRArW5ZJ8YuHes3qeKtzGP52C09VI/w456-h640/Yosemite%201%20(27).JPG" width="456" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">We stopped at the grasslands in front the vertical rock formation known as El Capitan ("the Captain" or "the Chief"); a granite monolith about 3,000 feet from base to summit along its tallest face and a world-famous location for big wall climbing. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWk_uf6qtivgm-S9pQJX1O8GtQOA8tyqGWjc8lKcH2gUz4ZJuCYSfikLe2AWQizqEVa7YDKUzzIeaZPrBJkNu8_tCNBaeU4ekESmZneobJ1Rz4E8lQi7pNf3Hvz02wxmeKpOeIUvpHp8rtG3S0MK4FJc6QgeasBeKkYK677Xbz9QHukjgsuDwnQInrQYg/s3965/Yosemite%201%20(26).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3136" data-original-width="3965" height="506" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWk_uf6qtivgm-S9pQJX1O8GtQOA8tyqGWjc8lKcH2gUz4ZJuCYSfikLe2AWQizqEVa7YDKUzzIeaZPrBJkNu8_tCNBaeU4ekESmZneobJ1Rz4E8lQi7pNf3Hvz02wxmeKpOeIUvpHp8rtG3S0MK4FJc6QgeasBeKkYK677Xbz9QHukjgsuDwnQInrQYg/w640-h506/Yosemite%201%20(26).JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz4niA6tEVUAk7paJU8e1ytrBQTMMH8uQKBrDX_HfZC3jAXdsXObIiEG-KPS5wUy9MzDsTTR4W8XM-ETb3Dvzj2Al33-TchsthFEdY_jbfEIlFCGm9xr56PhtfWEMQoHyguxGlY9zriJzp-bh3iflB9JsObH9v_BoF8-PmG3X-VBsW-BhOk8cMUhK5viY/s4896/Yosemite%201%20(24).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3672" data-original-width="4896" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz4niA6tEVUAk7paJU8e1ytrBQTMMH8uQKBrDX_HfZC3jAXdsXObIiEG-KPS5wUy9MzDsTTR4W8XM-ETb3Dvzj2Al33-TchsthFEdY_jbfEIlFCGm9xr56PhtfWEMQoHyguxGlY9zriJzp-bh3iflB9JsObH9v_BoF8-PmG3X-VBsW-BhOk8cMUhK5viY/w640-h480/Yosemite%201%20(24).JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">We were lucky to spot climbers scrambling up its granite walls on the day we were there. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIRIjXFkCXF_aP10Z94Z1lcTtjh9GNZCF4UjJBoIRMC9-s1ezIerGI9W_2KP4oNRPvR65MD1cqK0gawMvz1WFgazx3svB0c_f6sl4DqSThF3FQjv_MP6R0oAu0EXwUb_JN4Zb8fEpv0x4Ob8_Wu4xPlGP90sevz-adAWKsztc1i4L0Hr9WcAqpeP1rsnw/s2430/Yosemite%201%20(8).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2430" data-original-width="1805" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIRIjXFkCXF_aP10Z94Z1lcTtjh9GNZCF4UjJBoIRMC9-s1ezIerGI9W_2KP4oNRPvR65MD1cqK0gawMvz1WFgazx3svB0c_f6sl4DqSThF3FQjv_MP6R0oAu0EXwUb_JN4Zb8fEpv0x4Ob8_Wu4xPlGP90sevz-adAWKsztc1i4L0Hr9WcAqpeP1rsnw/w476-h640/Yosemite%201%20(8).jpg" width="476" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Many tourists were at the picnic area here (climber spotting), and told to keep food, trash, and other scented items within arm's reach; and if a bear approaches, to yell as loudly as possible to scare it away! </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmFMvib5f1gp3q1_CiS869a5IBB7VQWQM_LpC6dyGOvRT0bMtdXEbV3DPMBvsXt3-DcNsiUz1Tlt66L0rnc50TY-7u3ztLFx7hmQNEmAkZSGvDfcSLbpYA2Qp0nppzEGHI1PAV2CfyE5rrKkIXgP_3Qh7zU79na81RKUF7Xcv-grISgCooPZkhoahg5fU/s4195/Yosemite%201%20(25).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3237" data-original-width="4195" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmFMvib5f1gp3q1_CiS869a5IBB7VQWQM_LpC6dyGOvRT0bMtdXEbV3DPMBvsXt3-DcNsiUz1Tlt66L0rnc50TY-7u3ztLFx7hmQNEmAkZSGvDfcSLbpYA2Qp0nppzEGHI1PAV2CfyE5rrKkIXgP_3Qh7zU79na81RKUF7Xcv-grISgCooPZkhoahg5fU/w640-h494/Yosemite%201%20(25).JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">There is a great view of Bridalveil Falls from here too; at 617 feet tall, it is one of the most prominent falls in Yosemite Valley and flows all year round - although you have to walk 15 mins to get close pictures. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mMs0800AK3lWMHUv9cCTVK7YgQMxepnxO3eiPQL7X4AAYrw9am0WYcQbegdWQvLCKIMXXS6I_5sjcZf8j6zfbWUcYoEXXFpT5Ve6b_KVrBXKBb6Oh-g-S5O_g6xot601jYPgYxdOuT5ldB_wa6aT6R9hvWldgeiUBiZnqI7h6lu4SLMxI5sO-FGGRmw/s3835/Yosemite%201%20(28).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2961" data-original-width="3835" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9mMs0800AK3lWMHUv9cCTVK7YgQMxepnxO3eiPQL7X4AAYrw9am0WYcQbegdWQvLCKIMXXS6I_5sjcZf8j6zfbWUcYoEXXFpT5Ve6b_KVrBXKBb6Oh-g-S5O_g6xot601jYPgYxdOuT5ldB_wa6aT6R9hvWldgeiUBiZnqI7h6lu4SLMxI5sO-FGGRmw/w640-h494/Yosemite%201%20(28).JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuqIYsv6c6sVA8IMIV-aZU9R_IYwjYqxwmtPyrQoT2WK547xSwU6CPmtwL_F6cAYQULypqSFWqcayX0XyQ_WkSegau1HSHicaabN2kbor2LuHdQr5NKBvICyuJVdRUGwqeiQwnixJp52X_5fIK6r5_B3WMTaVN51tXyk5O751GJK-419b477FTXaI-PWw/s3595/Yosemite%201%20(20).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2835" data-original-width="3595" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuqIYsv6c6sVA8IMIV-aZU9R_IYwjYqxwmtPyrQoT2WK547xSwU6CPmtwL_F6cAYQULypqSFWqcayX0XyQ_WkSegau1HSHicaabN2kbor2LuHdQr5NKBvICyuJVdRUGwqeiQwnixJp52X_5fIK6r5_B3WMTaVN51tXyk5O751GJK-419b477FTXaI-PWw/w640-h504/Yosemite%201%20(20).JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Our last stop was to see El Capitan from a different viewpoint and for me, this was just Yosemite at its very best. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4p5j8SuF4-1xqoLqfA75k6zd9O-O71p4EkmEPxtf6NXpVt0l7jRRbY_QL5ryj4a9MyAEvp8VRYF3U4cz4YYmEPvKG7sksFaB2Atp62uC_vsNOWdd8n4w4v2Cey5UNHBVMJNJ8Y1iUMlj5tkxg9qxUtX_AfF86IHBl6XOmEWPZkMZ7FQb-uc4Z75N2d9s/s4032/Yosemite%201%20(43).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4p5j8SuF4-1xqoLqfA75k6zd9O-O71p4EkmEPxtf6NXpVt0l7jRRbY_QL5ryj4a9MyAEvp8VRYF3U4cz4YYmEPvKG7sksFaB2Atp62uC_vsNOWdd8n4w4v2Cey5UNHBVMJNJ8Y1iUMlj5tkxg9qxUtX_AfF86IHBl6XOmEWPZkMZ7FQb-uc4Z75N2d9s/w640-h480/Yosemite%201%20(43).jpg" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioQE_2UYrLpPLANYOLmhSyfAxxtQqn3Lzc3JNzCCz0ZBDYHnh5d-x2A_1PtnkdGnvzTaGMO-dRpA-__NgZC5l1nQNdqxylK2-evrw7AoztJSERwT2zAWJY71Ndomq3jM1oZ6ffNzxn_5KXG48ztqV0rqgdA6B8p_gJ2ed_bxyMjMxsH49hQEBkZJ9mWXI/s3574/Yosemite%201%20(44).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2660" data-original-width="3574" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioQE_2UYrLpPLANYOLmhSyfAxxtQqn3Lzc3JNzCCz0ZBDYHnh5d-x2A_1PtnkdGnvzTaGMO-dRpA-__NgZC5l1nQNdqxylK2-evrw7AoztJSERwT2zAWJY71Ndomq3jM1oZ6ffNzxn_5KXG48ztqV0rqgdA6B8p_gJ2ed_bxyMjMxsH49hQEBkZJ9mWXI/w640-h476/Yosemite%201%20(44).jpg" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">The reflective views of the Mountains in the Merced River were awesome and will remain in my heart forever. This was Yosemite!<o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://www.nps.gov/yose" style="color: #954f72;">www.nps.gov/yose</a><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOPJrYQ0EzkKcOA7Y-Vvp-PLPVcPJFIKO2kcRLmy0N8k-dxOdoSLl34xAua0YSU60Am6IxD9xrGV3l33eUwLzXm-3XqDzXB-HoE_M7-fpYwcOGx1v5qcbi3AKJ9d43Ihnxxcrd6kjyZHfMQS3LPRBymw8QUQzHHGrDF_XYGQfkNAy5tVUTnQOBXVBLXzY/s879/Untitled.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="484" data-original-width="879" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOPJrYQ0EzkKcOA7Y-Vvp-PLPVcPJFIKO2kcRLmy0N8k-dxOdoSLl34xAua0YSU60Am6IxD9xrGV3l33eUwLzXm-3XqDzXB-HoE_M7-fpYwcOGx1v5qcbi3AKJ9d43Ihnxxcrd6kjyZHfMQS3LPRBymw8QUQzHHGrDF_XYGQfkNAy5tVUTnQOBXVBLXzY/w640-h352/Untitled.png" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><o:p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGGgQbMzDbK9x1aTlYzssEBMexkNWb4Cvax_AdnKFs3NCsisybuu4jpTptgdINkLu4HdwtTAuMoGN_n_pMTY_Ylu3eiKahe9OoZD-d-tB_xoRFwJzA3J2FghlDYLLmC2hIEDw1rTvxtXuNRpkjPd6j1ebv_Cx_bkwrR-16pc5-t2AnqzXXnON2v4pqEm4/s3344/Yosemite%201%20(10).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2441" data-original-width="3344" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGGgQbMzDbK9x1aTlYzssEBMexkNWb4Cvax_AdnKFs3NCsisybuu4jpTptgdINkLu4HdwtTAuMoGN_n_pMTY_Ylu3eiKahe9OoZD-d-tB_xoRFwJzA3J2FghlDYLLmC2hIEDw1rTvxtXuNRpkjPd6j1ebv_Cx_bkwrR-16pc5-t2AnqzXXnON2v4pqEm4/w640-h468/Yosemite%201%20(10).JPG" width="640" /></a></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><o:p><br /></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></div><p><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;"><i>Lynne</i></b></p><p><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">These are my other blogs :-</b></p><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com/">http://lynnejmorley.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="line-height: 17.12px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: 12pt;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div></div></div></div></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0cm;"><a href="http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com/" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com</a> </p>Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-61337975359650593982024-02-02T08:35:00.001+00:002024-02-02T08:35:14.858+00:00Churchill<p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 15.6933px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt; text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b><br /><u><br /></u></b><p></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; line-height: 15.6933px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt; text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="font-size: medium;">Churchill</span><o:p style="font-size: 11pt;"></o:p></u></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 15.6933px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt; text-align: center;"><b></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggz-rccWcSvHCfJLgeekNJhCLmP8iOaiEbQpeB9xkhgMTS6gFJsmJ8Cg1-s4gSBwjE1LZ3E3PNSK5XWKQjYy4wwDC_d7xV-VTi9rnNaDpWaQzJxpYiWxLxvanQxudnqDpxH6YDwUes_JNZyphaYRgWLnBaD3eLFgkccSiYFSHABHsDAr9XDZanV78CSJU/s3264/2024-01-24%2016.17.19.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2448" data-original-width="3264" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggz-rccWcSvHCfJLgeekNJhCLmP8iOaiEbQpeB9xkhgMTS6gFJsmJ8Cg1-s4gSBwjE1LZ3E3PNSK5XWKQjYy4wwDC_d7xV-VTi9rnNaDpWaQzJxpYiWxLxvanQxudnqDpxH6YDwUes_JNZyphaYRgWLnBaD3eLFgkccSiYFSHABHsDAr9XDZanV78CSJU/w640-h480/2024-01-24%2016.17.19.jpg" width="640" /></a></b></div><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 15.6933px; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt; text-align: center;"><b><u><br /></u></b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Churchill, on the shore of Hudson Bay, in the far north of Manitoba, Canada, is best known for the Polar Bears that inhabit the area in the fall, and safaris in reinforced tundra vehicles – is known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World. In summer, almost 4000 beluga whales visit the Churchill River basin, whereas in the winter you can see the Northern Lights – what an amazing place! I had waited many years to visit this spectacular place and was so excited to finally be there. </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbVUvSdaXd-W847wC5JoRCt6xOAH90HZlDGXg7uzbNJgyrRPFxSyHvEq5ZQnJaRdyU5vS-6sEqKqThsAVcENvCqRN4pH37CRcGfRbUwefx2I5OAvpqoRxK437nnGiLjnA8jOwDesIH_Zn7UIGYwd_c2AVKnk1biJEyOSPwkOuJiwvclLu0dnLqsx9TPTE/s3881/Churchill%201%20(6).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2968" data-original-width="3881" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbVUvSdaXd-W847wC5JoRCt6xOAH90HZlDGXg7uzbNJgyrRPFxSyHvEq5ZQnJaRdyU5vS-6sEqKqThsAVcENvCqRN4pH37CRcGfRbUwefx2I5OAvpqoRxK437nnGiLjnA8jOwDesIH_Zn7UIGYwd_c2AVKnk1biJEyOSPwkOuJiwvclLu0dnLqsx9TPTE/w640-h490/Churchill%201%20(6).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Churchill is a small town and very easy to walk around and explore, but you must always remember you are in polar bear country, respect the warnings and never go out alone especially at night. People who live here don’t lock their cars, as if you see a Polar Bear, an open vehicle is somewhere it is suggested to get into as quickly as possible. It isn’t recommended to explore on foot outside the town without a guide; so, I was lucky to be part of a group with an experienced guide. Churchill lies at the southern limit of where Polar Bears are able to live all year-round and has one of the biggest denning areas in the world. In the autumn, Polar Bears gather on the shoreline waiting for the Bay to freeze – so they can venture north where their food supply is in abundance. Although the town is quite small, there is plenty to do if you are there for a few days. </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqJsHWsfLFv8ghjLEGNuZRM48L95uitzmZs6adlbhAtGQpw2Z049nxPMRUQnQApkI9qz6n7awlODWY7M0bB3eQ3vtJaPd9BXtGPpNvF7BZP97FEymyNWSIT5VEGoSLBJm5B5ieETGvQilo3PAszUdr_7M2VmMfnftY8kxRdjy_2nhmyHVlUvAa1wFVm10/s4032/Churchill%201%20(29a).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqJsHWsfLFv8ghjLEGNuZRM48L95uitzmZs6adlbhAtGQpw2Z049nxPMRUQnQApkI9qz6n7awlODWY7M0bB3eQ3vtJaPd9BXtGPpNvF7BZP97FEymyNWSIT5VEGoSLBJm5B5ieETGvQilo3PAszUdr_7M2VmMfnftY8kxRdjy_2nhmyHVlUvAa1wFVm10/w640-h480/Churchill%201%20(29a).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Our first stop was the famous Polar Bear Jail (Polar Bear Holding Facility) - a special building where polar bears that are considered troublesome or dangerous are put before being relocated. It is a massive hangar (with a fabulous mural of a sleeping bear on it) of 28 block-built cells with steel bar ceilings and doors. Most cells only fit one bear in – to stop them fighting but two larger cells are reserved for mothers with cubs. Five cells are air-conditioned to make them more comfortable during warmer weather. Built in the 1950s when Churchill was an army base, the military arranged for the material to be shipped in to construct a building of that size and strength - in such a remote, inhospitable place. </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3hr-Eg8YvDRCdnhysEGdNgrUs2IM_wiYwg8WVgfdLcGcIjz2sUTM9-q7mwdJQPnzWTXvaHd_ucfHRz77eQlLAwuPUe31NW5ryVTUed7UnTX6piuZ6X_TRJhQF6Oq_RGsdoyfU790yf7HZvRR2fgG5598x9Xgse4JCKZtLtdUc3zaDztZpzddxqsTc_38/s4896/Churchill%201%20(31).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3672" data-original-width="4896" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3hr-Eg8YvDRCdnhysEGdNgrUs2IM_wiYwg8WVgfdLcGcIjz2sUTM9-q7mwdJQPnzWTXvaHd_ucfHRz77eQlLAwuPUe31NW5ryVTUed7UnTX6piuZ6X_TRJhQF6Oq_RGsdoyfU790yf7HZvRR2fgG5598x9Xgse4JCKZtLtdUc3zaDztZpzddxqsTc_38/w640-h480/Churchill%201%20(31).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">Nowadays, rather than shooting bears that are considered dangerous, they are held for a few weeks or until the bay freezes. While locked up, they get water or snow through a trough that runs across their cells, but no snacks—to avoid associating humans with food. As soon as the bay begins to freeze, the bears are brought over to the ice, the trap doors lifted, and they are set free one by one - happily wandering off onto the ice. Not far from here, we stopped at “Miss Piggy”, a freight plane, which in 1979 carrying a cargo of pigs, developed engine trouble and landed among the rocks.</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis6xWd_pf3hxaPXUOp3_v5AZrcW7NTdp8COabHI3Sm2xjCNQWyTAtT4rDCiL4zgDv8MayQ2A2jG3mq5_jaWL2jU3H3FgJeaDuOvdodqgWuodiDhLYzlUKcWVY3bUmu0CdRSQyGswNH2swxgaxxLPF68xu2swHU2ruzx7Vq6QaZlO5mGShEcHJGO0Gdic0/s3952/Churchill%201%20(44a).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2396" data-original-width="3952" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis6xWd_pf3hxaPXUOp3_v5AZrcW7NTdp8COabHI3Sm2xjCNQWyTAtT4rDCiL4zgDv8MayQ2A2jG3mq5_jaWL2jU3H3FgJeaDuOvdodqgWuodiDhLYzlUKcWVY3bUmu0CdRSQyGswNH2swxgaxxLPF68xu2swHU2ruzx7Vq6QaZlO5mGShEcHJGO0Gdic0/w640-h388/Churchill%201%20(44a).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">The wreck is in the most picturesque setting of pine trees and calm waters on the shore of Hudson Bay. </span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp_ovPUDdpQ05t8OG4DsQSz_Scm_hDBdOkmbYN_OfiNwF6eklkTJX1HkxSkskpVuUsKDkyFYzXGR8Z-kKP8-pVcKaC3blAHBlJ9lQX97UEqcwrDNuLKbuCyr50oihpRL07vjedLOAUHNxVhsTokAGS6msQhCj43ITWvCpStC5ea1sZ7b0ngSU6TEQI0xU/s4896/Churchill%201%20(48).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3672" data-original-width="4896" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp_ovPUDdpQ05t8OG4DsQSz_Scm_hDBdOkmbYN_OfiNwF6eklkTJX1HkxSkskpVuUsKDkyFYzXGR8Z-kKP8-pVcKaC3blAHBlJ9lQX97UEqcwrDNuLKbuCyr50oihpRL07vjedLOAUHNxVhsTokAGS6msQhCj43ITWvCpStC5ea1sZ7b0ngSU6TEQI0xU/w640-h480/Churchill%201%20(48).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">We continued along into the National Park for a dogsled ride through the boreal forest. Dave Daley, owner of Wapusk Adventures, is a long-distance dog-sled racer who has lived in Churchill his whole life, a proud descendant of the Metis. He has travelled and raced up to 1200 kilometres across the snow-covered northern regions of Manitoba; and was keen to share tales of his adventures. He has more than 40 huskies, most of which are rescues – and he knows every single one of them individually. </span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwEihyphenhyphenJKhxoiQvPbPnBLvoMR-txyItlntij6v1RhBRk2iU4VmMsRx2IyktBUghSt81VtNNN9jywMimFmVwZUk72B-P1W5fS9OeMzHl8k9fQ4kIsAXVV_FSTMmsYEFIj9MxqeSleqaWF0WmUNofSjU1ZFl2bFsLrTBaw4gdnC3f_swdboViEHe57wLT6Iw/s3427/Churchill%201%20(68).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2571" data-original-width="3427" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwEihyphenhyphenJKhxoiQvPbPnBLvoMR-txyItlntij6v1RhBRk2iU4VmMsRx2IyktBUghSt81VtNNN9jywMimFmVwZUk72B-P1W5fS9OeMzHl8k9fQ4kIsAXVV_FSTMmsYEFIj9MxqeSleqaWF0WmUNofSjU1ZFl2bFsLrTBaw4gdnC3f_swdboViEHe57wLT6Iw/w640-h480/Churchill%201%20(68).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">He runs his organisation with a very hands-on approach, sharing so much love with his animals who are brimming with excitement when they know it is their turn to “run”. </span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMVS4137Gj9r4cIEV12Qroc3Tjma-3dYRD5Vg9uRvmqUBh-L4D8R5Dv0jg60MZuDDOe5IqFNOc2nIPdSAtEQqvvQDk_JkxxVSY6cC-okzvCT5cYYJLm4W255s0x7GrgwJNWvftHGO9LmN1_VYgCvoM25c_z-XcHLGcVMxA7X98qDNQd8fCcXGaQplN0pA/s4896/Churchill%201%20(59).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3672" data-original-width="4896" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMVS4137Gj9r4cIEV12Qroc3Tjma-3dYRD5Vg9uRvmqUBh-L4D8R5Dv0jg60MZuDDOe5IqFNOc2nIPdSAtEQqvvQDk_JkxxVSY6cC-okzvCT5cYYJLm4W255s0x7GrgwJNWvftHGO9LmN1_VYgCvoM25c_z-XcHLGcVMxA7X98qDNQd8fCcXGaQplN0pA/w640-h480/Churchill%201%20(59).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">We had a ride through the forest on a cart with wheels – because the snow was late arriving; but it was still thrilling and invigorating – made even more special by meeting Dave. <a href="https://www.wapuskadventures.com/" style="color: #954f72;">https://www.wapuskadventures.com</a><span class="MsoHyperlink" style="color: blue; text-decoration: underline;"><span color="windowtext" style="text-decoration: none;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">From here we went to our hotel, The Tundra Inn, located on a quiet side street, just off the only Main Street that runs through the town. There was no time to unpack, we had to get out and explore the town whilst there was still some daylight. It was only a matter of walking up one side of the Main Street and back down the other, but there was still plenty of interesting things to see. </span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimcQkQ29cjOO9Pi7SJTGcNQYE_ka-oIniUbwqF3vsY3kHhupMOf_iR5rDi6UNWlScZlYR2TBNORrloaFjh5oZErM0l0cqZvpNcBZa8H7SyW3sh0McW_Q-7T0TRebMvLg1s4rubjABcic4gJwm-Y9X6YCMxe6q8fw6X8lsf2KYYePiz6WKj49LrcOv-rdQ/s1815/Churchill%201%20(129).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1815" data-original-width="1723" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimcQkQ29cjOO9Pi7SJTGcNQYE_ka-oIniUbwqF3vsY3kHhupMOf_iR5rDi6UNWlScZlYR2TBNORrloaFjh5oZErM0l0cqZvpNcBZa8H7SyW3sh0McW_Q-7T0TRebMvLg1s4rubjABcic4gJwm-Y9X6YCMxe6q8fw6X8lsf2KYYePiz6WKj49LrcOv-rdQ/w608-h640/Churchill%201%20(129).JPG" width="608" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">There are a few churches, such as St. Paul’s Anglican Church, the first prefabricated building in North America, a designated heritage site, and is the oldest church in the North still in use. Lady Franklin donated a stained-glass window in memory of her husband Sir John Franklin, the famous Arctic explorer. </span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiULlS0KQisUq75cwcZQModW7a75YFkJ8ZKVhPIKJXdFvGkLcAByTr9ih45GzLnAEw_DnQ0libhEnD3GC9eYWc_nyvT02izXlHIu3oOsuViri3NSxlKJqIsgxY4jHe8ybG35i169Dfxwm9rt799GE_T-LuPspmXvh5TSF2PotGaUWGyPv7oiNDDFXLknI/s4429/Churchill%201%20(96).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2237" data-original-width="4429" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiULlS0KQisUq75cwcZQModW7a75YFkJ8ZKVhPIKJXdFvGkLcAByTr9ih45GzLnAEw_DnQ0libhEnD3GC9eYWc_nyvT02izXlHIu3oOsuViri3NSxlKJqIsgxY4jHe8ybG35i169Dfxwm9rt799GE_T-LuPspmXvh5TSF2PotGaUWGyPv7oiNDDFXLknI/w640-h324/Churchill%201%20(96).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxY6sgPRI9bp7ebM2KCKESYr-wF-PmfuooU1-bAlhbteRMOWPMA0fszgJYavE5ZapY2WgAHRwo1H4hoDJPuWE0MGdOUIVIMqqws4TcX9AypjaEKpg4RGKwxMLrp8a4u62z-_7qUpOR0iNjVL030RQUbro2MXMnJTMSzNGeRzhDVNXHAjjVlxX3gE38bQ/s3668/Churchill%201%20(114).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2428" data-original-width="3668" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsxY6sgPRI9bp7ebM2KCKESYr-wF-PmfuooU1-bAlhbteRMOWPMA0fszgJYavE5ZapY2WgAHRwo1H4hoDJPuWE0MGdOUIVIMqqws4TcX9AypjaEKpg4RGKwxMLrp8a4u62z-_7qUpOR0iNjVL030RQUbro2MXMnJTMSzNGeRzhDVNXHAjjVlxX3gE38bQ/w640-h424/Churchill%201%20(114).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuig4aKARf0kE8Yf1ksOyJbXE0gyxbr2PHtd6tlmbsYQh96iNiZEMAGU80vcfJ-oBUwux1SxjlULsdWwRazFrXJqZ-XIitgO2RrAjCOnf5u4CoolUGjKReZaGDWoGiDvYcOPVry2Ds_zOiZ66s1Zpj_U0bzbqBhaQ57XS5ajTVzEj2L2_KIdUI7QqMQOA/s4896/Churchill%201%20(106).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3672" data-original-width="4896" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuig4aKARf0kE8Yf1ksOyJbXE0gyxbr2PHtd6tlmbsYQh96iNiZEMAGU80vcfJ-oBUwux1SxjlULsdWwRazFrXJqZ-XIitgO2RrAjCOnf5u4CoolUGjKReZaGDWoGiDvYcOPVry2Ds_zOiZ66s1Zpj_U0bzbqBhaQ57XS5ajTVzEj2L2_KIdUI7QqMQOA/w640-h480/Churchill%201%20(106).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfyWA7xImjHE8sxVRkwUwh9izO12mvUZPBnNsnpdXW9fKhbyPZU-_wmNNFrdUEPcsTamL4D5-QWSmJikAB3p1ue8GYjjM3M6UJlafVRkQa7LihxJ0Z9_1WOPVRDZ6F95JhFygnaQCjzQgT9rCYa1N91LiOq_cGZbCNnQdFNQDrXLykdyulYuei9RupAZA/s3427/Churchill%201%20(110).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2571" data-original-width="3427" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfyWA7xImjHE8sxVRkwUwh9izO12mvUZPBnNsnpdXW9fKhbyPZU-_wmNNFrdUEPcsTamL4D5-QWSmJikAB3p1ue8GYjjM3M6UJlafVRkQa7LihxJ0Z9_1WOPVRDZ6F95JhFygnaQCjzQgT9rCYa1N91LiOq_cGZbCNnQdFNQDrXLykdyulYuei9RupAZA/w640-h480/Churchill%201%20(110).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiAc5WSmdNrhkYYzg8nwlhbN3eyH42xHHCdGCmvlN2X71UoYh5sBE3uevdnujwFNq1E_IYTaNoL9xz6Vsst-fW6eEO7fwlkn_dKnhd_1RgBdihGokZHZuuecen2qRJcsFfBFrqdVCz8UK89G6pLqAT66JjCyy1HQTUdB24HYiAA-NZh711abBaqSPbhxU/s4378/Churchill%201%20(123).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3316" data-original-width="4378" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiAc5WSmdNrhkYYzg8nwlhbN3eyH42xHHCdGCmvlN2X71UoYh5sBE3uevdnujwFNq1E_IYTaNoL9xz6Vsst-fW6eEO7fwlkn_dKnhd_1RgBdihGokZHZuuecen2qRJcsFfBFrqdVCz8UK89G6pLqAT66JjCyy1HQTUdB24HYiAA-NZh711abBaqSPbhxU/w640-h484/Churchill%201%20(123).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">There is a visitor centre, a research centre, a museum, a couple of gift shops, a helicopter booking office and the supermarket. As this is one of the most remote communities to get food and supplies to, I was expecting the supermarket to be quite empty, but to my surprise although it was a large building – it had an impressive selection of goods. The main difference was that everything was in bulk packages, if you go shopping for something – you have to get a few months’ worth – which is understandable. </span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvUoRkxtJB3rwEvpyJIuqk6UGf3O9BppFg5BCSBbaB4rMCjZ3YMuQVGn0C2EhHStrUKx2QTQKNv3oSpb5VY-6UHGpOV7pumseXZoc2vrll3Np_LokqNo6cA6fRV6Sje74GvbZo9HJ2ThIYnam6wU3f8rtNEkA0pSp6lhq-v7Y84h77yBBMuyWjpNCCTo8/s4221/Churchill%201%20(126).JPG" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2463" data-original-width="4221" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvUoRkxtJB3rwEvpyJIuqk6UGf3O9BppFg5BCSBbaB4rMCjZ3YMuQVGn0C2EhHStrUKx2QTQKNv3oSpb5VY-6UHGpOV7pumseXZoc2vrll3Np_LokqNo6cA6fRV6Sje74GvbZo9HJ2ThIYnam6wU3f8rtNEkA0pSp6lhq-v7Y84h77yBBMuyWjpNCCTo8/w640-h374/Churchill%201%20(126).JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">After making the most of every minute of daylight, it was time to head back to the Tundra Inn. My room was warm and comfortable, with all the modern amenities I would have expected. The only difference was that the window only opened a few inches and had locks of each of its 4 sides – to keep Polar bears out! </span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD12U_DBHXg87BUs20WK21RrdXVL6Mhu59lXhdsNN1evgdpu35O9kv_CNhAqV5IOqJCZKdyC0RJ4rQqr0mR_6oFTlNI7MvVM2fPgFlGS7PbiQoojWAB96lJhiGsH-gsrN7DZrFypvOfuUkADDSjx3tSmbCrwlYhCHh14RD5e3uJedizDrQ0L9U2lz8J7M/s3367/Churchill%201%20(130).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2966" data-original-width="3367" height="564" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD12U_DBHXg87BUs20WK21RrdXVL6Mhu59lXhdsNN1evgdpu35O9kv_CNhAqV5IOqJCZKdyC0RJ4rQqr0mR_6oFTlNI7MvVM2fPgFlGS7PbiQoojWAB96lJhiGsH-gsrN7DZrFypvOfuUkADDSjx3tSmbCrwlYhCHh14RD5e3uJedizDrQ0L9U2lz8J7M/w640-h564/Churchill%201%20(130).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">The following morning, our first stop was The Itsanitaq Museum, a wonderful place, where we had a talk about Inuit culture and saw some of the impressive carvings representing of the people of the North. This collection of Inuit carvings and artifacts that are amongst the finest and oldest in the world, dating from 1700 B.C. </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmXxPTvyh8qjZ5hnBd1exo1QotL6pDvNQ5AQ4jJyS3rr7OJhifchi6HQySI_9siL6Xkm4pt2OwrPZwh-6crdmloWiiT6Ne9ekEl8tdS1wx9aLJHHqCDM5fPnfr5ek9dAyn33-PlV7doIwAaJqym2rRDBYpmccXeO7k6JoHg-3yTsA_YSMeuytBpmLK_k/s4575/Churchill%201%20(145).JPG" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2383" data-original-width="4575" height="334" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglmXxPTvyh8qjZ5hnBd1exo1QotL6pDvNQ5AQ4jJyS3rr7OJhifchi6HQySI_9siL6Xkm4pt2OwrPZwh-6crdmloWiiT6Ne9ekEl8tdS1wx9aLJHHqCDM5fPnfr5ek9dAyn33-PlV7doIwAaJqym2rRDBYpmccXeO7k6JoHg-3yTsA_YSMeuytBpmLK_k/w640-h334/Churchill%201%20(145).JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEc2FCHmyQQhnpPMm6bvSgaJsGWDKqzZvUTnvrfK-VJv-x4zw8B1_L_KRKk2p5wkLBp0Kv86_VSt7p5lmvyjfR32_Fqf0KKcOf0lh0wVJvkXS9mR_bHceBC6e3XE_boZ_S2u3dL2RQNIu2UhCZtjAKJrv7owEPsb7cy7zAY_AN3mHY5DMQffj1nJoh1oY/s3990/Churchill%201%20(131).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2312" data-original-width="3990" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEc2FCHmyQQhnpPMm6bvSgaJsGWDKqzZvUTnvrfK-VJv-x4zw8B1_L_KRKk2p5wkLBp0Kv86_VSt7p5lmvyjfR32_Fqf0KKcOf0lh0wVJvkXS9mR_bHceBC6e3XE_boZ_S2u3dL2RQNIu2UhCZtjAKJrv7owEPsb7cy7zAY_AN3mHY5DMQffj1nJoh1oY/w640-h370/Churchill%201%20(131).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-7IghnagKuaZmaXiE4JRPFqVKjjqs4GMU7TnaI_qCqr-92EZCPLRnin4Uicg6r8juusLqdvyfaIN-HSh9Y2jX6GYUjOND3PTPky54E0EEfLud6naYDR2R2A6KHWaRWNCa9HLe1fzuErd3ZOXnGEfGOKHfjS9AzNRnUyR39mQlsTgZxicFSzVfUQubLMI/s2963/Churchill%201%20(138).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2963" data-original-width="2916" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-7IghnagKuaZmaXiE4JRPFqVKjjqs4GMU7TnaI_qCqr-92EZCPLRnin4Uicg6r8juusLqdvyfaIN-HSh9Y2jX6GYUjOND3PTPky54E0EEfLud6naYDR2R2A6KHWaRWNCa9HLe1fzuErd3ZOXnGEfGOKHfjS9AzNRnUyR39mQlsTgZxicFSzVfUQubLMI/w630-h640/Churchill%201%20(138).JPG" width="630" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9WvIXzFejbGqKIxgOsvrqoNXlmJoTEJPjeFG0MOTSgo8X15WBY5FYimF6ZurQJAmw_SFS3JXVm0HgDVmBOQhaMylCKIZluNBoMrVrCJyCErLOo4mCB0jweYvAet6yCatZG5asRiXVf6HZUOGM110DXe_VOMx5LIZcnc6jqyJVYqKVMnYTCw-FtRwWTw/s3876/Churchill%201%20(142).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2052" data-original-width="3876" height="338" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP9WvIXzFejbGqKIxgOsvrqoNXlmJoTEJPjeFG0MOTSgo8X15WBY5FYimF6ZurQJAmw_SFS3JXVm0HgDVmBOQhaMylCKIZluNBoMrVrCJyCErLOo4mCB0jweYvAet6yCatZG5asRiXVf6HZUOGM110DXe_VOMx5LIZcnc6jqyJVYqKVMnYTCw-FtRwWTw/w640-h338/Churchill%201%20(142).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4UZwxR7iWRaDQc1JqKlyVhtD7IWZHptx8v8HP57MQUBwaDPbSoyj5tVMw1HddcdvoTKiJlIC8lcV-NrV0mpZ3y3koiIL1eTKYyvTHPgqZQu-DKdJkQ_KerXcDti9N-cpu6QCQRXswPYF15UQLw2Mt2Rr2EEyqhdUvZGDdorJ8C7g95dSL1js36pwEPw/s4375/Churchill%201%20(144).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4375" data-original-width="3458" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgb4UZwxR7iWRaDQc1JqKlyVhtD7IWZHptx8v8HP57MQUBwaDPbSoyj5tVMw1HddcdvoTKiJlIC8lcV-NrV0mpZ3y3koiIL1eTKYyvTHPgqZQu-DKdJkQ_KerXcDti9N-cpu6QCQRXswPYF15UQLw2Mt2Rr2EEyqhdUvZGDdorJ8C7g95dSL1js36pwEPw/w506-h640/Churchill%201%20(144).JPG" width="506" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">We spent a delightful hour there, and then bought some locally made souvenirs from their shop. The next stop, just around the corner was Polar Bears International House, where we met scientists discussing their ongoing research into Polar Bears, climate warming and the urgent action needed to preserve them. </span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWpgqTcd6UrtkEx7MnGFMKzY2IHeDd0M_z0olqp2wkcFhu0ttAZLqmS4mL694ofHWymLTXkeoSBzMcntnDx2mtz6UYnlW1zT1w9liO4Lq705C1Zg_tCBgu1_FFTsjUUnF7nQpO85thDSlV_7O7-dMWRFnT2RcHHPWF81H7amzQAemlj4sIU-CCHspLq_w/s4329/Churchill%201%20(192).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2595" data-original-width="4329" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWpgqTcd6UrtkEx7MnGFMKzY2IHeDd0M_z0olqp2wkcFhu0ttAZLqmS4mL694ofHWymLTXkeoSBzMcntnDx2mtz6UYnlW1zT1w9liO4Lq705C1Zg_tCBgu1_FFTsjUUnF7nQpO85thDSlV_7O7-dMWRFnT2RcHHPWF81H7amzQAemlj4sIU-CCHspLq_w/w640-h384/Churchill%201%20(192).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">We had a film show and saw displays showing when the Polar Bears came onto land this year and how many days they had gone without food – whilst waiting for the sea ice to return. I was horrified to learn that it was about 140 days this year, and the longest they were able to survive was only another month – the sea-ice had to return soon. The work these people do is so important to ensure the survival of the Polar Bears. </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gQzgUqfyn9BTj4oYiMbpst207sFDBNTJnrgMUNaDQSCaBZA0l0IDjvrnUiA7BGdGQkRB5PLJC0TEfVOaUoY3jRC3F2PHBOlG0o_ODkKu6spDhS8nbIcQBqaqTv2NR5b31sltIlR0jCzQFH5AahPayWFBTw2VzeP92592tzvtvdD0ivNuGmp_6JRz6O4/s4868/Churchill%201%20(194).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2143" data-original-width="4868" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gQzgUqfyn9BTj4oYiMbpst207sFDBNTJnrgMUNaDQSCaBZA0l0IDjvrnUiA7BGdGQkRB5PLJC0TEfVOaUoY3jRC3F2PHBOlG0o_ODkKu6spDhS8nbIcQBqaqTv2NR5b31sltIlR0jCzQFH5AahPayWFBTw2VzeP92592tzvtvdD0ivNuGmp_6JRz6O4/w640-h282/Churchill%201%20(194).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">From here we walked to the local Post Office and had our passports stamped with a Polar Bear! Walking around the town, I saw Halloween decorations outside houses, just like everywhere else in the world; but in Churchill there is only one block that is cordoned off on Halloween, with an armed person on each corner on guard – so that children can still go “trick or treating” safely. </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8hSWtejNjOaOZfnk2ZPtXBVGjkhA1zaoOxNLmGBV76jAmlwdooLIsKx463S_RsFcAQVo9tHMeA8nyITML9CoswuSUCTj4wdF2sXqIAdbXsYicestljEqCcMVbjla6Y-Gj8mtiENg4wovPMZkdF0u8Vydy95OQTIcvou7lzPwUlaq4LD3c-EWpOh09-I/s4807/Churchill%201%20(203).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3155" data-original-width="4807" height="420" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB8hSWtejNjOaOZfnk2ZPtXBVGjkhA1zaoOxNLmGBV76jAmlwdooLIsKx463S_RsFcAQVo9tHMeA8nyITML9CoswuSUCTj4wdF2sXqIAdbXsYicestljEqCcMVbjla6Y-Gj8mtiENg4wovPMZkdF0u8Vydy95OQTIcvou7lzPwUlaq4LD3c-EWpOh09-I/w640-h420/Churchill%201%20(203).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">I was surprised to see the number of fascinating murals painted on many of the buildings, some were cultural, some were meaningful and others just colourful. </span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlOFVcT2VrNX2QTE399_kNjo5OEYHbB-Y0H701zjxEaw6Rs73zsuz9I4y1zbd_01BOPacEUwEYrRVQQVI9zJfOy6zF44NoRs1aILlVCwovX3Uy2bM0EgxAR5kbyVN-l2qKDdoq-6wV0VglUDAvYos1P5lAgxlDbdkL02bPMhN9QLSsSWXa8qE8EgI1Xg/s4816/Churchill%201%20(99).JPG" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1812" data-original-width="4816" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUlOFVcT2VrNX2QTE399_kNjo5OEYHbB-Y0H701zjxEaw6Rs73zsuz9I4y1zbd_01BOPacEUwEYrRVQQVI9zJfOy6zF44NoRs1aILlVCwovX3Uy2bM0EgxAR5kbyVN-l2qKDdoq-6wV0VglUDAvYos1P5lAgxlDbdkL02bPMhN9QLSsSWXa8qE8EgI1Xg/w640-h240/Churchill%201%20(99).JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhikjPxSXLUfbTEhCCy3jBHGRIYQfpUERWWZL12GkafqO2ui18yjrwbTPX9m3c5LgoJmieLvEh1xJzEPOTg6SVUnNrdJJUsRvnm_o4iyxDXChv0MEbHuBzUeIKptamrQCJ5QMrq-kpyq-zKK96VqxuOBOe5PmkV0V_wCGg-oIgswWu8Z5BpfhP3oEJBOEg/s4132/Churchill%201%20(89).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4132" data-original-width="3154" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhikjPxSXLUfbTEhCCy3jBHGRIYQfpUERWWZL12GkafqO2ui18yjrwbTPX9m3c5LgoJmieLvEh1xJzEPOTg6SVUnNrdJJUsRvnm_o4iyxDXChv0MEbHuBzUeIKptamrQCJ5QMrq-kpyq-zKK96VqxuOBOe5PmkV0V_wCGg-oIgswWu8Z5BpfhP3oEJBOEg/w488-h640/Churchill%201%20(89).JPG" width="488" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4Jote4gUmOKfT5RC4awMzvVWP78fKEoklgggUo5bpj2HM6PXhqBZsXjhkJyr6NuiB3GzCBGcmNgXiz7fffbNSdvPmEO6U0weCj36qNaQauaJBM5hOMfnsugV3SP9lJ85g2kMvaMTT-T9ESxoCncWiSWZU0rnBsFN1Ri-05zArPIM0sMeZqJ6xV5yG3A/s4111/Churchill%201%20(108).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2744" data-original-width="4111" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy4Jote4gUmOKfT5RC4awMzvVWP78fKEoklgggUo5bpj2HM6PXhqBZsXjhkJyr6NuiB3GzCBGcmNgXiz7fffbNSdvPmEO6U0weCj36qNaQauaJBM5hOMfnsugV3SP9lJ85g2kMvaMTT-T9ESxoCncWiSWZU0rnBsFN1Ri-05zArPIM0sMeZqJ6xV5yG3A/w640-h428/Churchill%201%20(108).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2zDs2HYwhC5XBVwYBzotPMnjdTo4dyjUCMA1nMRhZEq6hB79cMSWuW1kE1dyF9HMtw2GSf3iRyfim2t8thBpF3dgHk-fsqGYGUP27G97v5U7M4sOT71sJsqttVpDd7yBOx6AfYUXbyVox-JGrcHmLVanmWPICfZZL4D7ntAkVh3trFx-qTfURcW5j-q0/s4162/Churchill%201%20(128).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1696" data-original-width="4162" height="260" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2zDs2HYwhC5XBVwYBzotPMnjdTo4dyjUCMA1nMRhZEq6hB79cMSWuW1kE1dyF9HMtw2GSf3iRyfim2t8thBpF3dgHk-fsqGYGUP27G97v5U7M4sOT71sJsqttVpDd7yBOx6AfYUXbyVox-JGrcHmLVanmWPICfZZL4D7ntAkVh3trFx-qTfURcW5j-q0/w640-h260/Churchill%201%20(128).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQFL0ja13sDqXSHf_E-EUytb4WD4rs_QFfkfZUiNiCfUiKazu_2r3KCLBSiZJOcSCrs9rGSZjDJ6ANHddbzNe5vkPfaHhYLEB1mQcgSOPibaSySIC8ej3PnZkPETUg5jagD6_aBUE0HratRlPuhAOT0J7ukexLbNThz2ic4jiPIgF5SucZfy_G54srnRI/s2553/Churchill%201%20(148).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1438" data-original-width="2553" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQFL0ja13sDqXSHf_E-EUytb4WD4rs_QFfkfZUiNiCfUiKazu_2r3KCLBSiZJOcSCrs9rGSZjDJ6ANHddbzNe5vkPfaHhYLEB1mQcgSOPibaSySIC8ej3PnZkPETUg5jagD6_aBUE0HratRlPuhAOT0J7ukexLbNThz2ic4jiPIgF5SucZfy_G54srnRI/w640-h360/Churchill%201%20(148).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ9lCJaF5lvfjAdE5e0dN3ynzI7yMpNtmDr_fEVmQywzayxd9L551EGZnbptsQw6IAgyRk7SQBxXQycXt-lNLlCj7GOjW5NF72DBqpVOTcZC3cNA7PiCTEZPpRbGLO1bt_vH64Z47nPuShcwm6eQESO5hxePLML_w3pJr-KDtgLCL1SdAgAM68b9wBEwY/s2821/Churchill%201%20(181).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1551" data-original-width="2821" height="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ9lCJaF5lvfjAdE5e0dN3ynzI7yMpNtmDr_fEVmQywzayxd9L551EGZnbptsQw6IAgyRk7SQBxXQycXt-lNLlCj7GOjW5NF72DBqpVOTcZC3cNA7PiCTEZPpRbGLO1bt_vH64Z47nPuShcwm6eQESO5hxePLML_w3pJr-KDtgLCL1SdAgAM68b9wBEwY/w640-h352/Churchill%201%20(181).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">We went to the Visitor Reception Centre in Churchill’s Railway Station next, to see exhibits about wildlife and natural history of the area and were given a presentation on health-giving plants found locally. </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVljisjQ7ffaSzC_ZDCKuADIjfOp7c_7dd9A_muTvP1QrE-TLAdbdlp9a7l8n9f9mD2zCcIr2V_5HrfmWnV7V7dxXsIbY93qFUs6bL1BZ_GPHy7ZF1r-P0UrbIsxVnTT5hWTwMyJH0FKgsDu4nIwRpj_vXClBpGvA_bZm3qAA08zgk3dqw-YP6BzLZrA/s4701/Churchill%201%20(156a)%20(1).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3527" data-original-width="4701" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkVljisjQ7ffaSzC_ZDCKuADIjfOp7c_7dd9A_muTvP1QrE-TLAdbdlp9a7l8n9f9mD2zCcIr2V_5HrfmWnV7V7dxXsIbY93qFUs6bL1BZ_GPHy7ZF1r-P0UrbIsxVnTT5hWTwMyJH0FKgsDu4nIwRpj_vXClBpGvA_bZm3qAA08zgk3dqw-YP6BzLZrA/w640-h480/Churchill%201%20(156a)%20(1).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLwGR6XNKY0qY5x0OOXI0vihW64EsgfocZh9UG_zk9PqUIxG0cZfToHKf9cY7ykvWUsAV8Y0_Iy4IeYt5CnYB861XNTgQWsPoI3UmoWBzjRPMk9cbXPygltCdiocwupl1jKrMs2bxGLCdAtB5U_qn2bo42GhDg20RzdwZpFxXc_LHFis7PUI_OYJfLueg/s4036/Churchill%201%20(157).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4036" data-original-width="3226" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLwGR6XNKY0qY5x0OOXI0vihW64EsgfocZh9UG_zk9PqUIxG0cZfToHKf9cY7ykvWUsAV8Y0_Iy4IeYt5CnYB861XNTgQWsPoI3UmoWBzjRPMk9cbXPygltCdiocwupl1jKrMs2bxGLCdAtB5U_qn2bo42GhDg20RzdwZpFxXc_LHFis7PUI_OYJfLueg/w512-h640/Churchill%201%20(157).JPG" width="512" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6v4ffxz8WfpIH5H21AgG3C_5G4H0Pc8pgoSfzW86eFKYvozNN6pwQiFu121k2ePWFg_7OZHSy9MUjZcmjvsEYfWlut3Kdy-iSHRj2kVfMxPwf81RQfcGnMxcJA8Yfr-cKtnHEJHVVAp7_bYfhZh5WsZLqT2T_llhlfmhber1DkayPXuPGUVubQ07vCOs/s3349/Churchill%201%20(177).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2339" data-original-width="3349" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6v4ffxz8WfpIH5H21AgG3C_5G4H0Pc8pgoSfzW86eFKYvozNN6pwQiFu121k2ePWFg_7OZHSy9MUjZcmjvsEYfWlut3Kdy-iSHRj2kVfMxPwf81RQfcGnMxcJA8Yfr-cKtnHEJHVVAp7_bYfhZh5WsZLqT2T_llhlfmhber1DkayPXuPGUVubQ07vCOs/w640-h446/Churchill%201%20(177).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Then it was on the coach to go to Cape Merry (named after Captain John Merry, Deputy Governor of the Hudson Bay Company from 1712-1718); an excellent location for watching whales enter the river, observing migrating birds, or enjoying the panoramic view. We had a guide greet us when we arrived and gave us a Health and Safety talk – the most important piece of information was that “you always listen to the person holding the gun!!!”. </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcS93lSLELXKGKjRSXrWRg7CKSZ0ED3XOyj7IssLDg9SjaYOMeJL2o-Fz3ne-CJcXYgJKm96iIJAQn89OiSND7D-ZrYifhBHVu-dwKj7zMWHHoaDU_-QOprqJm5oUTV29AoDw6lwQR-b4Ag1r8zgN664WOikbTrYJa67bFlUT8IpWy_4t7Uis4zv3bYVU/s4896/Churchill%201%20(76).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3672" data-original-width="4896" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcS93lSLELXKGKjRSXrWRg7CKSZ0ED3XOyj7IssLDg9SjaYOMeJL2o-Fz3ne-CJcXYgJKm96iIJAQn89OiSND7D-ZrYifhBHVu-dwKj7zMWHHoaDU_-QOprqJm5oUTV29AoDw6lwQR-b4Ag1r8zgN664WOikbTrYJa67bFlUT8IpWy_4t7Uis4zv3bYVU/w640-h480/Churchill%201%20(76).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">The guides all had guns and were constantly watching out for Polar Bears, which could appear at any time. They took us on a short walk to the remains of the stone battery constructed in 1746, to provide protection at the river mouth and supplement the defences of Prince of Wales Fort. The view was astounding; the sun was shining; the sea was mirror-like – it could not have been more perfect. </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvaxD0JQENUqfFyvgroq2d_DZbj8qa8fww3cx7-w5SCrM1I1eichDQAWqP-MUHApKQr2BW5fvOsYEfdIuYK7hBu9bYp6zRbYLvJiAd6Zj-rikofhaHwb8C_GI9qT-_Ii_3AlPtJGUPlF4n58M3FKUHcxwjACePiO5eQU537-wwDykUaJwOwyYN4QAe5KE/s4896/Churchill%201%20(76a).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3672" data-original-width="4896" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvaxD0JQENUqfFyvgroq2d_DZbj8qa8fww3cx7-w5SCrM1I1eichDQAWqP-MUHApKQr2BW5fvOsYEfdIuYK7hBu9bYp6zRbYLvJiAd6Zj-rikofhaHwb8C_GI9qT-_Ii_3AlPtJGUPlF4n58M3FKUHcxwjACePiO5eQU537-wwDykUaJwOwyYN4QAe5KE/w640-h480/Churchill%201%20(76a).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39Q6Jo1RcpSXTXJJHL4VUj7iz11qykjoaQsmCQqOG8fhAzWp1a8p3gz0H6tAQ-ws5DKkp7rzAE_3uy8pWq19vvx0rvs-03rV7oAhU-UQkKb5wEQTCtSfd0rDf5MOBczkhSphabMNUv9LSiFYQebSyxeDfDobrLZlIuI0qlNfMudmkJ96rIXGjjqvK2kk/s4623/Churchill%201%20(78).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3477" data-original-width="4623" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh39Q6Jo1RcpSXTXJJHL4VUj7iz11qykjoaQsmCQqOG8fhAzWp1a8p3gz0H6tAQ-ws5DKkp7rzAE_3uy8pWq19vvx0rvs-03rV7oAhU-UQkKb5wEQTCtSfd0rDf5MOBczkhSphabMNUv9LSiFYQebSyxeDfDobrLZlIuI0qlNfMudmkJ96rIXGjjqvK2kk/w640-h482/Churchill%201%20(78).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">There was a seal spotted on banks of the river and I am sure a saw the back of a beluga whale submerging gently into the ocean. There were several red foxes darting amongst the rocks and everyone was getting excited to see some wildlife. </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkyCf4PTE2u4Y0rgKRZsoNWBoH1ePamhkigoRPK3I-H6xsUCtc2JfpqtdIlYt2sAjtGOBAySx_dF6x358H33l87mXabCRoDoTmgmxIQcVeF8bbeddq6_06qzQ1gDsAt2C8M7xw1IPGbxCDRPKs6YfJEwYeJBSUHOhIVqZcgVzFMsM1xJB_Zm0DbybPukM/s2400/Churchill%201%20(74a)%20(1).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1800" data-original-width="2400" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkyCf4PTE2u4Y0rgKRZsoNWBoH1ePamhkigoRPK3I-H6xsUCtc2JfpqtdIlYt2sAjtGOBAySx_dF6x358H33l87mXabCRoDoTmgmxIQcVeF8bbeddq6_06qzQ1gDsAt2C8M7xw1IPGbxCDRPKs6YfJEwYeJBSUHOhIVqZcgVzFMsM1xJB_Zm0DbybPukM/w640-h480/Churchill%201%20(74a)%20(1).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Driving back into town, we passed the Rocket Research Range, built in 1957 to launch rockets carrying experiments into space. Chosen for its auroral activity levels, it was the base for scientific research for almost 30 years. Akjuit Aerospace temporarily reinvigorated the Range from 1994 to 1998 and renamed it Space Port Canada. Our next stop was behind the Town Centre Complex, that holds the hospital, the library, theatre, a cafe, gym, bowling alley and swimming pool. </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Dwz7l8x-ofYt6P7PkMGH7BffhFJ3wi8rLW2xoJWIzta0avFFA_5lDLqlKxfToLbxWmmsBkmJ7RMNBdHzr-Gv-EazBMr210BElLCRinE9bHXsE5mQvzbrMerkEiTR2-sPx2BSdklf_SedHcAFZDPiwQkU7Y05lsi7hNd_fAwvVp_EwJhXYQE4bGsmMKU/s4896/Churchill%201%20(92).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3672" data-original-width="4896" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3Dwz7l8x-ofYt6P7PkMGH7BffhFJ3wi8rLW2xoJWIzta0avFFA_5lDLqlKxfToLbxWmmsBkmJ7RMNBdHzr-Gv-EazBMr210BElLCRinE9bHXsE5mQvzbrMerkEiTR2-sPx2BSdklf_SedHcAFZDPiwQkU7Y05lsi7hNd_fAwvVp_EwJhXYQE4bGsmMKU/w640-h480/Churchill%201%20(92).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Here on the shingle beach is an Inukshuk - meaning “in the likeness of a human.”; for years Inuit have been creating these stone markers to guide travellers, warn of danger, assist hunters and mark places of importance. On the edge of the beach is “The Enterprise”, which is playground rather than a sea-going vessel. There are often bear sightings along this shore and we were reminded to keep in a close group near the coach. </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqXOjpEcClaY3NLkYlY5snVRuJDQYvn0yBRgHIRCDRKNfwv3wp7-JOmpDMN2Jn5g0witSVEbRpK5p1_A9qMD0SiuKFs-wd3Jxd9-Br7R90HpRXh1UhBMUndPAadCyBBEFqCn_e5k8sE3dfsivbcc3KWJ_I3ab2FwPwwrQ55Io493t7rQmBGVunRpM4LBE/s2822/Churchill%201%20(93b)%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2117" data-original-width="2822" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqXOjpEcClaY3NLkYlY5snVRuJDQYvn0yBRgHIRCDRKNfwv3wp7-JOmpDMN2Jn5g0witSVEbRpK5p1_A9qMD0SiuKFs-wd3Jxd9-Br7R90HpRXh1UhBMUndPAadCyBBEFqCn_e5k8sE3dfsivbcc3KWJ_I3ab2FwPwwrQ55Io493t7rQmBGVunRpM4LBE/w640-h480/Churchill%201%20(93b)%20(2).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">The last presentation of the day was by a local Dene woman called Florence, who told us about the lives of the Cree, the Sayisi Dene, Chipewyan and Inuit peoples, and the routes they took following the caribou over the centuries. </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkWXAVXyAtxD0j2R3mPagF4pH47B5pKltw4Kti0tdCWxO44CIflzpwKQ3mSOBFN5hgF3rfIc8EIh09TFt1-mUfqQHKKtN168WucNw-nU3pkswwOReBFoGlPVATRUMITXTN-AIQCKpz3H1cohtGoxOGqUEz0bgL2JahkghiFiAJT5Tnd6gICdHzj_3If0c/s4880/Churchill%201%20(133).JPG" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3492" data-original-width="4880" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkWXAVXyAtxD0j2R3mPagF4pH47B5pKltw4Kti0tdCWxO44CIflzpwKQ3mSOBFN5hgF3rfIc8EIh09TFt1-mUfqQHKKtN168WucNw-nU3pkswwOReBFoGlPVATRUMITXTN-AIQCKpz3H1cohtGoxOGqUEz0bgL2JahkghiFiAJT5Tnd6gICdHzj_3If0c/w640-h458/Churchill%201%20(133).JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;">Their ancestral homeland stretched west from Hudson Bay, and they are notable for living a nomadic hunting and gathering existence. As with many other native peoples, there were upsetting tales of how these people were treated and how the First Nation Culture is being kept alive today. We were constantly reminded the land we were guests on, was located in Treaty 5 territory, and we must remain mindful to uphold the principles of respect and caring for the natural wonders and cultural richness of Churchill and its surroundings. <span style="font-size: 11pt;">Our time in Churchill had ended, now it was time to head into the National Park and to the Tundra Buggy Lodge in search of Polar Bears. To say I was excited was an understatement – I had been waiting for this for 5 years!</span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvqlwNzYUnA8wPjlwyfUuu8X-D-KFm9aXCjKuPcDjapCsGnx_0YuKgvpsaQi_TqAmHvY7Is6tFLe9RsmzekIWKx3MXSiCVILXPwXVSNvpMWM7pRMZxuEepR2CNkfRQ0vKPWLsBHOVn-XBar41SRsm-pCgr-TWQyy1VSw6WhrJFQCipWG0Sj4b1fubibo0/s4553/Churchill%201%20(121).JPG" style="font-family: -webkit-standard; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3174" data-original-width="4553" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvqlwNzYUnA8wPjlwyfUuu8X-D-KFm9aXCjKuPcDjapCsGnx_0YuKgvpsaQi_TqAmHvY7Is6tFLe9RsmzekIWKx3MXSiCVILXPwXVSNvpMWM7pRMZxuEepR2CNkfRQ0vKPWLsBHOVn-XBar41SRsm-pCgr-TWQyy1VSw6WhrJFQCipWG0Sj4b1fubibo0/w640-h446/Churchill%201%20(121).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh105XBChaqp5ZWgeLOWOAW1H15Ecr0nAoRKLdoS-hlEbW2W5CvcFxAaaTEDvI8PxbzOiISLcrkZ7kbVUkKNfqbHP7pFamySJJzKhJxXspGVsY55pcpBQjsqZR5Gp0avE9P9vnMH9SPHc9Vay12mpJtc-vekq74gmrU8HS-42RLi99dGEEnwTTlYJC7Qp8/s800/Churchill%2011.png" style="font-size: medium; font-weight: 400; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="572" data-original-width="800" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh105XBChaqp5ZWgeLOWOAW1H15Ecr0nAoRKLdoS-hlEbW2W5CvcFxAaaTEDvI8PxbzOiISLcrkZ7kbVUkKNfqbHP7pFamySJJzKhJxXspGVsY55pcpBQjsqZR5Gp0avE9P9vnMH9SPHc9Vay12mpJtc-vekq74gmrU8HS-42RLi99dGEEnwTTlYJC7Qp8/w640-h458/Churchill%2011.png" width="640" /></a></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;"><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqk_AYhm2r3RbHasMULgMw1BJPGwykX_eWzKgno7WQ2YbLVh6rgvNDni4xc1G4IekSr1O_qB453VqAcm2TRQJZvRdscJ7lKxrR8MMCAi0aOtMXHeDxzHKOhWNKEyFAagAOqMf_P-dp2hFFZpTTg5C4upR4HFb2ss7NctJ7rjEcxGx92w1s4BN_ZGAWa9M/s3027/W%201%20(101).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2833" data-original-width="3027" height="598" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqk_AYhm2r3RbHasMULgMw1BJPGwykX_eWzKgno7WQ2YbLVh6rgvNDni4xc1G4IekSr1O_qB453VqAcm2TRQJZvRdscJ7lKxrR8MMCAi0aOtMXHeDxzHKOhWNKEyFAagAOqMf_P-dp2hFFZpTTg5C4upR4HFb2ss7NctJ7rjEcxGx92w1s4BN_ZGAWa9M/w640-h598/W%201%20(101).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></div><p><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;"><i><br /></i></b></p><p><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;"><i>Lynne</i></b></p><p><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;"><br /></b></p><p><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">These are my other blogs :-</b></p><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com/">http://lynnejmorley.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="line-height: 17.12px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: 12pt;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div></div></div></div></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com/" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: x-large;">http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com</a><span style="text-align: left;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span></p>Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-88868798312126059962023-06-14T16:39:00.005+01:002023-07-01T21:02:34.281+01:00Krakow<p> </p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Krakow</span><o:p style="font-size: 14pt;"></o:p></span></u></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;"><b><u></u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvH9xaDl9ArHOEL4FdkKxnJrUfj2jAxRtapJBYx0lbcR-IDfSS42yz4tiK9e4d9t1V5bgLwiaQOt8ORWs5HrMn9FdMmMEB5Cn1X5EaPYgJ1Vu10FxbPm4TnVVAwSNDl8cgDErQeKWd3p0ed5YjCR1YtuwPselyV699zRGdCOapDRJDXLXS-Qwg7W4Q/s3264/IMG_2679.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2971" data-original-width="3264" height="582" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvH9xaDl9ArHOEL4FdkKxnJrUfj2jAxRtapJBYx0lbcR-IDfSS42yz4tiK9e4d9t1V5bgLwiaQOt8ORWs5HrMn9FdMmMEB5Cn1X5EaPYgJ1Vu10FxbPm4TnVVAwSNDl8cgDErQeKWd3p0ed5YjCR1YtuwPselyV699zRGdCOapDRJDXLXS-Qwg7W4Q/w640-h582/IMG_2679.JPG" width="640" /></a></u></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">I can highly recommend a short
break to Krakow, there is so much to see here in such a compact city. It is
very easy to navigate – the Old City is surrounded by The Planta (a garden
planted with hundreds of trees that provide delightful shade in the hot summer
months), making it very easy to get your bearings. From the airport, it is only
a 15-minute train ride into the city – costing only a few euros – and
terminating only 100 yards from the Old Town (which is where most tourists stay).
I could not believe how many famous people are from Krakow or had close links
with the city – Max Factor, Helena Rubenstein, Marie Curie, Chopin, Roman
Polanski, Pope Jon Paul 2<sup>nd</sup>, and they are only the ones I have heard
of – there are many more! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhryI-QUf6gA9jaXhepb7rYw4ix5kLkkVLur1A0dc9MefqGgSXLGM8MCkgUa2sK-EnCkBnwIrDKeAXwfwKeGI5LCS_XUY70Ref6jNe9pRcMHqLDIaTtX3Apzunc-TttrQAUsrPs9H2yldVrTil2LGqsJ2S1TzGfgtTisVWyApLHkYuykG5L_w2jKqCn/s3203/Mines%201a.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3203" data-original-width="2914" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhryI-QUf6gA9jaXhepb7rYw4ix5kLkkVLur1A0dc9MefqGgSXLGM8MCkgUa2sK-EnCkBnwIrDKeAXwfwKeGI5LCS_XUY70Ref6jNe9pRcMHqLDIaTtX3Apzunc-TttrQAUsrPs9H2yldVrTil2LGqsJ2S1TzGfgtTisVWyApLHkYuykG5L_w2jKqCn/w582-h640/Mines%201a.jpg" width="582" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Most people
think of visiting Auschwitz when they go to Krakow, and this is one of the main
tourist attractions – but there are many other places to visit. The main
attraction for me, was going to Wieliczka Salt mine – and it did not
disappoint. Only a 20-minute minibus ride out of the city, I arrived at the
grassy valley known as Wieliczka, a very touristy area with stalls selling all
manner of goods,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>as well as places
selling food, drinks, and ice creams. The entrance ticket gave me a timed
entry, allowing only a restricted number of people in at one time. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7KMF6_rcmzPi2WU434g6nz0_3_a03sRYwE8MY7ncan3_yDVPkfFnSIYvcsDsHxRhd19Ewp_Wy7_Yh-WpUxcL7oom8phomn95M0WDepCq3rVLI1jEbFPGOW-oPFKYbrTldMlv3YZTu_rWV0oAEeq0A5WdgtaNYuf_0hvqqe6O-RHkY-9jS5jvTKgOf/s4367/Mines%203%20(1).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2551" data-original-width="4367" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7KMF6_rcmzPi2WU434g6nz0_3_a03sRYwE8MY7ncan3_yDVPkfFnSIYvcsDsHxRhd19Ewp_Wy7_Yh-WpUxcL7oom8phomn95M0WDepCq3rVLI1jEbFPGOW-oPFKYbrTldMlv3YZTu_rWV0oAEeq0A5WdgtaNYuf_0hvqqe6O-RHkY-9jS5jvTKgOf/w640-h374/Mines%203%20(1).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">You have to
follow the guide into the main building and descend the steps down to the first
level (64 metres underground). You don’t want to go down here if you are at all
claustrophobic, have problems with walking down stairs or breathing – because
once you start going down, the staircase is quite narrow – and there is no
turning around. There are over 800 steps to descend – but there is a lift back
up to the surface – which I will tell you more about later. After the first
mammoth section of downhill steps, it gets a bit easier. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUo5QjeAP7tBWFJDd0fuorylgHGlrMcK3Hyt3g4-vXC-unq6P-bXEGHOWTJQk_IGKupNtLWBdNLNtdMJLFYDz4_a2Gyo1rIC829IQwdbIb_6PRxThS71KWJZb2ve9Yxq1iCR6lKdXQMX_jzNcKvm2-QYlhOVtmm6mMFEkub-y2MjCH25Lv1oWAinik/s2568/Mines%209%20(7).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1787" data-original-width="2568" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUo5QjeAP7tBWFJDd0fuorylgHGlrMcK3Hyt3g4-vXC-unq6P-bXEGHOWTJQk_IGKupNtLWBdNLNtdMJLFYDz4_a2Gyo1rIC829IQwdbIb_6PRxThS71KWJZb2ve9Yxq1iCR6lKdXQMX_jzNcKvm2-QYlhOVtmm6mMFEkub-y2MjCH25Lv1oWAinik/w640-h446/Mines%209%20(7).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">From here you go through a series of corridors
(the group must all keep together in one air-locked section before the next
door can be opened) – and at times you are walking uphill – which is a bit
disorientating. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqH8NS68IiSB53n3qh-nxSz8SJU4DyEbQgK2k5KzH1OL9BQDoGcINeDQeuCU60P8fC6Wr73JmAWvwwrSrW16zmt3h7WUaRTZY5ziO1qOM3KephLaA-3NwHiMsYuQwJchN39t-1LWr1BRC_DQD36W7lhbNgqVtXy9SocJVE3GV0yZYmpMNRy0i9DVP/s3622/Mines%204%20(2a).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2350" data-original-width="3622" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEqH8NS68IiSB53n3qh-nxSz8SJU4DyEbQgK2k5KzH1OL9BQDoGcINeDQeuCU60P8fC6Wr73JmAWvwwrSrW16zmt3h7WUaRTZY5ziO1qOM3KephLaA-3NwHiMsYuQwJchN39t-1LWr1BRC_DQD36W7lhbNgqVtXy9SocJVE3GV0yZYmpMNRy0i9DVP/w640-h416/Mines%204%20(2a).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">After passing through a series of chambers and chapels you come
to St Kinga’s Chapel which is like an underground cathedral – and the main
reason I had wanted to visit these mines. Concerts, parties, theatrical
performances, weddings, exhibitions, sporting events and even an underground
balloon flight have been performed here!!! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZpVya3gMZtChoOLLbxcM6lmkaWVhGN7xhVE_VrmAvDtVIYiSp_Rv2E3c6ZsJ82FoJBYEgmaHmbU1Pzxz_zPhhwNKEMWPMt8kFLyUobwwMynsytVZuMSf0TCBa_pARS1UCQNHUmMKawLqjI8Vaxr1IJV1t4QLdetV3Q-BLPBmgQWG0bky7APCOHE_-/s2570/Mines%207%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2509" data-original-width="2570" height="624" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZpVya3gMZtChoOLLbxcM6lmkaWVhGN7xhVE_VrmAvDtVIYiSp_Rv2E3c6ZsJ82FoJBYEgmaHmbU1Pzxz_zPhhwNKEMWPMt8kFLyUobwwMynsytVZuMSf0TCBa_pARS1UCQNHUmMKawLqjI8Vaxr1IJV1t4QLdetV3Q-BLPBmgQWG0bky7APCOHE_-/w640-h624/Mines%207%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_Bmant7prD_8y1a1X7YWho6EAilwAyqzhheQc40n4Z0YULOHBmkZY83TVYX84QeArUL7fJi3a8vNP_enF6Hn2TI5JctisaIcH9eqYi7jPhdmM8iJgwTMumQyfo6KXIZf4Y2m2ogK2qtGrxi5g2BalPcogNuWbmGvzLzKFW6nKhHVAz2arCkoFLoj/s3081/Mines%207%20(3).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2311" data-original-width="3081" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ_Bmant7prD_8y1a1X7YWho6EAilwAyqzhheQc40n4Z0YULOHBmkZY83TVYX84QeArUL7fJi3a8vNP_enF6Hn2TI5JctisaIcH9eqYi7jPhdmM8iJgwTMumQyfo6KXIZf4Y2m2ogK2qtGrxi5g2BalPcogNuWbmGvzLzKFW6nKhHVAz2arCkoFLoj/w640-h480/Mines%207%20(3).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">This amazing chamber is about 54 x
18 metres and 12 metres high, with beautiful salt crystal chandeliers hanging
from the ceiling and a uniformed carved floor looking like shiny tiles. At the
far end of the chamber is the altar which holds the statues of St Kinga, St
Joseph and St Clement. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsEbv1yn_EbbvMdVMYvltWvGuXSm5iaKxdYmAX-vjL6bdihzLkpcy-MrPSj4A6K5PiWZVrOyZltjzuMeTIqjY-X7DXjly9Wnwfpc0-VjzsMrmTgEiMfs8L7zEaJ3zTCmvoiM8Wl28Tdz9fCALbYKP5F7VeGOx4CCWkmMAMnY00vOWuz2S6pJmSEKD1/s2651/Mines%207%20(5a).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1772" data-original-width="2651" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsEbv1yn_EbbvMdVMYvltWvGuXSm5iaKxdYmAX-vjL6bdihzLkpcy-MrPSj4A6K5PiWZVrOyZltjzuMeTIqjY-X7DXjly9Wnwfpc0-VjzsMrmTgEiMfs8L7zEaJ3zTCmvoiM8Wl28Tdz9fCALbYKP5F7VeGOx4CCWkmMAMnY00vOWuz2S6pJmSEKD1/w640-h428/Mines%207%20(5a).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtf4bz4ybIHYEXx6lPXoU90Ocv7LkU4CBywMX59a-1sfe47JxwNBsY0B7E7MtXfBIX6CSiuOGXIRjZg-vewEzyNbYXpPqXRsTliwCIrLbTq2Crmseb3XjPuHLF0GvaPVg40ZXtDho_Ch09eYba8jI78H829168wGYdbT9TU72Yv5xCFEc20CYWQii0/s3822/Mines%207a%20(8).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2279" data-original-width="3822" height="382" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtf4bz4ybIHYEXx6lPXoU90Ocv7LkU4CBywMX59a-1sfe47JxwNBsY0B7E7MtXfBIX6CSiuOGXIRjZg-vewEzyNbYXpPqXRsTliwCIrLbTq2Crmseb3XjPuHLF0GvaPVg40ZXtDho_Ch09eYba8jI78H829168wGYdbT9TU72Yv5xCFEc20CYWQii0/w640-h382/Mines%207a%20(8).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The walls of the chamber have some exceptional carvings
on them; the Last Supper (inspired by Leonardo da Vinci) as well as several
biblical carvings, the nativity scene and a statue of Pope John Paul II. These
decorations, some of which were carved my miners themselves were made over the
course of nearly seventy years. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCqsT8eTE8AhJhq8Fpus5UW2fRndjEXG_Dkno0jqfjHHOGxQzZPqaQpp1Z5raEAR1hQ0czFL9LBKXTY2fSRXcTHeN5WQ8bWLW7vAQGoaGGHty3-1rwNrZ5dSykfun7g60rGyhT89bpyBUN-hf3DpA89VvFKGhUUjRl8FoXzkFhGL4tdmUUEHtlvPf/s2166/Mines%204a%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2166" data-original-width="2162" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrCqsT8eTE8AhJhq8Fpus5UW2fRndjEXG_Dkno0jqfjHHOGxQzZPqaQpp1Z5raEAR1hQ0czFL9LBKXTY2fSRXcTHeN5WQ8bWLW7vAQGoaGGHty3-1rwNrZ5dSykfun7g60rGyhT89bpyBUN-hf3DpA89VvFKGhUUjRl8FoXzkFhGL4tdmUUEHtlvPf/w638-h640/Mines%204a%20(2).jpg" width="638" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5dcZKrpBy1ll6X9qn_aAh11ip_Teo4G3xwJxfXYI6KmDk8RkPdTuLToEJcGbvy80DDofoRvz_mEuRZxeoqIvcjAWgvkxW86cX37Z8OWiyDc4Mt9Ub_6w_lAfGbLLe9fIgOSekWulJfeKRM6_97WlYKKVlM8lckXnCeRNLRr0hFuxaxqZaQykFPGB7/s3723/Mines%207a%20(11).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2136" data-original-width="3723" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5dcZKrpBy1ll6X9qn_aAh11ip_Teo4G3xwJxfXYI6KmDk8RkPdTuLToEJcGbvy80DDofoRvz_mEuRZxeoqIvcjAWgvkxW86cX37Z8OWiyDc4Mt9Ub_6w_lAfGbLLe9fIgOSekWulJfeKRM6_97WlYKKVlM8lckXnCeRNLRr0hFuxaxqZaQykFPGB7/w640-h368/Mines%207a%20(11).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">It was interesting to hear the history of the
mine, from Neanderthal times, through the Middle Ages - to the present day; and
I was very surprised to learn that the miners were some of the best paid and
most revered men of their time. They could even pass their job down to their
sons. The underground Tourist Route leads you through tunnels, seeing more than
20 chambers. There are places to buy refreshments, at stalls and in a modern
cafeteria; souvenir stalls, toilets – and a museum to explore if you have time.
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIHeo-ZI2T7Lc096jfBAoyLSozzCHw_m3Qf-Q1Plm8MpNMpbstTrO34BR2w1iY5NDobsQDKENAHZ17MRvH96OFr4buKHc9sc9osHaCC3urkQs8OoEKKXOab7ScCjY-Ui9ibkOYr-oMqxi7EwaO-h0U9QpP4oP39qqHgXoJRWFwMYXLQc6Y7y4NOIHH/s3813/Mines%209%20(13).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2465" data-original-width="3813" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIHeo-ZI2T7Lc096jfBAoyLSozzCHw_m3Qf-Q1Plm8MpNMpbstTrO34BR2w1iY5NDobsQDKENAHZ17MRvH96OFr4buKHc9sc9osHaCC3urkQs8OoEKKXOab7ScCjY-Ui9ibkOYr-oMqxi7EwaO-h0U9QpP4oP39qqHgXoJRWFwMYXLQc6Y7y4NOIHH/w640-h414/Mines%209%20(13).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">After the refreshment stop was the
Weimar Chamber (named from the birthplace of J.W. Goethe who visited the mine).
We entered a totally dark chamber, not knowing what to expect. Suddenly,
dramatic music began playing and lighting came on in time with the music – the
reflections on the water were spectacular. It was one of my favourite parts of
the tour. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtWIXXCWK8YgZYix1QcPLXnfQWNeDA_s9w6AfOWm7euxVIhzOoAod33RfZDE5hjuXssKNVbmbDngCqPenjKhT7MBLCsGDELq9050BVUqkTaVmlGKnSDpIjuZdbW8dvAm-IxM09etaS4fJyB5QCJC5238ZZbUvSxAjKnP-ZnHmVRYQqqm1-qHlA5TtJ/s4032/Mines%209%20(1a)%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtWIXXCWK8YgZYix1QcPLXnfQWNeDA_s9w6AfOWm7euxVIhzOoAod33RfZDE5hjuXssKNVbmbDngCqPenjKhT7MBLCsGDELq9050BVUqkTaVmlGKnSDpIjuZdbW8dvAm-IxM09etaS4fJyB5QCJC5238ZZbUvSxAjKnP-ZnHmVRYQqqm1-qHlA5TtJ/w480-h640/Mines%209%20(1a)%20(2).jpg" width="480" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">We also saw the 35-metre high Michalowice chamber full of white steps
and supporting structures, other chambers dating back 400 years, and the Baracz
Chamber containing a huge emerald, green saltwater pool. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwJeiGmeGU_OKnLWLrO0P6tOuLjReTThcu3D2GczUOBELgxQsQ7Na1tcvWAJYbw3aw4P7h8tmuCflemlMLIHuTgAYo51Hr1W8qichPXtj3dGCZ9b5nrOxzL3I7c9M_zNFLawpQsWi9x-4zmDoIHwFM4BWHceuhGCB1JJDOMr-akVA9ymeMbazp7rfd/s3421/Mines%208b%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2366" data-original-width="3421" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwJeiGmeGU_OKnLWLrO0P6tOuLjReTThcu3D2GczUOBELgxQsQ7Na1tcvWAJYbw3aw4P7h8tmuCflemlMLIHuTgAYo51Hr1W8qichPXtj3dGCZ9b5nrOxzL3I7c9M_zNFLawpQsWi9x-4zmDoIHwFM4BWHceuhGCB1JJDOMr-akVA9ymeMbazp7rfd/w640-h442/Mines%208b%20(2).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The last part of the
tour was descending hundreds more steps – this led into the Pilsudski Chamber
which had the most beautiful reflections of the entire tour – especially the
statue and the tunnel. With the water being so still, it was hard to tell what
you were actually looking at – let alone the mirror images. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSnz7oVo4mo5HlPTvP4FSvlZpNmwehe6LmNSilkg1KyC5CVGp0kjzmeA2itxD_MqcniX0jVG63lIX9HxU4fNzl93sqLu84bgqTcgAb9Ck9PxRKybCntxb00jdjRRCnTuSm1AC5MbU9zslJ9nNL6X7uv8He29Q-jmGvkL8_4_PZNMqrgzOUYGUw0lcF/s4032/Mines%209%20(8).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSnz7oVo4mo5HlPTvP4FSvlZpNmwehe6LmNSilkg1KyC5CVGp0kjzmeA2itxD_MqcniX0jVG63lIX9HxU4fNzl93sqLu84bgqTcgAb9Ck9PxRKybCntxb00jdjRRCnTuSm1AC5MbU9zslJ9nNL6X7uv8He29Q-jmGvkL8_4_PZNMqrgzOUYGUw0lcF/w480-h640/Mines%209%20(8).jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGaQKdRAVnUBffscCNWT-9nEbyI07U4ecR5Jehp88OuqGMoVgjxpGN1V4JIcMiRNJv4g3_DFbZDojs33Fa7ARL97dMmUtJisWCB9k5ma34K1k12tKkj6UJMzn3HEe59jtobGlU9dX_kofKwD-Jyyr1RirTRl2_UL_rS7N6eEiMv-1tu-c4dxQ8OW1D/s2559/Mines%209%20(10).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1810" data-original-width="2559" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGaQKdRAVnUBffscCNWT-9nEbyI07U4ecR5Jehp88OuqGMoVgjxpGN1V4JIcMiRNJv4g3_DFbZDojs33Fa7ARL97dMmUtJisWCB9k5ma34K1k12tKkj6UJMzn3HEe59jtobGlU9dX_kofKwD-Jyyr1RirTRl2_UL_rS7N6eEiMv-1tu-c4dxQ8OW1D/w640-h452/Mines%209%20(10).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The tour lasted a
couple of hours, walking about 2 - 3 miles<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>– only a fraction of its 178 miles of tunnels. Returning to the surface
was an experience in itself! Eight people had to squeeze into a metal cage (it
couldn’t be called a lift), this then went DOWN about 7 feet, and another 8
people got in another cage on the top of the first one. Then 2 of these double
cages were sent speeding up to the surface – arriving in less than a minute –
thank goodness! I can highly recommend going to see these mines – they are a
fascinating place – nothing at all like the grim ideas I had of prisoners being
forced into hard labour down these mines. The only problem is that if you are
on a tour from the city, you may not have the time to see the museum part – due
to the pick-up time to return to Krakow.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4HXbLLg_zDRXevI7IrGBA_G6cODHUPkFvrrBawyFMLrICanojIJs9RqLy8HytCmNeXh0bC9J5nFpM36AR4EAcCv7rzOIuXm4Xx6t9j5XoWR497v8NE5KbNR4KUOjMUzmwEtuRi2X2vKA_PHYG1voWsFPgIf2osIbapV_OiMn497wDEe1Cuzxh2LAV/s735/Mines%2010.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="684" data-original-width="735" height="596" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4HXbLLg_zDRXevI7IrGBA_G6cODHUPkFvrrBawyFMLrICanojIJs9RqLy8HytCmNeXh0bC9J5nFpM36AR4EAcCv7rzOIuXm4Xx6t9j5XoWR497v8NE5KbNR4KUOjMUzmwEtuRi2X2vKA_PHYG1voWsFPgIf2osIbapV_OiMn497wDEe1Cuzxh2LAV/w640-h596/Mines%2010.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.wieliczka-saltmine.com/">https://www.wieliczka-saltmine.com/</a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Luckily, we arrived back in the
city with plenty of more time for exploring. Next stop was the University
Botanical Gardens about a 15-minute walk from the Old Town. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7Mtp1qlV_RBVv2M5miLocqytxmaHIY7fmvfQR6WfZiIw461IB9hDX0ZjfjqE2oKri7T4_3BiJush-QV2o_Jbef_EW6Qrpjfi37fywcsPFgHYupd4U0GpBOsA783HXDcujClF6lqzbrmLCwTzlxMG8-VuY8a-8WuYcWIjDBhBvAf7r5iUEe0i-243/s5005/Botanic%20Gardens%202.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3541" data-original-width="5005" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO7Mtp1qlV_RBVv2M5miLocqytxmaHIY7fmvfQR6WfZiIw461IB9hDX0ZjfjqE2oKri7T4_3BiJush-QV2o_Jbef_EW6Qrpjfi37fywcsPFgHYupd4U0GpBOsA783HXDcujClF6lqzbrmLCwTzlxMG8-VuY8a-8WuYcWIjDBhBvAf7r5iUEe0i-243/w640-h452/Botanic%20Gardens%202.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU7T6FelIgtRHk-oGksaNQGq77mHTh9IS_gwVcE8d9NQUW9mFOz0UD65DAZxEpEFIzvix4MIahtDfpcUshTTvQvO8ZtwbkYi-kVjG0l7tJXl-0O1AEHWkfI-HeSS9QiwrR3Nv7Fp_9YJvloSeP0NSFi_I393sa4F8gtbKUJrJ9If0Sol_sIxagcs4l/s4876/Botanic%20Gardens%203%20(1).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3335" data-original-width="4876" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU7T6FelIgtRHk-oGksaNQGq77mHTh9IS_gwVcE8d9NQUW9mFOz0UD65DAZxEpEFIzvix4MIahtDfpcUshTTvQvO8ZtwbkYi-kVjG0l7tJXl-0O1AEHWkfI-HeSS9QiwrR3Nv7Fp_9YJvloSeP0NSFi_I393sa4F8gtbKUJrJ9If0Sol_sIxagcs4l/w640-h438/Botanic%20Gardens%203%20(1).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">It was established
in 1783, making it the oldest of its kind in Poland; and in 1976 it was named a
Heritage Site in Krakow. It only cost 15 PLN to get in, and is an ideal place
to spend a few hours exploring, as well as stopping at its little café for a
drink. The glass houses look very impressive – but unfortunately, they are
closed on Mondays. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGOO_r8jCL-3iE7hN5hUBV1ejZ5L37YqPsqWV3gUMtqjbidRn_VDVSBPlycPzrf4QCoTXD4rLhCrGPSP9CrqamJCAsW7m2c69cnq-zFkx6AaEHl7wNmnxxx0suysYJ5MzIN7_Kb8YSpBA3ytCnzrB8DPbgPQnT2F6LGndI0VQBRucz2ATuihwlx4lG/s4533/Botanic%20Gardens%203%20(5).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3236" data-original-width="4533" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGOO_r8jCL-3iE7hN5hUBV1ejZ5L37YqPsqWV3gUMtqjbidRn_VDVSBPlycPzrf4QCoTXD4rLhCrGPSP9CrqamJCAsW7m2c69cnq-zFkx6AaEHl7wNmnxxx0suysYJ5MzIN7_Kb8YSpBA3ytCnzrB8DPbgPQnT2F6LGndI0VQBRucz2ATuihwlx4lG/w640-h456/Botanic%20Gardens%203%20(5).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgisMzHd6Zfy1WFxJOqc6Acx4lxuuo1zBlX73plQimOymsVqVsBkoMGwucXRnJAsHab8W5fUnDfwH7tTpgFVbiMlmkpyIvwWy_8T8I95xO22Hdz8XMbvCamg1fi-Yf1aadGIH8VrOvFDBAN4SmvsEiOoonHfU_MCH2IskY_ZaXkyZe9WiOAkDwsUcX8/s5184/Botanic%20Gardens%203%20(10).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgisMzHd6Zfy1WFxJOqc6Acx4lxuuo1zBlX73plQimOymsVqVsBkoMGwucXRnJAsHab8W5fUnDfwH7tTpgFVbiMlmkpyIvwWy_8T8I95xO22Hdz8XMbvCamg1fi-Yf1aadGIH8VrOvFDBAN4SmvsEiOoonHfU_MCH2IskY_ZaXkyZe9WiOAkDwsUcX8/w640-h480/Botanic%20Gardens%203%20(10).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Shaded walkways give way to several delightful ponds, fountains,
and ornamental areas. There are many varieties of trees, shrubs and plants to
admire………..and if you are lucky, you may see a red squirrel darting about among
the greenery. It wasn’t as big as other gardens I have seen – but delightful
nether the less. Heading back into the Old Town,
there was still time to visit St Mary’s Basilica <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Bazylika Mariacka) – described as a beautiful
example of Gothic architecture. From the outside it isn’t that impressive, but
it was only 10PLN to go inside (you must get tickets from a little shop at the
side), so I decided to have a look. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPIdOEQUoL3VTdIf7IwCPlTVO1EMed9iCbDG9-etyIfXnG37JyKfrTYBb39E8_aYtyLQS8ktNj7aNjn6YqQQed_ug_rCiZ1slezKoFoBTjmVmc1F4djnXJcjPWfxq5fkkOhomaGQ06R8t9sqxOln45JzHJM5Vqj17JCEEXT6C_tdH--hH-32WGgqb/s2593/Saint%20Marys%201%20(1a)%20(2).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2593" data-original-width="2080" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPIdOEQUoL3VTdIf7IwCPlTVO1EMed9iCbDG9-etyIfXnG37JyKfrTYBb39E8_aYtyLQS8ktNj7aNjn6YqQQed_ug_rCiZ1slezKoFoBTjmVmc1F4djnXJcjPWfxq5fkkOhomaGQ06R8t9sqxOln45JzHJM5Vqj17JCEEXT6C_tdH--hH-32WGgqb/w514-h640/Saint%20Marys%201%20(1a)%20(2).jpg" width="514" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">What a surprise! This 13<sup>th</sup>
century basilica contains the most amazing sculptural masterpiece – the largest
altar of its kind in Europe; an enormous cabinet depicting figures of Mary and
the Apostles. There was so much gold! </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM2oITXU3xQB-W_dq1IVhTMeRbT9cWTgBR8JyMed5WyZ-yskRxQCfKy4vLMYjHQmprl9xgI45MLEY21hNkkp7UeRMX1g5_1t-IKxJz8sZkoqI5W2RK7VxZsGX-4pSYSV6NhBu1yLZeCHC5-3V3jUZsSvSS5nMcPuOrwFFXSVWnP6X3oMPfahSFzoF9/s4482/Saint%20Marys%202%20(7).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3512" data-original-width="4482" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM2oITXU3xQB-W_dq1IVhTMeRbT9cWTgBR8JyMed5WyZ-yskRxQCfKy4vLMYjHQmprl9xgI45MLEY21hNkkp7UeRMX1g5_1t-IKxJz8sZkoqI5W2RK7VxZsGX-4pSYSV6NhBu1yLZeCHC5-3V3jUZsSvSS5nMcPuOrwFFXSVWnP6X3oMPfahSFzoF9/w640-h502/Saint%20Marys%202%20(7).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQ7f1-kAsDgJdBRhTo6OhJewft08ShPUr0ZLsGegRO00cVPrwBaV08-QAx5Gcvm9CkYx8vQjqveJ84StlFlsUWoRHH8jfeG8jOmbsJ5zxWKE5DPIWA4ylROuMLduyk-lBfqW0iZXGamOeyzaq7zlB8hgQV6QRuRwBvAuGB9vnYvCkkcrCC1HO_koj/s4783/Saint%20Marys%202%20(9).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3750" data-original-width="4783" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyQ7f1-kAsDgJdBRhTo6OhJewft08ShPUr0ZLsGegRO00cVPrwBaV08-QAx5Gcvm9CkYx8vQjqveJ84StlFlsUWoRHH8jfeG8jOmbsJ5zxWKE5DPIWA4ylROuMLduyk-lBfqW0iZXGamOeyzaq7zlB8hgQV6QRuRwBvAuGB9vnYvCkkcrCC1HO_koj/w640-h502/Saint%20Marys%202%20(9).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">When you look up, there is a ceiling like
you could not imagine – entirely blue and gold. This theme continues down the
walls, with these colours encasing biblical scenes. I was in absolute awe of
this beautiful building – it was so much more than I had expected and can
highly recommend a visit. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumvJLys1J1FlzafleRUdloTBZQqMEidXfGZRvyozs-wiMdV45DV9R5zdM937jjbQLT43OdUc5YCI2iM5TU7hPvEPIAT6EAs0HF8cGQoAkBGYv-dYv2STAvFswnCIxpXZhArPZP9zAOo27ezdb320C6QVatw1rVePZAba1q6G6ejKIM6aTN1chdpaz/s4777/Saint%20Marys%202%20(10).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3389" data-original-width="4777" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhumvJLys1J1FlzafleRUdloTBZQqMEidXfGZRvyozs-wiMdV45DV9R5zdM937jjbQLT43OdUc5YCI2iM5TU7hPvEPIAT6EAs0HF8cGQoAkBGYv-dYv2STAvFswnCIxpXZhArPZP9zAOo27ezdb320C6QVatw1rVePZAba1q6G6ejKIM6aTN1chdpaz/w640-h454/Saint%20Marys%202%20(10).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuvXi4tGNaxy5ety5SFmlbOiHbEzy_9Xgi7SnztJ4zyeZlqe6ZNuOs3dn9s94SFFmFf8MWfRieUJg9aZvG4iTCTLsx5mMDuSs2p7qZzy7PzzW-kyo5K8P-7821SjpnPJLQIUCwcHpiSbG_mJtDLT4laD3MEu15j1oYXodwSY0R-gW8aMSMtAOU5-2/s3367/Saint%20Marys%205%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2530" data-original-width="3367" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDuvXi4tGNaxy5ety5SFmlbOiHbEzy_9Xgi7SnztJ4zyeZlqe6ZNuOs3dn9s94SFFmFf8MWfRieUJg9aZvG4iTCTLsx5mMDuSs2p7qZzy7PzzW-kyo5K8P-7821SjpnPJLQIUCwcHpiSbG_mJtDLT4laD3MEu15j1oYXodwSY0R-gW8aMSMtAOU5-2/w640-h480/Saint%20Marys%205%20(1).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">There is a tower you can go up, for an extra cost -
for views across the Old Town. A trumpet call is made from the tower every hour
four times, once in each direction – so listen and look out for him. <a href="https://mariacki.com/en/">https://mariacki.com/en/</a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Walking around the Old Town there
are so many interesting buildings, many of them are places of worship – The baroque
style Church of St Peter and Paul has statues of the 12 Apostles in front of
the main building. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFDr_5P0TzwWxtwv6oDHJl_n1OSqFZuqx175lkx8wECVeWgS-RlDznV-sViI6Kk7K0yoJnCf172tvyTqHW_oxPAHh__x3IMsB-ehjkiXf9sj6TI30AJpq1Vm1LkYo_iAm-ZVqKWpDgdYJ9RgkrbiToJTiUnAFSoF9x5vusZDC7kuTV3_uPBRbnBCV_/s4998/Old%20Town%202%20(16).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3353" data-original-width="4998" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFDr_5P0TzwWxtwv6oDHJl_n1OSqFZuqx175lkx8wECVeWgS-RlDznV-sViI6Kk7K0yoJnCf172tvyTqHW_oxPAHh__x3IMsB-ehjkiXf9sj6TI30AJpq1Vm1LkYo_iAm-ZVqKWpDgdYJ9RgkrbiToJTiUnAFSoF9x5vusZDC7kuTV3_uPBRbnBCV_/w640-h430/Old%20Town%202%20(16).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Next to this is one of the oldest buildings in Krakow – the
Church of St Andrew the Apostle, built between 1079 – 1098. It was originally a
fortress used by the local townspeople when they were in times of danger. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGIvIFWguPWtsiQEaNXUUKQhmF8alEZqtWdPC9IoKRTlyTnPcG3oRVgRSX_-HM2KH4ITLzcmZV1uHtEQ4owUzuWLIQPSqc8A10aivkz3v56XwMZd25M_gVQalyH4ZQF3B-ThsXPRPrR2ksBSvgZLWeyRZEyYxBcASREPCwBTZQb88cY2lrVC9YMkDa/s4011/Old%20Town%203%20(4).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4011" data-original-width="3616" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGIvIFWguPWtsiQEaNXUUKQhmF8alEZqtWdPC9IoKRTlyTnPcG3oRVgRSX_-HM2KH4ITLzcmZV1uHtEQ4owUzuWLIQPSqc8A10aivkz3v56XwMZd25M_gVQalyH4ZQF3B-ThsXPRPrR2ksBSvgZLWeyRZEyYxBcASREPCwBTZQb88cY2lrVC9YMkDa/w576-h640/Old%20Town%203%20(4).JPG" width="576" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV2UBdlneabccHs-oZ3FZ6kf68gt-t4Nlf6O_NDcNy3nKvyUmeg6Szbrzq46zGa9GTKdG6Rby-SBsAUxEnJOQzHkOnTu9nJ4QgAY18A66s2A9WyHGV6qCseRG9SxG6UaWvkEtfcQ5GlcsPa5rTiy_p8v4QnkeNuOIcBFaH36mDYB9B1P4KOjm_W1wz/s2611/Old%20Town%203%20(4a)%20(3).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2611" data-original-width="2115" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiV2UBdlneabccHs-oZ3FZ6kf68gt-t4Nlf6O_NDcNy3nKvyUmeg6Szbrzq46zGa9GTKdG6Rby-SBsAUxEnJOQzHkOnTu9nJ4QgAY18A66s2A9WyHGV6qCseRG9SxG6UaWvkEtfcQ5GlcsPa5rTiy_p8v4QnkeNuOIcBFaH36mDYB9B1P4KOjm_W1wz/w518-h640/Old%20Town%203%20(4a)%20(3).jpg" width="518" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Its
Romanesque architecture is most impressive, especially the altar made from
black marble and the pulpit that was designed in the shape of a boat. Although
it has been renovated many times, it hasn’t lost the feeling of how old and
precious it is.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvQT7gskf48rfW3h7itdzrcQ-AebYgebXErpS2oyTbTTc9xP-uuUKh-tLi-3-D_i4LeBwuMCO8YIzD8WeXXfI0Gql5PwPr-tJZMYvuyAMElQX63JnPD3wCaOzZdkr1WOJh1W_IALLzm00tYkmPeD4wSfZZwnoufHrohLx7_jVPBW8rv2fr2k3c1qj4/s3954/Wawel%20Castle%201%20(1).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2342" data-original-width="3954" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvQT7gskf48rfW3h7itdzrcQ-AebYgebXErpS2oyTbTTc9xP-uuUKh-tLi-3-D_i4LeBwuMCO8YIzD8WeXXfI0Gql5PwPr-tJZMYvuyAMElQX63JnPD3wCaOzZdkr1WOJh1W_IALLzm00tYkmPeD4wSfZZwnoufHrohLx7_jVPBW8rv2fr2k3c1qj4/w640-h380/Wawel%20Castle%201%20(1).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Wawel Castle is one of the main
tourist attractions of the city, standing proud on Wawel Hill overlooking the
city in one direction and the Vistula River in the other. The Castle has stood
there since the first historic ruler of Poland settled there in the 10<sup>th</sup>
Century, and today it contains a museum, an armoury, a treasury and private
chambers of the royal family. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXMNezjq_qshDuFRiXs4eeT8s3Z-c0dyGEJOEG80oTlkXvf0LvWydMG8exWwTkzwGvjfITEg8DP7z9mnpZdUxMmSC896_LGwLKhMZOP7sSzGZwL5XMmq6AV2bPgmJAb0NsyOAoldoj3Dey4DsmLnyq3Ofh-Uo6c1tu4_hswbk9VB6QdAvFUSEJuGH3/s5184/Wawel%20Castle%201%20(2).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXMNezjq_qshDuFRiXs4eeT8s3Z-c0dyGEJOEG80oTlkXvf0LvWydMG8exWwTkzwGvjfITEg8DP7z9mnpZdUxMmSC896_LGwLKhMZOP7sSzGZwL5XMmq6AV2bPgmJAb0NsyOAoldoj3Dey4DsmLnyq3Ofh-Uo6c1tu4_hswbk9VB6QdAvFUSEJuGH3/w640-h480/Wawel%20Castle%201%20(2).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtl4WP8wRmNFrUDz8TzcxaZ4CcF8BIefMbuAUgPz3Bs-jR0YzEoPXHU8P0kAKurgCH5UAsK0N3LTkoaztgoFaYQpeYQiHr5OKnJiO9moMKtjlfWL-zR6OlJ7lDNDCtlVuodZbTmaLc9558bn7fuoj8e1bfJ3hDpoQO1uLm_KzhHWzpVanc2dXeLVq5/s4552/Wawel%20Castle%201%20(12).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3346" data-original-width="4552" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtl4WP8wRmNFrUDz8TzcxaZ4CcF8BIefMbuAUgPz3Bs-jR0YzEoPXHU8P0kAKurgCH5UAsK0N3LTkoaztgoFaYQpeYQiHr5OKnJiO9moMKtjlfWL-zR6OlJ7lDNDCtlVuodZbTmaLc9558bn7fuoj8e1bfJ3hDpoQO1uLm_KzhHWzpVanc2dXeLVq5/w640-h470/Wawel%20Castle%201%20(12).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">It is free to go in the grounds, which open at
6am – just walk up the hill, through the portcullis; you only have to pay if
you want to go into the exhibitions. It’s a lovely place to visit even if you
don’t <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>go in the Museums or the Cathedral;
it has beautiful, manicured gardens, interesting buildings, places to eat and
drink - as well as fabulous views in every direction. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJBOu2vX-ibstjOIrgbMK2bdgksptxhV7FpVKktQXMwVYhftsZWiCj3vy3bKKkykUsC-_hab-2xTbm1BhIlXC-vLlnoOdqhdEt7tv0fVJirlrxUxmqWFmCV-Y2630lSELK7fhapM3sRp1TE5yFg9yTIqeQV7jJm9Y6TuAeSnUYxX6LpodFFSsb-3qe/s4633/Wawel%20Castle%201%20(21).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2686" data-original-width="4633" height="372" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJBOu2vX-ibstjOIrgbMK2bdgksptxhV7FpVKktQXMwVYhftsZWiCj3vy3bKKkykUsC-_hab-2xTbm1BhIlXC-vLlnoOdqhdEt7tv0fVJirlrxUxmqWFmCV-Y2630lSELK7fhapM3sRp1TE5yFg9yTIqeQV7jJm9Y6TuAeSnUYxX6LpodFFSsb-3qe/w640-h372/Wawel%20Castle%201%20(21).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Whilst there, I did
notice a strange conical mound in the distance – more about that later! Directly below the castle, along the riverbank, you will find the famous fire
breathing statue of Wawel Dragon. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKCapJL3H-lam-9ZngzIcJYoSiAZlLVpKJDnX0330yA5_g0jp12jsUclcuGwy1bHNbX7c05cf94NUrBB9fSS-ZDHOKjjX5BReNORT1aGFlgbEONznUX18MHuT055TuyxtsMq6eISV5GHzPFrGo24QhEpOIesRi45sM-gyShjCzJEpEOc06WTBx7P2i/s3647/Wawel%20Castle%201%20(29a)%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3647" data-original-width="2735" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKCapJL3H-lam-9ZngzIcJYoSiAZlLVpKJDnX0330yA5_g0jp12jsUclcuGwy1bHNbX7c05cf94NUrBB9fSS-ZDHOKjjX5BReNORT1aGFlgbEONznUX18MHuT055TuyxtsMq6eISV5GHzPFrGo24QhEpOIesRi45sM-gyShjCzJEpEOc06WTBx7P2i/w480-h640/Wawel%20Castle%201%20(29a)%20(1).jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOOS-g1PGmgyNRSaZ8gk8Zv9CZ6o6JNLLWjVFLc0CVpGG4ZuIZuMpXetBSJH9BDVA0jbEkub5ATAzvYvdnGdsMsS1UWekuqI7cF54aINJVfInH_C2xiDPgTpkhHfaHvlbQWyiUjLQMbPrQiAHyluhHzSEiNo6gy80b09k94bI7JGemmNBdWNAy9hGB/s3131/Wawel%20Castle%205.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3131" data-original-width="2842" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOOS-g1PGmgyNRSaZ8gk8Zv9CZ6o6JNLLWjVFLc0CVpGG4ZuIZuMpXetBSJH9BDVA0jbEkub5ATAzvYvdnGdsMsS1UWekuqI7cF54aINJVfInH_C2xiDPgTpkhHfaHvlbQWyiUjLQMbPrQiAHyluhHzSEiNo6gy80b09k94bI7JGemmNBdWNAy9hGB/w580-h640/Wawel%20Castle%205.jpg" width="580" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3qxSGFMJXxEc-DgKkuJZt-SXT00fg2_f1jDDNzxhPvGcietlS3ZSpxYV7ZODe3SqpIvxPsqMU8YX_M1kJ5_aOW-LRzAHnlxZ8Zwwli1aTIAjQgIDWCEzBZxD3ooUvYdO7S3knnhaSenhLd6B_LISpJ2vJsYsU5yNKAi1tLmEg0Dii3fqLaISANOkz/s3039/River%201%20(1).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1856" data-original-width="3039" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3qxSGFMJXxEc-DgKkuJZt-SXT00fg2_f1jDDNzxhPvGcietlS3ZSpxYV7ZODe3SqpIvxPsqMU8YX_M1kJ5_aOW-LRzAHnlxZ8Zwwli1aTIAjQgIDWCEzBZxD3ooUvYdO7S3knnhaSenhLd6B_LISpJ2vJsYsU5yNKAi1tLmEg0Dii3fqLaISANOkz/w640-h390/River%201%20(1).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">There are some stalls here selling souvenirs
and food, as well as several options for river cruises on anything from a
gondola to a paddle steamer. I went on a delightful 30-minute cruise on a
gondola, and as well as magnificent views of Wawel Castle, I got great shots of
the Norbertine Monastery and of the Pauline Monastery Church on the Rock.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTXQ6W4kEkxXPDlgzbXJLfnWcoUg8-PvyU3VOxcEGIsGWHs4FBDAo8cNRu5S8Lt5SohhZwv0w_CICiwv9rB1c73QRA-o5Q6UOJaoYEt3D9EJ_2yRzrRu0R4BUqnhbtJdW--J3dJmIgJHj00AyN96Fg12PVw4pBozbZdQJEAc7V5uIqk1fIUkblWNZx/s4482/River%201%20(6).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3000" data-original-width="4482" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTXQ6W4kEkxXPDlgzbXJLfnWcoUg8-PvyU3VOxcEGIsGWHs4FBDAo8cNRu5S8Lt5SohhZwv0w_CICiwv9rB1c73QRA-o5Q6UOJaoYEt3D9EJ_2yRzrRu0R4BUqnhbtJdW--J3dJmIgJHj00AyN96Fg12PVw4pBozbZdQJEAc7V5uIqk1fIUkblWNZx/w640-h428/River%201%20(6).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmw6pM2oUB_z13NXVgvrMxTf-gRQGcLSzHi_kNgTQLgOvrFK2qdhCUIv3Usc-W_I9kfr-VVM6s-GTXJd5bn8LZxvSP6Da3x9sYLpV-mOOOy85MkqwtR6fGONlYEJiB1IGMiKI-N3QenGdlqGQCIlMnYKtPaI8RMlZ5mFlm9uBqaV4V2TizqW6jxAYk/s4806/River%201%20(9).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2986" data-original-width="4806" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmw6pM2oUB_z13NXVgvrMxTf-gRQGcLSzHi_kNgTQLgOvrFK2qdhCUIv3Usc-W_I9kfr-VVM6s-GTXJd5bn8LZxvSP6Da3x9sYLpV-mOOOy85MkqwtR6fGONlYEJiB1IGMiKI-N3QenGdlqGQCIlMnYKtPaI8RMlZ5mFlm9uBqaV4V2TizqW6jxAYk/w640-h398/River%201%20(9).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkVwwy7whbps_QVIT2vzHwUc9Q61wJurOn-gFmB0x4SP04oiF_gk4VJtWfb2MYdcTdOeCfKfxn4tv7FzW6XZMkEBQXmPId4qPOzeRElT3AZ4mefGnlTDkMIvi407VB7sQvjMLLij6JtLKDWE8_Wj-VAQSvfAO4GKKaUP2IwMp312UrhJQ4-ZOEjLO/s4769/River%202%20(1).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3577" data-original-width="4769" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkVwwy7whbps_QVIT2vzHwUc9Q61wJurOn-gFmB0x4SP04oiF_gk4VJtWfb2MYdcTdOeCfKfxn4tv7FzW6XZMkEBQXmPId4qPOzeRElT3AZ4mefGnlTDkMIvi407VB7sQvjMLLij6JtLKDWE8_Wj-VAQSvfAO4GKKaUP2IwMp312UrhJQ4-ZOEjLO/w640-h480/River%202%20(1).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdv5jp0Z5axIgiyLW9VTJUZCAaj-UdH_3THzqrie8j0rYGKWwUrsgNHVCvAbsPRfYw4OA5T-8Y_d5O_tQKRMlhtNI6czexlqMAvdvwdzfyIhQzzMXt2iitEQOm7owgYWM-_ppYaTQPYpXPJFdNuaejDAsAr0RttbtCgM70xBq-SAQmX_90iX8eJEl-/s4011/River%202%20(2).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3017" data-original-width="4011" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdv5jp0Z5axIgiyLW9VTJUZCAaj-UdH_3THzqrie8j0rYGKWwUrsgNHVCvAbsPRfYw4OA5T-8Y_d5O_tQKRMlhtNI6czexlqMAvdvwdzfyIhQzzMXt2iitEQOm7owgYWM-_ppYaTQPYpXPJFdNuaejDAsAr0RttbtCgM70xBq-SAQmX_90iX8eJEl-/w640-h482/River%202%20(2).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://wawel.krakow.pl/en">https://wawel.krakow.pl/en</a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">From Wawel Castle you can follow
the Royal Walking Trail along Kanonicza Street (the oldest in Krakow) back into
the Old Town. This route takes you up Gorodzka Street, past some beautiful buildings,
up to the Main Market Square (Rynek Glowny). </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJEKmOGeciMy62gEqV8bjVUtju0w5EV8lwqRQgVHBYD4b5DwWewge8FWgpw47wJwWgQ65rBhjHEQdetrI8uVbcrvnu0G3qoZyZ5niGTlxoEHatiuvwrBJ3I5zEaFjH4jI4EpPCxFbaa6n8O36BteM5cCAUBtvtRQofRGUyJoabaNLTlFQ4Ak2nMO7u/s3199/Old%20Town%201%20(12c).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1788" data-original-width="3199" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJEKmOGeciMy62gEqV8bjVUtju0w5EV8lwqRQgVHBYD4b5DwWewge8FWgpw47wJwWgQ65rBhjHEQdetrI8uVbcrvnu0G3qoZyZ5niGTlxoEHatiuvwrBJ3I5zEaFjH4jI4EpPCxFbaa6n8O36BteM5cCAUBtvtRQofRGUyJoabaNLTlFQ4Ak2nMO7u/w640-h358/Old%20Town%201%20(12c).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_8McTgtUlLQxzZFcjRZsLg8OB8LyEzl3muEHhQd236_dltxgpMiJ7HXh2Gw9P7lxX9M9URA8eKiZNsE7-N9TgFko-0U3GTFdjOR0dJy617l88-FqjMjTq6Kv6UJ5qFthnLQhi100wsVEFIVglLu50sYj6EmkaLiOwONqVkNmeOFJay-JBqS14vfD1/s4032/Old%20Town%201%20(8a).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_8McTgtUlLQxzZFcjRZsLg8OB8LyEzl3muEHhQd236_dltxgpMiJ7HXh2Gw9P7lxX9M9URA8eKiZNsE7-N9TgFko-0U3GTFdjOR0dJy617l88-FqjMjTq6Kv6UJ5qFthnLQhi100wsVEFIVglLu50sYj6EmkaLiOwONqVkNmeOFJay-JBqS14vfD1/w640-h480/Old%20Town%201%20(8a).jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">This is the largest medieval
market square in Europe, built in the 13th century; and today it is a vibrant
area attracting thousands of tourists every day. There are stalls selling food
from many different countries, souvenir stalls, all types of performers, horse
and carriage rides and the famous sculpture of a face/mask. </span></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7V6zOcEE5mJSoD1uz_fzWqPoQb24j2AhqATLSuv477XdJjev7ggsrOXkpOAqmtGhqHA97RQXiGsB3uBGv7olUyBikPBw7Alm01tZkbZtBmh95E2zAF_w5icJQk3CAAyEQLB2dArPNNXlaS1OaT1L-qS_Z1gk_qHTq85k5YgKs5VkkY4F97j21AsAr/s4062/Old%20Town%201%20(9a)%20(1).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3155" data-original-width="4062" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7V6zOcEE5mJSoD1uz_fzWqPoQb24j2AhqATLSuv477XdJjev7ggsrOXkpOAqmtGhqHA97RQXiGsB3uBGv7olUyBikPBw7Alm01tZkbZtBmh95E2zAF_w5icJQk3CAAyEQLB2dArPNNXlaS1OaT1L-qS_Z1gk_qHTq85k5YgKs5VkkY4F97j21AsAr/w640-h498/Old%20Town%201%20(9a)%20(1).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu658VUBN6qgq3xP_5fqAs4ICTs9s-D0fr-nMycDbaOm09Kj8kCUIGqTYn4CVydBrtI4fgD3vneZ0IOEbU4xucZ2e_v1rJ1yj3TKFrnZIDnrlyKIccmaX3nzOiSxwBQcp3e615yJiEXZpTI2LDzEsTlng5GFNqPnpjDMUneEZP2rUyolw-0Y4SuFuv/s3598/Old%20Town%201%20(10).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1973" data-original-width="3598" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu658VUBN6qgq3xP_5fqAs4ICTs9s-D0fr-nMycDbaOm09Kj8kCUIGqTYn4CVydBrtI4fgD3vneZ0IOEbU4xucZ2e_v1rJ1yj3TKFrnZIDnrlyKIccmaX3nzOiSxwBQcp3e615yJiEXZpTI2LDzEsTlng5GFNqPnpjDMUneEZP2rUyolw-0Y4SuFuv/w640-h350/Old%20Town%201%20(10).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The middle of the
square is home to the magnificent Cloth Hall, once a thriving centre for trade,
it is now filled with souvenir shops selling amber, crafts, toys etc.
Throughout the centuries, this building has evolved from 2 rows of wooden
stalls, been rebuilt in both Gothic style and Renaissance styles, before its
renovations in the 19<sup>th</sup> century show what is seen today. It is a very
impressive structure – from all angles. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkwVgSm3F5NQNGCxu3XTAAUOT7MRJpLDIm2bWulYGAOXuCsRwIAuP0b4Oqr_bPHgya4oAF6p-uI0U4cFC2aqDODOQDeNO96_QHHPuSwT-Og73gbXBq85dleMbbmOk0PbvsvzOoSmQ_k4xrl7-Zl8Vd4NXPDCFojOPaCFRXfI_6TCTt9Z2hZfbwupgJ/s4285/Old%20Town%201%20(14).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2714" data-original-width="4285" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkwVgSm3F5NQNGCxu3XTAAUOT7MRJpLDIm2bWulYGAOXuCsRwIAuP0b4Oqr_bPHgya4oAF6p-uI0U4cFC2aqDODOQDeNO96_QHHPuSwT-Og73gbXBq85dleMbbmOk0PbvsvzOoSmQ_k4xrl7-Zl8Vd4NXPDCFojOPaCFRXfI_6TCTt9Z2hZfbwupgJ/w640-h406/Old%20Town%201%20(14).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">There are several different types of
museums dotted around the Old City, but one of the most unusual has to be the
new Underground Museum beneath the Cloth Hall – showing what medieval life in
Krakow was once like. Continuing along the Royal Route, you head up Florianska
Street, filled with all manner of shops and restaurants,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>arriving at the medieval walls that flank the
northern part of the town. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDnois3NSFOyzKS2L3-woPfK5wQvEcgaFDr2ZlkJSb5eLBzw_gN5GKBA7l0btmeBEiiGo90B0_Q-N65qlYvCjHkzMOGl6YjmKrhiQP2uYy-EZUrlSLUvt9rgnz4dN-TJWk3VBwNBEWvP8KeNS8xwCvoTwzDtu2xGNgo1sF--HfMbpeRHph3DmFeix7/s4121/Old%20Town%201%20(18).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3562" data-original-width="4121" height="554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDnois3NSFOyzKS2L3-woPfK5wQvEcgaFDr2ZlkJSb5eLBzw_gN5GKBA7l0btmeBEiiGo90B0_Q-N65qlYvCjHkzMOGl6YjmKrhiQP2uYy-EZUrlSLUvt9rgnz4dN-TJWk3VBwNBEWvP8KeNS8xwCvoTwzDtu2xGNgo1sF--HfMbpeRHph3DmFeix7/w640-h554/Old%20Town%201%20(18).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFxN_1xzoc08b6JJ2jk_YfW1dGVL65L7tIATYXKA6qEpUQR034m-zzDA_z_4NMvmN06HW7tN_rQsCrexC0O0G0Vg2CModEwOZWqCVNfg9UOT6BlHgT_y1C8NXHCCc2qsCcUnIYN8jd56dM5mb61RBtyhUAQg2jsgaU4E3JfwRdJihADC-PCVzQARv/s4563/Old%20Town%201%20(20).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3165" data-original-width="4563" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkFxN_1xzoc08b6JJ2jk_YfW1dGVL65L7tIATYXKA6qEpUQR034m-zzDA_z_4NMvmN06HW7tN_rQsCrexC0O0G0Vg2CModEwOZWqCVNfg9UOT6BlHgT_y1C8NXHCCc2qsCcUnIYN8jd56dM5mb61RBtyhUAQg2jsgaU4E3JfwRdJihADC-PCVzQARv/w640-h444/Old%20Town%201%20(20).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYapEdW_AUELegxIl5Yc2ismLGp-g4zehvHn7N0kri-EDgioyvr5WnwT9WHzJOba_4TbqYKXM0kv02DuhMPNQ8yG9cdhP2glhQUcGUjAYeOxDF9lrRJkf5U6dnbfYcoLBJJlERRQp4GQ5hYpw_WH71Pc8FoX92kfC-nGAxDU4UfpJABTdOFuWMH-SR/s5184/Old%20Town%201%20(22).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYapEdW_AUELegxIl5Yc2ismLGp-g4zehvHn7N0kri-EDgioyvr5WnwT9WHzJOba_4TbqYKXM0kv02DuhMPNQ8yG9cdhP2glhQUcGUjAYeOxDF9lrRJkf5U6dnbfYcoLBJJlERRQp4GQ5hYpw_WH71Pc8FoX92kfC-nGAxDU4UfpJABTdOFuWMH-SR/w640-h480/Old%20Town%201%20(22).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">You can pay to walk along this section of the City
Walls, and from Florian’s Gate you will get a different view back down
Florianska Street – but it is just as good to admire them from below. Florian’s
Gate is the only remaining city gate, built in the 14<sup>th</sup> century, as
the main entry point to the city – St Florian (the patron Saint of Krakow) can
be seen on the side facing Florianska Street.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRAU5qFvJffwhl9n30XPVKFkRgkASU2UcPUFFqoBWbZR8UdDklzmc3xY4I6iS8Tqf4O_x5RLfDwSWHzr5Ja-_o--KQYDFcSf8ZAdU286mA3Hq0jNJ6c-ogMgFZw4vw5_Mg9lgT4zUYlHrjWm0KFfPuGKdBOrjvRQOcZTrMtJjIrGuvEhL11idMr5KL/s5138/Old%20Town%201%20(25).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3535" data-original-width="5138" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRAU5qFvJffwhl9n30XPVKFkRgkASU2UcPUFFqoBWbZR8UdDklzmc3xY4I6iS8Tqf4O_x5RLfDwSWHzr5Ja-_o--KQYDFcSf8ZAdU286mA3Hq0jNJ6c-ogMgFZw4vw5_Mg9lgT4zUYlHrjWm0KFfPuGKdBOrjvRQOcZTrMtJjIrGuvEhL11idMr5KL/w640-h440/Old%20Town%201%20(25).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Included in the same City walls ticket
is access into the Barbican - a round, defensive fortress just on the other
side of the City Walls. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ZR7bTMG9maqrxF7LKUI72M18-WVXuyQmHwb6816BjI3Yd6OF3pgJyapoUPK2i_lSpqs5nNNkg11Ugq5eVsKyu77WJsJ0dgGokCgWeAHog404OQWAjFcTrG9QiRciMEAdaRqie-4HkU_m0YbId1UKg8jenIN9MzwPeZQN-Wdb_iyFBwv5gxas7OPi/s4457/Old%20Town%201%20(26a).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3198" data-original-width="4457" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ZR7bTMG9maqrxF7LKUI72M18-WVXuyQmHwb6816BjI3Yd6OF3pgJyapoUPK2i_lSpqs5nNNkg11Ugq5eVsKyu77WJsJ0dgGokCgWeAHog404OQWAjFcTrG9QiRciMEAdaRqie-4HkU_m0YbId1UKg8jenIN9MzwPeZQN-Wdb_iyFBwv5gxas7OPi/w640-h460/Old%20Town%201%20(26a).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">By this time, you will be back in The Planta and
probably in need of a well-deserved rest on one of the numerous park benches –
where I found this interesting statue.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOfJ9QDZWkeTATOHHjdFMbCZ0U8AjPgHMaRkGNoFRHYFk_oiiBOuAoYf2Lgui0lWDaioZCsToujUEX1fLCNcdrnzLOwEQ9M9IeHZ8v5VlvIBJ3gCaoFW4jyZfyEjTTuTFAoC1tXAktk5lNl0SG-YF0SpEN-zHMaDRgEqGmjfapmvtwrczmFzpk_VXm/s4061/Old%20Town%201%20(27).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3367" data-original-width="4061" height="530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOfJ9QDZWkeTATOHHjdFMbCZ0U8AjPgHMaRkGNoFRHYFk_oiiBOuAoYf2Lgui0lWDaioZCsToujUEX1fLCNcdrnzLOwEQ9M9IeHZ8v5VlvIBJ3gCaoFW4jyZfyEjTTuTFAoC1tXAktk5lNl0SG-YF0SpEN-zHMaDRgEqGmjfapmvtwrczmFzpk_VXm/w640-h530/Old%20Town%201%20(27).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">As well as the Old City, you can
wander around the Jewish district known as Kazimierz, which has its own
delightful buildings, monuments and squares - often with music being played in
the cafes. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiJGQs9UrmUVLGcZcCLka5vELo8_063qpQaO7D3DMVW3RskQDnh1nlJxmGL2si5Zq8Luww0_J_XDLQv7kBHROrkYHy6uVTFHpeOAfXGeYQSgV1cXC_96ymIhADz5-E_tG48-LRocGdSChdLLDlrorm_oAOfOu4WBeiEWLXpx9zgoSYtOgS979jSqF0/s5059/Jewish%20Quarter%201%20(11).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2970" data-original-width="5059" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiJGQs9UrmUVLGcZcCLka5vELo8_063qpQaO7D3DMVW3RskQDnh1nlJxmGL2si5Zq8Luww0_J_XDLQv7kBHROrkYHy6uVTFHpeOAfXGeYQSgV1cXC_96ymIhADz5-E_tG48-LRocGdSChdLLDlrorm_oAOfOu4WBeiEWLXpx9zgoSYtOgS979jSqF0/w640-h376/Jewish%20Quarter%201%20(11).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">There are several old synagogues within this district :- The Old
Synagogue built in the 14<sup>th</sup> Century, with its Gothic-Renaissance
interior – it is now part of the Historical Museum of Krakow dedicated to the
history of the Polish Jews. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeJVb76B-6b319p7S9WZ3piiDDY1QAMibNiwVSUw3JX4WzHma1bpq-_5v0kFI4nGAzzVt6CX9qYTjUZgsADMkE65ciIWuwMvj-_vNWMhuyHpY5wmExJrvp-NKoPoFA7N1wmPwMJHT84g_tLh-dReCH70_jvJKOWImvmC4QeVBDnsHNmPHFenr3qoA/s4678/Jewish%20Quarter%201%20(1).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3205" data-original-width="4678" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeJVb76B-6b319p7S9WZ3piiDDY1QAMibNiwVSUw3JX4WzHma1bpq-_5v0kFI4nGAzzVt6CX9qYTjUZgsADMkE65ciIWuwMvj-_vNWMhuyHpY5wmExJrvp-NKoPoFA7N1wmPwMJHT84g_tLh-dReCH70_jvJKOWImvmC4QeVBDnsHNmPHFenr3qoA/w640-h438/Jewish%20Quarter%201%20(1).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">It is the site where the Jewish Town began all
those years ago. The 16<sup>th</sup> Century Remuh Synagogue and the High
Synagogue (the tallest in the city); and the Isaac Synagogue built in 17<sup>th</sup>
Century – are just the most well-known. As everyone knows there is also a
sad, dark side to Jewish history, and if you cross over the river, you will
learn more about this. (Look out for the bridge with pretend people hanging
from it!). </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxI_rxIy-yaPM4GRx4y95DJ1Hcjv_L85J93Dz-YdFU81CB8gscoVw-lpd1cTKECEFs_Hq0XfRoMcC9tAKGiDpklP0-aLZLuwQQGUWO-j7jnUGvfblya1v7XATQnNz_jUxPj85kL9TrP7fOMklfTG2VVKYrgJ7zKQ7lJxe72_A5CKhyH3SCDl4g_ice/s2842/River%201%20(4).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1711" data-original-width="2842" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxI_rxIy-yaPM4GRx4y95DJ1Hcjv_L85J93Dz-YdFU81CB8gscoVw-lpd1cTKECEFs_Hq0XfRoMcC9tAKGiDpklP0-aLZLuwQQGUWO-j7jnUGvfblya1v7XATQnNz_jUxPj85kL9TrP7fOMklfTG2VVKYrgJ7zKQ7lJxe72_A5CKhyH3SCDl4g_ice/w640-h386/River%201%20(4).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The sombre Ghetto Heroes Square is the place where deportations
started, sending tens of thousands of people to the death camps during World
War Two. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivZ_iiI0eRhQk-jCDmB6uj2jxFeT4baO2V-P8bPCLebwWylmy7plrN8JPb5Tp6BwQ-np1DXbVjcTzu9Iw1zO_I2-Q8_eY2-jdTUWPBy-OUvG0cf5YetnWkvyAFddIJBHxFSgGUZgl87_qKtWmvdtiPc2EGaH-ZsClXOAjzW6UpZmbgbpKQ4z1xjil0/s3489/Ghetto%20area%201%20(3).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2814" data-original-width="3489" height="516" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivZ_iiI0eRhQk-jCDmB6uj2jxFeT4baO2V-P8bPCLebwWylmy7plrN8JPb5Tp6BwQ-np1DXbVjcTzu9Iw1zO_I2-Q8_eY2-jdTUWPBy-OUvG0cf5YetnWkvyAFddIJBHxFSgGUZgl87_qKtWmvdtiPc2EGaH-ZsClXOAjzW6UpZmbgbpKQ4z1xjil0/w640-h516/Ghetto%20area%201%20(3).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxYhZXtDVy1uWZs-7mgIky_fpia2txQbvGXwUR3Xe603w2Vd2fBDp3SUHlPbZ-qE0CjVpUQHGEDbxDC_HF6pgQHgXEEnFvHrz7ArBcUFDp2Wc2SRVlC92Tx5ZCk71ktEqk-4UUsJqRzg02AbmJRCyECMpUNCawDWYjl62dGnjdysa7MBPL3lFEG_G/s3693/Ghetto%20area%201%20(4).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3096" data-original-width="3693" height="536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAxYhZXtDVy1uWZs-7mgIky_fpia2txQbvGXwUR3Xe603w2Vd2fBDp3SUHlPbZ-qE0CjVpUQHGEDbxDC_HF6pgQHgXEEnFvHrz7ArBcUFDp2Wc2SRVlC92Tx5ZCk71ktEqk-4UUsJqRzg02AbmJRCyECMpUNCawDWYjl62dGnjdysa7MBPL3lFEG_G/w640-h536/Ghetto%20area%201%20(4).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The square now comprises of fixed black chairs and notice boards
telling the heart-breaking story of those unfortunate souls who lost their
lives. It is a very thought-inspiring place!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTkHkFO_gc_M1RhSiHfXP4EZscuGKrGCzhM2H9QipN3cVR4kRLuUGJeteQ2rCrNAb1ql7Zi8mRDrILLY6uCwqy82hHQdTb-Jt37LVVM8sr_CT0-bfXoKTuQbMNR6Kt5aSu93WzconuujCT-pnFPyaUJNEqOpvtYZYfWBLc1REnkxp4oUviGQ0kFj8h/s3231/Ghetto%203.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1977" data-original-width="3231" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTkHkFO_gc_M1RhSiHfXP4EZscuGKrGCzhM2H9QipN3cVR4kRLuUGJeteQ2rCrNAb1ql7Zi8mRDrILLY6uCwqy82hHQdTb-Jt37LVVM8sr_CT0-bfXoKTuQbMNR6Kt5aSu93WzconuujCT-pnFPyaUJNEqOpvtYZYfWBLc1REnkxp4oUviGQ0kFj8h/w640-h392/Ghetto%203.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Only a few minutes’ walk away is
the museum which was once Oskar Schindler’s Enamel Factory – during WW2 this
man devoted himself to saving as many Jews as he could from the nearby ghetto.
He is epitomised in the film “Schindler’s List”, which tells the story of how
he managed to save 1200 Jews from certain death in the concentration camps.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6szLRqCIPxzsav-dtvFHEfFX-kRN9f_ZeBgkZ-wDH6a8kcOmClIWSLcLCQSKq0Te9RpDJMi-YlTg-PmQoy7b6XAs2WAGOGQ7BMmldjSDME19beHpiHY2dafmM0PoDfAD-BZwfJye7CWWRewKPmFJDRN1DNeE6_lcJT9Pn-68YlBCPQikGHyJ4EX-2/s5141/Shindlers%20Factory%201%20(6).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3291" data-original-width="5141" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6szLRqCIPxzsav-dtvFHEfFX-kRN9f_ZeBgkZ-wDH6a8kcOmClIWSLcLCQSKq0Te9RpDJMi-YlTg-PmQoy7b6XAs2WAGOGQ7BMmldjSDME19beHpiHY2dafmM0PoDfAD-BZwfJye7CWWRewKPmFJDRN1DNeE6_lcJT9Pn-68YlBCPQikGHyJ4EX-2/w640-h410/Shindlers%20Factory%201%20(6).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLOlp7lC-FVZ-tQDIpxWSe8DiPX1JinoS0vuTptxkIzaI_ChunAF7AiJnfcS-2F-2yj8_T3kByAoCU6jHR9qvMEJcI0uiNXy8-2jEqbWWLv3fqHOMbtSLzVSVh42u7Xz_dc-uem_rAGL63QEOVBHYssOG3niI5debcmCaAEKW3-aw6zmMWoDjn2y3r/s3938/Shindlers%20Factory%201%20(5).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3445" data-original-width="3938" height="560" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLOlp7lC-FVZ-tQDIpxWSe8DiPX1JinoS0vuTptxkIzaI_ChunAF7AiJnfcS-2F-2yj8_T3kByAoCU6jHR9qvMEJcI0uiNXy8-2jEqbWWLv3fqHOMbtSLzVSVh42u7Xz_dc-uem_rAGL63QEOVBHYssOG3niI5debcmCaAEKW3-aw6zmMWoDjn2y3r/w640-h560/Shindlers%20Factory%201%20(5).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.schindlers-factory-tickets.com/">https://www.schindlers-factory-tickets.com/</a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">This is also one of the stops on
the “Wow Krakow” Hop on Hop Off bus. A whole circuit on this bus takes 90
minutes and is good if you just want a ride, to save your legs and see the
sites from the road (it also includes a 30-minute gondola ride), but there are
only 3 circuits of the town each day. This means if you get off, you have to
wait over an hour for the next bus; and the last bus starts its final loop at either
13:20 or 14:10 – depending which day of the week it is! As I discovered, it was
quite a walk back from the Ghetto to the Old Town one afternoon. One really
useful thing I discovered on my circuit of the town, was what the cylindrical
mound was that I had spotted from the Castle walls – Kopiec Kosciuszko (which I
visited the next day). You are given a complimentary map on the bus and can use
the headphones provided - that give information about the various drop off
points. You can buy a one or two day pass or just have one circuit of the city
(children under 4 years old are free). The bus can also be useful to drop you
off at the Railway station if you need to get there – it has a huge shopping
centre attached to it where you can easily spend half a day. <a href="http://www.wowkrakow.pl/">www.wowkrakow.pl</a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXYmjIzL0fRrBIu_o6OQ7TVX6AwCWI9yG-QhOj67cl9TG3Q6mAHMOfk4XC7y4bhp9n38cdeP-tuAsJuub_7ieoOg_stbAdvMJl2iwcUUGRLBcTTzc_2s36pvGABj3E31suBF0Wfch8ypOR9_8Z3MH8atphulZnr1OnPhn7dt4KqVHD_Xq6VuvsC33D/s4125/Hill%201%20(1).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2912" data-original-width="4125" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXYmjIzL0fRrBIu_o6OQ7TVX6AwCWI9yG-QhOj67cl9TG3Q6mAHMOfk4XC7y4bhp9n38cdeP-tuAsJuub_7ieoOg_stbAdvMJl2iwcUUGRLBcTTzc_2s36pvGABj3E31suBF0Wfch8ypOR9_8Z3MH8atphulZnr1OnPhn7dt4KqVHD_Xq6VuvsC33D/w640-h452/Hill%201%20(1).JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Kopiec Kosciuszko is a mound that
has been built to commemorate the life of the great Tadeusz Kosciuszko
(1746-1814), who was a talented General in both Poland and America. The museum
tells the story of his life, from his early days, his outstanding military
career – he was involved in the United States Declaration Independence in 1776;
and he was also known to have created beautiful mansions and gardens. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD7cLgn6TzRl_7LoaIsoWVTA5sIANei-lPt0_VAajOND852hejeshL5VF1THN37a00WrvA8iTHJ4sv4ORxG-7nr61_uNgmduUagLic7iDhJcCZ39I5wiwaiNPwo01pTiHVGHJwtCQKnZBjgKQw03tXBHfiAeg7d9ba7fc95m4nJ8BPKMsCkVp_crN3/s5184/Hill%201%20(3a).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD7cLgn6TzRl_7LoaIsoWVTA5sIANei-lPt0_VAajOND852hejeshL5VF1THN37a00WrvA8iTHJ4sv4ORxG-7nr61_uNgmduUagLic7iDhJcCZ39I5wiwaiNPwo01pTiHVGHJwtCQKnZBjgKQw03tXBHfiAeg7d9ba7fc95m4nJ8BPKMsCkVp_crN3/w640-h480/Hill%201%20(3a).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMUC3AeBlI2i8u5-QUMiD7QQav3c9KMe7MAlPCJdChZ84akvef9I8PUX5VWi8y0zSCqhKrFRbzOtcS0vsd0c1Uzy_5R04TNrGOlFiunaMHtf_o1ga4c0xQD90ylFi6tTtkANgFvPJayLXNOBdA5uGVTIWgNri5VZz-8TgZkilHxFmbrNb5INVtDeG/s4589/Hill%202%20(4).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3651" data-original-width="4589" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMUC3AeBlI2i8u5-QUMiD7QQav3c9KMe7MAlPCJdChZ84akvef9I8PUX5VWi8y0zSCqhKrFRbzOtcS0vsd0c1Uzy_5R04TNrGOlFiunaMHtf_o1ga4c0xQD90ylFi6tTtkANgFvPJayLXNOBdA5uGVTIWgNri5VZz-8TgZkilHxFmbrNb5INVtDeG/w640-h510/Hill%202%20(4).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">He was
totally ahead of his time – being against slavery and servitude – believing
them to be a disgrace to humanity. You have to go through the museum to reach
the mound (there is a little chapel and garden on the way) and it isn’t too
arduous to walk up to the top. On a clear day there are magnificent views over
to Krakow – but not the day I went. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEganPH49hBbA0BI7hKHwOgexeSzvFg_HkzE6iAwWO_ewKE4wxzmBN0X1zFCW4L-1XVyEtBq8BtUvcmuCw5fobgIsbbGsivSHk1eBQa59mDtfxZtQwy72a9LIoYY2fw4INy6eHrHuvKetQ74CfSQ51iZXUUMftsfdzjPC-KoZ93OkCPkW0Z2sRoUv0kd/s5184/Hill%202%20(8).JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEganPH49hBbA0BI7hKHwOgexeSzvFg_HkzE6iAwWO_ewKE4wxzmBN0X1zFCW4L-1XVyEtBq8BtUvcmuCw5fobgIsbbGsivSHk1eBQa59mDtfxZtQwy72a9LIoYY2fw4INy6eHrHuvKetQ74CfSQ51iZXUUMftsfdzjPC-KoZ93OkCPkW0Z2sRoUv0kd/w640-h480/Hill%202%20(8).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">There is a café and toilets back at the
bottom. Just over an hour was ideal for this stop – so doing it on the bus
worked perfectly – so long as you went in the morning and could get back to the
city! <a href="https://www.kopieckosciuszki.pl/en/">https://www.kopieckosciuszki.pl/en/</a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Krakow is somewhere you can visit
for 2/3/4 days depending how much time you have – choosing to cram in as much
or as little into each day as you want to. Some museums and the Castle are free
to go around on Mondays or Tuesdays – so do check before you go. There are lots
of golf type buggies offering city tours – if you wanted to save your legs (I
don’t know how much they cost but they were very popular). I hope you have
enjoyed reading about my short trip to Krakow as much as I did visiting it – I
can highly recommend it.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmjiUsgK7cKLn2_HghGPfm5X4yHKvABzc-OYjPSflg0iyMa91qvMkRR8IxQ37pmPJVs0Q1ZGN6L5kNEKqoF3xdR-9263P0hJL4Iwdnqy1OxDNCE1Ih4_zN-C3ZMvNo_FVsNbiYEX0_z0Bf8xziaZUc85olngFHB1lUMM20E0iVDksPPA8-BM9ly3K9/s1024/z1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="743" data-original-width="1024" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmjiUsgK7cKLn2_HghGPfm5X4yHKvABzc-OYjPSflg0iyMa91qvMkRR8IxQ37pmPJVs0Q1ZGN6L5kNEKqoF3xdR-9263P0hJL4Iwdnqy1OxDNCE1Ih4_zN-C3ZMvNo_FVsNbiYEX0_z0Bf8xziaZUc85olngFHB1lUMM20E0iVDksPPA8-BM9ly3K9/w640-h464/z1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></div><p><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;"><i>Lynne</i></b></p><p><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">These are my other blogs :-</b></p><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com/">http://lynnejmorley.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="line-height: 17.12px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: 12pt;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com/" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: x-large;">http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com</a></div></div></div></div></div>Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-37682822644164945712022-12-21T09:20:00.000+00:002022-12-21T09:20:31.611+00:00Magnetic Island<p> </p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Magnetic Island</span></u></b></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNSx_Hey61Bk9uZja5usiwuDHpXTsWqV5az7AgJXcbZM-t_tAkqra_LVY2ZjrpNB1HPPTO8V6drVRXjdRRe6s4xoQ599XUf-oJjCi2rTxurxfJ_q_Bkt31PSWHMUXKGG1A3abeMpgR5A/s2048/2021-08-13+14.08.28.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTNSx_Hey61Bk9uZja5usiwuDHpXTsWqV5az7AgJXcbZM-t_tAkqra_LVY2ZjrpNB1HPPTO8V6drVRXjdRRe6s4xoQ599XUf-oJjCi2rTxurxfJ_q_Bkt31PSWHMUXKGG1A3abeMpgR5A/w400-h300/2021-08-13+14.08.28.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">After a delightful early morning walk along the Townsville
foreshore, I reached the marina in time to catch the ferry to Magnetic Island
which owes its name to Captain James Cook who, when passing by in 1770,
believed the island had a “magnetic effect” that affected his compass. People
have since explored Magnetic Island with various instruments to discover what
might have caused the effect that Cook reported, but nothing has been
discovered. Today it is known for its palm-fringed beaches, koalas, hiking
trails and snorkelling adventures - a wonderful place to relax and unwind. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXXQpIZFtOOsSzswoK-SvF-TVNufMGziO3_2-yT2ww_0NflYiwk7RwgY6Dbtqhpbbjic28MMyc68E3QXmMjfefmtBH8WU2RnBfcU92iN5ZdfiqfUPwbsrqXkAevGm0uBrikbsSBHyIbTI/s1280/1+a.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="670" data-original-width="1280" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXXQpIZFtOOsSzswoK-SvF-TVNufMGziO3_2-yT2ww_0NflYiwk7RwgY6Dbtqhpbbjic28MMyc68E3QXmMjfefmtBH8WU2RnBfcU92iN5ZdfiqfUPwbsrqXkAevGm0uBrikbsSBHyIbTI/w640-h336/1+a.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">I
bought a return ferry ticket and unlimited travel on the buses around the
island for the day – which was very good value.</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"> </span><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">The 20-minute passenger ferry or
35-minute car ferry to Magnetic Island departs from Townsville regularly
throughout the day. Route 250 bus service connects Picnic Bay and Horseshoe Bay
at either end of the island, with the Magnetic Island Ferry Terminal at Nelly
Bay. After a short crossing, I arrived back
at this delightful island, I hadn’t seen for several decades. Described as a
jewel of North Queensland, Magnetic Island is located within the Great Barrier
Reef, and only 8 kilometres from Townsville – look out for the annual Magnetic
Island Swim, in open water from the island to Townsville. It has a population
of less than 3000 people and with a year-round pleasant tropical climate, the Island
offers an abundance of natural beauty and activities to make a perfect day trip
or holiday. As well as offering many varied activities, I think its greatest
asset is being able to relax on one of the island’s 23 secluded beaches -
formed by rocky granite headlands, some of which can only be reached on foot or
by boat. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGqPxUYIqNXqnJ7-9kW09BbFloWKdV9NIGUj4O-J71HAuQixg2bp-VXQrplHYkby4Npow_RRsqZibbtMV8eqn-qw_J4C_84Re0fgtZDprLLZIx-Z-HwZmEzo6mrOvb7KzycyfrKfBC5I/s1280/10+%25285%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivGqPxUYIqNXqnJ7-9kW09BbFloWKdV9NIGUj4O-J71HAuQixg2bp-VXQrplHYkby4Npow_RRsqZibbtMV8eqn-qw_J4C_84Re0fgtZDprLLZIx-Z-HwZmEzo6mrOvb7KzycyfrKfBC5I/w640-h480/10+%25285%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">The Island has many excellent dive sites (including</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"> </span><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">one of the
best shipwreck dive sites in Australia – the SS Yongala), and the warm, shallow
waters are ideal for beginners. Also, you can snorkel right from the beach at
Alma, Arthur and Florence bays or follow one of the fascinating Snorkel Trails
at Nelly Bay and Geoffrey Bay. Magnetic Island is famous for its big game fishing,
and you can easily join a fishing charter or just hire some gear and drop a
line in the ocean. The waters here are a stunning turquoise blue, it has a
fringing coral reef, turtles’ nest on its sandy beaches and dugongs make use of
the surrounding seagrass beds. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMjJpzMdBwNRE2_1ye9s8V9dkR_9LZm9SJDlodiKdb2yCwLM8jEgrLK3dwErRy8dkwljsNOyv07wH9sABqu1JZRtEMD0Kah0j7dHKEmfefV3ke0Ef6CHK-TLBtSeywtLWifyiv95ArPbo/s1280/10+%25288%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMjJpzMdBwNRE2_1ye9s8V9dkR_9LZm9SJDlodiKdb2yCwLM8jEgrLK3dwErRy8dkwljsNOyv07wH9sABqu1JZRtEMD0Kah0j7dHKEmfefV3ke0Ef6CHK-TLBtSeywtLWifyiv95ArPbo/w640-h480/10+%25288%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">Sounds
like paradise! The western part of the Island is dominated by Magnetic Island
National Park which covers over half of the island’s land area, and the highest
Point is Mt Cook. The Aboriginal Wulgurukaba people, ‘canoe people’, have lived
here for thousands of years, naming the island ‘Yunbenun’. They had seasonal
camps at several bays and travelled between the island and mainland using
canoes - cave drawings can still be found in some of the bays. Folklore of the
local tribe tells of a long association with the island and annual migrations
to the mainland to avoid expeditions of head-hunters from the northern isles
and Papua New Guinea! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7TOfaHpug7P_iaHxhp-zOq6beoTspldlR2Hv5CVhEfocV6fMzX1Qo5_gwIWQFJZDw3H_gL-0z5J55eulWBpW7s_Q0AFu01aonZvOWfS2JNjIRzH-5q9-zVDfqqh2qoGl8lk_jA87Vx0M/s1280/DSC00046.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7TOfaHpug7P_iaHxhp-zOq6beoTspldlR2Hv5CVhEfocV6fMzX1Qo5_gwIWQFJZDw3H_gL-0z5J55eulWBpW7s_Q0AFu01aonZvOWfS2JNjIRzH-5q9-zVDfqqh2qoGl8lk_jA87Vx0M/w640-h480/DSC00046.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">The Park contains extensive and varied forests, eucalyptus
woodlands and is home to rock-wallabies, koalas, and many species of birdlife. Bungalow
Bay Koala Village is a koala sanctuary, a carefully designed complex, located
adjacent to the National Park, close to the beach and the village of Horseshoe
Bay. Guests and day visitors can experience its interactive wildlife sanctuary,
which is home to crocodiles, koalas, and snakes - or take a guided walk in the
surrounding forest. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6vOAYQP-WudoYW8zy6IT0PL8HVTGBK_aaCLZGA0JautrEPHeI7d93yBuSwToo_BdCpNXJgmUgjYbr-ei4QAzhS_mFt_xXgQ_MvHSp-Y_a4GxLqUh2ZuhEMJlrpSvae-D3zJLo6LT2QHQ/s1011/DSC00060+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="758" data-original-width="1011" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6vOAYQP-WudoYW8zy6IT0PL8HVTGBK_aaCLZGA0JautrEPHeI7d93yBuSwToo_BdCpNXJgmUgjYbr-ei4QAzhS_mFt_xXgQ_MvHSp-Y_a4GxLqUh2ZuhEMJlrpSvae-D3zJLo6LT2QHQ/w640-h480/DSC00060+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">There are 25 km of bushwalking trails on the island
- including the 1.5-hour Forts Walk which takes in World War II forts, with
incredible views enroute. Magnetic Island became an important defensive
position during World War II, because of its proximity to Townsville (an
important military base) and was a significant anchorage and assembly point for
large convoys operating in the south Pacific. As such, the Magnetic Battery,
(AKA The Forts) an artillery battery and observation post, were built in
Florence, Horseshoe and Arthur Bays.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW4R0p27wQHMWSfZJzUQXlcF4rB3vkQIhgMK-JqfgVP20g2MSGgzDREB5wcXZmDQkUWJ5vPpWV8odLRYq0FolvwT2RZJXs_X3rjDI34SFxw6BlqkNGK0oqPks0wCjDuy8rqZ7Z29mWdic/s1280/x+DSC00077+%25281%2529.JPG" style="font-size: x-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW4R0p27wQHMWSfZJzUQXlcF4rB3vkQIhgMK-JqfgVP20g2MSGgzDREB5wcXZmDQkUWJ5vPpWV8odLRYq0FolvwT2RZJXs_X3rjDI34SFxw6BlqkNGK0oqPks0wCjDuy8rqZ7Z29mWdic/w640-h480/x+DSC00077+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">My ferry pulled up at the jetty which looked the same as it had done all those years ago, it was
wonderful to think it had retained its charismatic character; even though it is
the main residential area of the island. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_xMR5W_60LSG0xYLOaX5K9jY6amdjdjoHt5i7Wh-TcPfIfxVuhYN1qlvjTQZx3_vX1g9lvqgJK3aoIraOZaYziobp2SdKItS1lEQzXDN6aq-Yoyon5YFL3SQJvWChaySbRdOe1PvetG4/s1253/2.JPG" style="font-size: x-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="941" data-original-width="1253" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_xMR5W_60LSG0xYLOaX5K9jY6amdjdjoHt5i7Wh-TcPfIfxVuhYN1qlvjTQZx3_vX1g9lvqgJK3aoIraOZaYziobp2SdKItS1lEQzXDN6aq-Yoyon5YFL3SQJvWChaySbRdOe1PvetG4/w640-h480/2.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">The ferry terminal is served by the Island
Bus and local taxis, with car hire and bicycle rental being located nearby. I caught
the bus to Horseshoe Bay on the north side of the island — the furthest bay
along the road (there is only one road around only half of the island — to get
to the rest you have to walk and climb). </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtdytivVIuUT2TFQK6QJ2Be86yOsf2KtWOr1L34HoaWp8clmHqcFjH2qWKfAqhvvs80KEtrp_Ixqsn05dgxB4fJ6QrCyK02_sJeidc6VMXt6QjBuO83njh2pIresp-E-fmXjIVCdgE18c/s1257/10+%252811%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="638" data-original-width="1257" height="324" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtdytivVIuUT2TFQK6QJ2Be86yOsf2KtWOr1L34HoaWp8clmHqcFjH2qWKfAqhvvs80KEtrp_Ixqsn05dgxB4fJ6QrCyK02_sJeidc6VMXt6QjBuO83njh2pIresp-E-fmXjIVCdgE18c/w640-h324/10+%252811%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI0nL5QRpkMO5S4OCIW7A0JEXp9e9EsDFnEP4Xvv-QQY1kvhkpMy5_MbboN6h5paxSqRwdDegcPgs5qwvOdZx7IzNbNRuhaz7DQw0_LDfcu9WupAEvwaWW4Lg3SdrXujKv7jpHVlxM5_c/s1276/10+%252813%2529.JPG" style="font-size: x-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="887" data-original-width="1276" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI0nL5QRpkMO5S4OCIW7A0JEXp9e9EsDFnEP4Xvv-QQY1kvhkpMy5_MbboN6h5paxSqRwdDegcPgs5qwvOdZx7IzNbNRuhaz7DQw0_LDfcu9WupAEvwaWW4Lg3SdrXujKv7jpHVlxM5_c/w640-h444/10+%252813%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">It wasn't difficult to find a secluded
place by some ginormous, smooth boulders at one end of the long beach, where I enjoyed
spending some time sunbathing and paddling in the mirror-like ocean. Horseshoe
Bay is the largest bay on the island – and is popular for a variety of water
sports. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4kIH_jVNzJgep6QsM9PqLvH_pq8_sZj6NoROnWlDSvEuKS3KmzXsnDt9EYP6A60373b1FmcxoGEb_Whi4ssskUrcgf8O78Z1etBzVqjcHbyHixI67IDozX6w6DCAX_W1LNWbs2WVWFtU/s1280/10+%25282%2529.JPG" style="font-size: x-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4kIH_jVNzJgep6QsM9PqLvH_pq8_sZj6NoROnWlDSvEuKS3KmzXsnDt9EYP6A60373b1FmcxoGEb_Whi4ssskUrcgf8O78Z1etBzVqjcHbyHixI67IDozX6w6DCAX_W1LNWbs2WVWFtU/w640-h480/10+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">Tour boats leave from the eastern end of the bay to go out to the outer
Great Barrier Reef; and you can also sign up for kayaking, parasailing, and
horseback swimming. There is a beachfront esplanade with cafes and bars, a safe
swimming enclosure, and a children’s playground. After a light lunch I hopped
back on the bus and went to Alma Bay — a wonderful small sandy cove with more
boulders; it was just the most perfect beach. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6wnEd1n8Av-MHhejVuvrZ9trhqD7h_mUc318svfMGLRpsBHMjz9SgT33bRctSchvKbcUvP9H493eUbgfCmSXtFHIeVtdAL6WzZb0lOrcRXsnXUAsbTa5K6eK5WDsQP3DSBDeOiJ0gvg/s1243/10+%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="832" data-original-width="1243" height="428" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK6wnEd1n8Av-MHhejVuvrZ9trhqD7h_mUc318svfMGLRpsBHMjz9SgT33bRctSchvKbcUvP9H493eUbgfCmSXtFHIeVtdAL6WzZb0lOrcRXsnXUAsbTa5K6eK5WDsQP3DSBDeOiJ0gvg/w640-h428/10+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">I spent quite a while in the
clear turquoise sea with no thought of jellyfish or of sharks. All along
Townsville’s foreshore I had seen bottles of vinegar to put on jelly fish
stings and plaques telling you what to do if you were stung — and how to give
artificial respiration! You need to be cautious of box jellyfish and stingers
during the summer month’s (November to May) along the Northern Australian
coastline; a sting from these jellyfish can be very serious - there is even a
Poison hotline number to ring if anyone gets stung. I was very glad it wasn’t
the time of year for jellyfish, the water was so clear, and I just couldn't
keep out of it, as the sun was burning hot. It was just perfect, and I decided
that there couldn’t be an island more like paradise than this one. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWyh_cmt_y2mcdEvjWX0LoJyX8pXxdzSTrJa8V_W_SdPbImCLomsaYBdaOjJKcVcM-MomG3qThNVyvzqViu7K12EFpGY6EPbfGZGSEuKkBnTf8XBCSRt2havy1hVMWtrJRck5z3IdBW68/s1280/10+%25284%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWyh_cmt_y2mcdEvjWX0LoJyX8pXxdzSTrJa8V_W_SdPbImCLomsaYBdaOjJKcVcM-MomG3qThNVyvzqViu7K12EFpGY6EPbfGZGSEuKkBnTf8XBCSRt2havy1hVMWtrJRck5z3IdBW68/w640-h480/10+%25284%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">I walked
from Alma Bay, past Arcadia Bay and over the hill back to Nelly Bay, taking in
the amazing views – before heading back to the ferry. It had been such a great
day on Magnetic Island, that a few days later, I packed a picnic and headed off
to catch the ferry back there. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8YzVMOvT60uE_sglQeZpg7qRqrbo_17Lb_86UAfHamCv50nRhc1oM12RpbcOZ-VFu4XLHKGUyNn4ywn5BrlCNnrB8RhuwoVD_2GqWDuC0Q0I59iS_ca5nrPTVwu72gtTwwwOCMvv4_is/s1280/3.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8YzVMOvT60uE_sglQeZpg7qRqrbo_17Lb_86UAfHamCv50nRhc1oM12RpbcOZ-VFu4XLHKGUyNn4ywn5BrlCNnrB8RhuwoVD_2GqWDuC0Q0I59iS_ca5nrPTVwu72gtTwwwOCMvv4_is/w640-h480/3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">I walked along the old rickety wooden jetty (a
real icon in its day – which I am sure will now have been replaced) and made my
way to Picnic Bay on the south side of the island this time - with some great
views back towards Townsville. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK-pvLoYerbsEqcUmIPyKTQbP9T992Hdz0LINQ-jJkYt8FP2livWnAUWNqR7AYUr7xR_xSEmY7fQN8Vj6fDrvI9ALQ8jp3jtWXckt_S7Rnz_PBYFaiK9Py9Riu8Fed1tS9q4O3wsh7IG8/s1222/11.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="1222" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK-pvLoYerbsEqcUmIPyKTQbP9T992Hdz0LINQ-jJkYt8FP2livWnAUWNqR7AYUr7xR_xSEmY7fQN8Vj6fDrvI9ALQ8jp3jtWXckt_S7Rnz_PBYFaiK9Py9Riu8Fed1tS9q4O3wsh7IG8/w640-h330/11.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">Picnic Bay was named after its popularity as a
picnic spot for tourists from the mainland during the 19th century. At this
time the island also became a popular location for the collection of stone and
coral needed for development on the mainland – even gold was mined there for
several years. In 1898 Robert Hayles Senior was so impressed by the potential
of Magnetic Island, that he built a resort on the island and was responsible
for much of its development; starting a regular ferry service from Townsville. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5OWnERubMjyaD64s0AfCsDrHiKRoPtqJ63RbaEb0UgrTDVmx0WgwzXM4Aboga1JQKyhZj0JVxwlolyJ4GvW4Z6kmQ__84EepBVf37n18GhyHKYw7pr3zRH5vPA_RiU653bVvd9eJ0Vhw/s1280/10+%25283%2529.JPG" style="font-size: x-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5OWnERubMjyaD64s0AfCsDrHiKRoPtqJ63RbaEb0UgrTDVmx0WgwzXM4Aboga1JQKyhZj0JVxwlolyJ4GvW4Z6kmQ__84EepBVf37n18GhyHKYw7pr3zRH5vPA_RiU653bVvd9eJ0Vhw/w640-h480/10+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></p><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">The
island slowly expanded after the Second World War; although in late December
1971, Cyclone Althea hit the North Queensland coast directly crossing Magnetic
Island. The island, along with much of the mainland, was devastated - with 90%
of the island's houses damaged or destroyed, some simply lifted off their
foundations and tossed into nearby trees. Luckily, everything was soon rebuilt,
and the island gradually recovered. Picnic Bays’ open-air mall has a collection
of shops and restaurants; shaded places to sit and children’s play areas; and a
golf course at the nearby Country Club. You can find varying accommodation here
and different types of transport to get around the island. The beach has a
netted swimming enclosure with lifesavers patrolling it in the summer months. Cockle
Bay is off to the west, and to the east lies Rocky Bay, one of the island’s top
locations for swimming and snorkelling. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiW9SQjiU0tJlBMlbxY8PvFmICeeCJoWoV-GkPrue_oZQ-TT3Iifs217G06pteJN5uCnlt8NghX25spi4Kk9yqM7QPJPn8fP5nNT6x8rKn9PyCQ8jeee1NOr4gLt_lrjuXgTvRz5OTnSo/s1280/10+%25286%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiW9SQjiU0tJlBMlbxY8PvFmICeeCJoWoV-GkPrue_oZQ-TT3Iifs217G06pteJN5uCnlt8NghX25spi4Kk9yqM7QPJPn8fP5nNT6x8rKn9PyCQ8jeee1NOr4gLt_lrjuXgTvRz5OTnSo/w640-h480/10+%25286%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">I decided on the "easy walk"
up to Hawking’s Point and Lookout (only 600 metres). It was the hardest 600
metres I have ever walked, through dense bush, really difficult underfoot, but I
felt really close to nature. I heard lots of rustling, saw lizards, different
coloured butterflies, finches, wrens, swarms of parrots and cockatoos —
squawking so loudly it was deafening. It also smelt like Koalas - I knew that
smell! Apparently, there were several families living in the area. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQmy6Vtsf28uFlxLzJqnkq0QlY2YeWMQeJMuG_ir8CXHEKrmvCjDCcXqCP495aWzrMiY9NIhLq2GHvdRUDF5O5l5WF8mpxBmIj3s3Je5FeM-R8D-jPIrKNXtJyHr5jtQc7RpVkdzJNnZU/s1249/10+%25289%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="760" data-original-width="1249" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQmy6Vtsf28uFlxLzJqnkq0QlY2YeWMQeJMuG_ir8CXHEKrmvCjDCcXqCP495aWzrMiY9NIhLq2GHvdRUDF5O5l5WF8mpxBmIj3s3Je5FeM-R8D-jPIrKNXtJyHr5jtQc7RpVkdzJNnZU/w640-h390/10+%25289%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">After
scrambling down a difficult hill, I reached Rocky Bay and found a wonderful
deserted sandy cove with only boulders for company. Or so I thought! There, I
enjoyed a delightful few hours’ swimming in the sea – with no sharks, jellyfish
or crocs! It was had a hard job scrambling back up the hill though, to get back
to the ferry — and this was my easy, restful day! The tide was the lowest I had
seen at Magnetic Island; and when we arrived back at Townsville, there wasn't
enough water for the ferry to get up the creek, so we had to disembark at the
Breakwater. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp6_ZPem95zvfQg2ORweCb8i82HSOf58ryBwlbYXDvRjvHx7tckSABTcekhMRaF4RHErh0vlRHWLGeyzNjvvJRbg9Jwwx4mRY2_0_wXQdRcZMlEpdA0RS_5hQAVxbY09z1tUzBg-BpJ64/s1280/2+a.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp6_ZPem95zvfQg2ORweCb8i82HSOf58ryBwlbYXDvRjvHx7tckSABTcekhMRaF4RHErh0vlRHWLGeyzNjvvJRbg9Jwwx4mRY2_0_wXQdRcZMlEpdA0RS_5hQAVxbY09z1tUzBg-BpJ64/w640-h480/2+a.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">At the end of my 2-week holiday, I couldn’t resist spending my last
day by going to Magnetic Island —just one last time. This time I caught the bus
to Horseshoe Bay and although the sea looked choppy at all the bays I had passed;
Horseshoe Bay was lovely and calm. I had a delightful time relaxing on the
beach, listening to wildlife (so close by that you could be scared), and
looking for shells that had been washed up from the coral reef. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6li1Iwm3R4_A0LQ3XvDqZ7ailQ8hjhnkC8u2uaM6Kf-VhzG2NChCdrBMPgDzPDeyagyZrg3g5JGKIaOTmnxJ316UNFG8KcSR7wc7zHJDYKkWdxNGRMsQjKAuZJFQUGgGbA5qo8Vp0kAg/s1180/10+%252812%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="722" data-original-width="1180" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6li1Iwm3R4_A0LQ3XvDqZ7ailQ8hjhnkC8u2uaM6Kf-VhzG2NChCdrBMPgDzPDeyagyZrg3g5JGKIaOTmnxJ316UNFG8KcSR7wc7zHJDYKkWdxNGRMsQjKAuZJFQUGgGbA5qo8Vp0kAg/w640-h392/10+%252812%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinBfdSGrUY-ClMpt2g02F_3YX52H_qT6xqRoUX-SmqHW-rdJ5dQejgo9lQO73YtaO5a9CvjGADBevkcajpO5ykyZG5DnqUpAgxme1Otd0bqfk7aSbplQEE4E7DKagY3nnsmsOY3sXBnos/s1260/10+%252814%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="737" data-original-width="1260" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinBfdSGrUY-ClMpt2g02F_3YX52H_qT6xqRoUX-SmqHW-rdJ5dQejgo9lQO73YtaO5a9CvjGADBevkcajpO5ykyZG5DnqUpAgxme1Otd0bqfk7aSbplQEE4E7DKagY3nnsmsOY3sXBnos/w640-h374/10+%252814%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%;">There was no
better way to spend my last day in Queensland. For me “pocket-sized” Magnetic
Island, measuring only 7km by 5km, with some of the best secluded beaches I had
ever seen - was my own little paradise. Its villages, in Picnic Bay, Nelly Bay,
Arcadia and Horseshoe Bay; with backpacker hostels, luxury resorts and quaint
bed and breakfasts; have all the amenities (including weekly open-air markets)
you could need, for a day visit or longer – if you are very lucky. I had worked
out how to get there and how to get around easily (the ferry and bus ticket was
brilliant value) – here are a few links that give all the information you
require to have magical day out……………..and you won’t get lost like Captain Cook
did all those years ago.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: 700; line-height: 112%; margin: 0cm 3.1pt 0cm 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 112%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: 700; margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><a href="https://www.sealinkqld.com.au/ferry/timetables/magnetic-island"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">https://www.sealinkqld.com.au/ferry/timetables/magnetic-island</span></a><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: 700; margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 0cm; text-indent: 0cm;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: 700; margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><a href="https://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/acquiadam-assets/timetables/4620_MagIs_tt_TL_Jul_2019_D_PR.pdf"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">https://translink.com.au/sites/default/files/acquiadam-assets/timetables/4620_MagIs_tt_TL_Jul_2019_D_PR.pdf</span></a><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: 700; margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: 700; margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><a href="https://magneticislandferries.com.au/magnetic-island/information/"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">https://magneticislandferries.com.au/magnetic-island/information/</span></a><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="font-weight: 700; margin: 0cm 3.8pt 0.25pt 3.55pt;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 99%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p></span></div></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbJgiGXsqB7Z6ogrCgjGNryCrG_1BEXZROKobSOOeQwivs2wnqu_EEHBVXB0BDysL18PAMspwd_xAHNIbEf_vknaRfsXOqlu_P6j3JjS7hf-qJKRE3CrsNn2OuYPxIFeeuho9xc1J3EMA/s729/Magnetic-Island-Map.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="597" data-original-width="729" height="525" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbJgiGXsqB7Z6ogrCgjGNryCrG_1BEXZROKobSOOeQwivs2wnqu_EEHBVXB0BDysL18PAMspwd_xAHNIbEf_vknaRfsXOqlu_P6j3JjS7hf-qJKRE3CrsNn2OuYPxIFeeuho9xc1J3EMA/w640-h525/Magnetic-Island-Map.png" width="640" /></a></div><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></span></div><p><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;"><i>Lynne</i></b></p><p><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">These are my other blogs :-</b></p><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfVZ8StXFooqQMZbOGk5ru2mVK3-I0EDw-L6HB-8p1l5evpQIn7qUToXDyY8hi-kFwkYCOt7m7167cSK6R_48aKwNx0zOR630ejgxvOzr33hQHhB8WO1-rnrmcFLgNk1PrzpnAQ5yyDbk/s1280/DSC00049.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfVZ8StXFooqQMZbOGk5ru2mVK3-I0EDw-L6HB-8p1l5evpQIn7qUToXDyY8hi-kFwkYCOt7m7167cSK6R_48aKwNx0zOR630ejgxvOzr33hQHhB8WO1-rnrmcFLgNk1PrzpnAQ5yyDbk/w640-h480/DSC00049.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com/">http://lynnejmorley.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="line-height: 17.12px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: 12pt;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div></div></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="font-family: "times new roman"; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: x-large;">http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com</a></div></div></div><p><br /></p>Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-18717715629972578722022-08-12T13:49:00.000+01:002022-08-12T13:49:05.133+01:00Exmouth - Gateway to the Jurassic Coast<p> </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 3;"> </span><b><u><span style="font-size: 14pt; line-height: 107%;">Exmouth – Gateway to the Jurassic
Coast</span></u></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b><u></u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_jqsk09itYGF-43g_X-htYa7H-H9eLRE1bHKefGbkwM6_JhGVO4Qah6uLW16b_0NoLNyjwaSSJwvZfQwDO0JPGeIMT_zb1bqn65kGtw8BxOBR-EYP0i2E8G53CiN43rZSY9Ccma0zFo/s2048/IMG_8588.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1638" data-original-width="2048" height="512" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS_jqsk09itYGF-43g_X-htYa7H-H9eLRE1bHKefGbkwM6_JhGVO4Qah6uLW16b_0NoLNyjwaSSJwvZfQwDO0JPGeIMT_zb1bqn65kGtw8BxOBR-EYP0i2E8G53CiN43rZSY9Ccma0zFo/w640-h512/IMG_8588.JPG" width="640" /></a></u></b></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Exmouth, described as the western
gateway to the Jurassic Coast; lies on the east bank, at the mouth of the River
Exe, about twelve miles south east of Exeter. The town has been a popular
seaside destination since the 18th century and is thought to be the oldest
holiday resort in Devon. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ8skcpWMidUb0ZbCy2p9lloZPeMwZLHL26kWcpdSTmmMuQ5T6xC-1QtMw2xwWVqV9LjD9lmHxPLBh0xHTpH0_Z8wG1nCay0LX7oHDwC_bxVxJQttH_F2xa3WeNPggzrNBWj1iWFEd3Ic/s5184/1a+%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2241" data-original-width="5184" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ8skcpWMidUb0ZbCy2p9lloZPeMwZLHL26kWcpdSTmmMuQ5T6xC-1QtMw2xwWVqV9LjD9lmHxPLBh0xHTpH0_Z8wG1nCay0LX7oHDwC_bxVxJQttH_F2xa3WeNPggzrNBWj1iWFEd3Ic/w640-h276/1a+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">It has an extensive beach, with two miles of golden
sand and rock pools to explore - making it a paradise for families. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is also a popular destination for a variety
of water sports, such as kite surfing, kayaking and windsurfing. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh65tjYwjTnf7-U1JbnallO-58i0j4WZbjKDk7v6JYaVps2krQjVP0jXcLhEvTKbke6w0SMW1V7BgvE2YxJjkr7-Lszf4hpNXAHmsev7NMDFf2ypztLdDJV_xufbZrueedjbS6I1J_F-uc/s5184/1a+%25285%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh65tjYwjTnf7-U1JbnallO-58i0j4WZbjKDk7v6JYaVps2krQjVP0jXcLhEvTKbke6w0SMW1V7BgvE2YxJjkr7-Lszf4hpNXAHmsev7NMDFf2ypztLdDJV_xufbZrueedjbS6I1J_F-uc/w640-h480/1a+%25285%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The nearby estuary
of the River Exe is one of the most beautiful in Britain – much of it is a
nature reserve that is a haven for birdlife - particularly migrating and wading
birds. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKcp6QtjbbPiVatUFOmTjFyk_TAbmDpH513YeIVgXZU4Twf2c_TLJio3ykvxqDmAAc1wobIsmZ4ISgQITsioFoLlHJb-_hvZPAH01xYeA23VPHq2NQvtnT-Cm6xAxqUJ0wolpvSRe-rN4/s3923/1a+%252820%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2699" data-original-width="3923" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKcp6QtjbbPiVatUFOmTjFyk_TAbmDpH513YeIVgXZU4Twf2c_TLJio3ykvxqDmAAc1wobIsmZ4ISgQITsioFoLlHJb-_hvZPAH01xYeA23VPHq2NQvtnT-Cm6xAxqUJ0wolpvSRe-rN4/w640-h440/1a+%252820%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">There really is nothing like strolling along the longest old-fashioned seafront
in Devon, with its Victorian shelters to sit in and watch the world go by or
admire the delightful views over the water, and the colourful flowerbeds along
the promenade. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT_D4gjFBo-YScy9EnXBe6af4Q7dQCkH1R5f2Q8DDtslfMUrIi-SZgXevIcYb-bYHwiRcW2PVQ0fYXYGNn1Uh0O1FaB07SDx2lle7tKwuq7q3ij01dVOJA5-0LL6L7-XQTCtLw80gKqVM/s5184/Exmouth+%252817%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT_D4gjFBo-YScy9EnXBe6af4Q7dQCkH1R5f2Q8DDtslfMUrIi-SZgXevIcYb-bYHwiRcW2PVQ0fYXYGNn1Uh0O1FaB07SDx2lle7tKwuq7q3ij01dVOJA5-0LL6L7-XQTCtLw80gKqVM/w640-h480/Exmouth+%252817%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">There are a variety of places to enjoy refreshments – several traditional
pubs, fish and chip shops, or the seafront Ocean complex with its bar, café,
bowling centre, and soft play area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://www.oceanexmouth.co.uk/">https://www.oceanexmouth.co.uk/</a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbJNR-yBfVfo8VtwYLVf1liT8uvk5H_pW0KHMnmYitR7M_I_6vuankmBRxgvWlix67Dgu-sMEOtrF21G2JRpmbHg_Ug58ppvcDLnmUHHKcpg0yHWM8RjHMo_mRewU-X9YZ-PlE0Ka8tnU/s4760/1a+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3242" data-original-width="4760" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbJNR-yBfVfo8VtwYLVf1liT8uvk5H_pW0KHMnmYitR7M_I_6vuankmBRxgvWlix67Dgu-sMEOtrF21G2JRpmbHg_Ug58ppvcDLnmUHHKcpg0yHWM8RjHMo_mRewU-X9YZ-PlE0Ka8tnU/w640-h436/1a+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIYnX8SbtVa19KDt1zP8fnqn6LOZcpgW2-scvRX44Y_7ph9ncxBw26WYBhRlijxVxVP8CatmYJnMejE4ezw8tW5H6pJiqCItYXFy4emCDq3F4pi8kHNO8YvxjkWXQfknTKkCy6UjKp5T0/s4743/1a+%252819%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2423" data-original-width="4743" height="326" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIYnX8SbtVa19KDt1zP8fnqn6LOZcpgW2-scvRX44Y_7ph9ncxBw26WYBhRlijxVxVP8CatmYJnMejE4ezw8tW5H6pJiqCItYXFy4emCDq3F4pi8kHNO8YvxjkWXQfknTKkCy6UjKp5T0/w640-h326/1a+%252819%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Exmouth is nothing like a modern-day bustling
holiday resort; it is full of charm and character - and has retained much of
its traditional heritage. The town grew during the Victorian and Georgian eras,
and this is still evident in its architecture; many of the town’s hotels still
look like grand Victorian style villas which have been tastefully refurbished.
Walking along the promenade towards the marina, you will see quaint, colourful
fishermen’s cottages, which are all painted in various pastel colours. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmzl_Dxy_nZV4yHC95DblmOFz3vDYLqCufCdLkkJn3hZvHt4VnjMynqnQqeyNBll_tn7we9HN8WjTS4oc26IQyUfzXKDHLjQfuvbExMMrsj-6Fre1mkj2uDu7RWk_Cya7Ij_AsXlIHSo/s4543/1a+%25287%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2324" data-original-width="4543" height="328" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDmzl_Dxy_nZV4yHC95DblmOFz3vDYLqCufCdLkkJn3hZvHt4VnjMynqnQqeyNBll_tn7we9HN8WjTS4oc26IQyUfzXKDHLjQfuvbExMMrsj-6Fre1mkj2uDu7RWk_Cya7Ij_AsXlIHSo/w640-h328/1a+%25287%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Whereas
the modern buildings that surround the marina itself are a blaze of colour – a
real contrast to the older buildings - but very striking! It is delightful to
wander around this area, which has several unusual quirky little shops – but
nothing too touristy. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNJFj4aKlzXWLkYaSONesX63K9CBxc2grpPnJVSjYqpfaJqAcdomWr18JSauGuGMXJ4zKX_D3mHx6Q1FXKOaVvU2dKVWsENBB_fdMNy6ASY9tYLk9tscxhECnL2mgVg0L08kLNS6j2gK8/s5143/1a+%25289%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3189" data-original-width="5143" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNJFj4aKlzXWLkYaSONesX63K9CBxc2grpPnJVSjYqpfaJqAcdomWr18JSauGuGMXJ4zKX_D3mHx6Q1FXKOaVvU2dKVWsENBB_fdMNy6ASY9tYLk9tscxhECnL2mgVg0L08kLNS6j2gK8/w640-h396/1a+%25289%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVFe9tiND8-oawMm4umdjpinIiN5K_XQg9okQjxrqME-DcmPZwGqE_BR1GeedhGKH4Y86lGa_FqRNtthlIw3J4uCZsbQRZBoRphDIFIc5x_7V5W819nPOZ8FoQQqSDXyAzvZTex9ANW8/s5184/1a+%252811%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2928" data-original-width="5184" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVFe9tiND8-oawMm4umdjpinIiN5K_XQg9okQjxrqME-DcmPZwGqE_BR1GeedhGKH4Y86lGa_FqRNtthlIw3J4uCZsbQRZBoRphDIFIc5x_7V5W819nPOZ8FoQQqSDXyAzvZTex9ANW8/w640-h362/1a+%252811%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">You can book boat trips from here with Stuart Lines
Cruises. Their Jurassic Coast Cruise offers stunning views of the area’s deep
red Triassic rocks - accompanied by a live commentary from their skipper.
Tide-permitting, the vessel sails close to the cliffs and sea stacks, and then
sail further out for a panoramic view. Stuart Line Cruises have also teamed up with
the Jurassic Coast Trust to run an annual evening cruise in late Summer, with commentary
from local experts on the Jurassic Coast. <a href="http://www.stuartlinecruises.co.uk/">www.stuartlinecruises.co.uk</a> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC95o73QW1mxrbvA8WsHx5zCEsi-NQi3rBQUZfzBBo7xMph_zb-07TjhvsDwVVcsAxRYntnGIF0jQgYhfw1BP7JgLVclWFwuRmlO3dYkGYwowgSdDsifc44JttBkM2aZmKYfYyzVNJ69o/s3629/1a+%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2721" data-original-width="3629" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC95o73QW1mxrbvA8WsHx5zCEsi-NQi3rBQUZfzBBo7xMph_zb-07TjhvsDwVVcsAxRYntnGIF0jQgYhfw1BP7JgLVclWFwuRmlO3dYkGYwowgSdDsifc44JttBkM2aZmKYfYyzVNJ69o/w640-h480/1a+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Exmouth
is proud of its rich history, and one of the best ways to discover more about
the town’s impressive past, is to follow the Blue Plaque trail (distinctive
oval plaques that can be found all around the town). </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSY9FX0AbjK7t9UJjyTjcceRufwV5mHe7V7yTHyReTTjzfZhA8QC_xbXKVLzfGwf1WyzJOURMirLfSTgnll_HCY9ceczWUj3rh8qSSI6hgn-RIREjtMs4wcHfXJCtN6qIw_TjW7uqFgzA/s3828/Exmouth+%252823%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3828" data-original-width="3790" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSY9FX0AbjK7t9UJjyTjcceRufwV5mHe7V7yTHyReTTjzfZhA8QC_xbXKVLzfGwf1WyzJOURMirLfSTgnll_HCY9ceczWUj3rh8qSSI6hgn-RIREjtMs4wcHfXJCtN6qIw_TjW7uqFgzA/w634-h640/Exmouth+%252823%2529.JPG" width="634" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">If you do this, you will
discover that bygone smugglers were often discovered sneaking their wears down
Watery Lane, or you may learn about the underhand business dealings of Mary Ann
Clarke, mistress to The Duke of York, who lived in Chester House on Imperial
Road. He really was that Grand Old Duke of York – from the nursery rhyme! You
will discover that Exmouth was also the home of Admiral Nelson’s estranged wife
Lady Francis ‘Fanny’ Nelson, who lived on The Beacon. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children will love the tale of Nancy Perriman,
who disguised herself as a boy to go to sea during the Napoleonic wars; known
as ‘A Powder Monkey’, she lived to the age of 98 at Pilot Lights. The butterfly
shaped Beach House, formerly The Barn Hotel, is well worth finding - it is
believed to be one of the world’s oldest ‘Arts and Crafts’ buildings. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyfea96Z_TJv_CKdQfn4MZj7gZJHJu0d9G7K-eIlqaKannENUN9rVAKouoHuBiTcGCecalBAuATKGqMKXTXPuC9PaDH-TVOqpV5oAa95PcwnOIuH5siySLqH-b2qDLply_2y2F1St-q8/s3777/1a+%25284%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3777" data-original-width="3631" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhyfea96Z_TJv_CKdQfn4MZj7gZJHJu0d9G7K-eIlqaKannENUN9rVAKouoHuBiTcGCecalBAuATKGqMKXTXPuC9PaDH-TVOqpV5oAa95PcwnOIuH5siySLqH-b2qDLply_2y2F1St-q8/w616-h640/1a+%25284%2529.JPG" width="616" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPqWZHCrYiI_zDMkJWGZ3fIpW9aKiO0JlZ-4rUFL4M-Fuj6pzdTqL5-2l7EisijkewmOgMiDndUhco8TnpiE0-csjunAPbovyXGm5tkMcUFhib-0CyxP8Qk832vwQvOVrPg22KBWWvZG0/s5011/1a+%252818%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3203" data-original-width="5011" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPqWZHCrYiI_zDMkJWGZ3fIpW9aKiO0JlZ-4rUFL4M-Fuj6pzdTqL5-2l7EisijkewmOgMiDndUhco8TnpiE0-csjunAPbovyXGm5tkMcUFhib-0CyxP8Qk832vwQvOVrPg22KBWWvZG0/w640-h410/1a+%252818%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Walking
around the Town centre, you will also see shops ranging from independent stores
and boutiques, to more traditional high street stores. There are also many
cafes, where you must try a traditional Devon Cream Tea; or visit the indoor
market with unique gifts or more things to eat. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGPXKf7X2A270G2oSpXAT5qRPnKxX5OT2DkPKujcIMDaOFcyssznuECnaNBcuM5IIW75ZgTDNJ9ejkGA3FU18Zsymr6swu0Qz0i6OCMNePrRBz8wbiJbD9bz-nmPuWmt83jFhQwEkwpGU/s4477/1a+%252817%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4477" data-original-width="3847" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGPXKf7X2A270G2oSpXAT5qRPnKxX5OT2DkPKujcIMDaOFcyssznuECnaNBcuM5IIW75ZgTDNJ9ejkGA3FU18Zsymr6swu0Qz0i6OCMNePrRBz8wbiJbD9bz-nmPuWmt83jFhQwEkwpGU/w550-h640/1a+%252817%2529.JPG" width="550" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Exmouth is renowned for its
food festivals, including the Exmouth Mussel Festival - where you can sample
some of the freshest seafood, alongside local wines and ales. The festival is
free to attend and has a great line up of music and theatre, as well as local
food to try. If food festivals don’t appeal, look out on the annual Kite
Festival – that is definitely a unique day out no matter what age you are! You
won’t find numerous bustling, noisy amusement arcades in Exmouth, but you will
still be able to visit places such as the Cinema, the Leisure centre, or the
Pavilion (which hosts shows and concerts, as well as various midweek classes). Manor
Gardens is a pleasant, quiet area to sit and relax in the middle of the town
area, it is free and has public toilets too. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3LtlSN_5DAwhPQcGw_87Msy9faEEhHdDazjik0CUKeHtsaxgmK76XiNVh9PV5-D8XL1wnr_b_m9xGRCT8MSi66QWztmh79U7tpBAGG5noy9BtAbvzo5O_Y53WA7PpcaRr4ydsXlxV1Q/s4576/1a+%252813%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3148" data-original-width="4576" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY3LtlSN_5DAwhPQcGw_87Msy9faEEhHdDazjik0CUKeHtsaxgmK76XiNVh9PV5-D8XL1wnr_b_m9xGRCT8MSi66QWztmh79U7tpBAGG5noy9BtAbvzo5O_Y53WA7PpcaRr4ydsXlxV1Q/w640-h440/1a+%252813%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT5GS8VyogdtGZqJjScweBiVdvJCjD74JARyoritnAYXe1p9vSGJjHjEv6id04hAxgAluWfLveNFf4Ihk9vHgGapfPoyr8vZsHzgkfnjK6Qps2xV8LRTuf2xKHIbGkHfbav0DjFriw4mA/s5184/1a+%252812%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT5GS8VyogdtGZqJjScweBiVdvJCjD74JARyoritnAYXe1p9vSGJjHjEv6id04hAxgAluWfLveNFf4Ihk9vHgGapfPoyr8vZsHzgkfnjK6Qps2xV8LRTuf2xKHIbGkHfbav0DjFriw4mA/w640-h480/1a+%252812%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The Blue and White Land Train is a
great way to see everywhere without wearing yourself out; it offers a hop on
and off service and runs every day throughout the summer months. More details
on <a href="http://www.exmouthlandtrain.co.uk/">www.exmouthlandtrain.co.uk</a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-A9nVp1da3LquNO0YL8l3sAM_QZock5ZCRLW4eM8UxuRkfudnq9LpZVC7VvMajI1NjxYlSe9fIPaha2Lp-1qYYOJ3cBeOv6sjymcFpN5SkYDhF1gzCl_ZBHFxBJX6z4syzxSbHdrcIxc/s4485/1a+%25286%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2827" data-original-width="4485" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-A9nVp1da3LquNO0YL8l3sAM_QZock5ZCRLW4eM8UxuRkfudnq9LpZVC7VvMajI1NjxYlSe9fIPaha2Lp-1qYYOJ3cBeOv6sjymcFpN5SkYDhF1gzCl_ZBHFxBJX6z4syzxSbHdrcIxc/w640-h404/1a+%25286%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Queens Drive Space is the most touristy part
of Exmouth (but in a good way); it is just outside of town, overlooking the
beach. A Jurassic themed play area for all the family; it is free to get in and
also has plenty of food and drink stalls; there are also music events and an
open-air cinema during the summer. <a href="http://www.queensdrivespace.co.uk/">www.queensdrivespace.co.uk</a><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT_EA-hPeEutJxxEIR8pYzzFkOG6U4YriQaAzDGFTWVVZtvbb1vfmHGcVfjF2FbCTnp6pqPmaqn0dtxad5u8aJAjezAuSDmDiBWX5SIbujQesUH74-Ay1R7G-fxFE_0n37m5zuBpPsbzE/s3102/1a+%252822%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2339" data-original-width="3102" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT_EA-hPeEutJxxEIR8pYzzFkOG6U4YriQaAzDGFTWVVZtvbb1vfmHGcVfjF2FbCTnp6pqPmaqn0dtxad5u8aJAjezAuSDmDiBWX5SIbujQesUH74-Ay1R7G-fxFE_0n37m5zuBpPsbzE/w640-h482/1a+%252822%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">As well as being one of Devon’s oldest and
prettiest seaside resorts, Exmouth is the starting point of a several
picturesque walking and cycling trails; The Exe Estuary Cycle Trail runs from
Exmouth to Dawlish (along the banks of the estuary) and there is easy access to
the South West Coast Path - plenty of opportunities to get out and about.
Exmouth is known as the gateway to the World Heritage Jurassic Coast, full of
beautiful views and stunning scenery; with walking trails where you can see the
dramatic cliffs and maybe find evidence of the prehistoric creatures that once
roamed here. There are fossils on display in the cliffs and the sand – you just
have to know where to look. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8NzOSQ9lWNPyonh63OP51ZFuh2Sh2_TztHMOBXA1aVxjumOgWZZgjDTM_waTUirLZhrva1H44WiXt87yDRncGjOmouwYMSPeEOW9hw7NU_JREgpIjvJmvPc7nyp7FUaS6dLiFH6pVH4w/s5013/Devon+1+%252837%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3212" data-original-width="5013" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8NzOSQ9lWNPyonh63OP51ZFuh2Sh2_TztHMOBXA1aVxjumOgWZZgjDTM_waTUirLZhrva1H44WiXt87yDRncGjOmouwYMSPeEOW9hw7NU_JREgpIjvJmvPc7nyp7FUaS6dLiFH6pVH4w/w640-h410/Devon+1+%252837%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Whether you decide to walk along the cliff tops or
along the beach (tide permitting) the views are fabulous – the red cliffs are
like nowhere else. Walking along coastal path may be muddy and slippery in
places, so you should keep to official routes (stay away from the edges) and
follow warning signs at all times. You can find more information on this World
Heritage Site by visiting the Jurassic Coast website <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><a href="https://jurassiccoast.org/">https://jurassiccoast.org/</a> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-OY5UvPa8lmuDeImqG79Rixe36WtjjaRt2ilBl2EUzdL2E6CqEvoyZeVEVl5yg3blCKoz_HCItC_GCcHk6lDkni95kg1VJOLy6186VGvq-Ox3bL3R9tW7kn_YBnPsrIVkSIZ9jRr-0RA/s2048/2a+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-OY5UvPa8lmuDeImqG79Rixe36WtjjaRt2ilBl2EUzdL2E6CqEvoyZeVEVl5yg3blCKoz_HCItC_GCcHk6lDkni95kg1VJOLy6186VGvq-Ox3bL3R9tW7kn_YBnPsrIVkSIZ9jRr-0RA/w480-h640/2a+%25281%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhot4L8IapyCdeLCcClxahV58kbxujMF5UxaPso8cLDQdZJNcXxPBbag0jFfy0jglM9Y6Z6IDQQYenG-cplHM0dekzcd9xeF08Yr4YvO1V9dSMMWnwULXyTlwyZGQ0wTeHrA5pMvR-8YUw/s4912/2a+%25284%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4912" data-original-width="3127" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhot4L8IapyCdeLCcClxahV58kbxujMF5UxaPso8cLDQdZJNcXxPBbag0jFfy0jglM9Y6Z6IDQQYenG-cplHM0dekzcd9xeF08Yr4YvO1V9dSMMWnwULXyTlwyZGQ0wTeHrA5pMvR-8YUw/w408-h640/2a+%25284%2529.JPG" width="408" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji83QjIycvW6d0Cv3Po88Yuy7Bkde4u87Tfvo0StrsnEZR0xjscegnnM8Syrv8alp8ItzHESvffQdJrMAz1W4dA0FxlIHtChSwomfmJmksnlBIOe4rvU-krHdyp268SkAJbSlZxqC8HZ4/s4707/2a+%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3368" data-original-width="4707" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji83QjIycvW6d0Cv3Po88Yuy7Bkde4u87Tfvo0StrsnEZR0xjscegnnM8Syrv8alp8ItzHESvffQdJrMAz1W4dA0FxlIHtChSwomfmJmksnlBIOe4rvU-krHdyp268SkAJbSlZxqC8HZ4/w640-h458/2a+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Orcombe Point, just to the east of Exmouth, marks the official start of England’s
first natural UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a great place to see
spectacular sunsets – one of my favourite places when I visited. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKrf3eaHN87XDXsCfjcCq4fm2R8G0shzXHE2118CT4FeJiFMB7nAcO6DkeukhOiMn58m__Yr6de1BbkO-xTJJxJI2Fq4LUwIkMjp1UB2RIvvQjyeQ2qtOC8s6Gd-63yNQcrl_izdt3p3U/s5184/8+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKrf3eaHN87XDXsCfjcCq4fm2R8G0shzXHE2118CT4FeJiFMB7nAcO6DkeukhOiMn58m__Yr6de1BbkO-xTJJxJI2Fq4LUwIkMjp1UB2RIvvQjyeQ2qtOC8s6Gd-63yNQcrl_izdt3p3U/w640-h480/8+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The
‘geoneedle’ on the hilltop was unveiled by HRH The Prince of Wales in 2002. The
5-metre high geoneedle is constructed from stone and rocks found along the 95
mile stretch of the Jurassic Coast - which stretches from Exmouth to Old Harry
Rocks in Studland Bay in Dorset. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-R3TiT2x86A1U47R2opIPgjCB9oXewe7nECp2qN98m_ALZ_xA2X_BPOmxRR4AAkCUX4bhIMP9H0UwlvIk2D-JqRz5jwXMS5-a0LeNr1GXOeuBLc7yaUj-g7K4TfgtNstP7aIHYuYDt4/s5184/2a+%25285%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0-R3TiT2x86A1U47R2opIPgjCB9oXewe7nECp2qN98m_ALZ_xA2X_BPOmxRR4AAkCUX4bhIMP9H0UwlvIk2D-JqRz5jwXMS5-a0LeNr1GXOeuBLc7yaUj-g7K4TfgtNstP7aIHYuYDt4/w640-h480/2a+%25285%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBPu0fSZR0nsIbEhm4hH71e6Oc8HAfzYrwF8xEEaTpTuzg7ulnJ3OIfo_-NUQ1BYKwJCKYV7OzViyJ2kpVVd_lNk7HlRLnOxeOkpkv_5DTiG-0fEgPI8NiBoBgCwVq7vptiVVajLTo4dE/s2048/2a+%25286%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1697" data-original-width="2048" height="530" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBPu0fSZR0nsIbEhm4hH71e6Oc8HAfzYrwF8xEEaTpTuzg7ulnJ3OIfo_-NUQ1BYKwJCKYV7OzViyJ2kpVVd_lNk7HlRLnOxeOkpkv_5DTiG-0fEgPI8NiBoBgCwVq7vptiVVajLTo4dE/w640-h530/2a+%25286%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZEl6o2TZ3MpexA8iPc_cmH6bLjZqRvqi0un1VVdCFuDesPHdI1NmovYlo34jDSBZ2umeZ_Gwm7_SWldkVgmWPBD36qbcvCDjwwMNPSqQnFbiwwJXwlqZbTRCnsuOeRf6XOnXwWmugVtM/s4977/2a+%25289%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3733" data-original-width="4977" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZEl6o2TZ3MpexA8iPc_cmH6bLjZqRvqi0un1VVdCFuDesPHdI1NmovYlo34jDSBZ2umeZ_Gwm7_SWldkVgmWPBD36qbcvCDjwwMNPSqQnFbiwwJXwlqZbTRCnsuOeRf6XOnXwWmugVtM/w640-h480/2a+%25289%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBvfMeBkYy0SOzsfTuAJCtX1Dwmx4HXIcxHm90eQtLoFWuh3djN6RC2z5a5-UpPPMed0NyPDaAhwkYiWZKhcBjqSE0hOxo0VXfZOn6MksqYWanUKI8R_aC8thA0OcqGd1nLpkuUKkPtGQ/s5184/2a+%252810%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBvfMeBkYy0SOzsfTuAJCtX1Dwmx4HXIcxHm90eQtLoFWuh3djN6RC2z5a5-UpPPMed0NyPDaAhwkYiWZKhcBjqSE0hOxo0VXfZOn6MksqYWanUKI8R_aC8thA0OcqGd1nLpkuUKkPtGQ/w640-h480/2a+%252810%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The red sandstone and mudstone that make up
these cliffs, have been here for over 250 million years (from The Triassic
Period) and evidence suggests this area was a desert at that time. One of the
first places you come to along the coast after leaving Orcombe Point, is the private
beach of Sandy Bay. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpQ_7qNwi-4fniu6SUjNrdddp7ua42VjHojXJ-uNHVUXk07XNgks8fjxAJSKeYJONsIG7Mi_OO5Q3j_to6Px49peAcckh8R_FPrfd1J7AMiavZNyEvKbgm3pKd1ghMcgdE6H-8nBu5rA/s1024/Devon+1+%252840%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCpQ_7qNwi-4fniu6SUjNrdddp7ua42VjHojXJ-uNHVUXk07XNgks8fjxAJSKeYJONsIG7Mi_OO5Q3j_to6Px49peAcckh8R_FPrfd1J7AMiavZNyEvKbgm3pKd1ghMcgdE6H-8nBu5rA/w640-h480/Devon+1+%252840%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">This beautiful bay with its own Beach café, serves a
holiday camp situated on top the cliffs – with the most amazing views out over
the ocean. It is a great place to see the amazing cliffs, where you can walk
along the beach, getting up close to them or walk along the cliff-top path. </p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit7DLXYajF3IlzXnKpjyWyM9oa4v8HKAI8-GuyCdgJvuScImiW5BZw6868lzFuiYLxelHrMwPPX_s8hO2kokBAzAZ5NmZk3xRi44XClZM5A_5Uxxa9qTaPvT-GzJwtvGFUUDXZCGqBxw4/s5184/Devon+1+%252849%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit7DLXYajF3IlzXnKpjyWyM9oa4v8HKAI8-GuyCdgJvuScImiW5BZw6868lzFuiYLxelHrMwPPX_s8hO2kokBAzAZ5NmZk3xRi44XClZM5A_5Uxxa9qTaPvT-GzJwtvGFUUDXZCGqBxw4/w640-h480/Devon+1+%252849%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFWCU-URwGlzRhEyBIJIs5wtQiLarXcZPbteLPsxsIJxG8eid2kIal7b97Qeh8ylIpB5c02Wm33pdwT1pLHhm7K3uTvhFFaKmUSzxGnZ12Wh6IZzkKmtwmvp3BlNHwDfJgKqwZGcms_O4/s5184/Devon+1+%252836%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFWCU-URwGlzRhEyBIJIs5wtQiLarXcZPbteLPsxsIJxG8eid2kIal7b97Qeh8ylIpB5c02Wm33pdwT1pLHhm7K3uTvhFFaKmUSzxGnZ12Wh6IZzkKmtwmvp3BlNHwDfJgKqwZGcms_O4/w640-h480/Devon+1+%252836%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">Make sure you check the tide times – as the beach route is only accessible when
the tide is out – you could get stranded. Residents and visitors must be aware,
and are encouraged to follow safety advice along the coastline; as landslides
and rock falls can occur quickly and without warning, especially after severe
weather. The Jurassic Coast is an area of outstanding historical significance. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8iIGIGF9c7Bsserq7yhwjXpIxVaLpSJR2nxviDNxC0dbrL0Kr9ez0mDkAqexM668tcnpDQQCU_YiJ7o0AaUQlTVEJi9VnD_SPplD2WL9LdtcoSg4684XftSXPTaeujFlVVnmiQPXg9xY/s5184/Devon+1+%252839%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8iIGIGF9c7Bsserq7yhwjXpIxVaLpSJR2nxviDNxC0dbrL0Kr9ez0mDkAqexM668tcnpDQQCU_YiJ7o0AaUQlTVEJi9VnD_SPplD2WL9LdtcoSg4684XftSXPTaeujFlVVnmiQPXg9xY/w640-h480/Devon+1+%252839%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;">This unspoilt coastline reveals a unique geological portrait of the earth’s
history over 185 million years - exposed in its dramatic cliffs, caves, coastal
stacks, and beaches. This area is described as a ‘walk through time’ including
the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous Periods; and the whole site is still of huge
educational and research importance – even today. </span></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCJ13ljrfhq0tTVLRMSFUiUUDrjZMPrhCndP_tJBKnlYgz2dIwu7w5YecyZ7W4Ccv7ZmlGZpwbyt9Fcq6RUOm9r6_2thNqIsqF-gmKVeFwelsR8gOdO47LhinRFegMBwT5YF1lhlxYCjg/s5184/Devon+1+%252842%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCJ13ljrfhq0tTVLRMSFUiUUDrjZMPrhCndP_tJBKnlYgz2dIwu7w5YecyZ7W4Ccv7ZmlGZpwbyt9Fcq6RUOm9r6_2thNqIsqF-gmKVeFwelsR8gOdO47LhinRFegMBwT5YF1lhlxYCjg/w640-h480/Devon+1+%252842%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">The coastline is a natural
wonder that changes as you walk along it; at Exmouth you can see the rich, red
Triassic Rock; whereas a few miles away, the distinctive cliffs will have
turned orange – but everywhere dinosaurs of all shapes and sizes would have
roamed, millions of years ago. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWIaNNLimnpwQdF1r44dN4OZq3oGISr7yUU7kHIgrAmbKUO4-NJNodzF4e5Mt7na1gVx63Y54vu-DqCIvKC7kbgrX2_DNbmOEKvNqP0CyKywf9RBA9Vl-UQHB9rur3EQ4uGy3iVG_KIg/s5184/Devon+1+%252851%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbWIaNNLimnpwQdF1r44dN4OZq3oGISr7yUU7kHIgrAmbKUO4-NJNodzF4e5Mt7na1gVx63Y54vu-DqCIvKC7kbgrX2_DNbmOEKvNqP0CyKywf9RBA9Vl-UQHB9rur3EQ4uGy3iVG_KIg/w640-h480/Devon+1+%252851%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggO3F50M1Ho6hDp_9ulmhjjSP50vbe34HuNtRNEFqdLEY8SH9H4_V56S5P8hvsVMD1f7vpWG4Op8sRHk5EY-abL9UCIc1W-6FUAU3kRKXglHHufdx3ophMWO-1LwTQeUy1Fgro_gyMY2g/s2048/Devon+1+%252858a%2529+%25283%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggO3F50M1Ho6hDp_9ulmhjjSP50vbe34HuNtRNEFqdLEY8SH9H4_V56S5P8hvsVMD1f7vpWG4Op8sRHk5EY-abL9UCIc1W-6FUAU3kRKXglHHufdx3ophMWO-1LwTQeUy1Fgro_gyMY2g/w640-h480/Devon+1+%252858a%2529+%25283%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">You can explore the Jurassic Coast by a hop-on
hop-off bus, which is a perfect way to discover the coastal attractions, walk a
section of the South West Coast Path (which has hundreds of miles of footpaths)
or just sit back and enjoy the views from the top deck. You can visit the
iconic landmarks of Lulworth Cove and Durdle Door, or the pretty coastal villages
or towns of Budleigh Salterton, Swanage, Lyme Regis and West Bay. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHKFWHLXpiIg9RQk4M3d4Xs3jthbNxbiUdtJ5Jzd-5zM0v2Ee_PdkAqbEvzHJtqNIJK94GJ8ybra__qXe3shiq-GpHeoGVUiTXl1pvtXTMtEdtJKb9ZVg04e_-Xn0mQ_X-R-wen6VUysE/s5184/Devon+1+%252855%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHKFWHLXpiIg9RQk4M3d4Xs3jthbNxbiUdtJ5Jzd-5zM0v2Ee_PdkAqbEvzHJtqNIJK94GJ8ybra__qXe3shiq-GpHeoGVUiTXl1pvtXTMtEdtJKb9ZVg04e_-Xn0mQ_X-R-wen6VUysE/w640-h480/Devon+1+%252855%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Sbf-yPegEi9AFn3rlLnjBhQkEq-_ShfYGtrPDYhYx-ZS8mWI3fIexEPYwuOlxv8qUe7Eg8SjLwombdXj1EmQhNkUZ2sdzP0TmQKXeIi15d6KABYTUvPAEM4Vcsma4fLqNFlWMtBSCIw/s5135/Devon+1+%252859%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2396" data-original-width="5135" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0Sbf-yPegEi9AFn3rlLnjBhQkEq-_ShfYGtrPDYhYx-ZS8mWI3fIexEPYwuOlxv8qUe7Eg8SjLwombdXj1EmQhNkUZ2sdzP0TmQKXeIi15d6KABYTUvPAEM4Vcsma4fLqNFlWMtBSCIw/w640-h298/Devon+1+%252859%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">At Seaton,
you can travel back in time at the Jurassic visitor centre – where the whole
family can explore more about the region’s history. So, if you fancy an
adventure the whole family will enjoy – head down to the south Devon coast and
do some exploring. For more information on Exmouth, <a href="http://www.visitexmouth.org/">www.visitexmouth.org</a></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO2fO8XhLbKVfa9AQPEuH5I1pqZ2TafzUQhsCrmTuqUXm9vsa3-OGJA_6HGJm-0RrWsKXRFBKjTP-hwjS2pFO5pmiUl3rxasQcwaFpgWu8mmGsnD_wFRMJhuznGgOel_uW-YStJt1j5Hs/s4013/1a+%252814%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3080" data-original-width="4013" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO2fO8XhLbKVfa9AQPEuH5I1pqZ2TafzUQhsCrmTuqUXm9vsa3-OGJA_6HGJm-0RrWsKXRFBKjTP-hwjS2pFO5pmiUl3rxasQcwaFpgWu8mmGsnD_wFRMJhuznGgOel_uW-YStJt1j5Hs/w640-h492/1a+%252814%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRkxd6i5503t5Jwvc3x4tPOjvJujUwukEo4qqe-LtTUmTyxc11Xn6jM8Z-UjoZMB0Zl6QOWtmBCpkR7_l7qQV5dc-04NoES7S7c8cJOiHdBG5GpdGIRxOlbeelUWLC05znpIzT029UVXA/s5184/Devon+1+%252835%2529.JPG" style="font-size: medium; font-weight: 400; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3888" data-original-width="5184" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRkxd6i5503t5Jwvc3x4tPOjvJujUwukEo4qqe-LtTUmTyxc11Xn6jM8Z-UjoZMB0Zl6QOWtmBCpkR7_l7qQV5dc-04NoES7S7c8cJOiHdBG5GpdGIRxOlbeelUWLC05znpIzT029UVXA/w640-h480/Devon+1+%252835%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style="font-size: x-large;">Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Lynne</i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>These are my other blogs :-</b></span></span></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com/">http://lynnejmorley.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="line-height: 17.12px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: 12pt;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div></div></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="font-family: "times new roman"; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: x-large;">http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com</a></div><div><br /></div></div></div>Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-50329624080884494102022-05-04T12:04:00.000+01:002022-05-04T12:04:45.880+01:00Monkey Mia<p> </p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: center; text-indent: 0cm;"><b><u><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: large; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Monkey Mia<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: center; text-indent: 0cm;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><u></u></span></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNYL08tzaIYS-Og8SaFjGa1rlt_wVIsnr9PBdsHqZy6GOmEKNQtGOCi2dJb_S5pTOQb_EAaMIMJKXT7qm1oYFADV1GAeyzVXJGpqO6l39cCe4HF1aSnsINjLSJvOMYD3fqiEs0S43niqc/s2048/Photo+29-07-2021%252C+13+44+15.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNYL08tzaIYS-Og8SaFjGa1rlt_wVIsnr9PBdsHqZy6GOmEKNQtGOCi2dJb_S5pTOQb_EAaMIMJKXT7qm1oYFADV1GAeyzVXJGpqO6l39cCe4HF1aSnsINjLSJvOMYD3fqiEs0S43niqc/w400-h300/Photo+29-07-2021%252C+13+44+15.jpg" width="400" /></a></u></b></div><p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">After a week exploring the Exmouth/ Ningaloo area, my next stop
was going to be Monkey Mia, in the Shark Bay Marine Park World Heritage Site -
a strange sounding place that was even more remote than where I had just been.
After an overnight bus journey across the red desert, with the occasional “hit
the break stop” for a kangaroo - I arrived at Monkey Mia at breakfast time,
just as the dolphins were finishing their feeding. This is what Monkey Mia is
renowned for – its dolphins – and this was why I had come. Mia is the
Aboriginal term for home, shelter or salt/bad water, while the Monkey part of
the name may have been derived from a pearling boat called Monkey, that
anchored there in the late 19th century, when pearling was a thriving industry
in that region. In the 1960s, a fisherman and his wife began feeding bottlenose
dolphins when returning with their catch, and as news spread of these dolphins
coming to the shore, visitors started to come to see them – and now there are
over 300 dolphins living in the bay. In 1985, an information centre was built,
followed by the building of a road, carpark and camping facilities - and in
1990, the waters surrounding Monkey Mia were declared a marine park. Rangers
from the Western Australian Department of Parks and Wildlife carefully
supervise the interaction between tourists and dolphins; and the park entry
fees are used to manage and care for the dolphins. </span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9F8OsATeuAY4NTjzUtbmppMGEdWlUdpTOfawKfknScgC8-j5MVO-aX0Hywa8jP_1KPtdapdgTliy9rwoED5GW0uscla-KWT31OJVjjoJyFLH4kKRUVWI6eV_DthmSbLDjfN_NKIgnzUw/s2048/1+%252841%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1144" data-original-width="2048" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9F8OsATeuAY4NTjzUtbmppMGEdWlUdpTOfawKfknScgC8-j5MVO-aX0Hywa8jP_1KPtdapdgTliy9rwoED5GW0uscla-KWT31OJVjjoJyFLH4kKRUVWI6eV_DthmSbLDjfN_NKIgnzUw/w640-h358/1+%252841%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; text-indent: 0cm;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; text-indent: 0cm;">Whilst waiting for my accommodation
to be ready, I had a walk to get my bearings and went to the restaurant for a
cuppa and a fresh cream scone. It felt like being in paradise – the resort was so
small and compact, with no hustle and bustle of traffic. It was only a few
yards from the reception to the restaurant, where you could sit and watch the
beautiful calm, turquoise ocean with all it had to offer - especially the
pelicans floating by! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1kuYtukEZsME1DGxVddnnoQGjzEqO0xhamFdgS_FYkuycjPROsMLhPq4pHNCuHxKL3pDomOy8s40byDDmKnq7cb9vNexhfF9PcVa3Rdp3zcp_vPZsjFc5mVfsk13XsqBwXW95Xu7bFGA/s2048/2a+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1kuYtukEZsME1DGxVddnnoQGjzEqO0xhamFdgS_FYkuycjPROsMLhPq4pHNCuHxKL3pDomOy8s40byDDmKnq7cb9vNexhfF9PcVa3Rdp3zcp_vPZsjFc5mVfsk13XsqBwXW95Xu7bFGA/w640-h480/2a+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRRKjrn6mkcJQHVi31gKkid3GiWlSq6hDL6G2MCZVu2ijUw7m_8R_mDxK2pTAHzS1kNjIWgvA5kmoOwwap3jNu75lJbilbNV10pNYuraRWxzk47s6qFXF1VYerXd4VZmIALrXILtRTba4/s2048/1a+%25283%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1054" data-original-width="2048" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRRKjrn6mkcJQHVi31gKkid3GiWlSq6hDL6G2MCZVu2ijUw7m_8R_mDxK2pTAHzS1kNjIWgvA5kmoOwwap3jNu75lJbilbNV10pNYuraRWxzk47s6qFXF1VYerXd4VZmIALrXILtRTba4/w640-h330/1a+%25283%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The sand was so white, and it was met by red desert — such
an amazing contrast. I was surprised at how many people were there — it was not
such a secret place after all! Once I had the keys to my “unit”, I desperately
needed some sleep, but I didn't have long as I was too excited about exploring my
new surroundings. I found a little shop that sold everything you could possibly
want, and it was very reasonably priced — they would even sell you just one
teabag. My unit was very basic but comfortable with a fridge, a cooker and a
sink. The ensuite bathroom was the strangest thing you ever saw — it was an
orange capsule stuck onto one side of the portacabin. There were no windows, so
it was sweltering hot inside, a toilet at one end, a tiny sink in the middle,
and a shower at the other end - all on a slant so that any water ran to the
shower end! This was a few years ago now, and there are several different types
of accommodation to choose from now (which are probably far more modern), as
well as camping facilities. I popped back to the shop later on, for some provisions
and some postcards and saw a dolphin swimming in the same place I had been
paddling only an hour earlier. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx_DAKODiOnL7fH4m_-kqGPVzhPqRolQUhgXkQuK7Aa3rxbSeM79T3Kja6UBUMiy9QG7fKDg_A-VDlyH-Kz6Ag9Ecui7-ELvyKOw2zzDc4f1NDMODzELvJxY50ATb2BQwLWycrPVdkbkA/s2048/1+%252840%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1149" data-original-width="2048" height="360" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx_DAKODiOnL7fH4m_-kqGPVzhPqRolQUhgXkQuK7Aa3rxbSeM79T3Kja6UBUMiy9QG7fKDg_A-VDlyH-Kz6Ag9Ecui7-ELvyKOw2zzDc4f1NDMODzELvJxY50ATb2BQwLWycrPVdkbkA/w640-h360/1+%252840%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">There was a bar selling meals on the complex; so,
I headed off for a drink and a meal (which came in a box) whilst listening to some
music. After the best night’s sleep and not waking up until 7.15am; I hurried
to the pier end of the beach, where there were already lots of people by the water’s
edge and the dolphins were already having their daily treats. I needed to be
earlier tomorrow! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkMC9YhoSpk61PsDv_A8hIDPt5egxzCmsqF9SAwd1uByePHuJ2iYz9yB7cCjhtVKvnfdHL3ziddah0jhSyJv8wyn0LajKGpO23zFx6k-GBZg_go1_xjDsFsaQwvst-RmHtOg452eMU6wM/s2048/2+%25282%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1384" data-original-width="2048" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkMC9YhoSpk61PsDv_A8hIDPt5egxzCmsqF9SAwd1uByePHuJ2iYz9yB7cCjhtVKvnfdHL3ziddah0jhSyJv8wyn0LajKGpO23zFx6k-GBZg_go1_xjDsFsaQwvst-RmHtOg452eMU6wM/w640-h432/2+%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The dolphins aren't actually fed, they are just given small
fish as a treat rather than a meal. They swim in from about a mile out, (only if
they feel like it), just to interact with human beings. It really was the most
fascinating sight. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1uq_ZG4bhngO49K9Jch9V-vG4czass6Hxhv7pNu2d9c2RVexFJUMvjWOcdl2P2JFMfowM7LCDROhkBacQ9oZsqM3gCKHnN7_kzNPYkUZ6uCKR9ssrYMW7PkIselVYHsd8Vs4QGdcyjr4/s2048/1+%25284%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1227" data-original-width="2048" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1uq_ZG4bhngO49K9Jch9V-vG4czass6Hxhv7pNu2d9c2RVexFJUMvjWOcdl2P2JFMfowM7LCDROhkBacQ9oZsqM3gCKHnN7_kzNPYkUZ6uCKR9ssrYMW7PkIselVYHsd8Vs4QGdcyjr4/w640-h384/1+%25284%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6C3RBruNzWKRwutkhngo58oluDMUnWEUg1SSMNUsmsSlJOWWlcQ5ve_lq5DA2Zo2Ai9uKiCjf7e78RedwnNAuoOcFcMXF35AcGWR4xFu5mSPPJi8B-kCwdYZUc4faMe-U2djHAOElNiU/s2048/1+%252838%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1165" data-original-width="2048" height="364" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6C3RBruNzWKRwutkhngo58oluDMUnWEUg1SSMNUsmsSlJOWWlcQ5ve_lq5DA2Zo2Ai9uKiCjf7e78RedwnNAuoOcFcMXF35AcGWR4xFu5mSPPJi8B-kCwdYZUc4faMe-U2djHAOElNiU/w640-h364/1+%252838%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The water was as calm as a mirror, the sun was just coming
up; and 2 of the dolphins, Nicky and Surprise had bought their babies in to the
shore. The little ones were so cute, only about 18 inches long, swimming around
their mothers. No-one was allowed to be in the water when these babies were
about, in case they frightened them — luckily, I had the best spot to see them on
the pier. Afterwards I went back for a coffee and some breakfast, before taking
myself a walk up the beach, towards the red dunes of Red Cliff Bay; and was
surprised that there was hardly anyone about. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFdaQZRMe2kLgjRkgZHPAgIUupF0q-u3ZMFDhXyzBkODRvYjxiYzhPvi3sSTTFUhPwc2KFkG7wbWmsUQScgPVK8o3Liu1XpkflObKASH90SP9VBifoGt8FS_WYdexVGllj7Zt7qHEObts/s2048/3+%25283%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1148" data-original-width="2048" height="358" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFdaQZRMe2kLgjRkgZHPAgIUupF0q-u3ZMFDhXyzBkODRvYjxiYzhPvi3sSTTFUhPwc2KFkG7wbWmsUQScgPVK8o3Liu1XpkflObKASH90SP9VBifoGt8FS_WYdexVGllj7Zt7qHEObts/w640-h358/3+%25283%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The tide was a long way out and
the only people I saw, were paddling knee deep about half a mile out — it was
so shallow. I felt so relaxed, it was the most perfect place. After a couple of
hours, I went back for some lunch; only to return to the resort beach in the afternoon
to have a swim in the clearest waters you could ever imagine. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidoZJyMpITnvVOiyxc9JpZU99l0H-c-noU-wU7wGZNPH2OSPpNKoVdqoOB685g-hrkUHSU1yBmfDNuhnnmxgDwIWaCxoEwDhtJgFGkAL8LsBgmza4_emcGtVQPFTGlQdHF-iijB89McqA/s2048/1b.jpg" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1184" data-original-width="2048" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidoZJyMpITnvVOiyxc9JpZU99l0H-c-noU-wU7wGZNPH2OSPpNKoVdqoOB685g-hrkUHSU1yBmfDNuhnnmxgDwIWaCxoEwDhtJgFGkAL8LsBgmza4_emcGtVQPFTGlQdHF-iijB89McqA/w640-h370/1b.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUiUuIdxSMMdXA-jwGtqRWXJrax0OOdhSi99vPBirlv94vRdsCZWEfM1_J-ZJrHHi0XobFxucdMGOM35aLYXXkoW2oB-qjSEbqx1ilL07OnfB08zr7b03GAeAIhOsvrycbTcHL4tTPai4/s2048/1a+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1235" data-original-width="2048" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUiUuIdxSMMdXA-jwGtqRWXJrax0OOdhSi99vPBirlv94vRdsCZWEfM1_J-ZJrHHi0XobFxucdMGOM35aLYXXkoW2oB-qjSEbqx1ilL07OnfB08zr7b03GAeAIhOsvrycbTcHL4tTPai4/w640-h386/1a+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPtRICA3qO9lqDDl_JvDvbHz-nTli0bHMvOtOWGtU8mHvvhrc_ZK_RLrXReyX5-Pi4RKOEINRHZUmKEQTeHHp_TbwW_cCvwEwH4QoE-Hh2U1-8rpNnW6isdwojUIhUQLMTxWklNh1nNrE/s1938/3+%252810%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1429" data-original-width="1938" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPtRICA3qO9lqDDl_JvDvbHz-nTli0bHMvOtOWGtU8mHvvhrc_ZK_RLrXReyX5-Pi4RKOEINRHZUmKEQTeHHp_TbwW_cCvwEwH4QoE-Hh2U1-8rpNnW6isdwojUIhUQLMTxWklNh1nNrE/w640-h472/3+%252810%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I stayed in the
shade for the rest of the day, on the patio area relaxing and reading; and booked
myself on a boat trip — an evening cruise on a catamaran, hopefully to see
dugongs in a few days’ time! The whole resort seemed to be in bed by about 9pm -
it was such a laid-back place. I rose early next morning, as I wanted to be down
on the beach before the crowds and the dolphins arrived! But even at 7am there
were some people there already there. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgES28_Xyr4Xo7NZ1I2zPNHDBcAWtEZGIyKFFKWDyZReEU365WcCliEGeLMoXK-9yOuU3ebu2R5jbqppTQo7ZNwL70qMy8Ug5ZK9kPSW7hXj_1pxiGw34s2ZxP2fJUUpdeU7OwCOkHnDoE/s2542/1+%25283%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1147" data-original-width="2542" height="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgES28_Xyr4Xo7NZ1I2zPNHDBcAWtEZGIyKFFKWDyZReEU365WcCliEGeLMoXK-9yOuU3ebu2R5jbqppTQo7ZNwL70qMy8Ug5ZK9kPSW7hXj_1pxiGw34s2ZxP2fJUUpdeU7OwCOkHnDoE/w640-h288/1+%25283%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8xny5fn-PtpQm64mvQ163lD0Jb5x0SV9NwpBtIfC2o_vTYhn-CpLHC9l6AxsceVHn0RfIrPgfZkLs0TWzNWEvx5oEpx9v9tdxLRrJLLBZIkkuQ_EB0xTspV6_4GfQmlLlsL72Vi2Dpz4/s2048/1+%25284%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1227" data-original-width="2048" height="384" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8xny5fn-PtpQm64mvQ163lD0Jb5x0SV9NwpBtIfC2o_vTYhn-CpLHC9l6AxsceVHn0RfIrPgfZkLs0TWzNWEvx5oEpx9v9tdxLRrJLLBZIkkuQ_EB0xTspV6_4GfQmlLlsL72Vi2Dpz4/w640-h384/1+%25284%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZhd42cmCcQ1oZMbClIUS0iAWfsxNo2SvGC0KejVrkfIbVkYXNltrNhuPhWzf6FXUqwEn_DCnf5Nz4N9ZybozOc-2R24WnnQ8xWjmgtaQzxar7RDhDdU3blfyTvWqTTXWHfwtS6xORT88/s2048/1+%252810%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZhd42cmCcQ1oZMbClIUS0iAWfsxNo2SvGC0KejVrkfIbVkYXNltrNhuPhWzf6FXUqwEn_DCnf5Nz4N9ZybozOc-2R24WnnQ8xWjmgtaQzxar7RDhDdU3blfyTvWqTTXWHfwtS6xORT88/w640-h480/1+%252810%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinOmh9Sw9SoE_60K8_n_Ng73oairM6MwtYrce0DnyRT3L_AaejQXMN5iV4U1u-VQkm0u8YwxE_SqO9JsWGG1VkILq9wR30hQ7NrULLMdb-YCerV3b38Wbzgc9657YiAt5Wf9i1UDg9h7I/s2048/1+%252821%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1384" data-original-width="2048" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinOmh9Sw9SoE_60K8_n_Ng73oairM6MwtYrce0DnyRT3L_AaejQXMN5iV4U1u-VQkm0u8YwxE_SqO9JsWGG1VkILq9wR30hQ7NrULLMdb-YCerV3b38Wbzgc9657YiAt5Wf9i1UDg9h7I/w640-h432/1+%252821%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">It was an amazing sight, at least ten or
twelve dolphins together with their babies and grand babies came in to have a
look who was on the beach. The sea was so very calm again, the dolphins hardly
made a ripple at all, only the newborn calf made a splash. I took some
fantastic photographs, hundreds of them - then deleted ninety percent. At 10
o’clock I was collected by a minibus, to go out for a day trip sightseeing the
local area. We passed a lagoon near Denham which is full of poisonous rock
fish, a pity because it looked so inviting. Then we toured around Denham, the
only town in the vicinity; with a church made from compressed shell blocks and it
had a font that was actually a huge shell. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilMNswYZ3KlFLP0tWvXCDUyb3UGef9TW0FKRDpjSCOrXfY04eoRyMin5Liy7qw4UUKl9HOYWZaB2gIqm2I37CRfw6fWiA46bODBuc3s1R539w-Eptxk8tDb-B3r1O5h7OzGSaarcn7yxA/s1792/10+%25282%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1344" data-original-width="1792" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilMNswYZ3KlFLP0tWvXCDUyb3UGef9TW0FKRDpjSCOrXfY04eoRyMin5Liy7qw4UUKl9HOYWZaB2gIqm2I37CRfw6fWiA46bODBuc3s1R539w-Eptxk8tDb-B3r1O5h7OzGSaarcn7yxA/w640-h480/10+%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">There was a lovely beach front with
remains of a pier that was wrecked by a cyclone - and lots of fishing and
pearling boats. The next stop was Eagle Bluff, to have a cliff top walk; you
could see for miles from here. There were normally hundreds of sharks swimming
down below, but the tide was too low, and we didn't see any.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwQI3IPn6i9oub2PJuYADPbtOcyHRRHZ5jOYVwtZmAwWtnzGr8mD_4YeFfsGeeO6LyJtpFmQDxPd_gH4rXl64gKnbbfIeismA9zS78w7RFdjyvrWAvb4Yk16_6hDo1l3wk8Wlt9SSm2Kk/s2048/10+%25285%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1537" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwQI3IPn6i9oub2PJuYADPbtOcyHRRHZ5jOYVwtZmAwWtnzGr8mD_4YeFfsGeeO6LyJtpFmQDxPd_gH4rXl64gKnbbfIeismA9zS78w7RFdjyvrWAvb4Yk16_6hDo1l3wk8Wlt9SSm2Kk/w640-h480/10+%25285%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf8A90LDX2j07h6YRd_7p3giDWl0ZYuAU_1FTGZSODuxxZ2fLj6DwYFDX3IRKMQkVs18ajqmklUbbpLXnssXZRDLGGSr3RHfLcxOWXsXuo_oKzlabfVbSTkvIRMaPCT-kovtdJ2FAmL5k/s2048/10+%25286%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1535" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf8A90LDX2j07h6YRd_7p3giDWl0ZYuAU_1FTGZSODuxxZ2fLj6DwYFDX3IRKMQkVs18ajqmklUbbpLXnssXZRDLGGSr3RHfLcxOWXsXuo_oKzlabfVbSTkvIRMaPCT-kovtdJ2FAmL5k/w640-h480/10+%25286%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The water changed
colour from a bright blue to a dark green – this was where the seagrass began (the
staple diet of dugongs). The views up there were spectacular - it was just a
pity that the tide was out. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTBRlbhIsh6TOPHwjffpBtYN31mKWnJYa9hbL8kjqMjwpdWyC-nyrlsrptg7l6fPE70BXOQDrZNrwqjeYxHAMN4UWTxCA_VyqmjG0JqMF7PX7YAAPlm8gkoy-V53xM_yt0RskgXINJV9g/s2048/10+%25283%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTBRlbhIsh6TOPHwjffpBtYN31mKWnJYa9hbL8kjqMjwpdWyC-nyrlsrptg7l6fPE70BXOQDrZNrwqjeYxHAMN4UWTxCA_VyqmjG0JqMF7PX7YAAPlm8gkoy-V53xM_yt0RskgXINJV9g/w640-h480/10+%25283%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">There was a family of eagles in a nest high up in a
tree — quite a rare sight apparently. The furthest stop was Hamelin Pool
telegraph station where we were told about the history of the place, before having
lunch and an ice-cream; this was the main place where wool was shipped out from
in 1800s. There was also a quarry closeby where the shell blocks were cut from
(to build houses over 100 years ago); it is a protected area now and blocks can
only be cut to repair existing buildings. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhybt2J3LXqaBxtW6BGlv93xeXXeQYQWfG6VSFdn2pt_cfrcyEDg80ELQtrIh8dAwTfNE807lDnhGUy0NtNkLtJ8RyIe1fvTzxKpn89R_asRczKcY-v-PWpHTbvrQCyyJXDuh1iYHGWKCI/s2048/10+%25287%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhybt2J3LXqaBxtW6BGlv93xeXXeQYQWfG6VSFdn2pt_cfrcyEDg80ELQtrIh8dAwTfNE807lDnhGUy0NtNkLtJ8RyIe1fvTzxKpn89R_asRczKcY-v-PWpHTbvrQCyyJXDuh1iYHGWKCI/w640-h480/10+%25287%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The temperature here was so hot, it
was as if the heat was radiating off these bleached shell blocks. Then we
walked down towards the ocean to see the stromatolites — black living rocks in
the sea — stretching over a hundred kilometres up the coast. Stromatolites are
living fossils and the oldest living lifeforms on our planet; they are
incredibly important - as they breathe oxygen into the atmosphere. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_aLBB6w-qg1mNZMoIMMzKwqIKclR90pszwhpSUHCiEawJ75iEElq_TKE-TOH5yVAnv3gf9TOkYJXYu3SqzXNpqvzjUdJBDj7c6H3Mp566bMmbXupH1twDUTvszs1Nhrh-8JlKWrCg6oc/s2048/10+%25288%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_aLBB6w-qg1mNZMoIMMzKwqIKclR90pszwhpSUHCiEawJ75iEElq_TKE-TOH5yVAnv3gf9TOkYJXYu3SqzXNpqvzjUdJBDj7c6H3Mp566bMmbXupH1twDUTvszs1Nhrh-8JlKWrCg6oc/w640-h480/10+%25288%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">There are
only two well-developed marine Stromatolite areas in the world, one in the
Bahamas and the other here at Hamelin Pool. We walked along a z-shaped pier to
avoid walking on them – they are so precious and protected. Next stop was Shell
Beach, where there was no sand at all, the beach is just made up of millions of
shells. The white heat reflecting off these shells was immense, and you could
hardly open your eyes because it was so bright. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglu3bE0jXLQXAFR5EsmYt5sc_9dxbtXu-2gbdkS6-P7abEvR29p_G2K6IGuz7t9CyKUW-6ovx6o8KN5xuGhIzU1ZojgZYsHpyIhYVj6tAUJnIgstp320WbWLYJMSmYvqtyq3v3HRCIQU8/s2048/9.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1311" data-original-width="2048" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglu3bE0jXLQXAFR5EsmYt5sc_9dxbtXu-2gbdkS6-P7abEvR29p_G2K6IGuz7t9CyKUW-6ovx6o8KN5xuGhIzU1ZojgZYsHpyIhYVj6tAUJnIgstp320WbWLYJMSmYvqtyq3v3HRCIQU8/w640-h410/9.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The final stop was Ocean Park -
home to tanks of local fish, turtles, sea snakes and of course sharks; Shark
Bay and is home to more sharks than anywhere else in the world. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8BetjPQXUNkN6a7ck2MQVSq8fogo-AayUkL29KCD83p_NNvzw4v1-CdlcepYyEP19r6ezvg5Ikf_6mqwgLM2jcPyg3mo3S1ebrTWWDOMm-B5x8VhqFXQy_6LkhjHKA8XBk8HuoPIUIU/s2048/10+%25289%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK8BetjPQXUNkN6a7ck2MQVSq8fogo-AayUkL29KCD83p_NNvzw4v1-CdlcepYyEP19r6ezvg5Ikf_6mqwgLM2jcPyg3mo3S1ebrTWWDOMm-B5x8VhqFXQy_6LkhjHKA8XBk8HuoPIUIU/w640-h480/10+%25289%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZZSVelpqboR5G1hH7rG4-PLtskQzCYFSKSvc4D7n__UrtDe8EEXdMFAbNj39xvHJuaWzs5IT1iaR0kS8M0Gy_DIw0IwNThnJN9mZ_wq7qfPvZheXVnYC-Um_LIJyGst7HXYhGvJHBo8o/s2048/10+%252810%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1284" data-original-width="2048" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZZSVelpqboR5G1hH7rG4-PLtskQzCYFSKSvc4D7n__UrtDe8EEXdMFAbNj39xvHJuaWzs5IT1iaR0kS8M0Gy_DIw0IwNThnJN9mZ_wq7qfPvZheXVnYC-Um_LIJyGst7HXYhGvJHBo8o/w640-h402/10+%252810%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">When we arrived
back at the resort, I decided to have a dip in the pool (all the days’ shark
talk had put me off swimming the ocean!), it was the coldest swimming pool ever
but so refreshing. It was dinner and an early night after an exhausting day
out. Next morning, I got up to see the dolphins come in to shore again - you
just don't want to miss them. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwHhPwo3zwJ-nWpJ9a7FOZ2GpMztAMMzArYHMSGcXZd2o8G-PoZ1mo20acxHSEfLvpmX2FBKn0BAvcCDC2NJQLhtrWhhSPwQfCYFbk0CglCVQLHI2EatItIBWtP1Nuxs1CaQIFw71D07c/s2048/2+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwHhPwo3zwJ-nWpJ9a7FOZ2GpMztAMMzArYHMSGcXZd2o8G-PoZ1mo20acxHSEfLvpmX2FBKn0BAvcCDC2NJQLhtrWhhSPwQfCYFbk0CglCVQLHI2EatItIBWtP1Nuxs1CaQIFw71D07c/w640-h480/2+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">There was more playing about and splashing this
morning, and I couldn't help thinking that there were too many humans on the
beach watching; I felt happier being a bit further away on the pier. Once they
had gone back out into the deep ocean, I decided to walk the opposite way
today, along the beach into the wilderness. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiIq9IbTTzRPcK02u_3G74sJhc1U_kxjqtSTAgki4OZxKij0b6sz4PN6uK1UlXJpwxMydyiw-iq_pYYVsBZUAX0wqdroQG5J32NmmRxEmVkJVo_a19A5oTmKILfJDh7OGXDCXU8Iu7BM/s2048/3+%25282%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1174" data-original-width="2048" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJiIq9IbTTzRPcK02u_3G74sJhc1U_kxjqtSTAgki4OZxKij0b6sz4PN6uK1UlXJpwxMydyiw-iq_pYYVsBZUAX0wqdroQG5J32NmmRxEmVkJVo_a19A5oTmKILfJDh7OGXDCXU8Iu7BM/w640-h366/3+%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The dunes were still red sand and
rocks, and the beach was pure white. The tide was out, and I walked so far out
to reach the sea, over warm shallow waters. The puddles were so hot and full of
crabs and colourful shells – you aren’t allowed to pick any though as it is a
protected area. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP6ELmaneBujXkLS_zZY99QsU7hidjf6TQbr4_4iAJ1q7udqdK6LUThRa5wk7iZzATJRkZAPQwEGHT4rsFI5IFHmYNWsr2sgC7RClIY3P4bAilJlQeAm1W1ge9XRrSZ8DoBWB7e8LLDlw/s2048/3+%25289%2529.jpg" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1216" data-original-width="2048" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP6ELmaneBujXkLS_zZY99QsU7hidjf6TQbr4_4iAJ1q7udqdK6LUThRa5wk7iZzATJRkZAPQwEGHT4rsFI5IFHmYNWsr2sgC7RClIY3P4bAilJlQeAm1W1ge9XRrSZ8DoBWB7e8LLDlw/w640-h380/3+%25289%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNDzA1BNSPLBtY6a0jN2xIUWUkB97tO5XqUm4PstUpjOLxnIp3UQOD5StQPUg-3UpS-MxbhjMGqVexwqXZI7yxrzWVTMjMVDy2VpPqK6yPpXXueSr6nyJ52rW9h2PUFvPVPLyOS081tbk/s2048/2a+%25282%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNDzA1BNSPLBtY6a0jN2xIUWUkB97tO5XqUm4PstUpjOLxnIp3UQOD5StQPUg-3UpS-MxbhjMGqVexwqXZI7yxrzWVTMjMVDy2VpPqK6yPpXXueSr6nyJ52rW9h2PUFvPVPLyOS081tbk/w640-h480/2a+%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">After lunch I went to the closest beach (only about 30 yards
from my unit) and just had to be in the water - as it was so hot. I was happy
paddling and lazing about in the shallows, it was just great; but when I sat back
on the beach to dry, I saw a huge sting ray only about 6 feet away, it was at
least 3 feet across and 8 feet long moving slowly across the seabed —just where
I had been! That was so scary. I don't think anyone else saw it, no-one else
seemed to see anything. I felt like I was the only person watching the ocean —
looking out for things. After a few hours in the shade and a little sleep, it
was time for my boat trip. I went down to the pier, but my excitement turned
into disappointment — it was cancelled as there was a problem with the sails! </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDxaUgFFwr0KrmMwx5WLgFh29Bu24Re16mslGf4Jk__ijmFEaKwXFBodi1y2QN1YnbjDC96ZQRKwDljkwymCvb65eK58bGFdDjrpLL6qNKEC_d2JHFW3wvHdh6tc1FgQ3hDLqGaC4VDH0/s2048/4+%25281%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDxaUgFFwr0KrmMwx5WLgFh29Bu24Re16mslGf4Jk__ijmFEaKwXFBodi1y2QN1YnbjDC96ZQRKwDljkwymCvb65eK58bGFdDjrpLL6qNKEC_d2JHFW3wvHdh6tc1FgQ3hDLqGaC4VDH0/w640-h480/4+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">So, I went a stroll down and sat on the pier for an hour, enjoying the last of the sun. It was there, that I had the most fabulous experience - at least half a dozen turtles were playing around the pier, bobbing up and down; they were so close to where I was sitting and stayed on the surface of the water for so long that I could really get a good look at them. </span><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; text-indent: 0cm;"> It was a wonderful end to the day;
my last evening at this incredible place – I couldn’t believe how much I had
seen.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4yGYwi1Q8tLeuem7H39wje5W_vjuPYsK_YyPHRH5_AWFUxSpjQwTO6JIXQnTr4Ty-fw5JrP7bfPdvcrcru-hMPrgA9y3WrmiaMQnJetNeG9FuM-aYgdDcxyzXHDkSg-hcyKMKSy9MJuA/s2048/6.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1425" data-original-width="2048" height="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4yGYwi1Q8tLeuem7H39wje5W_vjuPYsK_YyPHRH5_AWFUxSpjQwTO6JIXQnTr4Ty-fw5JrP7bfPdvcrcru-hMPrgA9y3WrmiaMQnJetNeG9FuM-aYgdDcxyzXHDkSg-hcyKMKSy9MJuA/w640-h446/6.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span><p></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I just had to get up early again the next morning and see the dolphins
one more time — it was my last chance to see them. I stood on the pier as
before, and other people had noticed that it was a good place to stand now, so
it was getting a bit busy. </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjueOdXOMRN6DVKh5-sskrAeBVvvBO_ii8L48tHBf1lelcKvv5keiBpnYAna-gwMo0UseA_0lm2qbsnYR8JOsqL2dy_CyQb_95T5VBVaQkUc1KlsQQG9Ip80ShBQq6T2a8PyrAbjkiaPIA/s2048/1+%252815%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjueOdXOMRN6DVKh5-sskrAeBVvvBO_ii8L48tHBf1lelcKvv5keiBpnYAna-gwMo0UseA_0lm2qbsnYR8JOsqL2dy_CyQb_95T5VBVaQkUc1KlsQQG9Ip80ShBQq6T2a8PyrAbjkiaPIA/w640-h480/1+%252815%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPw19HJcOsHj5UESgqAB1ymd_h6Ue9lbkiNO3SBNkFX4QtOnfo8aCR7QN5YgPProqdWIP0sHPUqvWxNBHC9ykkXF1uyNKelGBqCYHgqAbJeYHFeR8Nb8UYoMmQGtQ3-iYDZs78bctXoMM/s2048/1+%252835%2529.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1277" data-original-width="2048" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPw19HJcOsHj5UESgqAB1ymd_h6Ue9lbkiNO3SBNkFX4QtOnfo8aCR7QN5YgPProqdWIP0sHPUqvWxNBHC9ykkXF1uyNKelGBqCYHgqAbJeYHFeR8Nb8UYoMmQGtQ3-iYDZs78bctXoMM/w640-h400/1+%252835%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm;">All of a sudden 4 dolphins swam towards us and
started going under the pier and back out the other side — it felt like they
had come over just to see us, to be nosey ……………or to say goodbye! </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm;"><br /></span></div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5oKi6_5IGV3pp0HVFQ_3AbPcssW5X-GDnTI612gtMuXo6foFpA45GqI1bUToDoMGTKK7oLW6aDSVByEBPlNEBPynTzcEGm-_qYsYbfxZ_BlNa96saT0Z9afVTaoevhs5m9Kky4Z6IcnA/s2048/1+%252813%2529.jpg" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5oKi6_5IGV3pp0HVFQ_3AbPcssW5X-GDnTI612gtMuXo6foFpA45GqI1bUToDoMGTKK7oLW6aDSVByEBPlNEBPynTzcEGm-_qYsYbfxZ_BlNa96saT0Z9afVTaoevhs5m9Kky4Z6IcnA/w640-h480/1+%252813%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I felt sad to
be leaving this place — it was so very special, but I think I had, had long
enough there. Some people only stay a few hours or overnight, so I was very
privileged to have stayed a few days. The tide was going out and the sun was
hotting up. This was the end of my restful "beach holiday", it had
been the most memorable few days - in this most heavenly, virtually unknown
place on earth. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">For more information on visiting Monkey Mia (it has probably
changed a bit since I went) – here is the link :-<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><a href="https://parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/park/monkey-mia"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">https://parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/park/monkey-mia</span></a><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><b style="font-size: x-large;">Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Lynne</i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>These are my other blogs :-</b></span></span></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com/">http://lynnejmorley.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="line-height: 17.12px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: 12pt;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div></div></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="font-family: "times new roman"; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: x-large;">http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com</a></div></div></div>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 11.35pt; margin-left: 0cm; margin-right: 6.2pt; margin-top: 0cm; margin: 0cm 6.2pt 11.35pt 0cm; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0cm; text-justify: inter-ideograph;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 100%; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-89509438263868624122021-12-22T09:01:00.000+00:002021-12-22T09:01:53.281+00:00Sri Lanka<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Sri Lanka</u></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">After
an overnight stop in the fishing resort of Negombo, we drove inland to the North
Central Plains of Sri Lanka, covered in thick forests and isolated mountainous
outcrops - surrounded by flat land. These plains are known as the Cultural
Triangle, with Buddhist Temples, Sculptures, Ancient Monasteries and Stupas -
some over 2000 years old; including many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. </span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.12px;">After a long drive we reached Dambulla cave temples, a UNESCO Site dating back to the 1st Century BC. - known to have the best preserved and largest cave temple complex on the island. It was a steep hike up to the cave complex, but we were rewarded with spectacular views, 160 metres high over the surrounding plains. We had to leave our sandals with a “shoe-man” before entering the complex; as it was the middle of the day, the ground was scorching, and it was a struggle walking on the hot floor</span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 14.98px;">.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqas4j4qeVCbmwXHBioceVfKlcMdf6y-Zg4pUgxaZ9v_BPVyo2t4QYfSb17WmaL6wq1rZmm9FUAbdZGFFBQnumd64Gp-tSepps9TyR4q_jZ8Y9I5dvTcZlY2Sbuh8LzI0h-Nx2RNHmmOI/s1600/Dambulla+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1131" data-original-width="1600" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqas4j4qeVCbmwXHBioceVfKlcMdf6y-Zg4pUgxaZ9v_BPVyo2t4QYfSb17WmaL6wq1rZmm9FUAbdZGFFBQnumd64Gp-tSepps9TyR4q_jZ8Y9I5dvTcZlY2Sbuh8LzI0h-Nx2RNHmmOI/s640/Dambulla+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">The
major attractions are the 5 caves, which contain paintings and statues depicting
Lord Buddha and his teachings. Tradition says the caves were excavated by king
Vattagamani Abhaya in the first century B.C. and he and his successors had them
enlarged, smoothed and cut a drip-ledge along the rock to protect them from
rainwater. There are 150 Buddha images in these caves. The early paintings in
Dambulla are believed to belong to the 8th century, but this can’t be proved
because of ‘over painting’. </span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">The 1</span><sup style="font-family: calibri, sans-serif;">st</sup><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;"> Cave is the Temple of the King of Gods - so called, because the god Sakka (King of Gods) gave finishing touches to the image of the Buddha in here, which is about 47 feet long, and carved in the natural rock. Although there are wall and ceiling paintings in this cave, these can hardly be seen because of damage done by incense burnt over the years. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiplnNe-sfWFzD1Ad-I9KVp00s1c01TSrSjjIaQoql6ct47WbVHwSBf2oM7poUc1oSPsWehParcKjZ0iNEqTcmCfHjhZL3r9pLIOwwtDmh-LK9-8S93PBNtXbYwl9PEv00avVLBYEconjE/s1600/Dambulla+%25285a%2529+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiplnNe-sfWFzD1Ad-I9KVp00s1c01TSrSjjIaQoql6ct47WbVHwSBf2oM7poUc1oSPsWehParcKjZ0iNEqTcmCfHjhZL3r9pLIOwwtDmh-LK9-8S93PBNtXbYwl9PEv00avVLBYEconjE/s640/Dambulla+%25285a%2529+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The 2<sup>nd</sup> Cave
– is the temple of the Great King, as its founder King Vattagamani Abhaya
assisted in its formation, and it is the largest and most impressive cave which
you enter through an archway. The entire 172-foot-long cave is painted in
brilliant colours – the walls and ceiling are amazing – I have never seen
anything like it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5-IpOXsUuXT0XCqIrpfyldV75YKe_f-RLctcflwi3mwf2sKq66HrD4eBgm0wOycKm6QFJj7bFOB4akrTOE46ZhlcM6CNg9AlDZIS5Hf8c9TqHtd1VY5Co2raAmMGbrkFVxVO9pdbVgnM/s1600/Dambulla+%252822%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1098" data-original-width="1600" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5-IpOXsUuXT0XCqIrpfyldV75YKe_f-RLctcflwi3mwf2sKq66HrD4eBgm0wOycKm6QFJj7bFOB4akrTOE46ZhlcM6CNg9AlDZIS5Hf8c9TqHtd1VY5Co2raAmMGbrkFVxVO9pdbVgnM/s640/Dambulla+%252822%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">There are 53 images or statues of Buddha in here – all in
different poses. A real surprise is an 18-foot-high white stupa, with 4 figures
of Buddha, each facing a different direction, and seated under the hood of
a Cobra. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgll7-hjgAtCH8TGy1cD8gXcVHtre9vxku2th_0grUaCgvMLGH6GT_5zvZ9A0dSNrnTOY_Ihh07JgTrj3j0WIybXz15chJvUhtHUqSlixWA2d-u8xIQy_ST-PhTvJNvYXAFo9FOUs67YAU/s1600/Dambulla+%252824a%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "times new roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1322" data-original-width="1600" height="528" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgll7-hjgAtCH8TGy1cD8gXcVHtre9vxku2th_0grUaCgvMLGH6GT_5zvZ9A0dSNrnTOY_Ihh07JgTrj3j0WIybXz15chJvUhtHUqSlixWA2d-u8xIQy_ST-PhTvJNvYXAFo9FOUs67YAU/s640/Dambulla+%252824a%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
3<sup>rd</sup> Cave - The Great New Temple was used as a storeroom before the
18th century, when it was transformed into a Buddhist Church. This cave is
painted with frescoes depicting various events and scenes and contains 50
figures of the Buddha. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LtS3wEPHF6gfTYFO6sPP0kwPb-PAnsoJ4pTiUfeffEjSV86iodlnT1PyO77LlmRi5uAAwtEPcfQp6wxbsqgQF9CMar1o5e4sasqF6WPwAI0RYyh62UOwTHcpkFeC4OeB-CYvMmo0DJ8/s1600/Dambulla+%252826%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1195" data-original-width="1600" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3LtS3wEPHF6gfTYFO6sPP0kwPb-PAnsoJ4pTiUfeffEjSV86iodlnT1PyO77LlmRi5uAAwtEPcfQp6wxbsqgQF9CMar1o5e4sasqF6WPwAI0RYyh62UOwTHcpkFeC4OeB-CYvMmo0DJ8/s640/Dambulla+%252826%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The 4<sup>th</sup> Cave - The Western Temple has a roof
which dips inwards, it only has 10 figures of the Buddha; in particular a
beautiful figure seated in the meditation pose that has been hewn out of the
natural rock. There is also a neat stupa at the middle of this cave. The last
cave was closed when I visited – but I had seen enough images for one day.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ju-o2qQDRlJzeSLPGFoh-uduC8zSbdEej5Okw6jC1W80jCcv3w181072FD5a6Ux0RGXwb1fRAekgFKis5Wq0KQ3rRWgdeTrWCGZdsesDPLsk7wOH7QDJB-mm6GaeBP9eHh-M1jbctrc/s1600/Dambulla+%252827%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7ju-o2qQDRlJzeSLPGFoh-uduC8zSbdEej5Okw6jC1W80jCcv3w181072FD5a6Ux0RGXwb1fRAekgFKis5Wq0KQ3rRWgdeTrWCGZdsesDPLsk7wOH7QDJB-mm6GaeBP9eHh-M1jbctrc/s640/Dambulla+%252827%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
caves are set back under a ledge that was carved from the hillside many
centuries ago, and the front section now has white painted archways – with the
cave openings behind them. There is also a lotus pond and great views into the
distance – it was a very interesting place to visit. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
following day we were taken to Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri
Lanka’s Kingdoms which was the capital in 1070. Over the next 3 centuries it
became a thriving commercial and religious centre, reaching its height under
King Parakramabahu I, who created beautiful parks, huge buildings and an
enormous reservoir. Today the archaeological park contains many well-preserved
ruins within a compact area, as well being home to hundreds of ‘toque macaques’
- a species of monkeys. We started off at the visitor centre and museum, to
learn more about what we were going to see. Unfortunately, you can’t take
photographs inside – which is a pity, as it would have been helpful to remember
what things were as the day progressed.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Close
to here was the ruins of the ancient palace that had been built on the shore of
the reservoir – a fabulous location overlooking the water. The Audience chamber,
with its many columns was very impressive, with the Lion Throne, upon which the
king would sit and listen to his subjects. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVYqop8PhEcWFbSokePHJp-YTOQzrrveVTdfQGGl6lmIJCAx5Ae4qO1Pacs3vtKCa-A2Ha6Wgasgg8xss6xdQkHQUgon8xHMveeyMijNldK-kxieTAgE6-YU_MQxQ-JXgPcS1YLms3D8Y/s1600/Polonnaruwa+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1240" data-original-width="1600" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVYqop8PhEcWFbSokePHJp-YTOQzrrveVTdfQGGl6lmIJCAx5Ae4qO1Pacs3vtKCa-A2Ha6Wgasgg8xss6xdQkHQUgon8xHMveeyMijNldK-kxieTAgE6-YU_MQxQ-JXgPcS1YLms3D8Y/s640/Polonnaruwa+%25286%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
next stage was a visit to Dalada Maluva, an area with the oldest and most
sacred monuments of the city city; The Vatadage was the first one we saw, a
circular building with concentric terraces, described as a 12th century
masterpiece – originally intended to house the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha,
which is now in The Sacred Temple of Tooth in Kandy. Almost every surface of its
walls are decorated with carvings and friezes. Each of the 4 entrances has a
staircase starting with a moonstone – an elaborate semi-circular ornate welcome
step, flanked with arched guardian stones. Even all the steps leading up to the 4 seated
Buddhas are beautifully carved.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1GD4jOJuvr5XVKedPHSiCidv59VA2em8QYIKXmu54eRI7uVESuNiWXrj1-gd3Pgzbmpf9IQ-yynmWt3ZZZHTEHAQkxGq9kc-MkVj0ErG3qTHaX-IsZydUMZ0-GK4lCJLOnrGBoc4J1Zg/s1600/Polonnaruwa+%252818%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1GD4jOJuvr5XVKedPHSiCidv59VA2em8QYIKXmu54eRI7uVESuNiWXrj1-gd3Pgzbmpf9IQ-yynmWt3ZZZHTEHAQkxGq9kc-MkVj0ErG3qTHaX-IsZydUMZ0-GK4lCJLOnrGBoc4J1Zg/s640/Polonnaruwa+%252818%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Gal Potha (The Stone Book) is one of the
famous works of the 12</span><sup style="font-family: calibri, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> century King Nissanka Malla, in which he describes
himself and his rule. This massive slab is just over 8.2 meters long and
contains over 4300 characters and described as the largest book in Sri Lanka.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8r_2kvH9m_0t8Aeggk-FOSrOvf4dkhWAvJ7Nj2X9sPNEhyphenhyphenbOcnYUBe1RmWMIlqDAG3-aY70je7-ENeqZB1j3AGofqkrFE7khS7SW2byQLeC24CsAyFTHwUv3Om1VmWtTsVzFfHCnQB4E/s1600/Polonnaruwa+%252825%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1139" data-original-width="1600" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8r_2kvH9m_0t8Aeggk-FOSrOvf4dkhWAvJ7Nj2X9sPNEhyphenhyphenbOcnYUBe1RmWMIlqDAG3-aY70je7-ENeqZB1j3AGofqkrFE7khS7SW2byQLeC24CsAyFTHwUv3Om1VmWtTsVzFfHCnQB4E/s640/Polonnaruwa+%252825%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Next
to this is the Sathmahal Prasada, a pyramid-shaped, 7 storey building, thought
to be an unusual shaped stupa from approximately the 12<sup>th</sup> century –
The Polonnaruwa Period. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Many of these sites were quite a distance from each
other, around one shore of the lake. The 3.4-metre-tall Statue of King
Parakramabahu – one of the greatest ancient kings of Sri Lanka, is protected
from the elements by a roof type cover. You are allowed to take photographs of
these outdoor monuments, but you can’t take them with your back to the images –
selfies! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF1kRYNt7rl0lVLNndVmvCdp_H0iZ-XpN8EXulbHpk9rZiq8xpLpaMoN-AXcY_5k0FK8Vbko5rE6_9NVffZmTDdcDeZPgV26ItcgVuJPJ0ufFTntugGHK7hMbpm_oOR3755zmFp-nia64/s1600/Polonnaruwa+%252810%2529+Statue+of+King+Parakramabahu.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF1kRYNt7rl0lVLNndVmvCdp_H0iZ-XpN8EXulbHpk9rZiq8xpLpaMoN-AXcY_5k0FK8Vbko5rE6_9NVffZmTDdcDeZPgV26ItcgVuJPJ0ufFTntugGHK7hMbpm_oOR3755zmFp-nia64/s640/Polonnaruwa+%252810%2529+Statue+of+King+Parakramabahu.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Lankathilaka Viharaya was part of the ancient City having a 14<sup>th</sup>
century Great Buddhist ‘Temple of the Kings’. A good deal of this has been
destroyed and as much as the colossal building was impressive, the giant statue
inside no longer has a head. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIQ6hRntY4HHMxn1nXoGawlDlGt94cWkkTo94IgCU2c_DsPS3T7H6drx3BMbqiLuvmwJ3QKc2vRc-Jt_OVd7BZwOKnI_3f6KLVVagbwnwAF2WZFPHUvCreFATn5YfH-wm3HNnHYIQ22WA/s1600/Polonnaruwa+%252827%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIQ6hRntY4HHMxn1nXoGawlDlGt94cWkkTo94IgCU2c_DsPS3T7H6drx3BMbqiLuvmwJ3QKc2vRc-Jt_OVd7BZwOKnI_3f6KLVVagbwnwAF2WZFPHUvCreFATn5YfH-wm3HNnHYIQ22WA/s640/Polonnaruwa+%252827%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">We drove
through the Monastery area next, stopping at Rankoth Vehera (The Golden
Pinnacle) Stupa, the largest stupa in Polonnaruwa at 33 metres high, built in
the 12<sup>th</sup> century by the King Nissanka Malla. Closeby is another
stupa – a white one called Kiri Vehera.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiT4J0jBxSH5J-iJhGlN17Cbcig1y-o2-9x0tDWbe_APzDAcffXbO5EjxvZEOxVPqgTdK_bASZRzRjelRUcF-BRDneLdhGO_n0BjinLvHTN-N12ViyXDD5y0FkEehIcQ4vIQog4QaypsU/s1600/Polonnaruwa+%252831%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiT4J0jBxSH5J-iJhGlN17Cbcig1y-o2-9x0tDWbe_APzDAcffXbO5EjxvZEOxVPqgTdK_bASZRzRjelRUcF-BRDneLdhGO_n0BjinLvHTN-N12ViyXDD5y0FkEehIcQ4vIQog4QaypsU/s640/Polonnaruwa+%252831%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Back
in the car to the next attraction, which is situated in its own lawned park. Gal
Vihara, known as “The Northern Temple”, is a 27-metre-long cave complex with
sculptures carved from the solid rock – making 4 shrines. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrOIl7LEcoflYxwS9bMMsdbwn1zGQxRRW6vl6ntZ1RE592Fbnq6pdJagr1B6t__LSvjYzZxUm6Xtywd-P-RYGXX9BJlOp9sFyiLZHrD8tP_Ff3zgyblT23aRgfLXbukZLZcPamwGZOqE/s1600/Polonnaruwa+%252833%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOrOIl7LEcoflYxwS9bMMsdbwn1zGQxRRW6vl6ntZ1RE592Fbnq6pdJagr1B6t__LSvjYzZxUm6Xtywd-P-RYGXX9BJlOp9sFyiLZHrD8tP_Ff3zgyblT23aRgfLXbukZLZcPamwGZOqE/s640/Polonnaruwa+%252833%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">It
is a Buddhist Temple described as the most perfect specimen of a Buddha statue
carved from solid stone, it was made in the 12<sup>th</sup> century and has
been completely preserved. It was midday now, and really hot; and I didn’t
fancy taking my sandals off to get closer to the statues – the ground was stony
and uneven; so, I had to be content with taking photographs from a short
distance away.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMTsOhsbF6mBpixoxCd1aLy_DMXrHw7GJ2gl0wnBHnZIEgyb2H6Li7Hl9FQ61ag9KS7DvPqfJA12bYWUHYdymzGHQoZ1qfLvfKul5vZtTA1OLsbnQ0enFZPMT_Z8e3dQRFypkcTfXUT4c/s1600/Polonnaruwa+%252834%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMTsOhsbF6mBpixoxCd1aLy_DMXrHw7GJ2gl0wnBHnZIEgyb2H6Li7Hl9FQ61ag9KS7DvPqfJA12bYWUHYdymzGHQoZ1qfLvfKul5vZtTA1OLsbnQ0enFZPMT_Z8e3dQRFypkcTfXUT4c/s640/Polonnaruwa+%252834%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">With
the carvings being so long, it was difficult to get them all in one shot. The
only image I couldn’t see clearly was the centre one – which was behind glass
and metal bars.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipRKkFpj9_sEljuqUB-tikMQZu_T1pT4VyIcWuME74v9dnvyeND1LxdtkWqcWMAwj36699vFkb5FUKG_qR2Bk6Z9bvcMtYe3l_mzikcCJFzEOsfP-TWPbtqcz2RCwk6YbJju63FsDOwVs/s1600/Polonnaruwa+%252837%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipRKkFpj9_sEljuqUB-tikMQZu_T1pT4VyIcWuME74v9dnvyeND1LxdtkWqcWMAwj36699vFkb5FUKG_qR2Bk6Z9bvcMtYe3l_mzikcCJFzEOsfP-TWPbtqcz2RCwk6YbJju63FsDOwVs/s640/Polonnaruwa+%252837%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">The last area we were taken to was quite remote; to see the lotus pond, and then a long walk up to the 12th century brick built Thivanka Image House. The thick outer walls have beautifully sculpted arches, columns and figures all the way around the building – but the opposite sides look completely different to each other; one with stripes and the other without. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMGtUTyQxMa7dntnO8Hq1-oSdtnjn6vtcf4HQHO9VjlazYp5UZ__hSt1JtgvjXQw9BGe_FXo8wsVBUIhOLIfFAH1MSMA0AMOIT33Ds56PDq8pYk7nbOclFDbcA5Nf5iEEnhVRr5ZINrY/s1600/Polonnaruwa+%252847%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaMGtUTyQxMa7dntnO8Hq1-oSdtnjn6vtcf4HQHO9VjlazYp5UZ__hSt1JtgvjXQw9BGe_FXo8wsVBUIhOLIfFAH1MSMA0AMOIT33Ds56PDq8pYk7nbOclFDbcA5Nf5iEEnhVRr5ZINrY/s640/Polonnaruwa+%252847%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">There is a sacred Bo Tree by the main entrance to the temple; a Moonstone on the ground and 2 carved stones with guardian statues either side of the short flight of stairs - leading to the wooden grilled doorway. Inside the Temple, its walls and ceiling are covered in paintings dating back to the construction of the temple; depicting the lives of the Buddha. The statue of him here has been damaged – so doesn’t look that impressive; and as with other heritage places – photographs aren’t allowed inside the building!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikECJSgmOxCsEuC-hmtrozzFozU5HwZANznLQ41TbYUovrkZDuGGV8urpI0XcMTGYc0OE-lmEtPdn7b3DMMpE02jA38mMQbJiMMcP8AzVh-zRhm6f53yGuRiIdWl3Puktekulr21NxZhY/s1600/Polonnaruwa+%252844%2529+Thivanka+Pilimage+%2528Image+House%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikECJSgmOxCsEuC-hmtrozzFozU5HwZANznLQ41TbYUovrkZDuGGV8urpI0XcMTGYc0OE-lmEtPdn7b3DMMpE02jA38mMQbJiMMcP8AzVh-zRhm6f53yGuRiIdWl3Puktekulr21NxZhY/s640/Polonnaruwa+%252844%2529+Thivanka+Pilimage+%2528Image+House%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">This temple is said to resemble and have a connection to the caves of Ellora in India and the mountains of Petra in Jordan – making it one of the most important archaeological sites in the country. After a long walk back to the car, we were ready for a relax – Polonnaruwa was such a surprise; I hadn’t expected it to cover such a huge expanse. There had been an incredible amount to see here – but by the end of it, I felt as though I had “cultural overload” and needed a rest. </span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gA4Y30Q11PzpKHvQoHOrbUWs0vWx8GDdCREMdg_zGj4Ad4vxO9mhQO2nnVOraQA7Wr9oqMb1qjg4fPMkMtAQA37eBTseOpe3v2P0VBDr7-qx03gzRvVASHm6wpDVWbEUNw5AIIiOdF4/s1600/Polonnaruwa+%252846%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8gA4Y30Q11PzpKHvQoHOrbUWs0vWx8GDdCREMdg_zGj4Ad4vxO9mhQO2nnVOraQA7Wr9oqMb1qjg4fPMkMtAQA37eBTseOpe3v2P0VBDr7-qx03gzRvVASHm6wpDVWbEUNw5AIIiOdF4/s640/Polonnaruwa+%252846%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
next morning it was another early start – this time to visit The World Heritage
UNESCO Site of The Lion Rock or Sigiriya. This is a natural massive rock
plateau almost 200 metres high, formed from the magma of an extinct volcano,
surrounded by jungle – attracting thousands of visitors every year. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCS2JsePhP2hDqqhZDJj_87_IdCXOrvFzIds0nTDy7uB0Dm33QAc6lSGAKw0f8r_9Juq1kcCfEc4Rq2m3hDypQKkghhw0xWSCJIFc4cso2RKo90XVbJaukoNZgccVYh6kD3qM6otR7aw8/s1600/Sigiriya+%25285%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1139" data-original-width="1600" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCS2JsePhP2hDqqhZDJj_87_IdCXOrvFzIds0nTDy7uB0Dm33QAc6lSGAKw0f8r_9Juq1kcCfEc4Rq2m3hDypQKkghhw0xWSCJIFc4cso2RKo90XVbJaukoNZgccVYh6kD3qM6otR7aw8/s640/Sigiriya+%25285%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">We started by visiting the museum – another
place where photographs are not allowed; before walking through the remnants of
the summer palace with its various landscaped gardens - said to be some of the
oldest in the world. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5dMUHJCU0uosUFaEDwXmO0R3-iZciGYUz5tORGyHooqEyD6OGWRrNhrwEI8o30auHVtct0eV14DM_FUujj4ZWUzm1xVkBw-OTEB-LAQaQP6fkRE0rs069mpVwKT6KGtUjun8TAmRpypk/s1600/Sigiriya+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1293" data-original-width="1600" height="514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5dMUHJCU0uosUFaEDwXmO0R3-iZciGYUz5tORGyHooqEyD6OGWRrNhrwEI8o30auHVtct0eV14DM_FUujj4ZWUzm1xVkBw-OTEB-LAQaQP6fkRE0rs069mpVwKT6KGtUjun8TAmRpypk/s640/Sigiriya+%25286%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Here
at the base of the rock is lawned areas, outlines of the ruined palace,
fortifications, ponds and canals – it was an ideal place to get a fabulous view
of the rock itself. It was quite daunting, the thought of climbing all the way
to the top of it. On top are the remains of King Kasyapa’s 5<sup>th</sup>
century palace, an incredible feat of engineering to even just get building
materials up there let alone construct a palace. After this king’s death,
Sigiriya became a Buddhist monastery again (as it was in 3<sup>rd</sup>
century) until the 14th century, when it was abandoned.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPCvXcNW-7-Kdlp41EbGjid0pTAVr67shanEqPVsqDjbE0dZ9jazhnxlwz9T0f8Y6smxGk10WDEfMGYkjN2t0q45jiGL3LJW65R7CwwH_mFcxtsdwDei2kIbXoR-HnPPFXwq-LoYdvp5g/s1600/Sigiriya+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPCvXcNW-7-Kdlp41EbGjid0pTAVr67shanEqPVsqDjbE0dZ9jazhnxlwz9T0f8Y6smxGk10WDEfMGYkjN2t0q45jiGL3LJW65R7CwwH_mFcxtsdwDei2kIbXoR-HnPPFXwq-LoYdvp5g/s640/Sigiriya+%25284%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Following
a group of tourists, we headed over the moat, and through brightly coloured
rock openings, and began climbing a series of uneven steps which got steeper
very quickly. Although it was early in the morning, the heat was an issue – and
it was hard going. It was only possible to walk in single file for much of the
way – it is a good job that the way down was by a different route.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2rvWAVqm17RUwAAcIFZJGQwQS7IQCflolyZkCGJiXVUq41Way_bY1RpXyfTibAciWUn49xiNhOE82bpXyI0RxHFf7BE7BrP8kRnRVKb4tTtZ7pcngLHrNpJB6BwsNSVmZRuzjkLIFFXs/s1600/Sigiriya+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1246" data-original-width="1600" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2rvWAVqm17RUwAAcIFZJGQwQS7IQCflolyZkCGJiXVUq41Way_bY1RpXyfTibAciWUn49xiNhOE82bpXyI0RxHFf7BE7BrP8kRnRVKb4tTtZ7pcngLHrNpJB6BwsNSVmZRuzjkLIFFXs/s640/Sigiriya+%25287%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">One
of Sigiriya’s most famous features is the Mirror wall (which apparently used to
be polished so well - the king could see his reflection in it). There is also a
wall which is covered in frescoes from 5<sup>th</sup> century, of which 18 have
survived - mostly depicting naked women that are considered to be Kasyapa’s
wives and concubines. These unique, ancient paintings have huge historical
significance but unfortunately again, you can’t photograph them. To see these,
you have to go up an enclosed spiral metal staircase and then back down another
one – it is very cramped.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX0EGmVK7ZDX6xyzLda5Fa0-HLOyWsDtzB1BXTGFeVraK7W4iyEt-MoIabPCI5A8DsUGTKF5twPUjYJu6MWg20o3Nbi2ZbXKTxRfB1lsTGjlVILFpXwf0zlyxdCsEmAfOXHJoAYGrUr40/s1600/Sigiriya+%252830%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX0EGmVK7ZDX6xyzLda5Fa0-HLOyWsDtzB1BXTGFeVraK7W4iyEt-MoIabPCI5A8DsUGTKF5twPUjYJu6MWg20o3Nbi2ZbXKTxRfB1lsTGjlVILFpXwf0zlyxdCsEmAfOXHJoAYGrUr40/s640/Sigiriya+%252830%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Halfway
up the rock, we came to a flat area (Lion’s Paw Terrace), where we could have a
few minutes rest; this was the old gateway to the top - through a structure
depicting a huge stone lion, whose paws have survived, but the rest of its body
has been destroyed. It is because of this lion that the palace was named
Sigiriya - Sihagri, i.e. Lion Rock. It was still a long, arduous climb to the
top from here, and I was really concerned whether I was going to be able to
make it; but determined to do it, we carried on. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE598csMGCwmsjSfNTbpW9FIt7YV2rKgY58xjB8Sd-_XnBnerxpGIvZaIiY1oE9x_Zvp6vX9XQKgDiQ77m1GHDNJyKwgNG_krYIcYoKD0GJ6ZzpsmBgbzwrGKQolHZ2vpjZwazGsuNBxU/s1600/Sigiriya+%252815%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1169" data-original-width="1600" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE598csMGCwmsjSfNTbpW9FIt7YV2rKgY58xjB8Sd-_XnBnerxpGIvZaIiY1oE9x_Zvp6vX9XQKgDiQ77m1GHDNJyKwgNG_krYIcYoKD0GJ6ZzpsmBgbzwrGKQolHZ2vpjZwazGsuNBxU/s640/Sigiriya+%252815%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJkgJ-bZRB0L_EKfHQMczBtsPezcp47u9MxI4yJqeY-XUMaWhWMLUdricpEmx-q246uG1yrIdALRwyLqvK-K43FS1CXZyqTth_ZOfMq3aIA1ghHRilcTLmMcWg34xSj5ekjd5h4fIXnfw/s1600/Sigiriya+%252823%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJkgJ-bZRB0L_EKfHQMczBtsPezcp47u9MxI4yJqeY-XUMaWhWMLUdricpEmx-q246uG1yrIdALRwyLqvK-K43FS1CXZyqTth_ZOfMq3aIA1ghHRilcTLmMcWg34xSj5ekjd5h4fIXnfw/s640/Sigiriya+%252823%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
final section has metal stairs with handrails, which were such a help; and I
was so happy to finally reach the top, where the view was fabulous – miles of
rainforest with more stone hills. It was a glorious day, and I was so hot;
there wasn’t any shade up there, just 1.6 hectares covered with the remains of buildings
from the royal city; and some workers who were carrying out conservation work.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirCmX2IZGUCkzCR6-nyzl1qlpSmZCpWmohLIwtw3ru29k4_4gYWr_xTcFnVXt6lY-PiA6GAGs00mQ0SgPdaFMuFdlZpL2a-A8lNrOUlD8Zi0bWTa65eEQeFQMHA2liXpPkRJ8RQRUD1Mg/s1600/Sigiriya+%252820%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirCmX2IZGUCkzCR6-nyzl1qlpSmZCpWmohLIwtw3ru29k4_4gYWr_xTcFnVXt6lY-PiA6GAGs00mQ0SgPdaFMuFdlZpL2a-A8lNrOUlD8Zi0bWTa65eEQeFQMHA2liXpPkRJ8RQRUD1Mg/s640/Sigiriya+%252820%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghuH-Z8fD267KK4cIUnLLq5S8SkoJrnhLjDJ4OsBURTnD2-C0retyyoyn6VMemocekriQfaMYOMFwLnj5TPJsakxjyTLennvF_Z_D4E048s-B5OXB-h0-fTIb16T0NxYa4j_YN1ou9iFs/s1600/Sigiriya+%252821%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghuH-Z8fD267KK4cIUnLLq5S8SkoJrnhLjDJ4OsBURTnD2-C0retyyoyn6VMemocekriQfaMYOMFwLnj5TPJsakxjyTLennvF_Z_D4E048s-B5OXB-h0-fTIb16T0NxYa4j_YN1ou9iFs/s640/Sigiriya+%252821%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">It
was so much easier descending the monolith, not so many steps – finally passing
through what is known as the boulder garden. I was so pleased that I had
persevered and carried on to the top. The hike up and down again can take 1.5
to 2.5 hours depending on your fitness – and there are well over 1000 steps. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjef6r7RZriVBkiD_cJWYJnsMCkME5JBwy_KlEI4hAXs5CiBft7HjR-yyFDVeh3j9sGSYta5wVzc1RTVzNUYXpaiiI95W4vIAJgDa87AO8xIS5ObMc6C_Xs-8HDckPozt7lYmycLnMgOig/s1600/Sigiriya+%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjef6r7RZriVBkiD_cJWYJnsMCkME5JBwy_KlEI4hAXs5CiBft7HjR-yyFDVeh3j9sGSYta5wVzc1RTVzNUYXpaiiI95W4vIAJgDa87AO8xIS5ObMc6C_Xs-8HDckPozt7lYmycLnMgOig/s640/Sigiriya+%252812%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg69_TNLeJOSJJjtKSlz9XsdLNdlokPVuFiagUnVui86OCiamfxjOgnQ6JMBx4glWMcRt2YWKSeRZDAT7HDjU6aRtuVzxwbpVjrKwRCWi20JvuS-2yYLqdz4fQaPvVwWmZC6i3zMb-hHso/s1600/Sigiriya+%252831%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg69_TNLeJOSJJjtKSlz9XsdLNdlokPVuFiagUnVui86OCiamfxjOgnQ6JMBx4glWMcRt2YWKSeRZDAT7HDjU6aRtuVzxwbpVjrKwRCWi20JvuS-2yYLqdz4fQaPvVwWmZC6i3zMb-hHso/s640/Sigiriya+%252831%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">As
it was still relatively early in the morning, we opted for a local “Village
Tour” which was very reasonably priced; for this we had a ride in an ox-drawn
cart, were taken on a wooden “catamaran” over a lake, helped 2 local women
prepare a delicious meal (which we had to eat afterwards) and finally had a
ride in a tuk-tuk back to our starting place. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFcIzBR05u6OMZe8qyhCoStaRBHY5sM2iT_2DaTcNVOXuXawCjUGUDLceq6UOxOilsyJ56XfADwqtjyLwErowwlbBMbrlcOfS_HYkepGIl5ZprlJcp_JtQwHJFkDNkqlII6Q8BzXZSWQ/s1600/Sigiriya+%252835%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFcIzBR05u6OMZe8qyhCoStaRBHY5sM2iT_2DaTcNVOXuXawCjUGUDLceq6UOxOilsyJ56XfADwqtjyLwErowwlbBMbrlcOfS_HYkepGIl5ZprlJcp_JtQwHJFkDNkqlII6Q8BzXZSWQ/s640/Sigiriya+%252835%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg602XGLYv9r4G5Jq6_hIREJcjxfmTRwXq49-3Xg7d9TOhLJ8REEf5diXh7uPjRJGZ6aLJNEjsCU05dJZ5jFt2BOZGEHjQV1840O60sbkm0oLsXe2ggYkyot_1kYQUc5P9ik2y8U6WfkQ/s1600/Sigiriya+%252836%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjg602XGLYv9r4G5Jq6_hIREJcjxfmTRwXq49-3Xg7d9TOhLJ8REEf5diXh7uPjRJGZ6aLJNEjsCU05dJZ5jFt2BOZGEHjQV1840O60sbkm0oLsXe2ggYkyot_1kYQUc5P9ik2y8U6WfkQ/s640/Sigiriya+%252836%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoAhjKr9wh8wqP3_vGZMSi3kMEjgoAoYITqS70TC2dv5WrtCzACnaUA8EUYFDmdND1e7t_8ecN8tS8CIB5mVPofcbPeFT8YekSGdwBD5UVwdDJ0IuVi-8sFaXM-87reHzkjrHSE6h7oec/s1600/Sigiriya+%252839%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoAhjKr9wh8wqP3_vGZMSi3kMEjgoAoYITqS70TC2dv5WrtCzACnaUA8EUYFDmdND1e7t_8ecN8tS8CIB5mVPofcbPeFT8YekSGdwBD5UVwdDJ0IuVi-8sFaXM-87reHzkjrHSE6h7oec/s640/Sigiriya+%252839%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">A
thoroughly enjoyable few hours – especially as most of it was sitting down,
giving us time to recover from our earlier exertions!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlOcdyPps4dr7v9cayJMCyR1gRQErONWelpQa5AK-17UQXOQIcyZN2MsUvicg6dHrtxXZWfqJ7yONRMp_dDYsnnoxOFIe9OtopndA85Ou-sKYKgRyrO6BkwpuE8bOPqqr2CRHH_8R7tFU/s1600/Elephants+%252879%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlOcdyPps4dr7v9cayJMCyR1gRQErONWelpQa5AK-17UQXOQIcyZN2MsUvicg6dHrtxXZWfqJ7yONRMp_dDYsnnoxOFIe9OtopndA85Ou-sKYKgRyrO6BkwpuE8bOPqqr2CRHH_8R7tFU/s640/Elephants+%252879%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Later
in the afternoon we went on a jeep safari, hoping to see herds of elephants
that come to graze and bathe in the waters there; but due to the elephants’
movements that day – we deviated from Minneriya to the nearby Kaudulla National
Park. This time of year (October) is the end of the dry season, when the waters
are receding, encouraging the elephants into the open looking to food and water.
It is home to the 'GATHERING OF ELEPHANTS’ in what is known as an ‘elephant
corridor’ for the herds roaming in the east, to get to the National Parks in
the south – moving about 20 kilometres each day.</span><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAqb873oEAqbSiV_DAlzf8r8OIHe9el5mf_ryxyIfWumDe1dspabVcFEansQEORIGBymeLR18AYch0Qx3meSSEUIT_FLIe8AKRGcnaKt083lSqqyBM_ZopYDscpl3GccV2xkiKWT-x2Yw/s1600/Elephants+%252823%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAqb873oEAqbSiV_DAlzf8r8OIHe9el5mf_ryxyIfWumDe1dspabVcFEansQEORIGBymeLR18AYch0Qx3meSSEUIT_FLIe8AKRGcnaKt083lSqqyBM_ZopYDscpl3GccV2xkiKWT-x2Yw/s640/Elephants+%252823%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">After
travelling through forest and shrubland, where the ground was such a bright
shade of red; we came to open plains with the Kaudulla Tank (reservoir) in the
distance. We were so excited to see an elephant, and it wasn’t long before we
were inundated with the magnificent creatures.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCbZN3YPsVrAOw60XzT3oYvL-htf1uQDtffuyZJ3Ie-VGkeEpDlu6wc91RrndhPvs_seNcuXOlew8EoRhsn7AiketA4U_HBDsQORB99neYOwt-Xss2yrj8vo9KQzkMg0YetNA16e_yj3w/s1600/Elephants+%252814%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCbZN3YPsVrAOw60XzT3oYvL-htf1uQDtffuyZJ3Ie-VGkeEpDlu6wc91RrndhPvs_seNcuXOlew8EoRhsn7AiketA4U_HBDsQORB99neYOwt-Xss2yrj8vo9KQzkMg0YetNA16e_yj3w/s640/Elephants+%252814%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">There
were numerous family groups, many with small babies – which were the cutest
things ever. They were so protected by their parents and siblings, that it was
really hard to capture a good photograph of them; I took hundreds of
photographs, hoping that just one would be really special.</span></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZYhNdquk9jG_0COqtyPTCgc83KiwvvHjCDSKPIriuKCSbcPBkkHQMXsKW9cQ9dGqS0NQEHh0yRQ6o4uhh9CeOz9KY5e8HfmjfVjfPd288e6gW3xmQOlqWE3p1VtL1GV_g1Wr94UDQAbA/s1600/Elephants+%252869%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1245" data-original-width="1600" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZYhNdquk9jG_0COqtyPTCgc83KiwvvHjCDSKPIriuKCSbcPBkkHQMXsKW9cQ9dGqS0NQEHh0yRQ6o4uhh9CeOz9KY5e8HfmjfVjfPd288e6gW3xmQOlqWE3p1VtL1GV_g1Wr94UDQAbA/s640/Elephants+%252869%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXJ9VfDhCV0mL8PRcWsAnDz541JmmYjOQLdkgHr5D4YbAqn9KeIbNTI5Z1hf6nnAFYnkYjYvHZzb0AmlWEMH5AIFkczz2kl-pchlQ8OIRQObcCY6U_sYEHj59_WHNPuOFV1kakE0R6JoM/s1600/Elephants+%252821%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1253" data-original-width="1600" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXJ9VfDhCV0mL8PRcWsAnDz541JmmYjOQLdkgHr5D4YbAqn9KeIbNTI5Z1hf6nnAFYnkYjYvHZzb0AmlWEMH5AIFkczz2kl-pchlQ8OIRQObcCY6U_sYEHj59_WHNPuOFV1kakE0R6JoM/s640/Elephants+%252821%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
elephants weren’t fazed by the safari vehicles at all, and some came so close
to where we were parked – just to get into the puddle of mud nearby! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRIrI4qxoB6qdPCu3su8Lob8UoRkThz1Egp8-sBCzwbUHM24xGkrPBzyvZnnalqZ966w-j0t5PQE8VI3v2RMGBBvpL8fgKZ7arBU2ZGxa_g4zAhPJxZ2nmnw1jOtD-wOF8pAxyrSWzFNc/s1600/Elephants+%252849%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRIrI4qxoB6qdPCu3su8Lob8UoRkThz1Egp8-sBCzwbUHM24xGkrPBzyvZnnalqZ966w-j0t5PQE8VI3v2RMGBBvpL8fgKZ7arBU2ZGxa_g4zAhPJxZ2nmnw1jOtD-wOF8pAxyrSWzFNc/s640/Elephants+%252849%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhQvwpl_V7nXua6D0e5O-1KSaVW1lrcBG0-l4Ab6PQ6FdFwvlcEckxiOiz0a9VqlUHaaNBOMDyNHTSmaZZesc0S8EsAOiXfLaNQzeObjdWuJLdwp8vqRQtlST2cTkBk7SqftAWn7rluBY/s1600/Elephants+%252846%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1388" data-original-width="1600" height="552" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhQvwpl_V7nXua6D0e5O-1KSaVW1lrcBG0-l4Ab6PQ6FdFwvlcEckxiOiz0a9VqlUHaaNBOMDyNHTSmaZZesc0S8EsAOiXfLaNQzeObjdWuJLdwp8vqRQtlST2cTkBk7SqftAWn7rluBY/s640/Elephants+%252846%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQEfhtoXyfBW-sGocpLZL_uxrQUhP4gkRDrlSKqMMEwk9mjgEQMMmfHYnqhdcWZZ9C7cLYT_sgcedve0WkBC3EfmJpdhcQmIXlkh38WckcwC01qfPYwcum-WJtd00eq_GNrLaOKhMlno/s1600/Elephants+%252852%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1114" data-original-width="1600" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQEfhtoXyfBW-sGocpLZL_uxrQUhP4gkRDrlSKqMMEwk9mjgEQMMmfHYnqhdcWZZ9C7cLYT_sgcedve0WkBC3EfmJpdhcQmIXlkh38WckcwC01qfPYwcum-WJtd00eq_GNrLaOKhMlno/s640/Elephants+%252852%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;">There were hundreds of elephants all heading in the same direction
– it was a wonderful sight; one I felt so privileged to have experienced. The
area is also home to leopards, toque macaques, purple faced langurs, sloth
bears, sambar and spotted deer, and about 160 species of birds. What an end to
an absolutely fantastic day, I had seen everything I had come to Sri Lanka to
see; and still had a few more days to go! </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7PudzweYunTnjdp9X7QPE0RiNL_BeQptgg1IenUn3rN_1TFr1fYInYNvdVd0cOpqgOqNkuYqeGJnvAtWUQCO2JQ3BfD7abwHPu_F_93-GqI1CsgPEAnYAP9JSI0ZDVED5Qnx-HF5P5nY/s1600/Elephants+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7PudzweYunTnjdp9X7QPE0RiNL_BeQptgg1IenUn3rN_1TFr1fYInYNvdVd0cOpqgOqNkuYqeGJnvAtWUQCO2JQ3BfD7abwHPu_F_93-GqI1CsgPEAnYAP9JSI0ZDVED5Qnx-HF5P5nY/s640/Elephants+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;">The following morning, we were heading south towards Kandy –
on some of the worst windy roads imaginable. We stopped at Matale to visit some
spice gardens, where we were told about spices and given the opportunity to buy
some. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIjYzqIPgNsK25HyZKxW-ST3DbFeOBR_xj6WTw7-po_fWvdJtvcUq4Vlob8snNytqI4jZEiEGiyrI-pHVNmJK_aAV6BGbIlme0qbdXJDczbY13tZV0GzS_0UkTy68z0ZPnq35SJftdruU/s1600/t+Kandy+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIjYzqIPgNsK25HyZKxW-ST3DbFeOBR_xj6WTw7-po_fWvdJtvcUq4Vlob8snNytqI4jZEiEGiyrI-pHVNmJK_aAV6BGbIlme0qbdXJDczbY13tZV0GzS_0UkTy68z0ZPnq35SJftdruU/s640/t+Kandy+%25284%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">Next, we were taken to a Gem factory and shown how the stones are mined and
cut by hand, in such primitive conditions – although the finished products were
rather beyond our price range! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg29SR2d4_MpeeFgZgCARAs4JJfcMC2YNRQSpf_LJGyNbrqM8QQwv-T_zNgrW5AKPrwaueqXj-n1K6MchrMRUw4Hk_hmW-Br4cAnL7aMA1sNszBlQsjPMdwMUP_upfxxmZP3vGdpjFxrNk/s1600/t+Kandy+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg29SR2d4_MpeeFgZgCARAs4JJfcMC2YNRQSpf_LJGyNbrqM8QQwv-T_zNgrW5AKPrwaueqXj-n1K6MchrMRUw4Hk_hmW-Br4cAnL7aMA1sNszBlQsjPMdwMUP_upfxxmZP3vGdpjFxrNk/s640/t+Kandy+%25287%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">Finally, just outside Kandy we arrived at The
Ceylon Tea Museum; 4 floors containing old items of machinery, a library, an
auditorium, a tea sales outlet, and its top floor is a café. Legend says tea
originated over 5000 years ago in China; when the science-curious emperor Shen
Nung insisted that for hygiene purposes, all water in the palace be boiled. But
when he was out one day, he and his men stopped to boil water to drink, and
leaves from a nearby bush fell into the water; and the brew that resulted was
so refreshing, the emperor ordered samples from the bush be brought back to the
palace for analysis. </span>This new phenomenon of using leaves from the tea plant became fashionable and cultivation of tea.<br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiONmEsB1nkDvcLrOavCNAscP1uJSM3cSmb4LPkWYaQp3_2FkMQEuEfsyPti7YzmDCotMyQVluwEppEr_16oje5GdaMzNpPW9WOI5TYrF_cnYAsfCuAXJdUOYtXx-XgtCF6fxpOl6cOCIw/s1600/t+Kandy+%25285%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiONmEsB1nkDvcLrOavCNAscP1uJSM3cSmb4LPkWYaQp3_2FkMQEuEfsyPti7YzmDCotMyQVluwEppEr_16oje5GdaMzNpPW9WOI5TYrF_cnYAsfCuAXJdUOYtXx-XgtCF6fxpOl6cOCIw/s640/t+Kandy+%25285%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2zrejlOFUoICqxKM5OMUapA11Sj0E172s49wO5XREQi9S6L9Zu0XWoQabtG47WUXC4h7xTHnfodn59mIQIHCUEIc7qdguB6kedCRlPg-vjP0b4XwV18rUAbDaiBuOOaBhypslC0REw_U/s1600/t+Kandy+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2zrejlOFUoICqxKM5OMUapA11Sj0E172s49wO5XREQi9S6L9Zu0XWoQabtG47WUXC4h7xTHnfodn59mIQIHCUEIc7qdguB6kedCRlPg-vjP0b4XwV18rUAbDaiBuOOaBhypslC0REw_U/s640/t+Kandy+%25286%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;">It was afternoon by the time we
arrived at Kandy, Sri Lanka’s second largest city, which is set around a picturesque
man-made lake, surrounded by green hills. We had a walk around the town and
local market, but the weather was against us – so we didn’t manage to see as
much as we would have liked. The town has some traditional colonial style
buildings and more shops than we had seen the whole time in Sri Lanka – we did
feel the need for a little retail therapy.</span><span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBcaGdum2QKJLONQ2daM8-c12HL5XADGVI7qxVgR9o0Yf4lSFzq0LeNJ-LPeRUNYuRnfjUU6rOdlXgcdYfMsb6Xn14QEyjoAYxGVBkO8f6mSYKZm1mRUmlbigTmJePS-1One9jeV85_PE/s1600/t+Kandy+%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBcaGdum2QKJLONQ2daM8-c12HL5XADGVI7qxVgR9o0Yf4lSFzq0LeNJ-LPeRUNYuRnfjUU6rOdlXgcdYfMsb6Xn14QEyjoAYxGVBkO8f6mSYKZm1mRUmlbigTmJePS-1One9jeV85_PE/s640/t+Kandy+%25288%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">Early next morning was a highlight –
a visit to the golden roofed ‘Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic’, said to contain
Buddha’s tooth - the most sacred temple in the whole of Sri Lanka. This
important shrine originally built by the Kandyan Kings between 1687 and 1707,
is home to intricate carvings and beautiful Sri Lankan art. After passing the
security entrance, we walked through a park-like area until we reached the main
buildings – this is a new area established after the temple was damaged with a
bomb by Hindu Tamil separatists in 1998 – to keep traffic away from the temple
buildings. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYNjNvIpy-mDl4DKfGk_pfeAj4eT1pL40cjFhjCWY6Xw2aedq8PRehyphenhyphenAzINsIXCtdB47w2mPt-fr-P56SmBiD5UtG8fG63CyDVuIQYQIe5vXOymaA7zNoxtdiq9GbrKAyGZu6HXzZSME/s1600/t+Kandy+%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDYNjNvIpy-mDl4DKfGk_pfeAj4eT1pL40cjFhjCWY6Xw2aedq8PRehyphenhyphenAzINsIXCtdB47w2mPt-fr-P56SmBiD5UtG8fG63CyDVuIQYQIe5vXOymaA7zNoxtdiq9GbrKAyGZu6HXzZSME/s640/t+Kandy+%25289%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFcoUoXnohK7_IHcGvwmu4Pm2povJD3MUwlHZn0rQXZXBoT_i9JuqP7bDr4F6jFBdP_xR3W43WlaXM21Ua_q9hy6cDgQbEb01mkvTeiMX0TxWxns36wnL182o0nra7g2CAatVSXv_QF0I/s1600/t+Kandy+%252810%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFcoUoXnohK7_IHcGvwmu4Pm2povJD3MUwlHZn0rQXZXBoT_i9JuqP7bDr4F6jFBdP_xR3W43WlaXM21Ua_q9hy6cDgQbEb01mkvTeiMX0TxWxns36wnL182o0nra7g2CAatVSXv_QF0I/s640/t+Kandy+%252810%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">After leaving our sandals with an expensive shoe-man, we entered the
complex by a doorway designated for tourists. The temple buildings have white
stone walls and striking red roofs, and the inside is elaborately carved and
painted with exotic woods, lacquer and ivory. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixPLapYZ_ocWJr3u8LC8Ndc7ljRfA7NU-2dmdLJxIiFJ3XF9Bc1jOEW1Ds1F1EaflMvkgVJXaLGdBpH0zI16uDZ-vcoFeBtcg9iMYEBV3I3sqxl0BCoBqCUaFNSZboz_GGifc5p55dbHk/s1600/t+Kandy+%252821%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixPLapYZ_ocWJr3u8LC8Ndc7ljRfA7NU-2dmdLJxIiFJ3XF9Bc1jOEW1Ds1F1EaflMvkgVJXaLGdBpH0zI16uDZ-vcoFeBtcg9iMYEBV3I3sqxl0BCoBqCUaFNSZboz_GGifc5p55dbHk/s640/t+Kandy+%252821%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">The ground floor area is
intricately decorated, and it is here where the daily rituals are carried out.
Further inside is the Octagon, built by the last King of Kandy as a place where
he could address his subjects. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3lZMLwNj2HfEt5ELFbIywYuMmweFHVqVrtDiu8qHk4d2v8g3NK2umQnuST6c7oTD9bAe6gzPT1C8xhkoflJDohvaGlvzrfqXdKKakQM3skM7UsdnvNVp8tMvLCopDyfngimfG3BQWhzA/s1600/t+Kandy+%252811%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3lZMLwNj2HfEt5ELFbIywYuMmweFHVqVrtDiu8qHk4d2v8g3NK2umQnuST6c7oTD9bAe6gzPT1C8xhkoflJDohvaGlvzrfqXdKKakQM3skM7UsdnvNVp8tMvLCopDyfngimfG3BQWhzA/s640/t+Kandy+%252811%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcE3as7oRzSXe8xvBmSext5JxliUcLABnpjU2IhpiW6qTVhAugHQzO-LGKz9wg0UaJ8jSL7Ny1a-rTzIM5ZbiHF023vQWHRmk3qC3bTJOQCP4Oc_HSz2c5k5QjBNn1tZ3mCg1N9-FehtU/s1600/t+Kandy+%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1090" data-original-width="1600" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcE3as7oRzSXe8xvBmSext5JxliUcLABnpjU2IhpiW6qTVhAugHQzO-LGKz9wg0UaJ8jSL7Ny1a-rTzIM5ZbiHF023vQWHRmk3qC3bTJOQCP4Oc_HSz2c5k5QjBNn1tZ3mCg1N9-FehtU/s640/t+Kandy+%252812%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;">It was originally part of the royal palace but
is now part of the temple containing ancient texts. Inside one beautiful shrine
(which has a marvellous black and white chequered tiled floor) is a series of
story boards telling the legend of the Buddha and the sacred tooth. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSDetX04xUJG9eTHWpHbR5tYy7auYaesDrjvl_RDEigGBL1-09iGjEmpJmN7nJBeaITenQ0_GsR0aRLg2uPeNRotEtu4j7M1aMWG07sOOZ0QIEtJIwuTW_nUpm5MhLA72fIg_HtAU3wCU/s1600/t+Kandy+%252815%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1600" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSDetX04xUJG9eTHWpHbR5tYy7auYaesDrjvl_RDEigGBL1-09iGjEmpJmN7nJBeaITenQ0_GsR0aRLg2uPeNRotEtu4j7M1aMWG07sOOZ0QIEtJIwuTW_nUpm5MhLA72fIg_HtAU3wCU/s640/t+Kandy+%252815%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ChmkC6UHqTprBakTiizJks-Tr8nektncTYUvSZ1Jx8yu3j9D8Tj5cZoON_Matl-DfP699tNDHZpLrIGWYnDXXBEH6bBiCm7g287T51Qu1aBJ7Z7CBmZKq1nwZjGuixlGgJ4GOCz0GwE/s1600/t+Kandy+%252814%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1341" data-original-width="1600" height="534" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-ChmkC6UHqTprBakTiizJks-Tr8nektncTYUvSZ1Jx8yu3j9D8Tj5cZoON_Matl-DfP699tNDHZpLrIGWYnDXXBEH6bBiCm7g287T51Qu1aBJ7Z7CBmZKq1nwZjGuixlGgJ4GOCz0GwE/s640/t+Kandy+%252814%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;">There are
several museums to explore; they aren’t very big and as with most other places
– no photographs are allowed. One particularly interesting room (where
photographs were permitted) contained a preserved 50-year-old elephant called
Raja – who had been the favourite of the Maharaja. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv4W3afIQLdw5RQZ3H_P4KY1CrX9wP16-EO9GhZsSNu9lpAijpY43ifGh0NvjWOJRHqHwaaPQKH_EvaAPSpK_BEj9bbG8ufI5Vk2nwN9swtnixAy9etAlWPB3nDJ7uozTMUzG7brsOBgQ/s1600/t+Kandy+%252819%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1057" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv4W3afIQLdw5RQZ3H_P4KY1CrX9wP16-EO9GhZsSNu9lpAijpY43ifGh0NvjWOJRHqHwaaPQKH_EvaAPSpK_BEj9bbG8ufI5Vk2nwN9swtnixAy9etAlWPB3nDJ7uozTMUzG7brsOBgQ/s640/t+Kandy+%252819%2529.JPG" width="422" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Ztixa1YysIAyB81bysGKTaTKXUh9LdV8riiuoliLHopuRDsfWbFdLl8I0rsE2COEeDyZva5wCsQ-05TuRa_B5cOpYA7SaZOikCjQ4GLoh_km-JN6_Ccm66DjvndDxbvdDTWNtCZtL5Y/s1600/t+Kandy+%252820%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1339" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Ztixa1YysIAyB81bysGKTaTKXUh9LdV8riiuoliLHopuRDsfWbFdLl8I0rsE2COEeDyZva5wCsQ-05TuRa_B5cOpYA7SaZOikCjQ4GLoh_km-JN6_Ccm66DjvndDxbvdDTWNtCZtL5Y/s640/t+Kandy+%252820%2529.JPG" width="532" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizmhcnTmOptQ2i7J4NpEHgD28EyrEqXidIgxopDJr3-AZuITCfRXhpEfxHFfIE1H7J_koCau8BcYn5Bcy2uhxoY0Jizl0iUKEf8iJNvtWJIo0ycrsVwaQ0te-iFRvOpXV3_b7rTxLFdG0/s1600/t+Kandy+%252816%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizmhcnTmOptQ2i7J4NpEHgD28EyrEqXidIgxopDJr3-AZuITCfRXhpEfxHFfIE1H7J_koCau8BcYn5Bcy2uhxoY0Jizl0iUKEf8iJNvtWJIo0ycrsVwaQ0te-iFRvOpXV3_b7rTxLFdG0/s640/t+Kandy+%252816%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;">Once a year there is an
elephant parade through the city, when the Sacred Tooth is carried through the
streets in an ornate glass case. After a delightful few hours exploring this
complex, it was time to hit the shops again - without getting wet! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjihOYS-Kow_ZabJu3-u_4nO65QtMsIeTFHQ7X89DHZXQfGNZgOS7Xcesw6YaIBAcoXVJqSkKQqMsNuAgKME9Ut8-3f9Wt8OOhxfwMLOKt_XByOBSJ3i1uGij5N1X0knz7j2B7ipIyF2fY/s1600/t+Kandy+%252822%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjihOYS-Kow_ZabJu3-u_4nO65QtMsIeTFHQ7X89DHZXQfGNZgOS7Xcesw6YaIBAcoXVJqSkKQqMsNuAgKME9Ut8-3f9Wt8OOhxfwMLOKt_XByOBSJ3i1uGij5N1X0knz7j2B7ipIyF2fY/s640/t+Kandy+%252822%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjccv0KQuLS-bi6J0HsVuQ9hNb5JR89vlPcSpmb7fcF-pZeIKSZxnUR6tBMDecvmPAod-7uP5NuKyrsaN8yXc_q-WwkMgd_IkbnubU5fYl7rNXWVDYRPqNO_2QCg6NDNTLzZmf1lT9x2ys/s1600/t+Kandy+%252823%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1059" data-original-width="1600" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjccv0KQuLS-bi6J0HsVuQ9hNb5JR89vlPcSpmb7fcF-pZeIKSZxnUR6tBMDecvmPAod-7uP5NuKyrsaN8yXc_q-WwkMgd_IkbnubU5fYl7rNXWVDYRPqNO_2QCg6NDNTLzZmf1lT9x2ys/s640/t+Kandy+%252823%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">It was a pleasure
walking back to the hotel around the lake, without the hustle and bustle of
street sellers – although we did come across a snake charmer who demanded a
substantial amount of money from anyone who took his photo. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHsnPdhnXMIz7v9sHqLx_d_l6nUxuov7e8ZsEFVWKvmiPHfTDBGJSpqnSsEJtcX5-1VH2AEoM2Ec00Z1FinZxdVJTUV_yWnNR6F75Bt7A474ya6Hvvvs2adxVUMk-b-lMuzCvPrpsS6XM/s1600/t+Kandy+%252824%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHsnPdhnXMIz7v9sHqLx_d_l6nUxuov7e8ZsEFVWKvmiPHfTDBGJSpqnSsEJtcX5-1VH2AEoM2Ec00Z1FinZxdVJTUV_yWnNR6F75Bt7A474ya6Hvvvs2adxVUMk-b-lMuzCvPrpsS6XM/s640/t+Kandy+%252824%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">The lake was built
in 1807 and is just over 3 kilometres around, with stalls and boat rides; and
seeing as we needed a rest – a boat ride sounded a good idea. It lasted about
20 minutes and as well as having a perfect view of the city, the temple complex
and the stunning white wall surrounding the water’s edge – we saw so much
wildlife. There were tortoises, gigantic lizards, pelicans, cormorants, eagles
and numerous more colourful birds. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgckhOCxuP8vj-DKTNnuX1qLsU6LwxvbWUCOS0_LfntO_DzrDjD2zmnq6dOL7mjzVQ2B7oSj_V6puU27qXKxUyrxka9xtyadtrVUngMl20JJJXYao3giea4OtXPnIXQ6ajYGMQDLbc28PA/s1600/t+Kandy+%252825%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgckhOCxuP8vj-DKTNnuX1qLsU6LwxvbWUCOS0_LfntO_DzrDjD2zmnq6dOL7mjzVQ2B7oSj_V6puU27qXKxUyrxka9xtyadtrVUngMl20JJJXYao3giea4OtXPnIXQ6ajYGMQDLbc28PA/s640/t+Kandy+%252825%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4vZOT-07ARIxuWf1iUrZAQr1I6Fl8MIjxIwQccRax8IUaZtwbjbpeqXfibvIob5jsyAKlPuzVeVgFgTDcNf089lHckYgFjE5SnugprAP_wF8eypBdMEIyGNgH3RDAC52n_3rIbOMAqyI/s1600/t+Kandy+%252827%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4vZOT-07ARIxuWf1iUrZAQr1I6Fl8MIjxIwQccRax8IUaZtwbjbpeqXfibvIob5jsyAKlPuzVeVgFgTDcNf089lHckYgFjE5SnugprAP_wF8eypBdMEIyGNgH3RDAC52n_3rIbOMAqyI/s640/t+Kandy+%252827%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVm68VJPWPVz27UcipNcZ2mhW7-cJwdXAoGQDgYcM0GzWVmlQ-oRIrmBdDWrPf0D0PYJM1OZzhj5yUX3n2Wir-nt2-D96fRhi14JQDJCG4Irv0A6QxzmH-naYPY8M1Mu5gLkKUGZvRpIM/s1600/t+Kandy+%252828%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVm68VJPWPVz27UcipNcZ2mhW7-cJwdXAoGQDgYcM0GzWVmlQ-oRIrmBdDWrPf0D0PYJM1OZzhj5yUX3n2Wir-nt2-D96fRhi14JQDJCG4Irv0A6QxzmH-naYPY8M1Mu5gLkKUGZvRpIM/s640/t+Kandy+%252828%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="text-align: justify;">In the early evening we went to a local hall to watch a traditional Sri Lankan show with music, dance and drumming – it was noisy and colourful but rather tame - you do have to see these shows when you are in other countries though don’t you! </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6CG7dW7GJ1XGBtHt_ratoiSsxUiNl4JtvvhRVrtUz8GNHBH6rR1CNwPlxD6pwLzHHp6Q3NPCOTbA66DJXhSL33K5BEJx46Df0gtEBkgOFc6zg6fxejzsQNVTzfeqkBdEI13qaiu68eFg/s1600/t+Kandy+%252829%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1036" data-original-width="1600" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6CG7dW7GJ1XGBtHt_ratoiSsxUiNl4JtvvhRVrtUz8GNHBH6rR1CNwPlxD6pwLzHHp6Q3NPCOTbA66DJXhSL33K5BEJx46Df0gtEBkgOFc6zg6fxejzsQNVTzfeqkBdEI13qaiu68eFg/s640/t+Kandy+%252829%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9P28REiL9yQE93RsY7BiO-7zB3i2qa6C0r8y-HV9tjdxgy4XTOUWts_IOs_V5XAsUt6lHXaERc7kX58F6rODmjhRdy8L3Nxnet3qUR07cEGZKBDk4wHpNCkpQhmG5aqyiiIsfj-EE9qg/s1600/t+Kandy+%252831%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9P28REiL9yQE93RsY7BiO-7zB3i2qa6C0r8y-HV9tjdxgy4XTOUWts_IOs_V5XAsUt6lHXaERc7kX58F6rODmjhRdy8L3Nxnet3qUR07cEGZKBDk4wHpNCkpQhmG5aqyiiIsfj-EE9qg/s640/t+Kandy+%252831%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Next
morning, we were heading further south to Nuwara Eliya, stopping enroute at the
beautiful Peradeniya Botanic Gardens that are home to one of world’s largest
collections of plants and trees. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT0SCO6tW-ZT5yu9lqiU27x5KA9iDwxoipg__3tJudFbl10Cy7WSh35ruhMvjr1dPklZNspDlEA84bGxhr3xT1Q5veFDdhxt8PMJW4PlpWZWvKe9z9ZSliTXV82Y8xpioxooSuZaBE_vU/s1600/w+Peradeniya+Gardens+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT0SCO6tW-ZT5yu9lqiU27x5KA9iDwxoipg__3tJudFbl10Cy7WSh35ruhMvjr1dPklZNspDlEA84bGxhr3xT1Q5veFDdhxt8PMJW4PlpWZWvKe9z9ZSliTXV82Y8xpioxooSuZaBE_vU/s640/w+Peradeniya+Gardens+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The Royal
Botanic Gardens aren’t far from Kandy and situated on a peninsular - surrounded
on 3 sides by the Mahaweli River (the longest in Sri Lanka) – with a swing
bridge over it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTGX-37TIvnX6oMlhiY7O-TZsXcbd3Pgq1nIH9U6qP6kp7_lP3E1v75NKtvFsDwC4dBISRqzzLRyzpnfFfrQZxLTwEzvKbAAAkmDEM9I_Bhexc_gN1myWQSDH3F8MGRkMiqLBhyphenhyphenxK_6Yo/s1600/w+Peradeniya+Gardens+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTGX-37TIvnX6oMlhiY7O-TZsXcbd3Pgq1nIH9U6qP6kp7_lP3E1v75NKtvFsDwC4dBISRqzzLRyzpnfFfrQZxLTwEzvKbAAAkmDEM9I_Bhexc_gN1myWQSDH3F8MGRkMiqLBhyphenhyphenxK_6Yo/s640/w+Peradeniya+Gardens+%25286%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">It is renowned for its collection of orchids, and more than
4000 species of plants, including spices, medicinal plants and palm trees. The
origins of the Botanic Gardens date as far back as 1371 when King Wickramabahu
III came to power and kept court at Peradeniya. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga6TFuCgaAHQFdqr1Q3OUDTGmG4hUozQJWY1OqU8LMloFlsarhxsl6StYs6Qq7gfTh28AkVhyHJxyIhHS1bdYHGWmU0jUHBGdrDJ-Su8NGdqgkCvzyRVey9GRfsVKUgwPkiMcQfzu17kI/s1600/w+Peradeniya+Gardens+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga6TFuCgaAHQFdqr1Q3OUDTGmG4hUozQJWY1OqU8LMloFlsarhxsl6StYs6Qq7gfTh28AkVhyHJxyIhHS1bdYHGWmU0jUHBGdrDJ-Su8NGdqgkCvzyRVey9GRfsVKUgwPkiMcQfzu17kI/s640/w+Peradeniya+Gardens+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The Botanical Garden was
formally established in 1843 with plants brought from Kew Gardens, Slave
Island, Colombo, and the Kalutara Garden in Kalutara. Wandering around this
wonderful area, we saw pristine avenues of palm trees; such as Cook's Pine
Avenue, Palmyra Palm Avenue, Double Coconut Avenue, Cabbage Avenue, and Royal
Palm Avenue. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIEzKOdgOdOXRj-0xvjK6Yz1Wm9Ms7DfXWo_nD9PXVBZzKvnW724Nwf08sG-G9Gt6DZg8Sv9am6zS_q04TWEOHMSQQDAIvLo8MBXMwtmuX4ASw_TsSXSJpqOD7Th60ockQ7ISFDT7QzcE/s1600/w+Peradeniya+Gardens+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIEzKOdgOdOXRj-0xvjK6Yz1Wm9Ms7DfXWo_nD9PXVBZzKvnW724Nwf08sG-G9Gt6DZg8Sv9am6zS_q04TWEOHMSQQDAIvLo8MBXMwtmuX4ASw_TsSXSJpqOD7Th60ockQ7ISFDT7QzcE/s640/w+Peradeniya+Gardens+%25284%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Unfortunately, the lake was empty, which was a pity, it has been
made in the shape of the island of Sri Lanka; although I did manage to take a
photograph of a kingfisher sitting in the trees looking for the water. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrgVyg6YaX6l1xLU3Qr-1GXQpfirm3YzQ-zr9NoSZQs0Sy4KSIeZB30kz0OCTFvKITYTyKFJ_-8ZimpXk0_p629y47TznWDWmDtbQ12SPYZIri-0wn0Ami8mVNXFRz5mGq9KdikvBiNwA/s1600/w+Peradeniya+Gardens+%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrgVyg6YaX6l1xLU3Qr-1GXQpfirm3YzQ-zr9NoSZQs0Sy4KSIeZB30kz0OCTFvKITYTyKFJ_-8ZimpXk0_p629y47TznWDWmDtbQ12SPYZIri-0wn0Ami8mVNXFRz5mGq9KdikvBiNwA/s640/w+Peradeniya+Gardens+%25288%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">One item with a significant history is the Cannonball Tree planted by King George V and Queen Mary in 1901 - it is often laden with fruit, which are thought to resemble cannonballs. Although there were some huge trees with endless roots. It was a thoroughly wonderful hour or so enjoying these lush surroundings before heading back out onto the nightmare roads driving down to Nuwara Eliya.</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5HaKKuIanMauEkUSG0OC5VHTpjfTkqATYu55sm-RlAyaZOu60Z1r2OJwBIE_4FIq2COLcqIVIp_odBybHy25z2U1IfB9-Rr7BEIATeqaZKSefeq3BCsU9Rot62Gpjpr63uivvcAMs7Ko/s1600/w+Peradeniya+Gardens+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5HaKKuIanMauEkUSG0OC5VHTpjfTkqATYu55sm-RlAyaZOu60Z1r2OJwBIE_4FIq2COLcqIVIp_odBybHy25z2U1IfB9-Rr7BEIATeqaZKSefeq3BCsU9Rot62Gpjpr63uivvcAMs7Ko/s640/w+Peradeniya+Gardens+%25287%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;">After a few hours of winding roads, we were high up at an
elevation of almost 2000 metres, and all we could see in every direction was
tea plantations on the mountainsides. This drive is renowned as the most scenic
highland motor road in Sri Lanka; and it certainly had the most waterfalls I
have ever seen. </span><br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0oiWhQYQJkXgMjs8-E9MLauAFm3zL4p9tag0GCoE59yJdtIkpWs84fqs1K2MudwldFV1onDIj2QIOqGB4cV1RKINFKptENV55xTrMAwMnh_8OJQnA79m1pWnjZERDja8t4N4Fmb70cOI/s1600/z+Nuwara+Eliya+%252811%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0oiWhQYQJkXgMjs8-E9MLauAFm3zL4p9tag0GCoE59yJdtIkpWs84fqs1K2MudwldFV1onDIj2QIOqGB4cV1RKINFKptENV55xTrMAwMnh_8OJQnA79m1pWnjZERDja8t4N4Fmb70cOI/s640/z+Nuwara+Eliya+%252811%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">We stopped at a tea
factory/ plantation and were told about the tea making process and different
grades of tea; and were given a drink to try (they sold amazing chocolate cake
to go with it too!). A visit to a tea factory has become a traditional part of
every Sri Lanka travel itinerary – one I was quite happy to partake in! </span><br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8LQPd9XUEsD2Tv8ZAqwDd0Inc4f0VL9RNEN4PvJ34fyriI_MzHAvg7BuWI5KCDf1xiPDHN8vKHmVvCQ2nU8XfZegSFyOyObKcn8xrBoYPp4KwTqwzRwDN5NjCe2S1w0E6QuYk_cVj27I/s1600/z+Nuwara+Eliya+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1172" data-original-width="1600" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8LQPd9XUEsD2Tv8ZAqwDd0Inc4f0VL9RNEN4PvJ34fyriI_MzHAvg7BuWI5KCDf1xiPDHN8vKHmVvCQ2nU8XfZegSFyOyObKcn8xrBoYPp4KwTqwzRwDN5NjCe2S1w0E6QuYk_cVj27I/s640/z+Nuwara+Eliya+%25287%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_yBRuhRQ5DAw5axew9qCF_rJ47k_bYKu7qerW2m5rC6D1FgNxmSC6y-jMEg3lbqNa-zOyX-995XUdq66BagjjksdvS7_X4XDKRfAy4wswK4f_aMj4jeaP2dMKyR0GRqvjcLTAoHYXjE/s1600/z+Nuwara+Eliya+%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc_yBRuhRQ5DAw5axew9qCF_rJ47k_bYKu7qerW2m5rC6D1FgNxmSC6y-jMEg3lbqNa-zOyX-995XUdq66BagjjksdvS7_X4XDKRfAy4wswK4f_aMj4jeaP2dMKyR0GRqvjcLTAoHYXjE/s640/z+Nuwara+Eliya+%25288%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit_QzyldkbOtxG0tSQ2E4Kh1nSCkX5evaJl3Ui0mSsbPy0Vj-LCTYrVrbu3hUcbbNcdb0e_XkG_rYzdf8XUKAjYGntVWsSeTcaYxVZSsVs6QPw5DUAdFtmQr5Z8TQxWysmKvx_M5XMDHY/s1600/z+Nuwara+Eliya+%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit_QzyldkbOtxG0tSQ2E4Kh1nSCkX5evaJl3Ui0mSsbPy0Vj-LCTYrVrbu3hUcbbNcdb0e_XkG_rYzdf8XUKAjYGntVWsSeTcaYxVZSsVs6QPw5DUAdFtmQr5Z8TQxWysmKvx_M5XMDHY/s640/z+Nuwara+Eliya+%25289%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;">Since
the introduction of tea to Sri Lanka in the mid-19th century, Nuwara Eliya has
been the capital of the tea industry; for many miles in every direction there
are acres of tea plantations and estates.
Nuwara Eliya, the gateway to the Central Highlands, was a favoured
retreat of the British in the 19th Century due to its cool climate, it has many
Georgian country style homes, giving the town a decidedly British feel.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;"></span>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAUT2k1lL4IWPQpvdmn6HuaAWXpNPYvuBS5UKrb8WUIJaXNtABCvB4t90qQxII1oujqhRYfEt0y9IrPbiPovlLGPQdp54X9ze-EQ7foMcx-MLM4cEfRTk2ofdRufK_-a75SZxMWugj1Ho/s1600/Nuwara+Eliya+%252827%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAUT2k1lL4IWPQpvdmn6HuaAWXpNPYvuBS5UKrb8WUIJaXNtABCvB4t90qQxII1oujqhRYfEt0y9IrPbiPovlLGPQdp54X9ze-EQ7foMcx-MLM4cEfRTk2ofdRufK_-a75SZxMWugj1Ho/s640/Nuwara+Eliya+%252827%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">Although it had started to rain, we were determined to see some of the sights;
we walked around the town centre, passing a huge orange Buddha in the middle of
the road, the Victorian post office (built in 1894 and one of the oldest post
offices in the country), and found lots of interesting shops. It was strange
how down here</span><span style="line-height: 107%;"> the shops were selling warm winter clothing, whereas earlier in
the day the temperature had been unbearably hot. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpsP8yuDzNmXtM37B36BvUSbl68Zqyu5Ia6g2iGbbuXO-2yKirqLEvkwwgmozE4MTY8OuA_4BAi0P8eEaYR-MIZGBZ9h34i5nvvYSTMCFuxu0A7_0PXXIcuEP8fo4lPVCabafcaOwhXf8/s1600/z+Nuwara+Eliya+%252810%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="931" data-original-width="1600" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpsP8yuDzNmXtM37B36BvUSbl68Zqyu5Ia6g2iGbbuXO-2yKirqLEvkwwgmozE4MTY8OuA_4BAi0P8eEaYR-MIZGBZ9h34i5nvvYSTMCFuxu0A7_0PXXIcuEP8fo4lPVCabafcaOwhXf8/s640/z+Nuwara+Eliya+%252810%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">The following morning, we left
the hotel early to explore as much as possible. We saw the Post Office again –
looking far grander in the sunshine and passed Victoria Park (which has an
entrance fee), spread over 27 acres with well-kept flowers, shrubs and trees; and
has the River Nanu Oya running through it. There is a little train for kids to
enjoy with a playground too; it looked a delightful place to visit – if we had
more time. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsTewQvS9zaF76NcSC-Dh4afKnTmPUVfxd0Dnit1xCpcvyWykVV4kohanM_Xtzl9ROjvzz2-f6QQym29NLfs95FOSy6zxQC07vgey8MqFqGJU9OuzAmHFJ1uAzdOZCGPbascMbmT1NCyI/s1600/z+Nuwara+Eliya+%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsTewQvS9zaF76NcSC-Dh4afKnTmPUVfxd0Dnit1xCpcvyWykVV4kohanM_Xtzl9ROjvzz2-f6QQym29NLfs95FOSy6zxQC07vgey8MqFqGJU9OuzAmHFJ1uAzdOZCGPbascMbmT1NCyI/s640/z+Nuwara+Eliya+%252812%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">We caught a taxi to the far end of Lake Gregory and had a leisurely
walk back (surprisingly we had to pay to walk on the lakeside path), passing
colourful planted gardens, tourist activities on the water and seeing the local
horses giving rides. This town also has a quaint 19<sup>th</sup> century Holy
Trinity Church dating back to 1845, constructed by the men of the local garrison;
a golf course and a racecourse with its Royal Turf Club Grandstand. </span><br />
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8T0_VEIcHN0Pk_eoN0t2aWMMUvc49k8_CGgY03KxGNqmAqyJd0yarYnKQmlNsV2cIy4G0Nlg9f3o2jIzY5aGOhxSweIu0ct4NtZws8a5i57D_cUv57HOGNzMh1B9Omj4ZMSlC_6bVdes/s1600/z+Nuwara+Eliya+%252813%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8T0_VEIcHN0Pk_eoN0t2aWMMUvc49k8_CGgY03KxGNqmAqyJd0yarYnKQmlNsV2cIy4G0Nlg9f3o2jIzY5aGOhxSweIu0ct4NtZws8a5i57D_cUv57HOGNzMh1B9Omj4ZMSlC_6bVdes/s640/z+Nuwara+Eliya+%252813%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="line-height: 107%;">There are
some spectacular walks from here that offer spectacular views of the surrounding
countryside and of the entire town. At lunchtime our time in Sri Lanka was over
and we had to make the arduous journey back to the airport, it had been a very
interesting trip, full of surprises; but for me the best part was seeing those
herds of elephants with their babies on the plains of Kaudulla.<span style="font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Lynne</i></b></span><br />
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Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-27327003355875113782021-08-10T11:32:00.002+01:002021-08-10T12:08:49.210+01:00Uluru - Ayers Rock<p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Uluru - Ayers Rock </span></u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIpetiLpJye5ugMRDwrim3zQZ0J1uqa0NV_nXpvHBJU6GFRG66173uIm6Gmcde_SNZxVpH9W-WkJrQVxkjPsYQxdGLJodprvEqp5RMyBv8oPzCu48yEAkCbTU2pNT0q4yystzDK39dghw/s2048/2021-07-13+11.07.20.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1323" data-original-width="2048" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIpetiLpJye5ugMRDwrim3zQZ0J1uqa0NV_nXpvHBJU6GFRG66173uIm6Gmcde_SNZxVpH9W-WkJrQVxkjPsYQxdGLJodprvEqp5RMyBv8oPzCu48yEAkCbTU2pNT0q4yystzDK39dghw/w640-h414/2021-07-13+11.07.20.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;">Uluru, a large sandstone rock formation in the Northern Territory, (208 miles from Alice Springs, the nearest large town); is one of Australia's most recognisable natural landmarks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of its most important indigenous sites. In 1872, British surveyor William Gosse, was the first European to 'discover' the monolith – the largest rock of its kind in the world and named it Ayers Rock, after the former chief secretary of South Australia, Sir Henry Ayers. In 1993, a dual naming policy was adopted that allowed both the traditional Aboriginal name (Uluru) and the English name (Ayers Rock) – but here I will just use Uluru. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuQgOrsoMVggQDpD9G6kZTLDDaQyFHoSsykzvm3Xg_jeVmyDN6l9qjPKy4SVhsdo-HJ2S2mdjyHZc3uhh89npBFDoTpw9x6c8zoQSzlUxBW21rqLTaokBx_qgIZuCuEQMshLWfzt2baY/s448/1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="336" data-original-width="448" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkuQgOrsoMVggQDpD9G6kZTLDDaQyFHoSsykzvm3Xg_jeVmyDN6l9qjPKy4SVhsdo-HJ2S2mdjyHZc3uhh89npBFDoTpw9x6c8zoQSzlUxBW21rqLTaokBx_qgIZuCuEQMshLWfzt2baY/w640-h480/1.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">When I landed at its airport, at 9am, it was only 7 degrees — and felt really cold, although it did warm up throughout the day to about 20 degrees. A complimentary bus took me to the Desert Gardens Hotel, where I was able to book the trips I wanted to do whilst staying in this remote place for a short time. At the centre of the resort, which consisted of a several hotels, a takeaway and a few shops; was the lookout - a hill surrounded by red sand, shrubs and wildlife. The view from here was magnificent. Ayres Rock is so red, just like the postcards, blood red, scarlet red. The colour just hits you, all of the time, not at sunrise and sunset — it is so red! This gigantic red monolith, surrounded by savannah, in the middle of nowhere, is such as incredible sight. After a walk around the resort and up the lookout, my shoes and clothes were covered in dust – red dust; no wonder this place is called the Red Centre. There were more flowers and plants than I had expected to see, but that was because there has been an unusual amount of rainfall in the previous year. Apparently, a few years ago Uluru became an island when all the surrounding land was flooded. I was warned that there were supposed to be lots of desert mice about; and told to keep everything zipped up all the time! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7w7udZf2XEjgjE6Ng32twqpDqIPMPoUNaoTb2B_hxnsqDL2gG2sD7eMk8QjSsraYW6v8U0O2ebQxJHpsf8codgOEjXH6g9gLCuiAHQIEF6xb2kk5OEEtZiTm7pBg_m3CX4ULnlNevNgo/s448/11+%25284%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="336" data-original-width="448" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7w7udZf2XEjgjE6Ng32twqpDqIPMPoUNaoTb2B_hxnsqDL2gG2sD7eMk8QjSsraYW6v8U0O2ebQxJHpsf8codgOEjXH6g9gLCuiAHQIEF6xb2kk5OEEtZiTm7pBg_m3CX4ULnlNevNgo/w640-h480/11+%25284%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I was picked up at 3pm for my first trip out, to Kata Tjuta (also called Mount Olga or The Olgas), 36 giant red rocky domes spread over an area of more than 12 miles. The name means “many heads” – referring to the many domes in this group. The glorious red Kata Tjuta and Uluru rise from the earth just 18 miles from each other, an area which is home to not just desert, but of springs, waterholes, rock caves and ancient paintings. Both Uluru and Kata Tjuta have great spiritual and cultural significance for the local Aṉangu people; traditional inhabitants of this area for more than 22,000 years; now they lead walking tours to inform visitors about the bush, food, local flora and fauna, and Aboriginal dreamtime stories of the area. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgieYPmK4sk4ESanLDaCJwRzwIqeMn6rCCBmu6CH-eQD2YvtrbJsd3nPqwr4mJTwVVfimx5OVgiL5QBAH5aYFpZ-IWowzEOsANo9Qakj9M9nOB79O2y8EK9fkDOyvU1MRpKQc9S6eQX8Ec/s1280/2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgieYPmK4sk4ESanLDaCJwRzwIqeMn6rCCBmu6CH-eQD2YvtrbJsd3nPqwr4mJTwVVfimx5OVgiL5QBAH5aYFpZ-IWowzEOsANo9Qakj9M9nOB79O2y8EK9fkDOyvU1MRpKQc9S6eQX8Ec/w640-h480/2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We were taken to a lookout in the desert (for a photo stop) and then for a walk through a gorge; it was very hard going; trekking over boulders and uneven ground. When we finally got to the end, the gorge was completely in the shade and it was freezing cold, so we didn’t stay there long before heading back to the coach. Next, was the highlight - we went to a lay-by, in the middle of nowhere to watch the sunsetting behind “The Rock”. Uluru (whose name means “island mountain”), is the largest sandstone monolith in the world (with most of its bulk lying underground), and measures 1140 feet high and has a circumference of 6 miles. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUT6RF_XTkHssrYDvdokaVwRhQkPTvsdzMd2b1jU77eEW0AXXA4UfjtUsKSw6eAdpgcgyP8Ba-pdSuskssGgLNhSyH_bBsRYaY4m7fNLNqYtHwiEcM_lmxOy2ANp8V2ibLUQq5ukf4cDQ/s1057/3.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="721" data-original-width="1057" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUT6RF_XTkHssrYDvdokaVwRhQkPTvsdzMd2b1jU77eEW0AXXA4UfjtUsKSw6eAdpgcgyP8Ba-pdSuskssGgLNhSyH_bBsRYaY4m7fNLNqYtHwiEcM_lmxOy2ANp8V2ibLUQq5ukf4cDQ/w640-h436/3.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is famous for appearing to change colour at different times of the day and year, most notably, when it glows red at dawn and sunset. Before long, thousands of people had congregated in this lay-by from every nation on earth. They all wanted to see the glorious sun set over Uluru - they were even standing on car roofs to get a good view. It was the most spectacular sight ever; the sunset was incredible. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVI7UhoLwESTDQUxaX9PdshU-9fAL7YaZIIHDFmMpwcZmb5clrawAVunqT354O_GXoKIMJ1QsSsNNoNVIibAt9cOGiS2tN3fSBi0rG0kqwqDwj4yZ0B2tASyBGiQ_YfWJgQzs6XMfhyY0/s1088/4+%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="731" data-original-width="1088" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVI7UhoLwESTDQUxaX9PdshU-9fAL7YaZIIHDFmMpwcZmb5clrawAVunqT354O_GXoKIMJ1QsSsNNoNVIibAt9cOGiS2tN3fSBi0rG0kqwqDwj4yZ0B2tASyBGiQ_YfWJgQzs6XMfhyY0/w640-h430/4+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRttfitcVO3nSJcgI3H3XFLkkOQh_cE_sK5cf3z1fV3_TakrL1YlFzEbvkTJ5w044eHnTnPGqs8nz7PFUf7L5GlzcHp376uIVLdDZFSxYKjkDFYKzhDydroAUFlX1U7oL4cN_PANQTM20/s1066/4+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="702" data-original-width="1066" height="422" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRttfitcVO3nSJcgI3H3XFLkkOQh_cE_sK5cf3z1fV3_TakrL1YlFzEbvkTJ5w044eHnTnPGqs8nz7PFUf7L5GlzcHp376uIVLdDZFSxYKjkDFYKzhDydroAUFlX1U7oL4cN_PANQTM20/w640-h422/4+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The giant monolith really does change colour, just like they say. It gets redder and redder and then it is gone. In seconds it went from orange to brilliant scarlet and then a dark shadow. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoWjnveKsnWsAwD3ACgUW6AZHpEYlX1YAXkUTjFdu3KrjzSYY1TzW8JL8dioMohxdcaJBl787y3uiBpBsvf2Ou0gdwv7LHAi5QIp_Kz9q9pW7NEg-wBqkMqAdILEZB4PTYdSKITx4ivxw/s1007/5+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="617" data-original-width="1007" height="392" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoWjnveKsnWsAwD3ACgUW6AZHpEYlX1YAXkUTjFdu3KrjzSYY1TzW8JL8dioMohxdcaJBl787y3uiBpBsvf2Ou0gdwv7LHAi5QIp_Kz9q9pW7NEg-wBqkMqAdILEZB4PTYdSKITx4ivxw/w640-h392/5+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjih0zXTajBn__y4cnQt5gRbugJ8fVgnTxioNsJY1S9TK2l0EwA3lq2xizNMt-b7y8HRmGPsyQv_kQgfXhHh_dfjxiE2m4937Pjaz7hnjODLRlhU4rx5qmVWosLyzOIVqirIlrsUQhnlT8/s1031/5+%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="1031" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjih0zXTajBn__y4cnQt5gRbugJ8fVgnTxioNsJY1S9TK2l0EwA3lq2xizNMt-b7y8HRmGPsyQv_kQgfXhHh_dfjxiE2m4937Pjaz7hnjODLRlhU4rx5qmVWosLyzOIVqirIlrsUQhnlT8/w640-h418/5+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">It was the most awesome sight; you just can't take your eyes off it. Now darkness was upon us, thousands of tourists were trying to get out of this lay-by - it was absolute chaos! Back at the resort, I had a takeaway supper and an early night, it had been a very long day; but a once in a lifetime sight that I would never forget. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCoIyr30xSJ7w9gq2O5wH6i0D4RIgh7kG41uBDofDDQj6wSlBPTGUccxMR_G8aQCyrF_cJokugtUxk56NjjGc1FHUslvfEA-rxzcSdu6viga7bun9ovwWEHjZKmDZfJ5c7D-zfTwNPu1g/s1009/6+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="716" data-original-width="1009" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCoIyr30xSJ7w9gq2O5wH6i0D4RIgh7kG41uBDofDDQj6wSlBPTGUccxMR_G8aQCyrF_cJokugtUxk56NjjGc1FHUslvfEA-rxzcSdu6viga7bun9ovwWEHjZKmDZfJ5c7D-zfTwNPu1g/w640-h454/6+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Next morning, I got up at 6.30am and put lots of clothes on (as it was minus 2 degrees!) and headed off into the desert to see the sunrise. This area has a hot desert climate with an average rainfall of 11 inches per year; and an average temperature range of 38 °C in the summer to 4°C in the winter. It was quite a terrifying experience, being alone in the dark with just the sounds of the desert - luckily no wild dingoes wanted me for breakfast! </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzZThkiH3k6Lu5WLMyek94Fn_vnpruUFvIF25id2M56ZQP76s8fVPF81CsoDFFWlMq_0AD1mGpZOVIO1bZrVS_j7EXHParabFeZVieLuYKPVtnUCBSs_haZUE6JDKrM1uhyphenhyphenuQydFjfQRo/s896/6+%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="896" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzZThkiH3k6Lu5WLMyek94Fn_vnpruUFvIF25id2M56ZQP76s8fVPF81CsoDFFWlMq_0AD1mGpZOVIO1bZrVS_j7EXHParabFeZVieLuYKPVtnUCBSs_haZUE6JDKrM1uhyphenhyphenuQydFjfQRo/w640-h480/6+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I hurried all the way to the lookout without seeing a soul, but when I arrived, there were 8 people already there (with their hats and scarves on — complaining that they were freezing to death). </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8tl8-15WtIXbDKdTbL_baOaX0aadxM3arRqi1Rs07iQNx1d7fL4sb_UZBTyj5DWwWBYFkX4zpxdRM2kvuQpSyVbdUprzgpy7yMwAx02m0KQ2usLs3yTTXYyOtW7HWToiQ_56ktNul3YY/s980/7+%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="693" data-original-width="980" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8tl8-15WtIXbDKdTbL_baOaX0aadxM3arRqi1Rs07iQNx1d7fL4sb_UZBTyj5DWwWBYFkX4zpxdRM2kvuQpSyVbdUprzgpy7yMwAx02m0KQ2usLs3yTTXYyOtW7HWToiQ_56ktNul3YY/w640-h452/7+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The sky was royal blue and pink over the Olgas and where the sun was coming up it was pale blue, yellow and orange. There wasn't a cloud in the sky —just like the postcards again! The glorious sun poked its head up at 7.32am and was totally visible within seconds; but unfortunately, my photographs were blurred (I blame the cold and condensation!).</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOe3BiKukixO41rYygjeHiuTUWtD36oKwJjWhzHYAE4KRUycNY7vUKIbqgYbcgNkN_5g1N23egYM5WxXqCHD0dkN0rpWadmONPirII9yxLAfDjmGHg-TvuX_qbxri2tB2C2JMVLoiux-s/s956/7+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="956" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOe3BiKukixO41rYygjeHiuTUWtD36oKwJjWhzHYAE4KRUycNY7vUKIbqgYbcgNkN_5g1N23egYM5WxXqCHD0dkN0rpWadmONPirII9yxLAfDjmGHg-TvuX_qbxri2tB2C2JMVLoiux-s/w640-h450/7+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Next, I returned to the hotel for a hot coffee; before my next adventure - a helicopter flight to see the area from a completely different perspective. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjngR45DjRKbet2klaUvH4U_iefhTKdCYhyphenhyphenfFFOAa_gSl3WxDJYs3PNoTYPsth6hSHHe4oC5KSOQtrB5rzJgOtoasJyeQT67ZaeD1P-EDJrEy0OQTm0HBgw5uGFbRYSRVYemdlMWN37tWQ/s515/10.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="397" data-original-width="515" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjngR45DjRKbet2klaUvH4U_iefhTKdCYhyphenhyphenfFFOAa_gSl3WxDJYs3PNoTYPsth6hSHHe4oC5KSOQtrB5rzJgOtoasJyeQT67ZaeD1P-EDJrEy0OQTm0HBgw5uGFbRYSRVYemdlMWN37tWQ/w640-h494/10.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">We flew at 3000 feet and what a glorious sight it was from up there — Uluru and the Olgas were just as impressive from above. We saw the resort and the complex where the staff live - mainly underground, to keep them cool in the summer when the temperature can reach 60 degrees. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZU9HsikfP22KKBbVetxhqQfHfCm5d0dShYrTBLwY6X2HwUY13u6DDj658AhHexQbdtvJT1l5ShZok20g_QP7-tGz7ses02j7O4YJHhEO5bcICj2_2SGrajXL3KIr90dLgUXLAk3nfnI/s640/11+%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixZU9HsikfP22KKBbVetxhqQfHfCm5d0dShYrTBLwY6X2HwUY13u6DDj658AhHexQbdtvJT1l5ShZok20g_QP7-tGz7ses02j7O4YJHhEO5bcICj2_2SGrajXL3KIr90dLgUXLAk3nfnI/w640-h480/11+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The walks around the National Park are closed to the public when the temperate reaches 37 degrees because of the risk to people's health. The helicopter ride was brilliant, the pilot was very informative, the views spectacular and I enjoyed the experience tremendously. What a fascinating place this Red Centre is, so much more than just seeing a Red Rock. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbbrWBQKa0GK6m5FcM8Cdnxm6_cbzTXPO7-kGHMHQflL7V68IGXuD9D6zzCWGUW8hcsorErMq5Z4InEIwS6lZ4t8GV1BhQFJcWNHSHEWbL4-jOgm-86r1zEE3GE_PTynEYiU20BF57coc/s529/11+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="332" data-original-width="529" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbbrWBQKa0GK6m5FcM8Cdnxm6_cbzTXPO7-kGHMHQflL7V68IGXuD9D6zzCWGUW8hcsorErMq5Z4InEIwS6lZ4t8GV1BhQFJcWNHSHEWbL4-jOgm-86r1zEE3GE_PTynEYiU20BF57coc/w640-h402/11+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">It was only discovered by Europeans in the 1870s; and fifty years later, part of Uluṟu–Kata Tjuṯa National Park was declared an Aboriginal Reserve. The first tourists arrived in the Uluru area in 1936, with tour bus services starting in the 1950s, followed by the building of motels and an airstrip. On 26 October 1985, the Australian government returned ownership of Uluru to the local people, with one of the conditions being that the Aṉangu would lease it back to the National Parks and Wildlife agency for 99 years, and that it would be jointly managed. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlZyVMGxS_a8bthzIoMjSvHcoe6WJXFF7Kl7_5sKBtXqO-uqxAgsFvOwVI8BorHAsQvcR46_NOEpJD12QTsNu4ObOpVrPcC1dB4Bj4Njh-U7bb1rqip9MHIYQBOJJoz7fklG5FXK7M9ZM/s589/12+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="403" data-original-width="589" height="438" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlZyVMGxS_a8bthzIoMjSvHcoe6WJXFF7Kl7_5sKBtXqO-uqxAgsFvOwVI8BorHAsQvcR46_NOEpJD12QTsNu4ObOpVrPcC1dB4Bj4Njh-U7bb1rqip9MHIYQBOJJoz7fklG5FXK7M9ZM/w640-h438/12+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Aṉangu request that visitors do not photograph certain sections of Uluru, for reasons related to ceremonies, rituals and traditional Dreaming beliefs. I hope you have enjoyed this short trip to the centre of Australia with me - it is such a fascinating place.</div><div><br /></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></span></div><p><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;"><i>Lynne</i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>These are my other blogs :-</b></span></span></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com/">http://lynnejmorley.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="line-height: 17.12px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: 12pt;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div></div></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="font-family: "times new roman"; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: x-large;">http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com</a></div></div></div></div>Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-91638344880512211302021-06-11T11:28:00.000+01:002021-06-11T11:28:58.386+01:00Portmeirion<p></p><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><u> Portmeirion</u></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><u><br /></u></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ0S44oXbTQrrRy9j_mj0qKuiiJ-t6msob9aLqGfjfyJv7S-34PWyIyLOBF_8qVQjmiM0zJcHXwYh2krm6ZfFgjHDiOva4NUCM6rWGQu0JzerQFphxnXyi6hy9r6e9ubdTKemUGsPHcwA/s2048/2021-03-24+11.58.28.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ0S44oXbTQrrRy9j_mj0qKuiiJ-t6msob9aLqGfjfyJv7S-34PWyIyLOBF_8qVQjmiM0zJcHXwYh2krm6ZfFgjHDiOva4NUCM6rWGQu0JzerQFphxnXyi6hy9r6e9ubdTKemUGsPHcwA/w640-h480/2021-03-24+11.58.28.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Portmeirion
"Port-" from its place on the coast; "-meirion" from the
county of Merioneth”, is described as a fantasy tourist village in Gwynedd,
North Wales; designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and
1975. </span><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14.6667px;">It is full of Mediterranean charm, resembling an Italian village, (some say it was based on Portofino on the Italian Riviera), located 2 miles from Porthmadog, by the mouth of the River Dwyryd. It has been used as the location for several TV shows and films, including "The Village" in the 1960s show The Prisoner. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14.6667px;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLUSBSbIp9j5PH0_4KtQeroUs_2_bi1Od18bnjw3ubWdKk4q1zAuVhyUnaBkH35-fr0qrY8fyWPkc0SEaL-Qw9mrSwXEzQ3kytipHEr7zAGTH_1Q2LrXeUcPZww1BYajtXk6gsJ__V0Nw/s2048/P1+%252826%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLUSBSbIp9j5PH0_4KtQeroUs_2_bi1Od18bnjw3ubWdKk4q1zAuVhyUnaBkH35-fr0qrY8fyWPkc0SEaL-Qw9mrSwXEzQ3kytipHEr7zAGTH_1Q2LrXeUcPZww1BYajtXk6gsJ__V0Nw/w640-h480/P1+%252826%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBezOgkZxear1Iq7f-HY1hHrfu7zykB30CqFlY_01SS7AuJp9WUwAY1DG5r7SdinC3JyA7VCKqLGKMmQNv_LdkPnUqDrOZaGSd-592wjppTTo7LHR_G581mSowNs1x7x0LXpO3JGgm8m8/s2048/P1+%25285%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBezOgkZxear1Iq7f-HY1hHrfu7zykB30CqFlY_01SS7AuJp9WUwAY1DG5r7SdinC3JyA7VCKqLGKMmQNv_LdkPnUqDrOZaGSd-592wjppTTo7LHR_G581mSowNs1x7x0LXpO3JGgm8m8/w640-h480/P1+%25285%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Many
celebrities visited Portmeirion, especially in its early days - such as Noël
Coward (who wrote Blithe Spirit while staying there), George Bernard Shaw and
H. G. Wells, Gregory Peck and Ingrid Bergman. The Beatles and their manager
were also frequent visitors, and George Harrison spent his 50th birthday there
and filmed interviews for a Beatles documentary. </span><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14.6667px;">Portmerion sits on a private peninsular overlooking the coast, surrounded by the most beautiful scenery - with a very Mediterranean feel to it – a mixture between the Italian Riviera and rural Wales. The idea was to build a closely knitted coastal village with vibrant coloured and different architectural styles. </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaToqX8g0G7xUCuOIDVq0lmQRkBQnNWya72370rBbRmCunApSSFYn2y3o8rMdQS7X56ErfJSiD08WfXarOt4VabjRQTX9LhKkb8A8clyN8IDMbPTtWEpu0W7Ub8nNAg6PEJ0JOzYszeMg/s2048/P1+%252810%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaToqX8g0G7xUCuOIDVq0lmQRkBQnNWya72370rBbRmCunApSSFYn2y3o8rMdQS7X56ErfJSiD08WfXarOt4VabjRQTX9LhKkb8A8clyN8IDMbPTtWEpu0W7Ub8nNAg6PEJ0JOzYszeMg/w640-h480/P1+%252810%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14.6667px; text-align: left;">The colourful buildings include historical cottages, such as the "White Horse cottage", the "Mermaid cottage"; and "The Salutation" (which are now hotels, shops and eating places). In between these are quirky nooks and crannies, all which have been built around a central piazza, surrounded by gardens and extensive woodlands. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM7UlaWkpFLTRQnw9fzmPVtGPMibcm-ozdrXdW_ro62fGLqUpN2AgnN8dndaHCkGnr8T0VusP7rj2T_EzgVtdUd7T8XERP3Ek150gY3uXcXfg_9x3608MzHU358sxQfVgAVPmw_xq54yw/s2048/P1+%25289%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM7UlaWkpFLTRQnw9fzmPVtGPMibcm-ozdrXdW_ro62fGLqUpN2AgnN8dndaHCkGnr8T0VusP7rj2T_EzgVtdUd7T8XERP3Ek150gY3uXcXfg_9x3608MzHU358sxQfVgAVPmw_xq54yw/w640-h480/P1+%25289%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsOKFz97bnWeRSjQ5ZECsBvAKV7FWg04IgKgaMnJB-twgApL8_Aohr7fR5zuZndBoEnpj3xOgKg5rNWiUHdPo7dEkR-zkeSEGkpfetPfQBQu5vsbldHt4Svo85-3D6QuB-prdaUZvPnHI/s2048/P1+%25288%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsOKFz97bnWeRSjQ5ZECsBvAKV7FWg04IgKgaMnJB-twgApL8_Aohr7fR5zuZndBoEnpj3xOgKg5rNWiUHdPo7dEkR-zkeSEGkpfetPfQBQu5vsbldHt4Svo85-3D6QuB-prdaUZvPnHI/w640-h480/P1+%25288%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 15.6933px;">The Piazza is the most delightful place to spend time soaking up the atmosphere, you can enjoy the Bristol Colonnade overlooking lawns, ponds and fountains. Surrounding these lawns are colourful buildings with romantic sounding names – the Gloriette Balkon, Villa Winch, Chantry Row, the Pantheon and the Gothic Pavilion – to name but a few. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 15.6933px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 15.6933px;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVltBPCmIDbtXx-GXcegMIdyT22xAvub1Iv7FEMiO-ygsdGXWUXhpvdJfj4iofrX-cwvQdUD_VyT1XoEz6FtYCpL5ivEKH9-4C3id1aCuP6kKs7VdstVqK3PGBvFbwZRyZy_T_jZxLYw/s2048/P1+%252815%2529.JPG" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1424" data-original-width="2048" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIVltBPCmIDbtXx-GXcegMIdyT22xAvub1Iv7FEMiO-ygsdGXWUXhpvdJfj4iofrX-cwvQdUD_VyT1XoEz6FtYCpL5ivEKH9-4C3id1aCuP6kKs7VdstVqK3PGBvFbwZRyZy_T_jZxLYw/w640-h444/P1+%252815%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Kdm3sC8Sj3tAXWtQRhxmy85iicDQyXBSwEwIFXXPzA6-6c6cEAX1JT1euowb66mTyroP4uRGuiRQF5OBpY1TAr_W1Q1gAMw9Y5DgIp7Tf7mfWH9v2Jj2_zSej_JF28d03xSfjRjfqGk/s2048/P1+%25287%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1354" data-original-width="2048" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_Kdm3sC8Sj3tAXWtQRhxmy85iicDQyXBSwEwIFXXPzA6-6c6cEAX1JT1euowb66mTyroP4uRGuiRQF5OBpY1TAr_W1Q1gAMw9Y5DgIp7Tf7mfWH9v2Jj2_zSej_JF28d03xSfjRjfqGk/w640-h424/P1+%25287%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The
grounds contain some fabulous exotic plants especially
in the Japanese Garden (with its pagoda and lake) in a natural landscape, which
was established in the 19<sup>th</sup> century. During
Victorian times, former tenants planted monkey puzzle trees, pines, magnolias,
camellias, giant redwoods, as well as various rhododendrons. </span><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14.6667px;">Even in the 20th century, planting of rare species continued, including up to 70 types of rhododendrons such as the red-flowering Portmeirion-bred cultivar rhododendron, known as the 'Gwyllt King', the magnificent magnolia campbellii with its enormous pink flowers and several ginkgo bilobas. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUr4lzGDyEhfq4Km4Tdy7iUVC0arxfu8cr_Z8qHyp3kmEl3b9D0LYTPsSnr-QhiMbMrQyr9FgbWxPHOzKN6z8FCBGSOdRoX-62qVmhgm1zQTzbYCPunELyEkOkIaQ4nPoel2bqYgfKqXs/s2048/P1+%25284%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUr4lzGDyEhfq4Km4Tdy7iUVC0arxfu8cr_Z8qHyp3kmEl3b9D0LYTPsSnr-QhiMbMrQyr9FgbWxPHOzKN6z8FCBGSOdRoX-62qVmhgm1zQTzbYCPunELyEkOkIaQ4nPoel2bqYgfKqXs/w640-h480/P1+%25284%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyxpnb42HP_gE0R9vWGtyyongSpvlUlH0fQek9s_xoxjfMRshERSK48jqY8HAcXxVHIWIZTAbPuufA7KrEIpFSPCmN8WA0Cpb46s7D6LxxlG4hODbILNMHb0Xyj-5J93f6AasTo_bCjxk/s2048/P1+%252825%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1249" data-original-width="2048" height="390" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyxpnb42HP_gE0R9vWGtyyongSpvlUlH0fQek9s_xoxjfMRshERSK48jqY8HAcXxVHIWIZTAbPuufA7KrEIpFSPCmN8WA0Cpb46s7D6LxxlG4hODbILNMHb0Xyj-5J93f6AasTo_bCjxk/w640-h390/P1+%252825%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14.6667px;">The subtropical forest known as The Gwyllt has some of Britain's largest trees, secret gardens, a derelict castle and rare flowers. Portmerions 70 acres contain 19 miles of paths through woodland and forests, with secret spaces (like the Dog Cemetery, tangle Wood, Ghost Garden and Shelter Valley) and paths down to coastal coves. </span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRx7cp3duTz-xTcKx-iLijGtXPeFYkWDPRRrJw0BH4DAlG8qTdZMSp3pO4eyeEc1DOINEjQARhGo8pmXJbZuECTgZR9n_e7Sx_ldzr9gt-akxtKz9E2Jmj3DWUd5x1ZKNpG4MgkWCu1pI/s2048/P1+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRx7cp3duTz-xTcKx-iLijGtXPeFYkWDPRRrJw0BH4DAlG8qTdZMSp3pO4eyeEc1DOINEjQARhGo8pmXJbZuECTgZR9n_e7Sx_ldzr9gt-akxtKz9E2Jmj3DWUd5x1ZKNpG4MgkWCu1pI/w640-h480/P1+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt;">The
remains of a medieval castle Castell Gwain Goch are also in the woods just
outside the village, recorded by Gerald of Wales in 1188. Williams-Ellis
considered the Castell to be “the largest and most imposing single building on
the Portmeirion Estate", but when he purchased it in 1931 - it was in a
serious state of disrepair. With help from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the
European Regional Development Fund and the Wales Tourist Board, Castell
Deudraeth was opened as an 11-bedroom hotel and restaurant in 2001, 23 years
after Williams-Ellis's death. Castell Deudraeth has a restored Victorian garden
with lawns, flowerbeds and flowering trees. </span></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-xPhzqznS8Xf8opKHCnYM6LopVZTy8rVCuEOcgKAR-G6x2Q3mpNDF88E4PXncbJIIJgwlVnnTIudFobWKhqUeU9zG0jlUcttlTz2JolvrSZ-KVkxkXM5BnqtrvDkrBv-_aXv_xpJP5o/s2048/P1+%252811%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc-xPhzqznS8Xf8opKHCnYM6LopVZTy8rVCuEOcgKAR-G6x2Q3mpNDF88E4PXncbJIIJgwlVnnTIudFobWKhqUeU9zG0jlUcttlTz2JolvrSZ-KVkxkXM5BnqtrvDkrBv-_aXv_xpJP5o/w640-h480/P1+%252811%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMwBiieX2W4HdsC8q2Sj-oIhvzwi2IJrZAtZkx8UNi_waBza_hvhKCrRu2M6H4v7SqJCexUPjOz9szPVCgV8UgWKEYZdeBUQ6Cc89nTETsgTZNTIXKs0Ah1DD1B34OY5z-dTlDbouGw7U/s2048/P1+%252813%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMwBiieX2W4HdsC8q2Sj-oIhvzwi2IJrZAtZkx8UNi_waBza_hvhKCrRu2M6H4v7SqJCexUPjOz9szPVCgV8UgWKEYZdeBUQ6Cc89nTETsgTZNTIXKs0Ah1DD1B34OY5z-dTlDbouGw7U/w640-h480/P1+%252813%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Portmeirion
is now owned by a charitable trust, which uses most of the buildings as hotel
rooms or self-catering cottages. Parts of crumbling buildings and unwanted
artefacts were shipped in from all over the world to create what can be seen
there today; including loggias, grand porticoes and bright terracotta-roofed
houses. </span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijCRvmYLE7U2hOJXwMnUHhlgVJx5gqlJff1nI4TdzAENumbaUVCfAzXxabUyal5Y-pDgAt9ICr_xOVCchzs6ZYyVDyxzXqmHD9ph3ILoaBjgzAweozaelzfyWZqtxOMh24asWTNL2_Kvk/s2048/P1+%252814%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1768" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijCRvmYLE7U2hOJXwMnUHhlgVJx5gqlJff1nI4TdzAENumbaUVCfAzXxabUyal5Y-pDgAt9ICr_xOVCchzs6ZYyVDyxzXqmHD9ph3ILoaBjgzAweozaelzfyWZqtxOMh24asWTNL2_Kvk/w552-h640/P1+%252814%2529.JPG" width="552" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJbkxr9LGAmRknb5YapV00r74nmtKblQGTxkgs6jBDZqbX8FEb4nkdu6BHGPsdN-UXYZs-bubkZecNznt219QxulI-yZZrmm6FdDEztwNsiRDxy5Al-n9nfrfrMJxHmK8h3n7Gu1fDkiM/s2048/P1+%252816%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1536" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJbkxr9LGAmRknb5YapV00r74nmtKblQGTxkgs6jBDZqbX8FEb4nkdu6BHGPsdN-UXYZs-bubkZecNznt219QxulI-yZZrmm6FdDEztwNsiRDxy5Al-n9nfrfrMJxHmK8h3n7Gu1fDkiM/w480-h640/P1+%252816%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The
village was built over 2 phases, (pre war) 1926 - 1939 and late from 1954 - 1976.
Most buildings were designed and built by Williams-Ellis but a few were bought
in from elsewhere; such as the Town Hall, the Bristol Colonnade, and the facade
of the Dome (which was originally known as The Green Dome - but this name was changed
when it was renovated in line with fire regulations in the 1990’s). </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVIXfnCkG1iSLjQUGY4AiCbnSgRjOfYf7A3Japvs5pF2s3A_8YjbYK2z132Vq7d1hPpK-yCK6aQb45_8rZqP3ef-tyO3g65pHG65g-KQ1g_EatbG4PmMGYYqmEzCkFOVZ57Q0klFz1k4M/s2048/P1+%252812%2529.JPG" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1053" data-original-width="2048" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVIXfnCkG1iSLjQUGY4AiCbnSgRjOfYf7A3Japvs5pF2s3A_8YjbYK2z132Vq7d1hPpK-yCK6aQb45_8rZqP3ef-tyO3g65pHG65g-KQ1g_EatbG4PmMGYYqmEzCkFOVZ57Q0klFz1k4M/w640-h330/P1+%252812%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlUvWhBAxNWcqSVnax3NZ7FIF5fUBj1RjaRyThTZePrCRkCGC8Pwd8oOPLKr6zOd53awSUhqmYcPqC1ZiMJ27AN0UyVkPTQWh6Zj-2sB6qM1iAmUNpFTBCv2jQ6zpDLe0Zxp1d-arvRCk/s2048/P1+%252817%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1465" data-original-width="2048" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlUvWhBAxNWcqSVnax3NZ7FIF5fUBj1RjaRyThTZePrCRkCGC8Pwd8oOPLKr6zOd53awSUhqmYcPqC1ZiMJ27AN0UyVkPTQWh6Zj-2sB6qM1iAmUNpFTBCv2jQ6zpDLe0Zxp1d-arvRCk/w640-h458/P1+%252817%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The
entrance is through the Triumphal Arch, and you can also see the Battery Square
with the quaintest souvenir shops.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTysTb7BG9RvZacs1OutRkRC0xQusr7f6YEY_djfbtlBnYNXyjOZHL-nkZv9Jy3-yK3OxYJ9j-o2QCbfGYZ_LG_7TJqAun2_drq1u3lfBbAwq63BThClxJodQjtjnuWQH5CX9KkCMGQw/s2048/P1+%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwTysTb7BG9RvZacs1OutRkRC0xQusr7f6YEY_djfbtlBnYNXyjOZHL-nkZv9Jy3-yK3OxYJ9j-o2QCbfGYZ_LG_7TJqAun2_drq1u3lfBbAwq63BThClxJodQjtjnuWQH5CX9KkCMGQw/w640-h480/P1+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQcpAtQB7x91UZLn6_S4YPalErC5zwzjT8flnHIcDsHx2UdXYXNI0AL5R7deEraC8PjMHSOOzeJ6DThGVQaLYHDoVgdvbD0tsKLLmkAaFO3KwzNs3_Y5qiboQK-Xbi6xQ53TgBHBhuN8/s2048/P1+%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQcpAtQB7x91UZLn6_S4YPalErC5zwzjT8flnHIcDsHx2UdXYXNI0AL5R7deEraC8PjMHSOOzeJ6DThGVQaLYHDoVgdvbD0tsKLLmkAaFO3KwzNs3_Y5qiboQK-Xbi6xQ53TgBHBhuN8/w640-h480/P1+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">You
can find out more about Portmeirion’s fascinating story in the Welcome Centre where
they offer a free 20 minute audio-visual tour of Portmeirion Village; also
during the summer season, you can take a complimentary train ride through the
Gywllt to the Oriental garden, where you will find a classic temple overlooking
the Chinese bridge and lake. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ4aXXQ0P7u1qO9uIrefXa8WqmHNSQXtq6lPKrYMWLwSRcllt1Dq0krAsp-HVR8whegj89HAjP48LuGEwEk1vOLcz0c5S6IA78h4y_QEO1KyTty5bFOvf0dKzhNbvST2JwY5uBXuawJ4k/s2048/P1+%252822%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1574" data-original-width="2048" height="492" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ4aXXQ0P7u1qO9uIrefXa8WqmHNSQXtq6lPKrYMWLwSRcllt1Dq0krAsp-HVR8whegj89HAjP48LuGEwEk1vOLcz0c5S6IA78h4y_QEO1KyTty5bFOvf0dKzhNbvST2JwY5uBXuawJ4k/w640-h492/P1+%252822%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwCr9ThWNGCQiGp1YQGQorKjemy-GqZ2F9tYbHzEY1Aa92dyoNeKt0xzzEDKmZaqf354PjL1El5B8nsEEgNe7_84b902aHsTyhuEHzopK4vrxwIlbian8i7xAy5JxU0KgcOcynTwEBQQ/s1867/P1+%252823%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1619" data-original-width="1867" height="554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnwCr9ThWNGCQiGp1YQGQorKjemy-GqZ2F9tYbHzEY1Aa92dyoNeKt0xzzEDKmZaqf354PjL1El5B8nsEEgNe7_84b902aHsTyhuEHzopK4vrxwIlbian8i7xAy5JxU0KgcOcynTwEBQQ/w640-h554/P1+%252823%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Whilst
I was at Portmerion, I took a walk down to explore the expansive sandy beach of
the Dwyryd Estuary which has more hidden caves, gullies and interesting plants
along the way. You can get an ice cream from Angel Ices Gelateria and soak up
the sun on this picturesque section of the coast or take a walk along the
coastal path to the end of the peninsula with stunning views of mountains as
well as the coast. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSV7Xp_D9O0heD547dikIUZXTVz6-TeNj2-IgIkBbm7NqKhFkay0JReU2zifRXID9OmVF_l576qfMw0KTQcD4Dy6km0wJkRrDUVL6dBqSDXyWyQh1BwOKu7rtBLFA5Xebcpgb65HanwsU/s2560/P2+%25282%2529.JPG" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1196" data-original-width="2560" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSV7Xp_D9O0heD547dikIUZXTVz6-TeNj2-IgIkBbm7NqKhFkay0JReU2zifRXID9OmVF_l576qfMw0KTQcD4Dy6km0wJkRrDUVL6dBqSDXyWyQh1BwOKu7rtBLFA5Xebcpgb65HanwsU/w640-h300/P2+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span face=""Calibri",sans-serif" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_-qGLGPEPwls1ncdVRBe11EL2MJ_K9HTMIRcwOfjfoSD_KLcum27JdaarZydkfeR9nGqX2Yw4Keth2yCIVKH3PD1cXRjZy8uGHIV-d_YS2CRPvqK23dZ0nLFFDT0FSUpO_vR_mofuDhs/s2048/P1+%252819%2529.JPG" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1510" data-original-width="2048" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_-qGLGPEPwls1ncdVRBe11EL2MJ_K9HTMIRcwOfjfoSD_KLcum27JdaarZydkfeR9nGqX2Yw4Keth2yCIVKH3PD1cXRjZy8uGHIV-d_YS2CRPvqK23dZ0nLFFDT0FSUpO_vR_mofuDhs/w640-h472/P1+%252819%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipXT2BeuxoOfp2SUvpI5rehuM-HlWfRkFxkJbMhUxX9HB1oByV4rCnBsTD8s8cas2ylMcPlmE_KNCXr9DhC-E8diuPnArFLxM88lcfppkjEx79bKND99stfDCTjFpADSDiZ-BUVN5oaSo/s2048/P2+%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1581" data-original-width="2048" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipXT2BeuxoOfp2SUvpI5rehuM-HlWfRkFxkJbMhUxX9HB1oByV4rCnBsTD8s8cas2ylMcPlmE_KNCXr9DhC-E8diuPnArFLxM88lcfppkjEx79bKND99stfDCTjFpADSDiZ-BUVN5oaSo/w640-h494/P2+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="font-size: 14.6667px;">Overlooking the bay is the Portmeirion Hotel and the Amis Ruenis – a famous stone boat (a replica of one that was there in earlier times). I had the most delightful day exploring Portmeirion, I hope my photographs have given you an insight of what it offers. </span></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibUHNbl9Nwof_7Qav5BUYdqMrm6k4NW6qEGGlwrGl-UtOI1LMSgUBtQcOGCU8nqbgEUEbql6MPLU1Mg9lDInI4-mRWDZdpSIIfttm3hKyIR7r8HtFt1TIjOmkyI4PL-le-VgOyuMoVeHc/s2048/P1+%252818%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="2048" height="376" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibUHNbl9Nwof_7Qav5BUYdqMrm6k4NW6qEGGlwrGl-UtOI1LMSgUBtQcOGCU8nqbgEUEbql6MPLU1Mg9lDInI4-mRWDZdpSIIfttm3hKyIR7r8HtFt1TIjOmkyI4PL-le-VgOyuMoVeHc/w640-h376/P1+%252818%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;">For more information on visiting
this fascinating place please see </span><a href="https://portmeirion.wales/" style="text-align: justify;">https://portmeirion.wales/</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></p></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-UIVXd0wLuCBDfYT-Gm3DVMcbtN3yxBLAClzhmd8hLgbV28JxuVy4OXglwtguRr-Cu6PXn9w3Ec7QBc4Bm3961XTYI9VfRnvI-SLiD66qI8Pv1FyqjAotSEG_oX_RaR8SO2ejzzfoT4I/s600/pm2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-UIVXd0wLuCBDfYT-Gm3DVMcbtN3yxBLAClzhmd8hLgbV28JxuVy4OXglwtguRr-Cu6PXn9w3Ec7QBc4Bm3961XTYI9VfRnvI-SLiD66qI8Pv1FyqjAotSEG_oX_RaR8SO2ejzzfoT4I/w640-h426/pm2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></span></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Lynne</i></b></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>These are my other blogs :-</b></span></span></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com/">http://lynnejmorley.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="line-height: 17.12px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: 12pt;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div></div></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="font-family: "times new roman"; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: x-large;">http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com</a></div></div></div></div>Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-6921320519501696892021-03-16T12:36:00.000+00:002021-03-16T12:36:25.795+00:00Huanglong<p style="text-align: justify;"> </p><p style="text-align: center;"><b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Huanglong</span></u></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbzms0a_bLKog1wxbYAqNuXCaDx215pg4UjN5rzcTa3r5ImKYavpZ6KFNc8g6UsM3uj8GkPXHAn_LGxxRzxGKtx_tfU4HJvcyGQLEA387EQ3SH43EpBbQ1sjvVntTuZ-EnXOGXBWvzZZk/s2048/2021-02-17+13.23.41.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbzms0a_bLKog1wxbYAqNuXCaDx215pg4UjN5rzcTa3r5ImKYavpZ6KFNc8g6UsM3uj8GkPXHAn_LGxxRzxGKtx_tfU4HJvcyGQLEA387EQ3SH43EpBbQ1sjvVntTuZ-EnXOGXBWvzZZk/w640-h480/2021-02-17+13.23.41.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The flight to Jiuzhaigou was quite breath taking! The mountains had risen above the clouds and were such a variety of colours, with verdant forests, snow-capped peaks, and jagged, craggy ridges. We flew so close to the mountain tops; it was as if we were going to hit them - and a few disaster movies did spring to mind! </div><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZi8OALjoXL_BVwxZRQ0o46WSFjbgkcfXDZCihI_O7C2egwmGecqeY3nCi7kQy9-zCAnQm9aMVcfFepNJ2Jv7A25DWGMNPwIwVgd3Lcv6DyKIWqw5o1sfgzYONjcwInNA_FMBDS8rB-sI/s2048/1+%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZi8OALjoXL_BVwxZRQ0o46WSFjbgkcfXDZCihI_O7C2egwmGecqeY3nCi7kQy9-zCAnQm9aMVcfFepNJ2Jv7A25DWGMNPwIwVgd3Lcv6DyKIWqw5o1sfgzYONjcwInNA_FMBDS8rB-sI/w640-h480/1+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;">We had been told by our guide, to dress for all types of weather, and when we left the plane, it was a lovely warm 30 degrees. Driving along the roads, we passed wild horses, mountain goats and yaks; and the houses looked like no others I had seen in China. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjzDCaLkbFfxDvxuaQ7z1YnyEtbXbE-GTBln6iV8F3QygSaVFc_Z7chmH5m44wz2dFIJvUhzChX7IRpA_0d_uyW_G5C-gD3gJDznxLCKNgqu_eIkDvgk2WZpBWK69NU4nkjqovYSJnbaQ/s1702/IMG_1864.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1340" data-original-width="1702" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjzDCaLkbFfxDvxuaQ7z1YnyEtbXbE-GTBln6iV8F3QygSaVFc_Z7chmH5m44wz2dFIJvUhzChX7IRpA_0d_uyW_G5C-gD3gJDznxLCKNgqu_eIkDvgk2WZpBWK69NU4nkjqovYSJnbaQ/w400-h315/IMG_1864.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><p style="text-align: justify;">An hour later we reached Huanglong, and the weather had dropped to a drizzly 12 degrees, and several people had to buy raincoats. When we got off the coach, as usual, we were surrounded by people trying to sell us things; but the women here had masks over their faces - apparently not to stop germs (like the rest of China), but to stop the sun tanning them. After lunch we entered Huanglong National park, which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1992. Huanglong is in the Sichuan Province, in the eastern foothills of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, at the foot of the highest peak in the Minshan Mountain range – Mount Xuebaoding. Huanglong valley with its travertine lakes, waterfalls, forests and spectacular mountain scenery is described as nature at its very best. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasKz0fDJ8Au-5N_mNm6H6IK_YOpSdRtKW7juttVvMOHcpN0oXGPKv6CKWrJtlx-eqa22k9m121huizbCoi-uO6ss2vC7nPrTRnHNIDsHeZuS87MDAV_MUwJC-v_t1y-v1dlBtJormMTs/s2048/1+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjasKz0fDJ8Au-5N_mNm6H6IK_YOpSdRtKW7juttVvMOHcpN0oXGPKv6CKWrJtlx-eqa22k9m121huizbCoi-uO6ss2vC7nPrTRnHNIDsHeZuS87MDAV_MUwJC-v_t1y-v1dlBtJormMTs/w640-h480/1+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;">The diverse forest ecosystems of the Minshan Mountains are home to endangered plants and animals, including the Giant Panda and the Sichuan Golden snub-nosed monkey. We were now at an area of over 3500 metres, one of the highest tourist areas in China - and warned to take things very carefully (We were constantly told to walk (not run), move slowly and pace yourself) or else we would be ill will altitude sickness! The name Huanglong (meaning Yellow Dragon) is said to describe a yellow dragon slithering through a valley – which is how people imagined the valley. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhInc9CyujR5wZMD5uCQrDvk2HFbuFqiQs-6JxssJI0vDYQjWE3s9yzOt5dzOLrTS7t3l_P0VS6KRqDLUUl8aFQvX2e3GTzYm3Er6G7fKK6DqFj8DVJfEcWNyzEOO3YE-_iLWkaBk0axSA/s2048/1+%252812%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhInc9CyujR5wZMD5uCQrDvk2HFbuFqiQs-6JxssJI0vDYQjWE3s9yzOt5dzOLrTS7t3l_P0VS6KRqDLUUl8aFQvX2e3GTzYm3Er6G7fKK6DqFj8DVJfEcWNyzEOO3YE-_iLWkaBk0axSA/w640-h480/1+%252812%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;">We were given 3 hours to explore, so I headed off up the mountain as quickly as I dare! The path was mainly a wooden boardwalk, with steps climbing higher and higher into the forest. There were small houses with toilets every so often, and numerous gazebos to rest in, as well as stalls selling Oxygen canisters - all along the route. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMqYsJaN1TEPE6qgVDJWtpahAXBZl0K1nw-kPHT8v2_4DC7NQrQl-QdnVPiFhGHOzIDd3Rqx7228iNwfJJsZnX4tsHMScghRTKg7fjbN02EaHCcA9vWQZF2V1G7Hpz-U7qLWiCnGJBVU/s2048/1+%25287%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpMqYsJaN1TEPE6qgVDJWtpahAXBZl0K1nw-kPHT8v2_4DC7NQrQl-QdnVPiFhGHOzIDd3Rqx7228iNwfJJsZnX4tsHMScghRTKg7fjbN02EaHCcA9vWQZF2V1G7Hpz-U7qLWiCnGJBVU/w640-h480/1+%25287%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">When I had tried to find out about this place before I went, the information had been quite scarce (whereas there is more online now) – and I was completely blown away by what I was seeing. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzEm0ZwkrOFMW082J146Cuu6JLESj8H5-70K72OEvQENxKi6vhJ3uY4Ri0KT_9cDX7jqYBMOm0HeXKHYSNcLb9WXYEOKZn-s38h6YeMq6FXsderxF7WEomsihC9MPz4bW7Y85tY4kcuM/s2048/1+%25285%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAzEm0ZwkrOFMW082J146Cuu6JLESj8H5-70K72OEvQENxKi6vhJ3uY4Ri0KT_9cDX7jqYBMOm0HeXKHYSNcLb9WXYEOKZn-s38h6YeMq6FXsderxF7WEomsihC9MPz4bW7Y85tY4kcuM/w640-h480/1+%25285%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: justify;">I could understand how the area had got its name - the golden coloured calcium carbonate that had been deposited, left a glowing area running down much of the mountain. To me, it resembled a beach with sparkling water trickling over it, forming calcified pools. This area, known as Yellow Dragon Gully, and is surrounded by these colourful, clear-water pools formed from calcite deposits. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgooQ3h6HVMwp6cXPOEjdTgY0459UcLJ-YWNQ1nmq6IHvYp1wTUFne90XlpH9ww2fl6R6-vnJXCeY_9-iDzscKJAN8PuTSNGPSGzvlwTWWNIPM4nmy2sssDh8oOWecNIXJdJpPFAvgCnD4/s2048/1+%252814%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgooQ3h6HVMwp6cXPOEjdTgY0459UcLJ-YWNQ1nmq6IHvYp1wTUFne90XlpH9ww2fl6R6-vnJXCeY_9-iDzscKJAN8PuTSNGPSGzvlwTWWNIPM4nmy2sssDh8oOWecNIXJdJpPFAvgCnD4/w640-h480/1+%252814%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhInc9CyujR5wZMD5uCQrDvk2HFbuFqiQs-6JxssJI0vDYQjWE3s9yzOt5dzOLrTS7t3l_P0VS6KRqDLUUl8aFQvX2e3GTzYm3Er6G7fKK6DqFj8DVJfEcWNyzEOO3YE-_iLWkaBk0axSA/s2048/1+%252812%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhInc9CyujR5wZMD5uCQrDvk2HFbuFqiQs-6JxssJI0vDYQjWE3s9yzOt5dzOLrTS7t3l_P0VS6KRqDLUUl8aFQvX2e3GTzYm3Er6G7fKK6DqFj8DVJfEcWNyzEOO3YE-_iLWkaBk0axSA/w640-h480/1+%252812%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The water in these limestone ponds is varying shades of turquoise and aqua, and the higher you climbed up the mountain, the more vivid they became. But the higher you were, the more out of breath you became. Even though I was going up really steadily, at one point my heart was beating so fast - it was scary, and I was having to stop to catch my breath. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRq56pyzMzZO8zH2XE4Y4tXPnDk2e0Rku37U-XWeVnwAYquOYLaoK5dNT8blhC5NHxQYXsXxTb3yM0jbw5uM6XfVq2XO5xN1KeI1S4I7gQpEe9eCmBlnKNhqedwY_spy2H01I5m-8G4b8/s2048/1+%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRq56pyzMzZO8zH2XE4Y4tXPnDk2e0Rku37U-XWeVnwAYquOYLaoK5dNT8blhC5NHxQYXsXxTb3yM0jbw5uM6XfVq2XO5xN1KeI1S4I7gQpEe9eCmBlnKNhqedwY_spy2H01I5m-8G4b8/w640-h480/1+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7XiBMB0OjHBvRu4WRrvHyrzbLnlJ37zuHqNJQykNARHymG7jUsU_Lm8GM6gMuvVl05tvBV8vy6h-tULrfZxixKG4dvZFco_dfNgHZS6OBH4h1PXo83Ogk4dopZJ5cXTW1WSlGMlahcfA/s2048/1+%25285a%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7XiBMB0OjHBvRu4WRrvHyrzbLnlJ37zuHqNJQykNARHymG7jUsU_Lm8GM6gMuvVl05tvBV8vy6h-tULrfZxixKG4dvZFco_dfNgHZS6OBH4h1PXo83Ogk4dopZJ5cXTW1WSlGMlahcfA/w640-h480/1+%25285a%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">As well as the altitude, you have to be careful not to fall in when you are taking photographs; there are many areas with no handrails and people were just barging past…..a few more scary moments! But it is always worth it to get another special photograph! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8PSKJRacY8NfKwysqHTR6svCx7uiB4HwjJNXzy83t3K1tSqWSKuLrkfa3jmsEmpDBMTR7bqkQ1m82KER3OTkv-VFm3Jlx7CWgGpFQCs3GvT5mlpyZFC8KAnqRdftLUjIj8wZw7ccdCDI/s2048/1+%252818%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8PSKJRacY8NfKwysqHTR6svCx7uiB4HwjJNXzy83t3K1tSqWSKuLrkfa3jmsEmpDBMTR7bqkQ1m82KER3OTkv-VFm3Jlx7CWgGpFQCs3GvT5mlpyZFC8KAnqRdftLUjIj8wZw7ccdCDI/w640-h480/1+%252818%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjgDl_oc_kgp1av_2ofkqsn4bjT5pJKUMMUSl_oqkA3fYpGDziiMJHwxGakCFBjU3vam6maSSzIdnGsWkYa3L2JyILCZ71rtPbj7BG0cWWt-y1M60TRcJcOIHvfCRnJRe_tT9V-NxGK-0/s2048/1+%252813%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjgDl_oc_kgp1av_2ofkqsn4bjT5pJKUMMUSl_oqkA3fYpGDziiMJHwxGakCFBjU3vam6maSSzIdnGsWkYa3L2JyILCZ71rtPbj7BG0cWWt-y1M60TRcJcOIHvfCRnJRe_tT9V-NxGK-0/w640-h480/1+%252813%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The waters though, are surprisingly warm, even when the weather is cold – so I was told! The Huanglong valley is relatively compact, with a total length of only 3.6 kilometres, but this rises over 500 metres - in such a short space. The main body of water starts at the ancient Buddhist temple at the top of the valley and ends at the Guests Welcome Pond. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_R51_kfrLad2tl-TTzBBd1cadXe1k8RBO-O14HMxae1sENgttoeTb4Bk1MeNoxK8gxaji2vFp9DX4R1XQqIhFyYo1_RhO6NX_rWETjtoUhwx3mqkZZns6127XSL2ZRje4MEph9fJ2KYM/s2048/1+%25286%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_R51_kfrLad2tl-TTzBBd1cadXe1k8RBO-O14HMxae1sENgttoeTb4Bk1MeNoxK8gxaji2vFp9DX4R1XQqIhFyYo1_RhO6NX_rWETjtoUhwx3mqkZZns6127XSL2ZRje4MEph9fJ2KYM/w640-h480/1+%25286%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5m-Y1_IpBReVglz2RwEV_y9IwXgYTbLEtwRFcncsepwro7fzmA0iUessm_A36IDTJfmo3MLjX37JnXAR6lBbuIkXua6G5Sm-KG1irI0lpfVGDv4FWqe7Nl4xkWK2AcMg_HYHjpaum-O0/s2048/1+%252819%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5m-Y1_IpBReVglz2RwEV_y9IwXgYTbLEtwRFcncsepwro7fzmA0iUessm_A36IDTJfmo3MLjX37JnXAR6lBbuIkXua6G5Sm-KG1irI0lpfVGDv4FWqe7Nl4xkWK2AcMg_HYHjpaum-O0/w640-h480/1+%252819%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">One of Huanglong's most defining features, “travertine” is a type of limestone deposited by mineral springs, formed by the precipitation of calcium carbonate. Over time, the water in the pools have become separated by low limestone walls, making thousands of ponds and lakes - that cover much of the park. </div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVJb4p4MfFKcPwJFkFBaQ002jaGejBUBBp_GWHcWj-bOlEGPjWjh4o6aclQ6S9uygiv1wJa67-wMGNHhtVLb6Tn5hsNakBog0MJWUx4eBMPWg96-2iP6_QUSks7PLPLI0Yn_s1qtVJpbo/s2048/1+%252821%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVJb4p4MfFKcPwJFkFBaQ002jaGejBUBBp_GWHcWj-bOlEGPjWjh4o6aclQ6S9uygiv1wJa67-wMGNHhtVLb6Tn5hsNakBog0MJWUx4eBMPWg96-2iP6_QUSks7PLPLI0Yn_s1qtVJpbo/w640-h480/1+%252821%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Even the unusual waterfalls cascade over thick layers of the golden limestone (which is how the Yellow Dragon name came to be) - and they have fabulous names such as the Marvellous Flying Waterfall and the Washing Cave (which is 40 metres wide and 10 metres tall). I particularly loved that waterfall as it was like no other waterfall I had even seen. (Below)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTHEX_2pjrBt9d-nz4bnjG5knIPlbO7ZSA8xBM1TIFfffLIfYS5jW1Yk-xDMsBOTTtecs-tFGzFr9KbfqSxJl2kS-UvH7jH-qVOJtH9CIIcOxGb_NJToNfeQhUTGkye9seqKbjiqtjzSY/s2048/1+%252811%2529+Washing+Cave+40m+wide+x+10+m+tall.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTHEX_2pjrBt9d-nz4bnjG5knIPlbO7ZSA8xBM1TIFfffLIfYS5jW1Yk-xDMsBOTTtecs-tFGzFr9KbfqSxJl2kS-UvH7jH-qVOJtH9CIIcOxGb_NJToNfeQhUTGkye9seqKbjiqtjzSY/w640-h480/1+%252811%2529+Washing+Cave+40m+wide+x+10+m+tall.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBf7mmoIVBsxpzqB5AZF-q-DA5VpzOFts-6ayEJk4yOzG-MlUNgS_RCdq4dX39CnPe6kOiLVSU9MirLry2VLp4bvMuhVTEH8v5zQp9o4iSD5BD5PhI9QeYOCqa1in4y4uxJa1hcqfFMRs/s2048/1+%25288%2529+Marvellous+Flying+Waterfall+68m+wide.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBf7mmoIVBsxpzqB5AZF-q-DA5VpzOFts-6ayEJk4yOzG-MlUNgS_RCdq4dX39CnPe6kOiLVSU9MirLry2VLp4bvMuhVTEH8v5zQp9o4iSD5BD5PhI9QeYOCqa1in4y4uxJa1hcqfFMRs/w640-h480/1+%25288%2529+Marvellous+Flying+Waterfall+68m+wide.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSCdaXU4OOE4iHxA6DL32eKwhO-b9qN8_PPOU_mDp7y7dBABlSkabPl6-Nqz-PyTIE9lr08Y7XLjnfY5gm8IcsgqQEoZINNuF_wI79AlpiJ9L9OwFWxpzn8yPiUBUvkPn7feJkGH3tBi0/s2048/1+%25288a%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSCdaXU4OOE4iHxA6DL32eKwhO-b9qN8_PPOU_mDp7y7dBABlSkabPl6-Nqz-PyTIE9lr08Y7XLjnfY5gm8IcsgqQEoZINNuF_wI79AlpiJ9L9OwFWxpzn8yPiUBUvkPn7feJkGH3tBi0/w640-h480/1+%25288a%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I had been walking uphill for an hour and a half without really stopping for a proper rest and started thinking that every bend was going to be the last one, and I would be at the top. Time seemed to fly by – there was so much to see. Every pond you arrived at, consisted of hundreds of smaller pools – everyone special in their own way. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh23Pj7A2x3QmvxeZg7E5k-TFAYlBINlfbH_c50VdBT0NL72NEjmvOb9rrGOwfBYcjYKUnaauzXM3h7fOUsNI7wXgRaOx57K2ZZIMxNVlhoGeQAF3PuDo7HmQIwmYzAZuwDChlfxd-OlGI/s2048/1+%252814a%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh23Pj7A2x3QmvxeZg7E5k-TFAYlBINlfbH_c50VdBT0NL72NEjmvOb9rrGOwfBYcjYKUnaauzXM3h7fOUsNI7wXgRaOx57K2ZZIMxNVlhoGeQAF3PuDo7HmQIwmYzAZuwDChlfxd-OlGI/w640-h480/1+%252814a%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Guests Welcome Pond was the first complex, and there were others such as Azalea Ponds, Flamboyant Pond, Bonsai Ponds, Mirror Pond, and Whirling Flower Ponds. But the upward, winding path kept going on and on – higher and higher. I tried to ask people how much further it was to the top, but no one spoke English or even looked like they understood me; and I think most of the people on my tour hadn’t ventured as far up the mountain as me. Every few hundred yards, I could see the wooden huts with the oxygen tanks were full of people with breathing difficulties. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga6sCOVlEK4TyckcBuZkcCBOY7yzxHMwiW4bxVl9zsrtmc0DmWMeyUQPgB2yEgdo6KPHhXClR2Pj0hbPLpDKKzAdYuNq_Ks1RdC65II3_xY1kRU_GvmIFEWY3GBvI6ADX72dAvDTF9Lgo/s2048/1+%252822%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga6sCOVlEK4TyckcBuZkcCBOY7yzxHMwiW4bxVl9zsrtmc0DmWMeyUQPgB2yEgdo6KPHhXClR2Pj0hbPLpDKKzAdYuNq_Ks1RdC65II3_xY1kRU_GvmIFEWY3GBvI6ADX72dAvDTF9Lgo/w640-h480/1+%252822%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I was desperate to get to the top – I don’t know why; as everything I was seeing was spectacular – it was only another pond - apparently the valley's highlight, The Five-colour Pond. But I pushed on and after another fifteen minutes, I found out that it was still another hour to the top and seeing as that was all time that I had left, I had to turn around and head back down - quickly! I wasn't too disappointed because the pools and ponds I had seen were so much more beautiful than I had been expecting – the whole area had been a magnificent surprise. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh9nJumnB_VnUS4mE4twpjRbVF_YH-M5_CFjjPkBC9FHVxJ2d8hVDwkGhpvHS30R4or23qUMX1rVbeRS0kJ7ob2y_MMpw_g2VdPbS4XNwOjCaYW77gcwy-Z5GYqIpbUiu4soJFkiLZ2Qo/s2048/1+%252817%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh9nJumnB_VnUS4mE4twpjRbVF_YH-M5_CFjjPkBC9FHVxJ2d8hVDwkGhpvHS30R4or23qUMX1rVbeRS0kJ7ob2y_MMpw_g2VdPbS4XNwOjCaYW77gcwy-Z5GYqIpbUiu4soJFkiLZ2Qo/w640-h480/1+%252817%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAqUUuA8I6xKtGYvUAsMhSgLMN_HVjC6dEkwPTBGGdPD5zgtVMcxI43atT1HOQpyBCVIWXcGZtoUc3NbCtMnR7q7-ExxT5PwaT8pA4yxcFbliRnXTeQvmAG9-w6uYPxl8i7RtpJ2kRxvs/s2048/1+%252823%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1511" data-original-width="2048" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAqUUuA8I6xKtGYvUAsMhSgLMN_HVjC6dEkwPTBGGdPD5zgtVMcxI43atT1HOQpyBCVIWXcGZtoUc3NbCtMnR7q7-ExxT5PwaT8pA4yxcFbliRnXTeQvmAG9-w6uYPxl8i7RtpJ2kRxvs/w640-h472/1+%252823%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Also, the rain had stopped, so it was far easier going downhill than I had expected. Looking back, I wish the tour guide had given us the option to use the Cable car, because then I could have gone up to the top without becoming too exhausted. Then walked back down leisurely – admiring the travertine lakes and ponds, the scenery of the primitive forest leisurely, and the whole panorama of Huanglong. But I can’t change things – unless I go back one day. It had been a huge challenge, but worth it; and one I am very proud of doing. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPec3SznndGg8EYjzwErHgHuzz5TPPkWFlPjW5EJLT7UDTWv-bLeTyePTRD_s6iAvWFyWzFsk2SVWQmw9azCPPY2lHUFy3HANQgm-Rpkb0igtUsavTKkcELbVuERg1uFRQOUAGG_paQRM/s2048/1+%252810%2529+Lianyan+Pond.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPec3SznndGg8EYjzwErHgHuzz5TPPkWFlPjW5EJLT7UDTWv-bLeTyePTRD_s6iAvWFyWzFsk2SVWQmw9azCPPY2lHUFy3HANQgm-Rpkb0igtUsavTKkcELbVuERg1uFRQOUAGG_paQRM/w640-h480/1+%252810%2529+Lianyan+Pond.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Most people go to the Nine Villages Valley and skip this park, which is a couple of hours away. But I highly recommend that you take an extra day to visit Huanglong, where you can see these most amazing geologic formations and pools that are formed with the same process that stalagmites are formed in caves - there really is nowhere else like it! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK_0i2ZoaX4fVgk4GDx2tS9pLP5jaziWIY1jdiMfHTEssxdWFkX-4z_VkN26gJ35pRAgk9cU0JWqi75mNivlfmM-iTHD9UyI5oSPIPYDyVcjTf1FDg0E61r0VCZ0_QRldqAAzHtspGEPY/s2048/1+%252816%2529+Mirror+Pond.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK_0i2ZoaX4fVgk4GDx2tS9pLP5jaziWIY1jdiMfHTEssxdWFkX-4z_VkN26gJ35pRAgk9cU0JWqi75mNivlfmM-iTHD9UyI5oSPIPYDyVcjTf1FDg0E61r0VCZ0_QRldqAAzHtspGEPY/w640-h480/1+%252816%2529+Mirror+Pond.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">It's difficult to describe Huanglong to someone who has not seen it – I just hope my photographs have given you an idea if it’s unbelievable beauty. This very scenic valley is absolutely awesome – it just isn’t very easy to reach.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQ901A5kmynABgQVRpRAgbGqkCop5HvE85kmHYv41Qt4EpCE-CVgpDk5MltKKr-ALaedvWI5r9H6N8Vx5aQdW_pgOfwAfohw2RkjAIETtvpfDtBPm_sIBV70q5fPoiFO9W-A0B1W9BgQ/s2048/1+%252820%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxQ901A5kmynABgQVRpRAgbGqkCop5HvE85kmHYv41Qt4EpCE-CVgpDk5MltKKr-ALaedvWI5r9H6N8Vx5aQdW_pgOfwAfohw2RkjAIETtvpfDtBPm_sIBV70q5fPoiFO9W-A0B1W9BgQ/w640-h480/1+%252820%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We had to leave the area by 4.30pm, because it often snows about this time on the mountain, we had to cross to reach our next hotel. The zig zag roads on the drive back made many people feel ill. They wound up and down the valley, and over the highest of mountains; but once we were on the other side, the sun came out again and it was far more enjoyable. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCtCX0my3Jo-9mJaNgGuAFzWW0cRs3mD3wUpJkxYF6klLWG8GsRDrcUhriN2Horr4x5xsJKFV2ngKe-hSraNz_KtZ70ny4Q4atvrxprK3GCqr4L_BUP-T44dC5aRBq3OMx_rhdBjaGSw/s2048/1+%252825%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCtCX0my3Jo-9mJaNgGuAFzWW0cRs3mD3wUpJkxYF6klLWG8GsRDrcUhriN2Horr4x5xsJKFV2ngKe-hSraNz_KtZ70ny4Q4atvrxprK3GCqr4L_BUP-T44dC5aRBq3OMx_rhdBjaGSw/w640-h480/1+%252825%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>We passed many villages, temples, statues, prayer flags, rivers, and an unusual bridge (with three ornate spikes with gold baubles on the top) - and a monastery. </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgBCLcywJrWz_I9sNXzcr5HYTNPmjMxqUVGxfT2W0MRZS_UOsr49Xzvs7TWxrqFUQUbN5kyI5NtssAtE1zjV1Vd3_DyX5sDMpAD8blL4eXPqcU08J4_4XxGt8poIL8kQpcI94DpURct2k/s2048/IMG_1933.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1387" data-original-width="2048" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgBCLcywJrWz_I9sNXzcr5HYTNPmjMxqUVGxfT2W0MRZS_UOsr49Xzvs7TWxrqFUQUbN5kyI5NtssAtE1zjV1Vd3_DyX5sDMpAD8blL4eXPqcU08J4_4XxGt8poIL8kQpcI94DpURct2k/w640-h434/IMG_1933.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb0-lfhYYBXLOS6rGdZOZAXsAciBizGXVUngL77u6xGTCTd-S1XmlYB2AGB3jONC0Vt3DXLh509WFj4y3xtAlTrsVBXmkV07G6Y_9Pi5xTEPPAHJ7NJ3ufIAuy72ZUgV6KK3onTTot1P0/s2048/1+%252826%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1658" data-original-width="2048" height="518" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb0-lfhYYBXLOS6rGdZOZAXsAciBizGXVUngL77u6xGTCTd-S1XmlYB2AGB3jONC0Vt3DXLh509WFj4y3xtAlTrsVBXmkV07G6Y_9Pi5xTEPPAHJ7NJ3ufIAuy72ZUgV6KK3onTTot1P0/w640-h518/1+%252826%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 1.65pt 25.9pt 3.35pt; text-indent: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Eventually we
arrived at Jiuzhaigou – another highlight of the trip which can be found at </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 1.65pt 25.9pt 3.35pt; text-indent: 0cm;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><a href="https://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/2018/10/jiuzhaigou.html" style="font-size: x-large;">https://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/2018/10/jiuzhaigou.html</a><span class="MsoHyperlink" style="font-size: x-large;"> </span><span class="MsoHyperlink" style="font-size: x-large;"><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 1.65pt 25.9pt 3.35pt; text-indent: 0cm;"><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span color="windowtext"><span style="font-size: medium;">I do hope you have enjoyed visiting this unusual place
with me.</span></span></span></p></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></span></div><p><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;"><i>Lynne</i></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>These are my other blogs :-</b></span></span></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com/">http://lynnejmorley.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="line-height: 17.12px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: 12pt;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div></div></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="font-family: "times new roman"; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: x-large;">http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com</a></div><div style="font-family: "times new roman"; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "times new roman"; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH0OUEv0yh1Z5WuMfn9iTUPej0aTxwVYYbVnoECrVny5gJyor4tcPdNnjl84tbgnVP-ZdYmSiD2sPhMeuJTiIv2GrVebnTUkEqraJL3da9R44vFZQN4KwFEXpHCF1tMBISo90dBe46NZ4/s1559/z.JPG" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="997" data-original-width="1559" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH0OUEv0yh1Z5WuMfn9iTUPej0aTxwVYYbVnoECrVny5gJyor4tcPdNnjl84tbgnVP-ZdYmSiD2sPhMeuJTiIv2GrVebnTUkEqraJL3da9R44vFZQN4KwFEXpHCF1tMBISo90dBe46NZ4/w640-h408/z.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="font-family: "times new roman"; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "times new roman"; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="font-family: "times new roman"; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_goPSqBNRs7qvNd0MdrrPxzC6nOASZ4fSolErxbzhmNx5xD7SWa-T4WzeF6o61OUbM9YGEuOOyk9wEbPUc9IwduOyR-N5zZgFd7f6GKnEiWuYCnZxneSjARzqnBtu5_G94Se_J2FXgE0/s550/550px-Map_of_Huanglong_Scenic_Spots.png" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="402" data-original-width="550" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_goPSqBNRs7qvNd0MdrrPxzC6nOASZ4fSolErxbzhmNx5xD7SWa-T4WzeF6o61OUbM9YGEuOOyk9wEbPUc9IwduOyR-N5zZgFd7f6GKnEiWuYCnZxneSjARzqnBtu5_G94Se_J2FXgE0/w640-h468/550px-Map_of_Huanglong_Scenic_Spots.png" width="640" /></a></div></div></div>Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-52602428368096444872021-02-18T08:54:00.000+00:002021-02-18T08:54:44.711+00:00Keukenhoff Gardens<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u><b> Keukenhoff Gardens</b></u></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u></u></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9619bnp5E6XPhDQLI95E6Tu18r_MlkbC9sH6WmV42ZPS5IsAIhyBf_cK6h2jWzYPKH1WHFRki-_7BlCcZ14guFcJ0JjYSkDWCBph_VuSAZeHY2LH_YStgurEJnK30qTJAHC9vRmkfSPE/s2048/2021-02-09+08.58.08.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9619bnp5E6XPhDQLI95E6Tu18r_MlkbC9sH6WmV42ZPS5IsAIhyBf_cK6h2jWzYPKH1WHFRki-_7BlCcZ14guFcJ0JjYSkDWCBph_VuSAZeHY2LH_YStgurEJnK30qTJAHC9vRmkfSPE/w400-h300/2021-02-09+08.58.08.jpg" width="400" /></a></u></span></div><span><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">I hope you enjoy this colourful blog - which is more photographs than information. It is intended to be bright and cheery, and make us look forward to the onset of spring.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZxVb2LQMWFhY5jQnY7nbbD9G5UY0PaZGEu1pI5mi3-H5fRH-GI5xNAcHG4QTvvBxLGrVPFil3z93mdafCFDrIRlOtKZcZEcVu0s3JpdWEm9QovOoTMXoeL2NwHrrKw0huDFKZTqBeQxU/s2048/b+%25282%2529.JPG" style="font-size: x-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1304" data-original-width="2048" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZxVb2LQMWFhY5jQnY7nbbD9G5UY0PaZGEu1pI5mi3-H5fRH-GI5xNAcHG4QTvvBxLGrVPFil3z93mdafCFDrIRlOtKZcZEcVu0s3JpdWEm9QovOoTMXoeL2NwHrrKw0huDFKZTqBeQxU/w640-h408/b+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div></span><p></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u></u></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOnmEujPiVgnA6qluOe5jv1_uigko0xIwYZM-YeQrBpfzd9lwArS1WHVI8xgKyB1bz4fZZYTtnVH9Kc89lsuMZk4AUf27YiJmVk4fS6uqeGH-jjY8iMPbA4vux7K3FTtcPFB2FOhyphenhyphenxyO0/s2048/P1040142.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1111" data-original-width="2048" height="348" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOnmEujPiVgnA6qluOe5jv1_uigko0xIwYZM-YeQrBpfzd9lwArS1WHVI8xgKyB1bz4fZZYTtnVH9Kc89lsuMZk4AUf27YiJmVk4fS6uqeGH-jjY8iMPbA4vux7K3FTtcPFB2FOhyphenhyphenxyO0/w640-h348/P1040142.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Keukenhoff (which means Kitchen garden), is one of the world's most famous flower gardens - also known as the Garden of Europe. Keukenhoff is in the province of South Holland, southwest of Amsterdam, in an area known as the "Dune and Bulb Region".</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj164qf5mbTEN2-MBKna3B-vIpsWgSU8vOAM25kj3E4Vr5cjIGkjzAgCFJe5SszyjKs4iM8cY_GscBjBkOz-YpKtmWw0tkMjnf31uMqekOKGgPwMnPkgkeP792FMhz6Ca5XHBz66qU0-qM/s2048/a+%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1455" data-original-width="2048" height="454" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj164qf5mbTEN2-MBKna3B-vIpsWgSU8vOAM25kj3E4Vr5cjIGkjzAgCFJe5SszyjKs4iM8cY_GscBjBkOz-YpKtmWw0tkMjnf31uMqekOKGgPwMnPkgkeP792FMhz6Ca5XHBz66qU0-qM/w640-h454/a+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></u></span></div><span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: x-large; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: underline;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7D2pzeR6HXuCy5kUJlZKDKrYG1FDAsyi-D0kpb8CfdbYv-GMEOGr6_zl_VawFa7rR8niHMfcj8W_mcK-fP7VkdMY3awbYMiKFmYPItU-M6N1WWQSQRloPPOwKXp2vdDiEel_FjGa15Q4/s2540/P1040132.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="2540" height="182" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7D2pzeR6HXuCy5kUJlZKDKrYG1FDAsyi-D0kpb8CfdbYv-GMEOGr6_zl_VawFa7rR8niHMfcj8W_mcK-fP7VkdMY3awbYMiKFmYPItU-M6N1WWQSQRloPPOwKXp2vdDiEel_FjGa15Q4/w640-h182/P1040132.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: x-large; text-align: center; text-decoration-line: underline;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span>Keukenhoff Park is situated in ancient hunting grounds; after 1641 a large manor house was constructed, which is now known as Castle Keukenhof and the park area was used as the castle’s kitchen garden - providing fruit and vegetables for its residents. </span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmIW2rbR5msSBiI-46aGA7xRDGfAIHXFopqK7G8uYBDcKtcE1T1rSq731QWUf6JwUfMX1PgX9Q_eOxG9C4x7KWypNyJpzO6QDvY68au9-B_iwraLvQopvpFEuvdvYN8_DTdUZtGu9u304/s800/Keukenhof-Castle-Amsterdam.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmIW2rbR5msSBiI-46aGA7xRDGfAIHXFopqK7G8uYBDcKtcE1T1rSq731QWUf6JwUfMX1PgX9Q_eOxG9C4x7KWypNyJpzO6QDvY68au9-B_iwraLvQopvpFEuvdvYN8_DTdUZtGu9u304/w640-h426/Keukenhof-Castle-Amsterdam.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span>Countesses, Barons, Captains and Governors have all resided at Keukenhoff. In 1857, Baron and Baroness Van Pallandt, commissioned landscape architects Jan David Zocher and his son Louis Paul Zocher, to restructure the park and grounds around the castle.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: x-large; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgG3qhEwuUKJcg93xrznwbtZbO4TlAlI3sYUn2PKbFWG1xb7cKAArcITeh-GSzdpXuurw5xpp2L_TdmsJgl5G9CcmreMS9CU6tAf4tc20BcrnL7XdDF9BlfJuOjgo9cWVw8UdTwgbw6JI/s2048/c.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1513" data-original-width="2048" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgG3qhEwuUKJcg93xrznwbtZbO4TlAlI3sYUn2PKbFWG1xb7cKAArcITeh-GSzdpXuurw5xpp2L_TdmsJgl5G9CcmreMS9CU6tAf4tc20BcrnL7XdDF9BlfJuOjgo9cWVw8UdTwgbw6JI/w640-h472/c.JPG" width="640" /></a></div></span><p></p><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-eYb1wSb6h5o90Yggm-3PppgdT0zgpvhssSFm8mc7QPF2S1tyxpTHxYcSk0AjHf7OJyIfDMDj1rLnz-8dbwZM_4N2QRX4p-8DHMtWNvLdm9RdlHvQ_nG6UwFGmpvUCgXtmrogLXZ-y70/s2048/P1040158+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1701" data-original-width="2048" height="532" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-eYb1wSb6h5o90Yggm-3PppgdT0zgpvhssSFm8mc7QPF2S1tyxpTHxYcSk0AjHf7OJyIfDMDj1rLnz-8dbwZM_4N2QRX4p-8DHMtWNvLdm9RdlHvQ_nG6UwFGmpvUCgXtmrogLXZ-y70/w640-h532/P1040158+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinyZ8Vkuu0HZVwZONerFfroV6macVSU6gUcUHtw9sGwAsDOA5rtjdGg9ANm4EAYIc8iGOpFKTOF2WxQxRMuFwJuaK5_v-44iIZxT9-JpFv2GFZFpHgZLm-PS_Wz2QbN1cLYnS5hd91lg4/s2048/P1040131.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1242" data-original-width="2048" height="388" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinyZ8Vkuu0HZVwZONerFfroV6macVSU6gUcUHtw9sGwAsDOA5rtjdGg9ANm4EAYIc8iGOpFKTOF2WxQxRMuFwJuaK5_v-44iIZxT9-JpFv2GFZFpHgZLm-PS_Wz2QbN1cLYnS5hd91lg4/w640-h388/P1040131.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">Keukenhoff, as the park as is now known, was established in 1949 by a consortium of bulb growers and flower exporters, from where they could showcase their products. The garden opened to the public the following year, and received 200,000 visitors in its first year – increasing to 1.5 million in 2019. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMcZYr77IJVnNKhguU0TTrwHnC9MzQAn39nIr3XwRiNiSw5715nDxaNpqfv_Y02DEzHc8_OYsOrMgXGzsj04zYMHhgzFHLqWM7WJUjW-PVHXFE2hVhtTZQfFXLYHfLqCmf9HyuIKp6-Pw/s2048/P1040104.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMcZYr77IJVnNKhguU0TTrwHnC9MzQAn39nIr3XwRiNiSw5715nDxaNpqfv_Y02DEzHc8_OYsOrMgXGzsj04zYMHhgzFHLqWM7WJUjW-PVHXFE2hVhtTZQfFXLYHfLqCmf9HyuIKp6-Pw/w640-h480/P1040104.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEgz65P-Socam4IfhcwkTSRz7aJCtmRUVrSYnL11XoUiHCayEmDezc2z6deiu0jf88ISyTs_kzyTozxuiD1QdzCbgXMehOP9IYb9MmXh0lxUBjjryCxBmlqUVA7Sta-K1oEoTphCjsFls/s2048/P1040103.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEgz65P-Socam4IfhcwkTSRz7aJCtmRUVrSYnL11XoUiHCayEmDezc2z6deiu0jf88ISyTs_kzyTozxuiD1QdzCbgXMehOP9IYb9MmXh0lxUBjjryCxBmlqUVA7Sta-K1oEoTphCjsFls/w640-h480/P1040103.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">The Park covers an area of approximately seventy nine acres with more than seven million flower bulbs planted there every autumn. Forty gardeners plant these bulbs, which are donated by over hundred different growers. The planting normally commences in early October and is usually completed by the beginning of December. The flowerbed planting is synchronized with different bulb flowerings, this ensures that the flowers bloom continually throughout the park's eight-week opening. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_xAXvJJJRHl5bPvoHWMIwl9JeohO5waaHie2WUpfae-grY29WmvbbEgcDD3fQ9aZ5XiT67MaI6GIRdCUKPzBWFBTGtrwSbCy_MWlHzpmeJVeUfoHviKlJJIf6A9Od_2XKxi-PhaJjWL4/s2557/d.JPG" style="font-size: x-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="601" data-original-width="2557" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_xAXvJJJRHl5bPvoHWMIwl9JeohO5waaHie2WUpfae-grY29WmvbbEgcDD3fQ9aZ5XiT67MaI6GIRdCUKPzBWFBTGtrwSbCy_MWlHzpmeJVeUfoHviKlJJIf6A9Od_2XKxi-PhaJjWL4/w640-h150/d.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfl1U1MjfQEojsXe3LaxGCkSaTv5XJhZZWVnaz89gAvGuJO_3396OkM_S9clvdssRjjjO6MC5C0Q3B1GlmfUjC4Y4v1pLaog7QC_VUvubvMyS2-KbiDcmgSJViI-kXsxkkYoBoBHpFA7o/s2048/P1040140.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="2048" height="468" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfl1U1MjfQEojsXe3LaxGCkSaTv5XJhZZWVnaz89gAvGuJO_3396OkM_S9clvdssRjjjO6MC5C0Q3B1GlmfUjC4Y4v1pLaog7QC_VUvubvMyS2-KbiDcmgSJViI-kXsxkkYoBoBHpFA7o/w640-h468/P1040140.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLpSu5g-Je8CCq0OqMB5N7ExnzMT1vmtXvC-AZe7hDzeB22Z7R0ogMzMYRWICu2mkWhQX7PYbW9RsC2sfaCO4HaMN88H6TuR1As5SFShkbp2kM4lgeLYyT1i46yO7RxQsWBsH2fMCjXQc/s1532/P1040137.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1532" data-original-width="1346" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLpSu5g-Je8CCq0OqMB5N7ExnzMT1vmtXvC-AZe7hDzeB22Z7R0ogMzMYRWICu2mkWhQX7PYbW9RsC2sfaCO4HaMN88H6TuR1As5SFShkbp2kM4lgeLYyT1i46yO7RxQsWBsH2fMCjXQc/w562-h640/P1040137.JPG" width="562" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">To ensure this continuation of colour, three bulbs are planted in each location. The shallowest bulb flowers first for three weeks, followed by the subsequent bulbs in deeper layers. In addition to the tulip gardens, Keukenhoff has a variety of other types of gardens. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihwgQtdERF37g0QimCfO7oo6vTibsnof-xttgt6Yc0MjwHQnux3x5YKsAxaP8ycdXfTzOK6MLI0alO7FGzllBtWPn6-VWUgeA87gHv7GcZIoGwPp2RljMwqHCbd6V-JCBvcebu-qg4Z5c/s1998/a+%25282%2529.JPG" style="font-size: x-large; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1503" data-original-width="1998" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihwgQtdERF37g0QimCfO7oo6vTibsnof-xttgt6Yc0MjwHQnux3x5YKsAxaP8ycdXfTzOK6MLI0alO7FGzllBtWPn6-VWUgeA87gHv7GcZIoGwPp2RljMwqHCbd6V-JCBvcebu-qg4Z5c/w640-h482/a+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6G9oPRkHCjnbc14_HxeowEbjU_bJ8QjT9z-1GkzYbz5Mbt2_J5k7NIRxFXb4vCfDOp1FXuOInh8tYvoFiUoS_Xoah0jIXZm0Tw27xQvy1ZnlF7Z83z24XGaFZtDo3etXjMxO-2Yym31Q/s2048/P1040144.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1488" data-original-width="2048" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6G9oPRkHCjnbc14_HxeowEbjU_bJ8QjT9z-1GkzYbz5Mbt2_J5k7NIRxFXb4vCfDOp1FXuOInh8tYvoFiUoS_Xoah0jIXZm0Tw27xQvy1ZnlF7Z83z24XGaFZtDo3etXjMxO-2Yym31Q/w640-h464/P1040144.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The English landscape garden with its streams and winding paths, the Nature Garden with its shrubs and perennials – still with bulbs planted everywhere ; and the Japanese Country Garden. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo4kdd-Deotedr8io8k6nrAoOwE7XxjP5i8fNRhS_MiTPPiVoQAo5UiwtQc9rrMN_FKXUZSZobZS86dr8Hh5SfdbVYifho5up1zNEowhpzCGypWQKs-CYv6sqDC3vFlg0RolXCCCE_0mc/s2048/P1040145.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1469" data-original-width="2048" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo4kdd-Deotedr8io8k6nrAoOwE7XxjP5i8fNRhS_MiTPPiVoQAo5UiwtQc9rrMN_FKXUZSZobZS86dr8Hh5SfdbVYifho5up1zNEowhpzCGypWQKs-CYv6sqDC3vFlg0RolXCCCE_0mc/w640-h460/P1040145.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgkUdIrQ5Vvno0jD-ThrFWYReoF2awfwTsetbk8UgIllIVEoZdvj0jcUFI23hWnNJwR0ziiw9WAmkLqgLq3_KBhDz2Ln3GyVrlaGimJ6yZRLzKjZW4QZvyQLWXta9fh9NHMzGjrYOm2VE/s2048/P1040126.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgkUdIrQ5Vvno0jD-ThrFWYReoF2awfwTsetbk8UgIllIVEoZdvj0jcUFI23hWnNJwR0ziiw9WAmkLqgLq3_KBhDz2Ln3GyVrlaGimJ6yZRLzKjZW4QZvyQLWXta9fh9NHMzGjrYOm2VE/w640-h480/P1040126.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDMA2PRN79AGipNh1yd8RoT5K6Wf5rZogtuVr2ZzsqlKJ5k3F9GBC9ycX666-QtPJdCKJKy7J580Ka6txTuovnVSYcdiSqtbZlc8duAJug_mOuchH3EKZKrW52xCJcYu7h2EX8ARRCK9k/s2048/P1040128.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1311" data-original-width="2048" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDMA2PRN79AGipNh1yd8RoT5K6Wf5rZogtuVr2ZzsqlKJ5k3F9GBC9ycX666-QtPJdCKJKy7J580Ka6txTuovnVSYcdiSqtbZlc8duAJug_mOuchH3EKZKrW52xCJcYu7h2EX8ARRCK9k/w640-h410/P1040128.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Although the grounds are open throughout the year for festivals and concerts; Keukenhoff is only open to the general public for its World-famous eight-week tulip display. This runs from the middle of March to the middle of May each year - with the equivalent of 26,000 visitors each day. The busiest time is normally the middle of April, depending on how the growing season is going – and on the weather, which varies constantly. </span></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZctUFcWo4BD4mNy71wxy-F_C3cZQydbIwzOIOXELdxrP40VVZSAi3m8NF9nljGmde7EaseLWo3EFsXgv6zUxrQToBGdpwlyRL3nnxh1_levrkxbTdiae6YextHS8Gv7ZEYSd6ZReQUpM/s1754/P1040134.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1089" data-original-width="1754" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZctUFcWo4BD4mNy71wxy-F_C3cZQydbIwzOIOXELdxrP40VVZSAi3m8NF9nljGmde7EaseLWo3EFsXgv6zUxrQToBGdpwlyRL3nnxh1_levrkxbTdiae6YextHS8Gv7ZEYSd6ZReQUpM/w640-h398/P1040134.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBQl-SyBul8cYvXrQYi04FWwP1B-8djVoUI8Wa4c8-aPc83bvLXVUFVyehJDAGgYHwRF49oV9qiCtyiwot82R6EHWHn_tvH0NCSVqmMM11kiUZl_TVMmiChndtP6aMa0xoNmTclCzmDYE/s2048/P1040146.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1172" data-original-width="2048" height="366" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBQl-SyBul8cYvXrQYi04FWwP1B-8djVoUI8Wa4c8-aPc83bvLXVUFVyehJDAGgYHwRF49oV9qiCtyiwot82R6EHWHn_tvH0NCSVqmMM11kiUZl_TVMmiChndtP6aMa0xoNmTclCzmDYE/w640-h366/P1040146.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There
are several pavilions containing different displays and flower exhibitions. Although Keukenhoff is widely known for its tulips, it also has numerous other plants and flowers, including hyacinths, daffodils, lilies, roses, carnations,
and irises. </span></span></div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY8MidnHALwKigdNr7ALF1NaJUOIiJgvpACMRKrWqKBX-itaJo3ZjrLmcWyi-JJdOFeMUAXODWIF1ZH9DTArO9BwffEPsHPVMOF-MejymGBQlMh1gadqWepkmAgklaClq-V7NOe-bPvfE/s2048/t+%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY8MidnHALwKigdNr7ALF1NaJUOIiJgvpACMRKrWqKBX-itaJo3ZjrLmcWyi-JJdOFeMUAXODWIF1ZH9DTArO9BwffEPsHPVMOF-MejymGBQlMh1gadqWepkmAgklaClq-V7NOe-bPvfE/w640-h480/t+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6x-CtZrlllbtuqzXDMeg3ML2_q3n3SHs0hmNMiCjpY1u722rTFnsKN0yzwLR6H1OrC4KBvEnub2NVCCL6OsPGL7OHwqvXuYJoBwdX0-_XkeSc9F3cg87WroAfg5T-SY6NZ9KN1m3gX-g/s2048/t+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1386" data-original-width="2048" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6x-CtZrlllbtuqzXDMeg3ML2_q3n3SHs0hmNMiCjpY1u722rTFnsKN0yzwLR6H1OrC4KBvEnub2NVCCL6OsPGL7OHwqvXuYJoBwdX0-_XkeSc9F3cg87WroAfg5T-SY6NZ9KN1m3gX-g/w640-h434/t+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifmbva433g59iVp54hzlxQ36vIASeqlLXDDbsQFC6OQfjp2ZmOslUgI0Q-zx9wv4lEX8M3dFi6YuoQ2BLfD4eUfgMCosvV1C-5nBQMuM-LSNFhrPPbA-s3yDFNRsPN59eq2oChUh-WZQ8/s2048/t+%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifmbva433g59iVp54hzlxQ36vIASeqlLXDDbsQFC6OQfjp2ZmOslUgI0Q-zx9wv4lEX8M3dFi6YuoQ2BLfD4eUfgMCosvV1C-5nBQMuM-LSNFhrPPbA-s3yDFNRsPN59eq2oChUh-WZQ8/w640-h480/t+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJnDDcgWWXK0B3U9Dp9AU0BxMqLnFUkKwYReIfRvtcno_A8h9ZReWkVSUYSDjGf2QkKKgWmK88PXhGMV46G6-1eKIP_KWHpJ5r1gevWLHkqeUX3GVKNT8tD_t2GbjTSrGiIH0QaFR3qw0/s2048/t+%25285%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJnDDcgWWXK0B3U9Dp9AU0BxMqLnFUkKwYReIfRvtcno_A8h9ZReWkVSUYSDjGf2QkKKgWmK88PXhGMV46G6-1eKIP_KWHpJ5r1gevWLHkqeUX3GVKNT8tD_t2GbjTSrGiIH0QaFR3qw0/w640-h480/t+%25285%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There is also a traditional windmill that you can go inside (as I would have to) and have a fabulous view of the multi-coloured fields that surround the park – what a spectacle that is!</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZdGJ9Uo5a1zEhwj7pRjTYsvILNFMgEQOSG2_478UzEXLCXUMQqARSOf_c5Fvq87NCTeH47jYjK-DAEOjfsu75Nzj0l2tujiI60OKfA27coAC7kgZecyIIQ_nE3pGyzOexC0aY0wlflo/s2048/e.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZdGJ9Uo5a1zEhwj7pRjTYsvILNFMgEQOSG2_478UzEXLCXUMQqARSOf_c5Fvq87NCTeH47jYjK-DAEOjfsu75Nzj0l2tujiI60OKfA27coAC7kgZecyIIQ_nE3pGyzOexC0aY0wlflo/w640-h480/e.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOF9MkOsEupntM78X4dObc3RBBpJYs7lbgi1zhs3C6TNBpmPhS3YrZwRwHr0JtkeRuqlQwK_oPkBK1bBaRwtUzoHyApYmDmKe22MdSEItwOH4uvzso_Fz3D-Q5lD9yP2048oOQzXx75D8/s2048/f+%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1059" data-original-width="2048" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOF9MkOsEupntM78X4dObc3RBBpJYs7lbgi1zhs3C6TNBpmPhS3YrZwRwHr0JtkeRuqlQwK_oPkBK1bBaRwtUzoHyApYmDmKe22MdSEItwOH4uvzso_Fz3D-Q5lD9yP2048oOQzXx75D8/w640-h330/f+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQTwLAivjDbfTImW67aeMXP-UkefM_Uus7qGXmqfSTlLQ_PaIgkkBOd0wtO-e6g3Q9_JSMKXqffXfSqd0QrXpoFLTrX3BthtARkXIxGmxsWFFzw_EQtqCBF12pPEb3roGbBsPKyxd9XI/s2048/f+%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1305" data-original-width="2048" height="408" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuQTwLAivjDbfTImW67aeMXP-UkefM_Uus7qGXmqfSTlLQ_PaIgkkBOd0wtO-e6g3Q9_JSMKXqffXfSqd0QrXpoFLTrX3BthtARkXIxGmxsWFFzw_EQtqCBF12pPEb3roGbBsPKyxd9XI/w640-h408/f+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>You cannot help but want to capture the vibrant colours for yourself – it is a photographer’s delight; and you can also buy some of the plants too. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBOul-KPnWe6lsaUvkfL0QnfpPB7ty3F7hbF6JKxfEjBs7rIs7cimbMHVpEPB2dJ9DyKpbKcWLhGVmdSZNv5uAEuzIokMjSVWHqYrjQZTvER_i2orTzHe-GiP8VNTet24615Lbl1v6hKw/s2048/x+%25281%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBOul-KPnWe6lsaUvkfL0QnfpPB7ty3F7hbF6JKxfEjBs7rIs7cimbMHVpEPB2dJ9DyKpbKcWLhGVmdSZNv5uAEuzIokMjSVWHqYrjQZTvER_i2orTzHe-GiP8VNTet24615Lbl1v6hKw/w640-h480/x+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9l2kpe-OTJoiFC8kMaSsIy0TfQ8kEZnbMkQaF4nDCG1aJCTMlxExA1G5Ca44qe0rj47g3KzrNTRLytrefSUHWAyfIhDRRFxUXrMnYMoi3ei9Iw1-NPL6r70dwefhCOd9CWBawfqh2trA/s2518/x+%25282%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1249" data-original-width="2518" height="318" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9l2kpe-OTJoiFC8kMaSsIy0TfQ8kEZnbMkQaF4nDCG1aJCTMlxExA1G5Ca44qe0rj47g3KzrNTRLytrefSUHWAyfIhDRRFxUXrMnYMoi3ei9Iw1-NPL6r70dwefhCOd9CWBawfqh2trA/w640-h318/x+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It is the most colourful garden I have ever visited - with a glorious spectacle around every corner. The flowers are a blaze of vibrant colour, growing in between trees full of spring blossom; either along the edges of the trickling waterways or in shaped flowerbeds inside neatly cut lawns. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjid5ctSRLVyMOCcyC8qc9fyn_EmhmuHcFlxapnzoDLFjlczpoU5HC4kMceP5MDIlae2emloReFMVePl-8WkBbxaztOu8CN3TzUaJFT8k5UublUoklyYOguWvpj-REemRE2cHDmSLVA1mI/s2105/P1040133.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="965" data-original-width="2105" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjid5ctSRLVyMOCcyC8qc9fyn_EmhmuHcFlxapnzoDLFjlczpoU5HC4kMceP5MDIlae2emloReFMVePl-8WkBbxaztOu8CN3TzUaJFT8k5UublUoklyYOguWvpj-REemRE2cHDmSLVA1mI/w640-h294/P1040133.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUCpfbbXSpRwTTV90mbLjBeHNWc0ZtUKqfiWd_6dUOoifBYFiAtHeMYKDP8-z7KvEVniTPTwwQD0MfuGcjXaclu9C8G2wSZ6iWDKX7vhtDRciaoAvi_5QZ5RHtHG_xJlQFcl-I_q1mMNg/s2048/P1040136.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUCpfbbXSpRwTTV90mbLjBeHNWc0ZtUKqfiWd_6dUOoifBYFiAtHeMYKDP8-z7KvEVniTPTwwQD0MfuGcjXaclu9C8G2wSZ6iWDKX7vhtDRciaoAvi_5QZ5RHtHG_xJlQFcl-I_q1mMNg/w640-h480/P1040136.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHJXrYN7IUJf8QJr0DcC5nLazE0CvP6DKd22DkyCSwPbXFS8uE8RrGQocYWqOIGUU2iSYus42x_7bbFLHg62tNwP5SI09ZHyurkHyuYUjy0J_NfiMvvIdHQibA0hEOq0kd2UPAD4qifYA/s2048/P1040139.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1407" data-original-width="2048" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHJXrYN7IUJf8QJr0DcC5nLazE0CvP6DKd22DkyCSwPbXFS8uE8RrGQocYWqOIGUU2iSYus42x_7bbFLHg62tNwP5SI09ZHyurkHyuYUjy0J_NfiMvvIdHQibA0hEOq0kd2UPAD4qifYA/w640-h440/P1040139.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzlu6SBvAOEhxgsihmQDSQZnwC9GZ5aMoiZ5o7e6YoqODZQzaE6vn75kPP5GC0S5SDVdWKesFCWc5NbBsjF5TRXN6lkopesP927efM4Xha0hwNHIPHBrMbNtXB4O7mwMW9u0GpEEY4hEY/s1767/P1040150.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="847" data-original-width="1767" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzlu6SBvAOEhxgsihmQDSQZnwC9GZ5aMoiZ5o7e6YoqODZQzaE6vn75kPP5GC0S5SDVdWKesFCWc5NbBsjF5TRXN6lkopesP927efM4Xha0hwNHIPHBrMbNtXB4O7mwMW9u0GpEEY4hEY/w640-h306/P1040150.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /></div>My mum and I had such a memorable day at Keukenhoff - I hope you have enjoyed sharing it too. </div><div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8GAQlyuu68I0FvJoyMLw7enAW8yx6ATsDMN_s9gsvNWYxifZFuortFDiROhDZw4rgBpnFKBW7IxqxaueddOt5eLQwFGfQ4OCNJ95BjRasxxhDNjJO5i9Eu2fDH8-qL1N-6f2xpBSOaZg/s2048/y.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8GAQlyuu68I0FvJoyMLw7enAW8yx6ATsDMN_s9gsvNWYxifZFuortFDiROhDZw4rgBpnFKBW7IxqxaueddOt5eLQwFGfQ4OCNJ95BjRasxxhDNjJO5i9Eu2fDH8-qL1N-6f2xpBSOaZg/w640-h480/y.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhViS9zCXYuME4Qwk71lNKYRLq3Lr7trZiEIBwCOU6MXJvXihdg0_DZWpaKVD_mI__45AOgq7XVVtweRz9eG9OL2Iujt5PLUtpY8e3dOPg8IaOb8jKbXuafmU2EMk5xrOVS9L4GWJn0o2k/s2048/z.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="2048" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhViS9zCXYuME4Qwk71lNKYRLq3Lr7trZiEIBwCOU6MXJvXihdg0_DZWpaKVD_mI__45AOgq7XVVtweRz9eG9OL2Iujt5PLUtpY8e3dOPg8IaOb8jKbXuafmU2EMk5xrOVS9L4GWJn0o2k/w640-h480/z.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;"><span> </span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></div></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br style="font-size: medium;" /><div style="font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"><b style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span> </span><span> </span>Lynne</i></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-size: medium; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>These are my other blogs :-</b></span></span></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com/">http://lynnejmorley.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="font-size: medium; line-height: 17.12px; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div></div><div style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: center;"><div style="font-size: 12pt;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div></div></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div></div></div></div></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"><o:p></o:p></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="font-size: medium; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;"></span></div><div style="font-size: medium; text-align: center;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="font-family: "times new roman"; text-align: justify;"><a href="http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: x-large;">http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com</a></div></div></div></span></div>Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-49557453903948394312020-12-16T12:00:00.004+00:002020-12-16T12:03:08.995+00:00Lincoln<div class="separator" style="clear: both; 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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Lincoln</span></u></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCaAwesHVD1OsaScwle0nbg3cwVa2Hg9wiNpXCibXyrpuvI9iYX1iIXTfpWvM9X56QRa4nmYEQocfFKjHJJ1bp21O5593ipXo-hoUkdBaSLDcemrqUuUifvIlXw3uNcxEITkeTk-Wl_s/s1600/2019-08-07+14.05.44.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhCaAwesHVD1OsaScwle0nbg3cwVa2Hg9wiNpXCibXyrpuvI9iYX1iIXTfpWvM9X56QRa4nmYEQocfFKjHJJ1bp21O5593ipXo-hoUkdBaSLDcemrqUuUifvIlXw3uNcxEITkeTk-Wl_s/w640-h480/2019-08-07+14.05.44.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The first known settlement in Lincoln dates as far back as
the 1st century BC, and was close to the Brayford Waterfront area, which gave
the place its original name of Lindon: “Lindo”- meaning “The Pool”. Later the Romans built a wooden fortress at the top of the
hill and renamed it Lindum Colonia; but after they left, the city fell into decline - until the arrival of the Vikings in the 9th century when it became a small trading town. In 1068 William the Conqueror invaded
the city and ordered the building of Lincoln Castle, and the Cathedral on the
site of the former Roman settlement. So with all this history, present day Lincoln has much to offer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPXGGw6YQNsD-1srXi3mN0HK0p1W3VNoEqj0uATJXzkT7dQlTPSkR3hRDBaWXZVYhZICa7GVLCf2-oevin6ElTXo80Tlj24cGBysKtWys-jOvTJBANas-4k1gkgugw-ciVCladBGXjPfg/s1600/1+Cathedral+%25284%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPXGGw6YQNsD-1srXi3mN0HK0p1W3VNoEqj0uATJXzkT7dQlTPSkR3hRDBaWXZVYhZICa7GVLCf2-oevin6ElTXo80Tlj24cGBysKtWys-jOvTJBANas-4k1gkgugw-ciVCladBGXjPfg/s640/1+Cathedral+%25284%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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I started my day at the highest point, at the majestic Lincoln Cathedral - which can been seen from miles around in every direction. Lincoln Cathedral, built from local limestone, was consecrated
in 1092, being the tallest building in the world in 1311 when its spire on the
central tower was raised. It held that title until the spire collapsed
during a storm in 1549 which has never been replaced. The city was of great importance at this time, being
the capital of England's largest diocese - stretching from the River Humber
in the north to the Thames in the south.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuTB_9UO_riXVhECtSoUR4oIUInhqyzCRiYc2a32OV4aitkOlXtALkgsjvDhLdq7yCulY4RwG3RjQ4bAVjJQOR9KUBpbMy0BIM0ZnWWvVs2cyt6JPxBAHFi0VDRWKa6Wejee3-U9TmA2Q/s1600/1+Cathedral+%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuTB_9UO_riXVhECtSoUR4oIUInhqyzCRiYc2a32OV4aitkOlXtALkgsjvDhLdq7yCulY4RwG3RjQ4bAVjJQOR9KUBpbMy0BIM0ZnWWvVs2cyt6JPxBAHFi0VDRWKa6Wejee3-U9TmA2Q/s640/1+Cathedral+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Throughout the years the Cathedral has been subject to many serious events that have destroyed some of its original features, it has been ravaged by fire, damaged by earthquakes and storms and of course been the casualty in various conflicts and wars.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDolePlwpWlCQbDqKooj2ER854Ib_IrzMANTQppyc7RmLBvxJUVFFTnWBivT3Ky63pQaaFWmFCy1kXsu-HsSBVCXJLk5o5CqnPMmiyZghcEPMhyphenhyphenNvr6M7s2cBcHjEEfmb-MPztUJS6MU/s1600/1+Cathedral+%25287%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHDolePlwpWlCQbDqKooj2ER854Ib_IrzMANTQppyc7RmLBvxJUVFFTnWBivT3Ky63pQaaFWmFCy1kXsu-HsSBVCXJLk5o5CqnPMmiyZghcEPMhyphenhyphenNvr6M7s2cBcHjEEfmb-MPztUJS6MU/s640/1+Cathedral+%25287%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Due to it being rebuilt and renovated so often, it contains several different construction-types - Norman, Early English, Decorated, Perpendicular and Modern. It is breath-taking structure with huge columns and arches - with so much intricate detail wherever you look.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlaY6aUiC3now2xFjF2BrTcJIi4AMQ_iJdl6Qvn4WQi9Nwtt4y7dTZ-wCCyxa7vGsWXzGewZblRP5ADjEFB3OyrLILvoCP-ttN8pUeQFr7xmozaLNTWJOukdmA5XO33mlbMe7hwguNNJg/s1600/1+Cathedral+%25285%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlaY6aUiC3now2xFjF2BrTcJIi4AMQ_iJdl6Qvn4WQi9Nwtt4y7dTZ-wCCyxa7vGsWXzGewZblRP5ADjEFB3OyrLILvoCP-ttN8pUeQFr7xmozaLNTWJOukdmA5XO33mlbMe7hwguNNJg/s640/1+Cathedral+%25285%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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The Choir Screen was built in the 13th Century, a place specifically designed for the clergy, their assistants and the choir - the wooden carvings here are exquisite.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipzavuYVGfut3SYRuqRBUnlQPSWSObD4H0hpwaa6s86kAMZWYH7L83YlBkBq8nzbnWH54QiMF5BNL3Tgl9Gy16kDNG47tPhHpFvjPfTHnin9gd96Wi9WCBJKdzkKKaUahPpX4J0JXs1bk/s1600/1+Cathedral+%25289%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipzavuYVGfut3SYRuqRBUnlQPSWSObD4H0hpwaa6s86kAMZWYH7L83YlBkBq8nzbnWH54QiMF5BNL3Tgl9Gy16kDNG47tPhHpFvjPfTHnin9gd96Wi9WCBJKdzkKKaUahPpX4J0JXs1bk/s640/1+Cathedral+%25289%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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There are some wonderful stained glass windows; the one above is known as the Dean's Eye and the glass in it was first installed in approximately 1220 - and tells the tale of the last judgement.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqNdmjKj8HvN3At07Z6HYdCtzpdtXgt6JuH-Kb5GqCxt7Se1B0xUhTRTeEomTa5nQHEGSXlKkbpkG1l0-euFO_bx4UGOhrvBgZSyhid9chgVyaMdq8HFCnLxWgQ0H-xQf_Ny7h_yFBNCQ/s1600/1+Cathedral+%252810%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1501" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqNdmjKj8HvN3At07Z6HYdCtzpdtXgt6JuH-Kb5GqCxt7Se1B0xUhTRTeEomTa5nQHEGSXlKkbpkG1l0-euFO_bx4UGOhrvBgZSyhid9chgVyaMdq8HFCnLxWgQ0H-xQf_Ny7h_yFBNCQ/s640/1+Cathedral+%252810%2529.JPG" width="600" /></a></div>
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The great circular rose window below is known as the Bishop's Eye (that watches over the city) - another amazing window that contains fragments of medieval glass.<br />
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There are many interesting tombs to be found, some more macabre that others and close to the East Window, at the top of the pillar closest to the head shrine of St Hugh - look out for the Lincolnshire Imp. Legend says he caused so much havoc - that an angel turned him into stone!</div>
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On the north side of the Cathedral you will find the 13th century Cloisters with their wooden vault ceilings - and more exquisite stone arches.<br />
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The Cathedral is free to visit on Sundays, but check for times of services. For more information on this wonderful Gothic building - <a href="https://lincolncathedral.com/">https://lincolncathedral.com/</a><br />
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<img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNPehBSlUAz7QGhVdCgonf_aV8c0lDxgvIQJTJSUhDOdwlghArMPUxmpaxYXxGI0CL418Hy4tEVUsIHcNIX-ZidPO8G_UC8om2UiEwJ7PXyQN7zjGdyDYQsRE7JNUqzTFdfDYm_4XDy-I/s640/2+Castle+%252815%2529.JPG" /><br />
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This area at the top of the hill is known as The Cultural District and is such an interesting place to wander around; if you come out of the Cathedral and walk through the archway, you will come to Lincoln's other magnificent tourist attraction - The Castle.<br />
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In 1068 William the Conqueror ordered the building of this castle, on a site occupied since Roman times; followed by the Cathedral only 4 year later - both within the city's Roman walls. For almost one thousand years these magnificent buildings have stood proud on top of the hill overlooking the surrounding area - you can see them from miles away as you approach Lincoln.</div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Lincoln Castle has many exciting events on throughout the year and always offers guided tours where you can discover more about the history of the Castle and its role in the city. The </span><span style="text-align: justify;">grounds are sometimes free to enter and explore on non-event days - and it is an ideal place for a rest in a well kept, unique location. </span><br />
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The Castle's Medieval wall walk is a marvellous experience; you get up on to the wall by a spiral staircase or lift and can walk the whole 1/3 of a mile circumference of the walls; just beware there are many steps, uneven and narrow parts and hardly any areas to rest. But on the plus side, you will be rewarded with some of the best views of the Cathedral, the city below and for miles across the surrounding countryside.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLwXivXQ0LjWbJrDlMM3nWTTXN5doHSWUKgG8vGS2AZy_c8P26nKNwxi8wWPhDDgElNnTb-7sII719Bdt1DwHJFS34xQeVEaB5jBOCE30HolR_fNxri6N9S296JNChKixXgyU7XKYBC-E/s1600/2+Castle+%252818%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="937" data-original-width="1600" height="374" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLwXivXQ0LjWbJrDlMM3nWTTXN5doHSWUKgG8vGS2AZy_c8P26nKNwxi8wWPhDDgElNnTb-7sII719Bdt1DwHJFS34xQeVEaB5jBOCE30HolR_fNxri6N9S296JNChKixXgyU7XKYBC-E/s640/2+Castle+%252818%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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When King John agreed to the barons’ demands for peace at Runnymede in 1215, the Magna Carta was signed and copies of this charter were sealed and distributed to sheriffs, cathedrals, and important religious houses throughout the country. The Castle is home to Lincoln's Magna Carta, which is one of only four original copies - a document that shaped society as we know it today. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgz3TCjuBpsTQc4tVEEeWwyeyOH9kTd9qUTxjwY893eKgjHlWdz2p8Nz36Iw4O4yHLaWJmKfVGx3uBbSE5tAfzWc1dOGl_ol8-F2UMfsXkKRp_LBiVpOa7VhNpfQlhYEbw_J-Ozb6ByoA/s1600/3+Magna+Carta+%25283%2529.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1087" data-original-width="1600" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgz3TCjuBpsTQc4tVEEeWwyeyOH9kTd9qUTxjwY893eKgjHlWdz2p8Nz36Iw4O4yHLaWJmKfVGx3uBbSE5tAfzWc1dOGl_ol8-F2UMfsXkKRp_LBiVpOa7VhNpfQlhYEbw_J-Ozb6ByoA/s640/3+Magna+Carta+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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It is currently displayed in the specially designed David P J Ross Vault, built into the walls of the Castle. Here you can see the original document and learn about the 25 Barons elected to ensure the terms of the charter were adhered to.</div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Also inside the Castle walls is the Victorian prison, which gives an insight into crime and punishment several hundred years ago. </span>Lincoln Castle's Prison was built in 1788 and today there are friendly guides dressed in authentic costumes ready to tell tales of past felons and answer any questions.</div>
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There are 3 floors of restored prison cells, over a male and female wing, which offer you the chance to learn about the justice system of Victorian England. As well as guides dressed as prisoners and guards, there are interactive touch-screens that show videos and give information about people that spent their life in this prison</div>
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This is the Victorian prison chapel which was the first of its kind; it was designed to keep prisoners segregated from each other - a different way of treating prisoners - total isolation all the time, encouraging them to reflect, repent and reform. It sent some of them into a state of depression and subsequent madness!<br />
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This separate system of solitary confinement was enforced until 1878 and can be seen by the single cells and the unique separate system chapel - the only original one of its kind left in the world. The castle was founded as a seat of justice, and the modern Crown Court still operates there. It is a fascinating place to visit and I can highly recommend spending at least half a day there.</div>
<a href="https://www.lincolncastle.com/">https://www.lincolncastle.com/</a><br />
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Lincoln is renowned for its Roman history, there are even trails to follow to see where original Roman sites were; and one of the surviving jewels of Roman Britain is Newport Arch - the oldest arch in the Britain and unbelievably it still has traffic running through it.</div>
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The arch was the north gate of the Upper Roman City of Lindum Colonia in the 3rd-century and part of the connecting wall survives in the nearby Newport Cottage.<br />
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This area between the castle and the cathedral is a fascinating place with so much to see; this is where you will find the Tourist Information Shop inside this beautiful Tudor Building.<br />
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From here, you can walk down the famous "Steep Hill" which has been voted "Britain's Great Street"; in Roman times it was part of Ermine Street - which was the main road between London and York - so you can imagine how much history it contains.<br />
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It is lined with unusual, colourful shops, the sort you don't often see anywhere else. In medieval times it was home to many markets but today there is only one - but it is well worth having a look as it sells such a variety of different things.<br />
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It is better to walk down than try to come up, it really is that steep; and halfway you will find the Mayors seat (a bench to have a rest on); there was an ornate carved seat here in the 17th century but that is in the Guildhall now.<br />
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The Medieval Bishops Palace, close to Temple Gardens can be found just off Steep Hill, and The Jews House - which is one of the oldest town houses in Europe. The Jews Court is next door and is home to the Society for Lincolnshire History and Archaeology with a well stocked book shop.</div>
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At the bottom of the hill, you are met by the impressive gateway of the Stonebow and Guildhall.<br />
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The lovely Tudor Guildhall building is situated above the Stonebow arch, which replaced the Roman southern gateway into the city. The Guildhall was finished in 1520 and today is the official home of the Mayor of Lincoln; containing numerous pieces of regalia, including the sword of Richard II, and the Mayor’s Chains of Office and posy ring.</div>
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Look for carved statues and grotesques - carved heads of mythical beasts and strange creatures on the outside walls. The 'mote' bell, struck in 1371, is still used to signal council meetings.<br />
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The modern town flourished at the bottom of the hill, especially with the use of the waterways and subsequent arrival of the railway and Lincoln expanded in several areas of industry and manufacture. The new part of Lincoln city is an interesting mix of old and modern; with new shops inside medieval buildings or ones that have been made to look old and in keeping with the character of the city.</div>
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As well as many high street shops and department stores, there are numerous places to eat and drink - some more unusual than others; I did find a fabulous cafe called Madam Waffle which I can highly recommend.</div>
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In this lower part of Lincoln, there are more buildings to admire, there is even a chapel that has been turned into a delightful cafe.<br />
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Lincoln's industrial waterfront is at the centre of the modern shopping area; and to walk along the canal is a delightful escape from the crowds. The Empowerment Sculpture was erected in 2002 and was designed to echo the shape of turbine blades.<br />
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Back at the Brayford Waterfront area, which is a world away from the other sections of Lincoln (old and new); you can take a leisurely boat trip along the Fossdyke Navigation - the oldest Roman canal in the country. This is a chance to sit down and enjoy the scenery and wildlife away from the crowds.</div>
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There are so many other things to see in the city of Lincoln - here are a few more :-<br />
<br />
Museum of Lincolnshire Life - a free museum in former barracks containing all aspects of life in this area from 1750. <a href="https://www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/history-and-heritage/museum-of-lincolnshire-life/">https://www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/history-and-heritage/museum-of-lincolnshire-life/</a><br />
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Ellis Mill - built in 1798, it is still a working flour mill - open for tourists to visit. <a href="https://www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/ellis-mill/46233.article">https://www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/ellis-mill/46233.article</a><br />
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The Usher Gallery - containing ats and horology <a href="https://artuk.org/visit/venues/usher-gallery-3366#">https://artuk.org/visit/venues/usher-gallery-3366#</a><br />
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Harding House Gallery - a 16th century timber framed house where artists can exhibit their work. <a href="https://www.hardinghousegallery.co.uk/">https://www.hardinghousegallery.co.uk/</a><br />
<br />
Greyfriars Exhibition Centre - the oldest surviving friary building in England dating back to 13th century not occasionally has exhibitions. <a href="https://www.visitlincoln.com/things-to-do/greyfriars">https://www.visitlincoln.com/things-to-do/greyfriars</a><br />
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I hope you have enjoyed my day exploring Lincoln. You definitely need more that one day in this fascinating city - I know that I will be going back to see more of it!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></span><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Lynne</i></b></span><br />
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<br /></div>Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-63764561832365017982020-10-01T11:57:00.001+01:002021-02-08T19:34:32.280+00:00Svalbard<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Svalbard 2010<o:p></o:p></span></b></u></div>
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To reach
Longyearbyen, I had to fly via Oslo, and Tromso; along the Norwegian coastline,
with its pale blue ocean – dotted with tiny icebergs! As the plane came in to
land, over the Icefjord of Spitzberg – the scenery was absolutely breathtaking.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeOliGdbSQpDLhFacC_H1aX5Dnek71MzKv9tqlaLQ_puqdGknTYnF7RfUHD6kzREoDtAN2QLVlFq0ssJJpWC3X240ro9D9h5KTt8lwvC6tdxR9n0d_RgCsWthGL6LkiL87yrYE-rUclp8/s1600/1.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeOliGdbSQpDLhFacC_H1aX5Dnek71MzKv9tqlaLQ_puqdGknTYnF7RfUHD6kzREoDtAN2QLVlFq0ssJJpWC3X240ro9D9h5KTt8lwvC6tdxR9n0d_RgCsWthGL6LkiL87yrYE-rUclp8/s640/1.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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The mountains were completely different to anything I had ever seen - the snow
on top of them came down the sides in uniformed patterns, covering the granite
rock beneath. The water of the fjord was mirrorlike, with countless shades of
blue and green mixed together.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbDMgxIFEoKy3C39KGRXvaOU65g81NQ128Mrv4hDLl3buIxLcrWFFwHkYswrYhKDPMJiP_7i-9i6Qq_OO8RTL52jf26xbaDyN7m1Hzqt-r5bhjGUF9vJ8Yz9E65EOVri0vPDT5drdTMVw/s1600/2.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbDMgxIFEoKy3C39KGRXvaOU65g81NQ128Mrv4hDLl3buIxLcrWFFwHkYswrYhKDPMJiP_7i-9i6Qq_OO8RTL52jf26xbaDyN7m1Hzqt-r5bhjGUF9vJ8Yz9E65EOVri0vPDT5drdTMVw/s640/2.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
It was one of the most picturesque sights at an
airport I have ever seen! I was expecting a dull, drab place – nothing like
this magnificent, impressive scenery. I was taken to the Spitsbergen Hotel “On
the Hill” with fabulous views down into Longyearbyen, as well as above - to the
Lars and Longyear Glacier. Unusually everyone had to take their shoes or boots
off when they entered the hotel – and leave them by the front door! After a
welcome meeting I decided to go exploring!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRqi7oxEt2qoK70eb1cElraQwS6MNpvdep-Of2vGXuPjE42kux2FCRSOEsfJvclWrm0nUTzfhz_76VNwIs7ImNB4TkMZLBKFwdFIgSElnM5Sva5gLVYr9b7EuYLXlNZtxtR8OVHDxkn8Q/s1600/P1040283.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRqi7oxEt2qoK70eb1cElraQwS6MNpvdep-Of2vGXuPjE42kux2FCRSOEsfJvclWrm0nUTzfhz_76VNwIs7ImNB4TkMZLBKFwdFIgSElnM5Sva5gLVYr9b7EuYLXlNZtxtR8OVHDxkn8Q/s640/P1040283.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Different coloured wooden houses were
built in rows like barracks; and there were hardly any cars about, but every
house had skis and skidoos outside (together with sledges/trailers).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUvVlLYlk-GFSUj8zCvtClrVhDAyl4ows72YqGO7-y_mssOcDCue1ZaWisPLf6Kx6bD4C30bs37QVr7Lpj_8lEk0DWmTA6MxOSbD46kB_qIQ98eLl7DUGFg7M3_2mrPZXKX0t59Ml0Gyc/s1600/P1040295.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUvVlLYlk-GFSUj8zCvtClrVhDAyl4ows72YqGO7-y_mssOcDCue1ZaWisPLf6Kx6bD4C30bs37QVr7Lpj_8lEk0DWmTA6MxOSbD46kB_qIQ98eLl7DUGFg7M3_2mrPZXKX0t59Ml0Gyc/s640/P1040295.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIsMZi2UlJ8Fh63fWpLZNT0N3LvV5iq-UzJx2nEE4MGkVKR1EQXZAkpY8NKpmZ8bvxXWD7yZ1X8uGUafc3-4eY1z3Bf23dU1iW-G7RfbcW_ansfBdp5zaNQGkoICGPiNNH-4TnK015NnI/s1600/P1040284.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIsMZi2UlJ8Fh63fWpLZNT0N3LvV5iq-UzJx2nEE4MGkVKR1EQXZAkpY8NKpmZ8bvxXWD7yZ1X8uGUafc3-4eY1z3Bf23dU1iW-G7RfbcW_ansfBdp5zaNQGkoICGPiNNH-4TnK015NnI/s640/P1040284.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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The sides
of the road (a track really) was dotted with bog cotton and small yellow flowers
(Svalbard Poppy) growing out of the shingle. There was a stuffed Polar Bear by
some shops; and I hoped that, that wouldn’t be the only one that I saw on this
trip!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbSeqXGc79yP79Hc5M1_wniyJWLbucv5RESq7Zf6cXyPcWtEEty6zf5t9VALexxmaY7uaS6-F_ODqS_j26J9ebyd6wUohxdtchgp61sO3232ZbgeAq5KMGIs0jOPUDD8QlYs-wy0m1EAA/s1600/P1040328.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbSeqXGc79yP79Hc5M1_wniyJWLbucv5RESq7Zf6cXyPcWtEEty6zf5t9VALexxmaY7uaS6-F_ODqS_j26J9ebyd6wUohxdtchgp61sO3232ZbgeAq5KMGIs0jOPUDD8QlYs-wy0m1EAA/s640/P1040328.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Longyearbyen is the largest town on the island of Spitsbergen; home to mainly
miners and researchers from all around the world. Spitsbergen used to be the
name of the whole area, but it is now the name of the largest island of the Svalbard
Archipelago. It is 1000 kilometres from the North Pole, at a similar latitude to
the most northern point on Greenland – the most northerly habited place on
earth. At the time of year I went, (July) it was permanently light - from 19<sup>th</sup>
April until 23<sup>rd</sup> August. After dinner, as it still looked as though it
was the middle of the day, I went another walk - up the hill this time. I had
been told to keep within the town limits, due to constant danger from Polar
Bears - if you went any further than this you were advised to carry a firearm. The
local newspaper had reported a Polar Bear came down to the town only last week
and had been scared off, with warning shots by the local police. Although I was
still within these limits, there was hardly anyone about and I did feel slightly
nervous. I headed up the steep hill towards some coloured buildings. Below the
glacier ahead, I could see remnants of a ramshackled old mine – looking as
though it could topple down at any minute.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijdelxUI_PtZxrI-gBOCZP_DgX65mBlld0916BDb03umX2MUSbEPU9ADVCIgkCG-VGMjzFYi5CnPug787ryI15YnqaifHkUbaG5zwIdd_O9w6N-Bo7rXLuWnVaXr5SY5vU1K2A5vMmAiA/s1600/P1040297.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijdelxUI_PtZxrI-gBOCZP_DgX65mBlld0916BDb03umX2MUSbEPU9ADVCIgkCG-VGMjzFYi5CnPug787ryI15YnqaifHkUbaG5zwIdd_O9w6N-Bo7rXLuWnVaXr5SY5vU1K2A5vMmAiA/s640/P1040297.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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I reached the buildings, which were
hostels, and realised this was the edge of town. The road had just stopped, and
all that was left ahead was shale, shingle and skidoos - parked up for the
summer! I could not believe this was the outskirts of the town. I didn’t hang
about; I took some photographs and started back down the hill - following the meltwater
gushing down from the glaciers above. The day had been so much more interesting
than I expected, and now I couldn’t wait for tomorrow. I closed my curtains at
10.30pm; it could have been lunchtime – thank goodness for blackout curtains! When
I woke the next morning, I thought I was dreaming! There were two stumpy-legged
Svalbard reindeer outside my bedroom window.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuMx9wgMvvoWJyIEGUVHyAyKGJmlQQ4awp4y9OJMUNeWFmvFkvqzPfQcWaw9MxhO-LLnhpTsUAdypMDzxdibiy9Z9wlNXtBLZ8rNlSVvWAyJ-gnk5AN3lyXlkRDWHVXyCEtACzgQiMWcc/s1600/P1040308.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1163" data-original-width="1600" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuMx9wgMvvoWJyIEGUVHyAyKGJmlQQ4awp4y9OJMUNeWFmvFkvqzPfQcWaw9MxhO-LLnhpTsUAdypMDzxdibiy9Z9wlNXtBLZ8rNlSVvWAyJ-gnk5AN3lyXlkRDWHVXyCEtACzgQiMWcc/s640/P1040308.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
After breakfast I walked all the
way down the hill, passing a church and a strange metal looking building – that
reminded me of “Star Wars” – something from the old mines!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh62Oyr89KZzK3inuNljlh1kExal9eB-HiB_s35tOnzcjP1VVwFZHk2y0-r3UM53wiPL08nCPjKwzwvvekbcM2NX3YWuRusDpxi7yUGLphuyjfp8f39kHmhPyorCSkKUQsJOCdtHiJ4K60/s1600/P1040280.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh62Oyr89KZzK3inuNljlh1kExal9eB-HiB_s35tOnzcjP1VVwFZHk2y0-r3UM53wiPL08nCPjKwzwvvekbcM2NX3YWuRusDpxi7yUGLphuyjfp8f39kHmhPyorCSkKUQsJOCdtHiJ4K60/s640/P1040280.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
I headed to where several
ships were moored and kept going along the track leading out of town. There
were so many birds - eider ducks, geese, gulls and Arctic Terns (nesting only a
few feet from the path). They had flown all the way from Antarctica to breed
and were protecting their nests ferociously - proving a real problem – they kept
being dive bombing me.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOJ2NtPAGJLHcXLIQMJzhqLreucF8KTOrdbThD26nRH9i8NZiob6vQR-MfsQeHlzQz59FP0UcvXwMXAziKbK13B7CKYtXmf05nfRvqCr1Wd6mnbMNS04yjUKcr8Bwkpw0wOWmvrChatUc/s1600/P1040320.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOJ2NtPAGJLHcXLIQMJzhqLreucF8KTOrdbThD26nRH9i8NZiob6vQR-MfsQeHlzQz59FP0UcvXwMXAziKbK13B7CKYtXmf05nfRvqCr1Wd6mnbMNS04yjUKcr8Bwkpw0wOWmvrChatUc/s640/P1040320.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
I ventured as far as one of the husky dog compounds
before the weather turned, and a cold wind began blowing; so, I headed back to
my hotel just in time for lunch; and then joined the afternoon guided coach tour.
We visited the Polar Museum, with replicas of life-sized Arctic animals, as
well as exhibitions on wildlife, mining, history and conservation. We were also
taken a drive, stopping on the outskirts of town, and saw a road sign with a
Polar bear on it!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinhW-L0_pXTG3sB5jzFPeAIQEt_g9qdwxQhz1x-2ZfOlw0R7o-4MZC3CI3NKPLwimj3thTVUdKQqQNbiFVGPwNB0WH1Ka63grsWW7efZvAMMOX44mKQZ107DbwVR3xt0IweyGpr8mnuqc/s1600/P1040335.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1230" data-original-width="1321" height="594" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinhW-L0_pXTG3sB5jzFPeAIQEt_g9qdwxQhz1x-2ZfOlw0R7o-4MZC3CI3NKPLwimj3thTVUdKQqQNbiFVGPwNB0WH1Ka63grsWW7efZvAMMOX44mKQZ107DbwVR3xt0IweyGpr8mnuqc/s640/P1040335.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
The last stop was a Gallery containing impressive paintings of
the region, as well as unusual handmade souvenirs. The Guide told us that all the
buildings were built on metal poles, with the floor level 10 feet off the
ground. They had to be built this way due to the constant permafrost in the
ground and I thought it was to let the melting water run underneath them! The
tour ended at 5pm, when it was time to board our ship the MS Fram.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdIKeZmIqw_5FLQ8-Lm3fieJL_Vy0pEF5JDZZ94_UoA5UbMTzsbFeLvBZqkCXGJrCDMW44VZYyVuw64IO3uYQJB2tsXjGfeQN3_qbNOHB_A7nwOCtjGK3-nytr9pvwQrePBCENFaNEjO8/s1600/P1040312.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdIKeZmIqw_5FLQ8-Lm3fieJL_Vy0pEF5JDZZ94_UoA5UbMTzsbFeLvBZqkCXGJrCDMW44VZYyVuw64IO3uYQJB2tsXjGfeQN3_qbNOHB_A7nwOCtjGK3-nytr9pvwQrePBCENFaNEjO8/s640/P1040312.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
This ship was
built in 2007 and was well equipped with many modern amenities including a
fabulous observation lounge, a gym, a sauna and 2 outdoor heated Jacuzzis! It
was named after the strongest wooden exploration ship ever built – the Fram (used
by the explorer Amundsen in the late 19<sup>th</sup> century). Today’s ship is only
114 metres long, rather small in comparison with luxury liners, but this ship is
built for expeditions – not relaxation and pampering. All of its 225 passengers
had come for an adventure and after our welcome briefing, we were all given
with a new jacket, and were excited about what was in store for us. We set sail
at 6pm, and after 3 hours sailing down the calm Icefjord, we arrived at the old
Russian coal-mining town of Barentsberg. A town is probably the wrong word, as
it only consists of a few hostel-type buildings, a hotel, a museum and a
souvenir shop.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYwwMIYqEEyIlD7uTSeE3Ryq4QkGqLx4YCzPmvc2NjuZpypWF7La2pWcFxTVQdadMvBf8uv2HQzJDfd7Hs_MNeiQ_Ph1P0TJXxTKJQ8AYf5RmCzUvAurfDkgxA5X-Gj5L6V7FOB5uMM4/s1600/P1040341.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1167" data-original-width="1600" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgYwwMIYqEEyIlD7uTSeE3Ryq4QkGqLx4YCzPmvc2NjuZpypWF7La2pWcFxTVQdadMvBf8uv2HQzJDfd7Hs_MNeiQ_Ph1P0TJXxTKJQ8AYf5RmCzUvAurfDkgxA5X-Gj5L6V7FOB5uMM4/s640/P1040341.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
The ship docked at the quayside and after walking up 260 steps,
we were given an introduction by a Ukranian Guide and shown the main buildings.
It was a dreary place and even though some buildings were only 20 years old –
they looked 120 years old - run down old wrecks, resembling a deserted Soviet
town.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKqZAManzih3jfjSwhr7EJLOGBel4WlLRHTvq4s1xq-0sWi20oJprzYwNaub6-Ed-rbMc-d83NUkhN68X38SK-kJIX-Jr3VKBgvpaXU-uhnENFx_fPu5ZIqYXWerWtiYx823C69wwXePs/s1600/P1040339.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKqZAManzih3jfjSwhr7EJLOGBel4WlLRHTvq4s1xq-0sWi20oJprzYwNaub6-Ed-rbMc-d83NUkhN68X38SK-kJIX-Jr3VKBgvpaXU-uhnENFx_fPu5ZIqYXWerWtiYx823C69wwXePs/s640/P1040339.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
The brightest and most memorable things were pictures of people and forests,
painted on the walls of some buildings. We left Barentsberg at 11.30pm and it
was so peaceful and relaxing; even though it was nearly midnight it was still bright!
We exited the Icefjord, into the open ocean and sailed along the coast of Prins
Karl Forland heading north. Next morning, I was up at early and headed to the
observation lounge, joining other people looking out for anything of interest.
The coastline was tall, steep, mysterious granite mountains, obscured by low
cloud, with massive glaciers in between them.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkR6kll05RmfQU19Dvi4jnLTkE4y6hXUFI_WebX2e_b5WFGudcp4bAVla4baM-KUJ5FyuYmJwvubguPr7rpLltCBZA9c7l90XHp9-N2ZxNlyujSbV9uYEaH4wc47npKeU1MKks0rkvDI/s1600/P1040351.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVkR6kll05RmfQU19Dvi4jnLTkE4y6hXUFI_WebX2e_b5WFGudcp4bAVla4baM-KUJ5FyuYmJwvubguPr7rpLltCBZA9c7l90XHp9-N2ZxNlyujSbV9uYEaH4wc47npKeU1MKks0rkvDI/s640/P1040351.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
There were many different varieties
of birds about; some flying alone like the fulmar - and flocks of auks, gulls
and guillemots. We were heading for the far northwest corner of Svalbard, an
area discovered by William Barents in 1596, which soon became one of the most
popular whaling places in the world. Unfortunately, the bowhead whale was hunted
so extensively in these parts, that it was extinct within 60 years. After
breakfast we dropped anchor in Magdalenafjord, the best know fjord in Svalbard,
renowned for its beauty; a very deep fjord, surrounded by jagged, dramatic snow-covered
mountains.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJvrV5DN5p5u-4tzlewT1msqzZCVWmJRr2lW3rhggIf1qkS4MFlHfEL67AsXOYvrrYpEwJxiTdNpXp593fxWcB67jJbusvcG0R4z_bYeQq6dzqEwbsMOhXAuh9Iad3iaeVSJJKSSjERi0/s1600/P1040363.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJvrV5DN5p5u-4tzlewT1msqzZCVWmJRr2lW3rhggIf1qkS4MFlHfEL67AsXOYvrrYpEwJxiTdNpXp593fxWcB67jJbusvcG0R4z_bYeQq6dzqEwbsMOhXAuh9Iad3iaeVSJJKSSjERi0/s640/P1040363.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
The water was the most beautiful shade of turquoise, bejewelled with
thousands of icebergs, and as calm and flat as a mirror. I could hardly believe
it - I was expecting choppy seas! The expedition crew launched one of the Polar
Cirkle boats at an area known as Trinity Bay and went onto the beach, to inspect
if it was safe to go ashore.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9OupwDRptsNncNzWi2cyW6tF4kekhpvcAE6Uecow230P08XtCAcoT-NfiNPve-S0OdHg866uuELlKUsrr_yCBKgfFXiCsp8_WWURw5n9XnsmrCKrho5HU0W0Bl6OPTq8CzEj9AGsd44/s1600/P1040364.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9OupwDRptsNncNzWi2cyW6tF4kekhpvcAE6Uecow230P08XtCAcoT-NfiNPve-S0OdHg866uuELlKUsrr_yCBKgfFXiCsp8_WWURw5n9XnsmrCKrho5HU0W0Bl6OPTq8CzEj9AGsd44/s640/P1040364.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeEeNmtQ-7WBbVYpFvIxvQhPXZ-YKm7TSJCDjLDAcRhtn5NM3dSEQgOsS4bTs_SJHI8j-ndHSJ_tdwRXHFPuzkLlCwF7f12-aw9m5G54RT0wnbrm_deFRaf0vuL4rwgw-Jj7SB6XPIwfw/s1600/P1040368.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeEeNmtQ-7WBbVYpFvIxvQhPXZ-YKm7TSJCDjLDAcRhtn5NM3dSEQgOsS4bTs_SJHI8j-ndHSJ_tdwRXHFPuzkLlCwF7f12-aw9m5G54RT0wnbrm_deFRaf0vuL4rwgw-Jj7SB6XPIwfw/s640/P1040368.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Each crew member had a rifle and knew how to use
it! After the surveillance, we were allowed to go ashore in small groups, but
had to keep between armed guides at the front and back of each group.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirLBnno-0ioh38PtAL_WxBw_b3fx3Fz_nrU_dEYgDj3XE8ai__reBbuEC-lB8NyINmM8sz2MSANVRR8m9CY_oUO9jKoM61nxy_G9I7ng-gbBABDcAeeqnPH6cfHtVo0RgZHpPmHdA1cMc/s1600/P1040383.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1161" data-original-width="1600" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirLBnno-0ioh38PtAL_WxBw_b3fx3Fz_nrU_dEYgDj3XE8ai__reBbuEC-lB8NyINmM8sz2MSANVRR8m9CY_oUO9jKoM61nxy_G9I7ng-gbBABDcAeeqnPH6cfHtVo0RgZHpPmHdA1cMc/s640/P1040383.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
All of a
sudden there was an almighty roar – it wasn’t an animal - but a rockslide from
the mountain just above us. We were shown remains of the old blubber ovens, learned
about the history of whaling in this area; and saw a mound which was one of the
largest concentrations of whaler’s graves on the island. It was difficult
walking on the beach - a type of shingle, but with huge stones and boulders.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTNq6osl8n7dkpl7ANZK4eQ342j-4ej3avN5feyBJzNTjNEF6srKO0ssgglGPvCS6dQyVmT3SFlKrhheQLsbPb0aqn6IxTW6E0inUv0Pw_SHog8YnYb8XjB6Lwxhv5TslxfByotaAlK2s/s1600/P1040377.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTNq6osl8n7dkpl7ANZK4eQ342j-4ej3avN5feyBJzNTjNEF6srKO0ssgglGPvCS6dQyVmT3SFlKrhheQLsbPb0aqn6IxTW6E0inUv0Pw_SHog8YnYb8XjB6Lwxhv5TslxfByotaAlK2s/s640/P1040377.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Some Arctic Terns had begun nesting close by, and our guide told us to walk
close to the waters edge, whilst he fended off the attacking birds! We had an
interesting walk for a little over an hour, after which we were told that we
could go for a swim if we wanted to (it was only 2 degrees)! After lunch, we set
sail again – leaving this beautiful place, still heading north.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPrCVpNp64oJTlXjZ4L8vm6yOc6eFlt0FPKL2svwl5AX88mA_rELubFXDejfdsifjOF9C8-TanhZyKq-cKvgAhXUCWGpetQK0SroGUwqVNH_VHBoOPZTalQ00KR-BnMVFfLj4I-YOvDVE/s1600/P1040393.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPrCVpNp64oJTlXjZ4L8vm6yOc6eFlt0FPKL2svwl5AX88mA_rELubFXDejfdsifjOF9C8-TanhZyKq-cKvgAhXUCWGpetQK0SroGUwqVNH_VHBoOPZTalQ00KR-BnMVFfLj4I-YOvDVE/s640/P1040393.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
The scenery was
like watching black and white television, with the occasional bright blue - that
was within the icebergs floating past - it really was fantastic! There were
more glaciers; hundreds of black and white striped mountains and the ocean
remained a flat, reflective millpond. We zigzagged in-between small-uninhabited
islands, so close that it felt as if we were going to collide with them! It was
a very relaxing few hours cruising through this area. We dropped anchor just off
Ytre Noskoya, (an area well known for the number of graves and monuments dedicated
to the whalers); and the expedition team went onto the island to check if it
was safe. I went to my cabin to get ready, and an announcement came over the
loudspeaker – “There is a Polar Bear on the Port side at 3 o’clock”. I have
never moved so fast in my life, straight up on to the deck and was lucky enough
to briefly see the bear, before it was time for my group to go to the landing station.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiamBjZfqmG1L9Y5Kio_nBccpKEpOk2pnIkx28ZhF-_IexFf2GuZuICHysuRnHGlTve8pujPKfn1dwCCaWRHC96lePt_z5Qx_rhIg0XaKYxJBwTPSeMMYh9BWaDQ4mQwDVuneVVEmnpBqc/s1600/P1040425.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiamBjZfqmG1L9Y5Kio_nBccpKEpOk2pnIkx28ZhF-_IexFf2GuZuICHysuRnHGlTve8pujPKfn1dwCCaWRHC96lePt_z5Qx_rhIg0XaKYxJBwTPSeMMYh9BWaDQ4mQwDVuneVVEmnpBqc/s640/P1040425.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
What a hectic few minutes! We were told that it was rather rocky on the island.
“Rather rocky” was an understatement! I opted for the shorter walk, but many
people actually got off the boat and then immediately got back on! They didn’t
really miss much; we saw a Snow Bunting, some Geese, Eiders and more Arctic
Terns.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcYBWo4Ea-keosgAC5vRiUjZY_3jhKaevQ5QTPC57Qwc4ckcr5P7u_ujwWk-q4V6cB3m5ZXhRdgbhLsK7AXo8O76-p7NlHCa8-Tvc41MQ1oj2eUU0UQca0GI76lvVRHwDggVBugVmfkbA/s1600/P1040409.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1184" data-original-width="1600" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcYBWo4Ea-keosgAC5vRiUjZY_3jhKaevQ5QTPC57Qwc4ckcr5P7u_ujwWk-q4V6cB3m5ZXhRdgbhLsK7AXo8O76-p7NlHCa8-Tvc41MQ1oj2eUU0UQca0GI76lvVRHwDggVBugVmfkbA/s640/P1040409.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Several native plant species were pointed out to us, and we were given
an elaborate talk on reindeer droppings! The last few people who were on this
small island, had to be collected at the far end of the island – because a
Polar Bear had arrived at the landing site, where I had been dropped off and
collected only a few minutes before! After dinner the sun came out again and it
was so bright that you could hardly look out of the windows. The captain told
us to keep our eyes peeled for wildlife, and within minutes the ship was at a
standstill again. There was a lone Polar Bear on the rock face to the starboard
side of the ship. Every single person headed to that side of the ship and we
all watched whilst he scrambled over boulders and jumped through the snow.<br />
<br />
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<br />
It
was incredible, we watched him for well over an hour – on a perfect sunny,
evening. As a climax to his show, he climbed down to the water’s edge and within
a minute or so; he leapt into the freezing Arctic water. He swam and swam – further
out into the open ocean – until we could see him no more! One theory was that
he was going all the way to Greenland!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMFbgZe1o8nyH4B53qR5kws21t_yjGKJrBvXi-OBpfSCfp1NKM9cJtuf_u8fxrK9vB1JU8DSgGKgdW_mAIqnEtftp-hBiWgyReD2iJdUBx54PaLVTydCazQBiTiMLxgDDqxlLYYEImYc/s1600/P1040487.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1081" data-original-width="1600" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWMFbgZe1o8nyH4B53qR5kws21t_yjGKJrBvXi-OBpfSCfp1NKM9cJtuf_u8fxrK9vB1JU8DSgGKgdW_mAIqnEtftp-hBiWgyReD2iJdUBx54PaLVTydCazQBiTiMLxgDDqxlLYYEImYc/s640/P1040487.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
The sun was still high in the sky,
shining on the mountains in the distance – with their zebra stripes and you
couldn’t help feeling like you were at the top of the world. In theory we were
almost at the highest point it was possible to reach safely; tomorrow, if the
conditions were right, we would reach our goal – the 80<sup>th</sup> parallel. It was just past midnight as we cruised past Raudfjord, an area of picturesque red
sandstone mountains that run for 20 kilometres along the coast.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYiv82guipJNtOUR9t8vn2KAUXu-Z7QFiJR0eAPuNTE2_bbF3Q3rfoHQuae2ZTFDTes1cnDq5DsCTPLpnTFFmmIj9i7IfwexBA3kDAu7R9PKBamSbjc5KkO3fVNm_H05AHFgMEfoBfs_w/s1600/P1040493.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="761" data-original-width="1600" height="304" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYiv82guipJNtOUR9t8vn2KAUXu-Z7QFiJR0eAPuNTE2_bbF3Q3rfoHQuae2ZTFDTes1cnDq5DsCTPLpnTFFmmIj9i7IfwexBA3kDAu7R9PKBamSbjc5KkO3fVNm_H05AHFgMEfoBfs_w/s640/P1040493.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
I was too
excited to sleep; what an amazing day it had been! Next morning, I opened my window
blind to see icebergs floating past really close! We were just anchoring ready
for our morning excursion – to the spectacular Monaco glacier in “The Bay of
Love”.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTBWrYKSe3IWWdLALcpjdvrm4PUoXwALUNCvqZPPxhcbafylsPzu1t6k3pBzXbXL6sDAQZskKBXl0YNyHqwLitOeFta_idbtql7eMaePbybQmd40WuRcfZArq2onw-bJbszGjIZXX0ZcE/s1600/P1040516.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTBWrYKSe3IWWdLALcpjdvrm4PUoXwALUNCvqZPPxhcbafylsPzu1t6k3pBzXbXL6sDAQZskKBXl0YNyHqwLitOeFta_idbtql7eMaePbybQmd40WuRcfZArq2onw-bJbszGjIZXX0ZcE/s640/P1040516.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZX6JnI0vdW357o8Ql3zXuqDxE-y8qMyYLCGIwKEbPNBSX8g29fNn-da14wuelBzL92W-e-jXU_29cpt9bR6L5gTfwIvbuIJZZhqAQSL8F5QN0rzsaYGBNh10W6qK3cGb6qP4yZGliwYs/s1600/P1040584.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZX6JnI0vdW357o8Ql3zXuqDxE-y8qMyYLCGIwKEbPNBSX8g29fNn-da14wuelBzL92W-e-jXU_29cpt9bR6L5gTfwIvbuIJZZhqAQSL8F5QN0rzsaYGBNh10W6qK3cGb6qP4yZGliwYs/s640/P1040584.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
I went on deck and watched the first few Polar Cirkle boats leave the
ship and it wasn’t long before it was my turn. Even though it looked as though
our ship had anchored close to the glacier, it was still a long way off. The
Polar Cirkle boat sped away from the ship at a terrific speed and as we
approached the glaciers’ edge, (which was about 200 metres high); we were told
that we were still over half a kilometre away from it. That was unbelievable,
it felt like we could just reach out and touch it!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi689B8oR5MnGYTpVyxs_MdbGqJyJ_tmNo2Rm18O5MDLD_1UQbuSN3H-2HlvhGwi72gdiuNouuZyDTzNZRsv3aMUBwqDvgpt_uLU2o4ZDZuJWGni0Y_9xLLbuH-hjJ6qlW4BVBaWMGE5zo/s1600/P1040565.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi689B8oR5MnGYTpVyxs_MdbGqJyJ_tmNo2Rm18O5MDLD_1UQbuSN3H-2HlvhGwi72gdiuNouuZyDTzNZRsv3aMUBwqDvgpt_uLU2o4ZDZuJWGni0Y_9xLLbuH-hjJ6qlW4BVBaWMGE5zo/s640/P1040565.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
We couldn’t safely get any
closer because of calving - when large pieces of ice fall away from the front
of the glacier – making icebergs. There were some impressive icebergs floating around;
blue ones, brown ones, the biggest ones that I have ever seen, as well as
millions of small pieces floating around us.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJugQKD8OxkKkgPtsN_DY8CXb5EOrREJevUx7RlKmjZVtmC7FspODccJrhEoUFJ-_oT5TL1uRrS-vnnwxVx5I759iJ1uoFochKTevFefS50A35rHDo9oAN1Gfg5XIOOU2qrnWhhCR_1U/s1600/P1040535.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="939" data-original-width="1251" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQJugQKD8OxkKkgPtsN_DY8CXb5EOrREJevUx7RlKmjZVtmC7FspODccJrhEoUFJ-_oT5TL1uRrS-vnnwxVx5I759iJ1uoFochKTevFefS50A35rHDo9oAN1Gfg5XIOOU2qrnWhhCR_1U/s640/P1040535.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
There were all sorts of birds
flying about and some were resting on the pieces of floating ice. As for other
wildlife, apparently it is never far away – our guide still had his rifle with
him.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwvZIGkaZK5fQo3xbWr9FfzOHjpa4usqBDQe-hFehHmhsD5ynZkondiXrv-JHrqzphauLbSIGqRInij37S2pW2fpqg2vRCDFGcHWVTcQVJQADt_NDKUaK0RA4J29XDzARfvxp9Cmi34hs/s1600/P1040558.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwvZIGkaZK5fQo3xbWr9FfzOHjpa4usqBDQe-hFehHmhsD5ynZkondiXrv-JHrqzphauLbSIGqRInij37S2pW2fpqg2vRCDFGcHWVTcQVJQADt_NDKUaK0RA4J29XDzARfvxp9Cmi34hs/s640/P1040558.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
We quietly and safely glided past the front of this towering glacier,
feeling completely insignificant in comparison to it. There were so many
colours within the wall of ice, blues, greens, brown and red – all mixed
together.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTCtNFpTe86zbW0mLqfzY8zjsp9l-2eSfZtIPNeAy_ZJAwvqUEfZSE7Ji-TlX3FDaH8xxYtbMDAl_rRmlxxPgCtkPh48lTSIjVUD6IJ4wRlDe1aBgleweGcLYpOCkuRkpeL2G-6fMTmxw/s1600/P1040557.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTCtNFpTe86zbW0mLqfzY8zjsp9l-2eSfZtIPNeAy_ZJAwvqUEfZSE7Ji-TlX3FDaH8xxYtbMDAl_rRmlxxPgCtkPh48lTSIjVUD6IJ4wRlDe1aBgleweGcLYpOCkuRkpeL2G-6fMTmxw/s640/P1040557.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
When our time was up, the driver stepped up a gear and we sped back
to the ship! The sun was still shining, and we could not have had a more
perfect day.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1F3xeQly9c8lyN5YaBVKEPsjROC5mG09AKiLxJ7GfPsEKGA98Z0zP_T4DWQ_k1hVyRqC2RE-lOMJ4-Qp39sdH8IyDTq6JT8sKcC4qQCMjxK5ncsUsh3yT2Wzp71jXD2Cd9V8si1vASY4/s1600/P1040548.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="1280" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1F3xeQly9c8lyN5YaBVKEPsjROC5mG09AKiLxJ7GfPsEKGA98Z0zP_T4DWQ_k1hVyRqC2RE-lOMJ4-Qp39sdH8IyDTq6JT8sKcC4qQCMjxK5ncsUsh3yT2Wzp71jXD2Cd9V8si1vASY4/s640/P1040548.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
It was one of those sights you could not turn away from – or stop
taking more and more photographs of – capturing yet another piece of coloured
ice! I could not describe the beauty of this place and hoped my photographs would
do that for me! We had a few more hours here (whilst the other passengers went
out to the glacier), so I decided to have an hour in the outdoor Jacuzzi – with
icebergs floating past.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxmIRgf6YuqgjIBJbbf-wWZs4N88UCPzqeQDOVrQsQfyCZyhIr-iuRTC3Lv-IP0OLuRcHiYDbqzKZOCWFTPPQEPjtSaUBRMc6nIYRD0E8GJQevPspjIhXDN3gWoisOQiqdmOHdLy9Yggs/s1600/P1040575.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxmIRgf6YuqgjIBJbbf-wWZs4N88UCPzqeQDOVrQsQfyCZyhIr-iuRTC3Lv-IP0OLuRcHiYDbqzKZOCWFTPPQEPjtSaUBRMc6nIYRD0E8GJQevPspjIhXDN3gWoisOQiqdmOHdLy9Yggs/s640/P1040575.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
I was in the arctic, everyone had coats, hats and
gloves on – and I was in the Jacuzzi! It was like a dream - definitely a
once-in-a-lifetime moment!<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaWbyqs_HeSv7psV7jyTjf93jiZC1dCeRbu7IEaHnEl6CxSrIWZcCfNPpzlvF1GnpVVweOkDo6ZieNpg6EepxG_nP4lw433oGnPcbQqkh-R2DUk-k8IvevK9DH8J1ue72P5TcQL239LA0/s1600/P1040580.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="519" data-original-width="1600" height="206" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaWbyqs_HeSv7psV7jyTjf93jiZC1dCeRbu7IEaHnEl6CxSrIWZcCfNPpzlvF1GnpVVweOkDo6ZieNpg6EepxG_nP4lw433oGnPcbQqkh-R2DUk-k8IvevK9DH8J1ue72P5TcQL239LA0/s640/P1040580.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
We set sail at lunchtime, heading across the
Woodfjord towards our next stop - the old whaling station of Mushamna. I
decided against going ashore this time, I could see the wooden trappers’ huts quite
well from the boat and preferred to sit on deck scouring the surrounding area
for wildlife. It wasn’t long before a northerly wind started blowing and I had
a feeling that the next few hours were going to get choppy! But after dinner
time, as we got closer to Moffen Island, the sea became calmer – the opposite
of what I had been expecting.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6V0sPTbcZuSlakFUugQMe3FkCuETTxruVq2Ei16iSipa52iWHWubyuJWJmf7jzSuMOAYikr6F0TGadRD9-UzFtnxQvI6MIsr54NFI_hfRcId-v1fdIgmo1tj3H6k5HgC4fQoPPze2E2s/s1600/P1040603.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6V0sPTbcZuSlakFUugQMe3FkCuETTxruVq2Ei16iSipa52iWHWubyuJWJmf7jzSuMOAYikr6F0TGadRD9-UzFtnxQvI6MIsr54NFI_hfRcId-v1fdIgmo1tj3H6k5HgC4fQoPPze2E2s/s640/P1040603.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
It was beautiful, so serene, and peaceful. The
loudspeaker system was turned off, so not to disturb the walrus colony on the island,
and all that could be heard was a low hum of the ships engine.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaEGe2KenAcENI6r3ynNCInHae-VOdQhWEkggMaHsg0izXPAGg2AYw6rUBvk2MlJGuuWXQDOF8-xAYX_DCQlg7IZNs8aRuYW0Xey7Srx67dwfTJlZ1dbUL9QYvOWp-N_Q9PEjlGJPqZ9o/s1600/P1040604.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="672" data-original-width="1600" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaEGe2KenAcENI6r3ynNCInHae-VOdQhWEkggMaHsg0izXPAGg2AYw6rUBvk2MlJGuuWXQDOF8-xAYX_DCQlg7IZNs8aRuYW0Xey7Srx67dwfTJlZ1dbUL9QYvOWp-N_Q9PEjlGJPqZ9o/s640/P1040604.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Moffen Island is
extremely flat and just looked like a black line painted on the horizon. As we
got closer to it, you could see all that was on this gravelly island, was
pieces of driftwood and its resident walruses.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQcc0ItW-ANaNVeaUQrgRMxpjrBp1h5GeoiYVHJduvn0FGoMVXfcXPm3z7BdWRVD0dho0BVtJ09vMm29_29GJV46CKxSCnt_3fdLGGTUuPGSJgBN-Q5sMc_9zRcVYmYmPrKwnE-YNrTnw/s1600/P1040643.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQcc0ItW-ANaNVeaUQrgRMxpjrBp1h5GeoiYVHJduvn0FGoMVXfcXPm3z7BdWRVD0dho0BVtJ09vMm29_29GJV46CKxSCnt_3fdLGGTUuPGSJgBN-Q5sMc_9zRcVYmYmPrKwnE-YNrTnw/s640/P1040643.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Some of them went into the water
and started swimming towards our ship, the rest were just lying next to, or on
top of each other, basking in the evening sun! A bell was rung to mark the fact
that we had crossed the 80<sup>th</sup> parallel and we were all given a glass
of champagne. Regulations state that no one is allowed within 300 metres of
Moffen Island, and I was a bit disappointed that we I couldn’t get closer, but
it was a very memorable experience.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs41ACs8iAQ9Ki4Kyrz3qIpFVhtfBU9xSHNUfW-9QTvx2HkudXqBdlCJYbuaCjtIUiR5-oohOzEwDtwFVRfwq-lL-1N2S2B4V4HfHQ7gw9XW0QJ7eWddONPWTRdugcVBGpwF_T7VUOd1k/s1600/P1040605.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs41ACs8iAQ9Ki4Kyrz3qIpFVhtfBU9xSHNUfW-9QTvx2HkudXqBdlCJYbuaCjtIUiR5-oohOzEwDtwFVRfwq-lL-1N2S2B4V4HfHQ7gw9XW0QJ7eWddONPWTRdugcVBGpwF_T7VUOd1k/s640/P1040605.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
The most impressive thing about today was
the calmness, stillness, and sereneness of the entire day – from the Bay of
Love to the high Arctic Ocean. It had been another one of those special days, I
didn’t think anything could top yesterday, but being in a Jacuzzi, in the
arctic surrounded by icebergs was something else! It was now nearly midnight,
although you would not know it without looking at a clock; the sun was so high
in the sky! The ship turned around, a full 180 degrees; and we began heading
south. When I woke the next morning and looked out of my window, there were no
surprises - it was windy, raining and the sea looked (and felt) very rough. I
went up to the Panorama Lounge, and I could tell that many passengers had decided
to stay in their cabins! So long as I was sitting down, I would feel all right
– and could still look out of the window! There were lectures and film shows on
Svalbard and Ny-Alesund – our port of call for today, which sounded far more
interesting than I had been expecting. Just as the meeting ended, there was an
announcement saying a Polar Bear had been spotted and we were all advised to go
to Deck 5 to get the best view of him! Well, it was even better that the last sighting
- we were so close this time! This Bear kept going into the water and then getting
back out, walking along the beach, chasing a seal, and then having another
swim.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
What a show he put on for us, I could not believe what I was seeing, it
was like something from a Wildlife programme – but this was real. You cannot imagine
how it makes you feel to see such a sight, in its own environment, a rare event
- even up here. At lunchtime we arrived at Ny-Alesund – the most northerly, permanent
inhabited settlement on earth! It was originally a small mining town, but from
1962 it has been home to the International Arctic Environmental Research Centre,
and its researchers. Ny-Alesund has the world’s most northerly post office,
which was only opened in 1974; before this any mail came by ship or was “dropped”
from planes!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJgjd8N5S2o9UbhObhsiGGbvybHu5QXICmW4yUIRVdokzHjR8gDPs_w15l-4oE436pXO-qAp1TT9PlqJnvgw6KGOKhTuP1S9q01VetgHpNc1cgNK1Wmk9dOuxlVpWrMi2vQSI1ECVrJv4/s1600/P1040718.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJgjd8N5S2o9UbhObhsiGGbvybHu5QXICmW4yUIRVdokzHjR8gDPs_w15l-4oE436pXO-qAp1TT9PlqJnvgw6KGOKhTuP1S9q01VetgHpNc1cgNK1Wmk9dOuxlVpWrMi2vQSI1ECVrJv4/s640/P1040718.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
There is only one shop in the town, a wooden hut that sells essentials,
as well as souvenirs. There were many birds about, and they were so used to
humans that they happily walked along side of you – especially the Geese. The
backdrop to this town was far more picturesque than I had expected. The coloured
moss and pink flowers that covered the ground in front of the small lake, with
the glaciers behind – made a picture postcard scene.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh_PvXbxN2pgUWByXqCW3Wr3lRDC3HZqz6VRPW0A0Hi60RjEfqhyphenhyphenHmB716f6YAJVcDhC6ZgXcBnYZx8IsxA7M_fRaSN5jJ6HRCurgaZGhVNnlwZO9quu159HlHjKTK1ccdjTKhWmQoWo4/s1600/P1040717.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh_PvXbxN2pgUWByXqCW3Wr3lRDC3HZqz6VRPW0A0Hi60RjEfqhyphenhyphenHmB716f6YAJVcDhC6ZgXcBnYZx8IsxA7M_fRaSN5jJ6HRCurgaZGhVNnlwZO9quu159HlHjKTK1ccdjTKhWmQoWo4/s640/P1040717.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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We were told to stay
inside the town limit, an area of about 200 metres in each direction; and our
guides were standing at the outer limits with their rifles again. The only
buildings that are here now, house researchers – each building associated with
a different country. The only other interesting building is the mining museum,
which is also home to the resident dentist/doctor!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8DayedIgBmEDi_RICi1XgE_Tfn5cgaDYdQEKuLw53TK2bdsoAbhp5WhsO1yuM1kbpnCmmLQVMBDelDkspKuaWW9iWLz0IoKnZMnGH64ilC9J_7pNyDgE0eFvWl0mDuPmPc6AaeR3nQbA/s1600/P1040715.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8DayedIgBmEDi_RICi1XgE_Tfn5cgaDYdQEKuLw53TK2bdsoAbhp5WhsO1yuM1kbpnCmmLQVMBDelDkspKuaWW9iWLz0IoKnZMnGH64ilC9J_7pNyDgE0eFvWl0mDuPmPc6AaeR3nQbA/s640/P1040715.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
I spotted a seal very close
to the shore; lots more Arctic terns – attacking people as usual, and a family
of wild Arctic foxes living under one of the houses. The cubs were so cute, I
would have expected them to be white, but when they are young, they are nearly
black.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVPZUtezPLEgYdI62cuHJPyrfm6p_JwsMWfwzjBJWdhADuwPQYO5a_K0YzsDwE-KDFbRoqzPTjTvgXh8J8F7iy_VFQeHpc3UqaPGSE_HkJOwycxpaf97oxvuQwHNFVYwijbQPFd16flp0/s1600/2020-07-15+15.25.11.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1030" data-original-width="1600" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVPZUtezPLEgYdI62cuHJPyrfm6p_JwsMWfwzjBJWdhADuwPQYO5a_K0YzsDwE-KDFbRoqzPTjTvgXh8J8F7iy_VFQeHpc3UqaPGSE_HkJOwycxpaf97oxvuQwHNFVYwijbQPFd16flp0/s640/2020-07-15+15.25.11.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Their mother was even stranger – she was white with broad black stripes
on her back – she had been out hunting and came running back over to her family.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiscC4hB7s3RYr2wfx_1wVD5d0pQYUK0_xcLnDEfuaU9I1ESFgMOjeJxC4uSt_aZ3-WfYhZQKADwEaEf4iQljE-JTc4aMV1_9DC4uJ-OVQA7uutSJSi1MH_OrX3t8KkW9oFF9bGa6bN-Ak/s1600/P1040767.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiscC4hB7s3RYr2wfx_1wVD5d0pQYUK0_xcLnDEfuaU9I1ESFgMOjeJxC4uSt_aZ3-WfYhZQKADwEaEf4iQljE-JTc4aMV1_9DC4uJ-OVQA7uutSJSi1MH_OrX3t8KkW9oFF9bGa6bN-Ak/s640/P1040767.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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There were many icebergs floating by, even bigger and bluer than the ones we
had already seen – apparently the summer melt had given way to larger chunks of
ice falling off. We set sail at 4pm, for the last part of our journey – back to
Longyearbyen. The rain was beating down, the swell of the ocean was bigger than
we had, had all of the trip and the fog was so thick that you couldn’t see anything!
We were out in the open ocean and it was really rough. I managed to go for dinner,
but then had to go to have a lie down for a few hours – as did most of the
other passengers! When I got back to my cabin, there was a Certificate to say I
had crossed the 80<sup>th</sup> Parallel and a DVD that had been made of the
highlights of this trip. The swell of the ocean died down slightly about 9.30pm,
so I went to the lounge and watched the Farewell Show the crew put on for us.
It was an amateur production by the Philippines and Russian crew – and it did
make everyone laugh. Just imagine large Russian boiler men, dressed in ladies
undergarments – dancing to Lady Gaga’s “Pokerface”…………it was hysterical! When the
show finished it was approaching midnight, I went to my cabin to get sorted
out. I wasn’t going to sleep, as I was getting off the ship at 2am. It was a
pity the weather had turned so awful, but we couldn’t complain because we had,
had the right weather when it mattered - and we were in the Arctic! We docked
right on schedule, and within 10 minutes I was at the airport heading home. I
had a big grin on my face – I had been there, seen it all and got a keepsake
Hurtigruten jacket to prove it - what an adventure it had been!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Lynne</i></b></span></div>
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<br />Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-42166335146279536912020-05-21T09:00:00.000+01:002020-05-22T09:05:30.075+01:00Gloucester<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Gloucester</span></u></b></div>
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The city of Gloucester lies on the River Severn, close to the Welsh border - between the Cotswolds and the Forest of Dean. It is surrounded by fabulous countryside and places to visit, but if you get a spare day - call in to Gloucester and see what it has to offer. It was founded in 97AD by the Romans, and tombstones and artefacts from this period can be found in the City Museum. From medieval times, due to its situation on the navigable river, it has been an important hub for industry and transport and is the country's most inland port - a status awarded by Queen Elizabeth 1st.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyq5nwsJ9GwXwV3PiXBWrEfNubc6UGOsRouaXqbvC72f2vYujlUCi3AtBmtidwX71QW2ZJ88ZYy6Kga6J7mrbBN8zuiQnwnY4_L2VhUANCinWzsdan1sevMyfaI4qhpt1KJa5ZaKYnS90/s1600/IMG_7167.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1017" data-original-width="1600" height="406" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyq5nwsJ9GwXwV3PiXBWrEfNubc6UGOsRouaXqbvC72f2vYujlUCi3AtBmtidwX71QW2ZJ88ZYy6Kga6J7mrbBN8zuiQnwnY4_L2VhUANCinWzsdan1sevMyfaI4qhpt1KJa5ZaKYnS90/s640/IMG_7167.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The Dockland area fell into disrepair throughout the last century, but has now been rejuvenated and Gloucester Quays turned into a quality shopping outlet. It is an interesting area, with large basins surrounded by soaring warehouses, some of these are now museums, offices and an antiques centre - in a prime location overlooking the canal.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_E8chOzJ1EqPTQOMRsHORZTX3PkuFTWsswYDhaKZWWxA7YqtmR1FH8Q73Y4UHpaqYy9PZUIHcQO7zW8klE34kvaDGOJOyXq-1lg6fm6duxG255zxrkfHOhv5bUL9w8ZnuesNf0Zc7-R8/s1600/IMG_7169.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1180" data-original-width="1600" height="470" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_E8chOzJ1EqPTQOMRsHORZTX3PkuFTWsswYDhaKZWWxA7YqtmR1FH8Q73Y4UHpaqYy9PZUIHcQO7zW8klE34kvaDGOJOyXq-1lg6fm6duxG255zxrkfHOhv5bUL9w8ZnuesNf0Zc7-R8/s640/IMG_7169.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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This building is the National Waterways Museum, and inside it tells the story of Gloucester's docks, the River Severn and the country's canal network. It is a Grade 2 listed Grain building that has been renovated thanks to various donations including the Heritage Lottery Fund. As well as learning about the people who worked in the docks here, you can get involved with interactive exhibits, book boat trips, and of course have some refreshments in their cafe.</div>
<a href="https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/places-to-visit/gloucester-docks">https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/places-to-visit/gloucester-docks</a><br />
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The Mariners Church in the Docklands was built in 1849 to encourage the seamen and canal boat men, from the area and those who were passing through - to sit and worship. It is a simple little church with an interesting history, lovely stained glass windows and a peaceful air about it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLQJ4GMvZRMNn475e7H1uyk6d8tf3Qta3AXCJ6QNG8gtFt_ji5ZHa-VjpCyZA0xD-gu0Od2IhsWp3aM1iZymqfsmK_KftoMVZ_FD1b8E1pvyUUxkSowjyFdg_AhPTe1TIscBtCLEHC2Eo/s1600/IMG_7172.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="575" data-original-width="1600" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLQJ4GMvZRMNn475e7H1uyk6d8tf3Qta3AXCJ6QNG8gtFt_ji5ZHa-VjpCyZA0xD-gu0Od2IhsWp3aM1iZymqfsmK_KftoMVZ_FD1b8E1pvyUUxkSowjyFdg_AhPTe1TIscBtCLEHC2Eo/s640/IMG_7172.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Gloucester Docks was the setting for the 1970's TV series The Onedin Line, which had a huge following in its day; and started my passion for old sailing ships. When I was in Gloucester it was the Tall Ships Festival and an absolute delight to see some of these marvellous old ships in all their glory.</div>
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The Main Basin here used to be thriving with sea-going vessels, that had sailed up the 16 mile Gloucester and Sharpness Canal to off load their cargo in the heart of the city. It must have been quite a sight to see tall sailing ships and even the occasional steamer coming up the canal. After a new dock was built at the Sharpness end of the canal, for ships that were too large to come all the way to Gloucester; barges started carrying the cargo up to the city. That eventually fell into decline and by the 1980's commercial traffic had all but come to an end.</div>
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Whilst the Tall Ships Festival is on, you have to pay to walk around the basin area; but you get a wrist band that covers the whole weekend, so you can always come back the following day.<br />
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Across the basin is a dry dock area run by T.Neilson and Co., and these are now the world's leading specialists in Traditional Tall Ship renovation, carrying out repairs to ships and their rigging.<br />
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As well as having a good view of these majestic vessels, with paying for the wristband, you were allowed to actually go on them (although there was a short wait - as only so many were allowed on at one time). Now that was a bonus and an opportunity too good to miss!</div>
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I decided to have a look around The Matthew; this replica took 2 years to construct and was finished in 1996 - but standing on board, it felt hundreds of years old. The original Tudor ship The Matthew sailed from Bristol to Newfoundland in 1497 - captained by John Cabot a Venetian merchant. In 1997 she re-enacted Cabot's original journey to mark the 500th year anniversary of his historic voyage.</div>
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The Matthew is now an almost permanent feature in Bristol's Floating harbour, owned by a charity that offers free tours on board as well as pre-booked trips out on the water (many involve a meal and can last from 1 to 4 hours in length). I will definitely have to go on one of those cruises the next time I am down this way.</div>
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There are several information boards where you can learn about John Cabot and his determination to find a new trading route to the Orient; he convinced King Henry 7th to back him, and he eventually arrived at Newfoundland. He was the first known European to discover the North American continent. You can also follow the reconstruction of the new Matthew - as well as be entertained by some of the ship's crew in various aspects of life on board ship. <a href="https://matthew.co.uk/">https://matthew.co.uk/</a></div>
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As well as tall ships in the basin, there were colourful canal boats to see, and many places to stop for a drink or a snack. There was an area with market/craft stalls - selling all manner of unusual items. As far back as 1852 there were pleasure boats on this canal and life has come a full circle - tourism is the main activity here now.</div>
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There were steam engines to admire, a huge funfair for the children (or young at heart) and fund raising stands held by many different local organisations. It was easy to spend several hours covering everything that was on offer here.</div>
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From here, it was about a 10 minute walk into the heart of the city; where you will find most popular high street shops - but many of them are part of beautiful old historical buildings; although lots of these are really squeezed together.</div>
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Make sure you keep looking up - above the shops!</div>
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Isn't this the most unusual looking Fish & Chip shop - typically English but not in the way you think.<br />
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The Cathedral, formerly known as The Cathedral Church of St Peter and the Holy and Indivisible Trinity, is right in the heart of the city, and for me, it is the highlight of Gloucester.</div>
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The stonework on the outside of this magnificent building is so ornate. The Cathedral originated in approximately 678 AD, with the foundation of an abbey dedicated to St Peter. The original Abbey church was built in stages over the 11th - 15th centuries; solid, huge Norman architecture (inspired by ancient Rome) and later the perpendicular Gothic architecture which became traditionally English. Most of these styled buildings have been lost and this is now the earliest surviving one left in England, as well as being regarded as one of the most beautiful Cathedrals in the country.</div>
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It is free to go inside, although there is somewhere to leave a donation - if you so wish.</div>
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The Abbey was the site of the coronation of the 10 year old child King Henry 3rd in 1216 - he was the only monarch since the Norman invasion, not to be crowned in Westminster Abbey.</div>
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The ornate stonework continues inside, and the vaulted ceiling throughout the building is just mesmerising. It is hard to believe that something so incredible could have been built so long ago, without the tools and equipment we have nowadays.</div>
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There are several mirrors strategically placed so that you can admire the stained glass windows and the ceiling - make sure you have a look through to see them.</div>
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The Choir Stalls date back to about 1350 and are fabulous examples of medieval woodwork<br />
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You can have a guided tour of the Crypt (one of only 4 apsidal cathedral crypts in the country). For just £3 you can go below and see the domed passageways with vaulted hemispherical roofs, and hear stories of long ago.<br />
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There are several tombs worth a closer look - some of famous people including royalty.<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">This canopied shrine is the tomb of King Edward 2nd, who was murdered in 1327 at the nearby Berkeley Castle - his son commissioned the building of this tomb a few years later, which was quite an impressive sight even in those times. </span>For over a hundred years, thousands of pilgrims came to visit the King's tomb and see the splendour that surrounded it.</div>
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The above is dedicated to Orsic, the Saxon King of the Hwicce - he founded a small religious community here in 678-9; and his sister Kyneburga was the first abbess here.</div>
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This is the tomb of William the Conqueror's eldest son Robert of Normandy (c1054-1134), but due to conflict in the family, Robert was never the King of England. He helped lead the First Crusade, seizing Jerusalem in 1099; but a few years later he was captured by his brother King Henry 1st. Sadly, he spent the remainder of his life (28 years) in Cardiff Castle and was buried here in the Abbey - this effigy was carved of him about 100 years later from a piece of bog oak..</div>
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The Cathedral is full of fabulous stained glass windows - as well as traditional ones, these here are different but also incredibly beautiful.<br />
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The Great East Window has the largest overall area of any medieval cathedral in Britain, created in the mid 14th century; and the majority of the glass you see today is still the original. It was commissioned by Edward 3rd to glorify the chapel, in honour of his late father, and at that time it was the largest window ever seen. </div>
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You can climb the stairs and view the Cathedral from a completely different angle; glass walls have been added so you can make the most of the view. There are also information boards and interactive things to do on this upper level.</div>
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If you head towards the Great East window, there is a passageway leading behind the glass; it was built about 1350 to connect the north and south side of the Tribune Gallery. The angle of the walls in this passageway cause sound waves to bounce - making the slightest whisper heard at the opposite end of the passageway - like the whispering Galleries of St Paul's in London and St Peter's in Rome.</div>
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Half way through the Whispering Gallery look out for this figure of Jesus, which is over 1000 years old - it was found in the Bishop's garden only 150 years ago.</div>
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I loved the view from these higher galleries; the colour of the mosaic floor and woodwork below, the carved, arched galleries and columns; and of course the spectacular vaulted carved stone ceilings. </div>
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The organ was originally made in 1666 and is the only surviving complete 17th century organ case in the country - look how beautiful the Organ pipes are.<br />
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Outside is an attractive garden area around the cloisters; the fan vaulted roof of the inside of these cloisters were used in the Harry Potter films. The Cathedral has also been the setting in a few Doctor Who episodes, The Hollow Crown, Wolf Hall and Sherlock. </div>
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For more information on the Cathedral <a href="https://www.gloucestercathedral.org.uk/">https://www.gloucestercathedral.org.uk/</a><br />
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In the area around the Cathedral, there are medieval buildings, some in better condition than others - but they are always quite an awe inspiring sight.<br />
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This is the Little Cloister House with a fabulous facade, and its carved stone garden wall, surrounding a colourful cottage garden.<br />
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Heading back through the city - look out for the Mural below on the wall of Sainsbury's. It shows images of the Dobunni tribe, who lived in the area at the time of the Roman Conquest, through Saxon, Norman and medieval times - it is an interesting depiction of Gloucester's history.</div>
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Finally, as you are walking though the city, keep looking down the alley ways - you never know what you may find in a courtyard. Behind the New Inn public house is this delightful area to sit and have a drink and they even have singers dressed as mariners - to entertain the crowd.</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">I thoroughly enjoyed my day in Gloucester - it has so much to offer.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Lynne</i></b></span><br />
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<br />Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-79111636391206542442020-04-04T17:05:00.000+01:002020-04-04T21:09:45.619+01:00Rottnest Island<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Rottnest Island</span></b></u></div>
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Situated just a few miles off the coast of Fremantle and Perth lies Rottnest Island, with picturesque scenery, some of the finest bays and beaches in the world and unique, adorable wildlife. To local Aboriginal people the island is known as Wadjemup (meaning 'place of spirits') and items have been discovered on the island showing it was inhabited over 6000 years ago. After the Swan Valley Colony was established in 1829 Europeans began living on Rottnest Island and today it is a beautiful relaxed tourist destination with so much to offer. </div>
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You can get to Rottnest from 3 separate locations; Fremantle Boat shed, (takes 25 minutes) Perth Ferry Terminal (takes 90 minutes) or Hillary's harbour (takes 45 minutes) - which was where I chose to travel from. The boats leave early in the morning - returning about 4:30pm - giving you a full day to explore or to just relax on the island.</div>
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There is always something interesting to see on the crossing, whether is is the cityscape in the background, beautiful beaches along the coastline or the quaintness of the island as you approach.</div>
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Rottnest is famous as being home to the Quokka, a small marsupial; who although there are a few other colonies in Australia - the greatest numbers are found only on this island. In 1696 when the first European set foot on the island, it was called 'Rotte nest', meaning Rat's nest - because of the numbers of Quokkas there. How sad that they were described as rats; they are small wallabies lovingly known as pint-sized kangaroos. Today they are one of the most selfie-photographed animals in the world.</div>
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You must remember that Quokkas are free to roam around the island, and although they are friendly little creatures - you aren't allowed to feed them, touch them or harm them in any way.<br />
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At the end of the main jetty you will find the Visitor Centre which is open every day from 7:30am; where you can get information on sight seeing tours, walking trails, bus services, accommodation and numerous other activities - here are just a few :-<br />
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www.skydivegeronimo.com.au</div>
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www.swanriverseaplanes.com.au</div>
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www.segwaytourswa.com.au</div>
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www.whalewatchingwesternaustralia.com</div>
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www.adamspinnacletours.com.au</div>
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It is a car-free island, and most visitors get around by bicycle - hiring them on the mainland and bringing them over on the ferry. But there are other ways of seeing the island. You can take a 90 minute guided bus tour with detailed commentary which can also include Oliver Hill WW2 Guns and Tunnel Tour. There are 5 specific walking trails around the island, ranging from 5 to 10 kilometres in distance, with interpretive signs and sculptures. Or you can buy a ticket for the Hop On Hop Off bus - which is what I decided to do.</div>
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The bus stop is quite central - just behind the Visitor Centre area, and you can buy your tickets online beforehand (with your ferry ticket), at the kiosk or on the bus itself. The Adult price is $20 and for a child or concession it is $15 - which is valid for the entire day. What an fabulous way to see the island - if you don't fancy doing it by bike. The buses run every 15 minutes - I was so impressed, they were very punctual and I hardly wasted any time waiting for the next one to come along.</div>
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I decided to see as much of the island as possible before lunchtime, so I worked out an itinerary that would utilise my time. The first stop was picturesque Parker Point - the photographs will speak for themselves! The view from up on the cliff was breath-taking - the sea was so calm, clear and colourful. There are several bus stops in close proximity to here, so I was able to walk between them - taking in the view.</div>
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The crystal clear water is a marine sanctuary - perfect for snorkelling; and the white sandy beaches are so enticing............you just have to go for a paddle or a swim if you have the time. If you don't take your own equipment, you can hire snorkel sets, paddle boards and other beach requirements.<br />
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As well as spectacular scenery, look out for Rottnest's resident raptors - the Nankeen Kestrel and the Osprey (there are just over 14 known nesting sites around the island) and if you are lucky, you may see them dive into the ocean in search of their next meal.</div>
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In the distance, around Salmon Bay, is Wadjemup Lighthouse - which was my next stop.</div>
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This is one of two lighthouses on the island - Wadjemup being the tallest, most prominent one that can be seen from the mainland on a clear day. It took 9 years to build and was completed in 1851 - although it is completely modernised now; still assisting ships navigate through these waters.</div>
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Guided tours of the lighthouse are given several times each day, but if you don't fancy climbing all those stairs - the view of the island is still really good from the base.<br />
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Three of the walking trails start or end here - a good beacon to head for!</div>
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Back on the bus, the next stop was the furthest one from the ferry - Cape Vlamingh and the Cathedral Rocks. The bus driver told me it was highly likely seals were about and advised me which way to go. Only a few minutes walk up a sandy track, I came to a wooden platform overlooking the ocean - with a wonderful view of the rocky coastline below. </div>
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<span style="text-align: start;">I was delighted to see numerous New Zealand Fur Seals happily playing in the shallows, quite near to people who were in the water - I don't know who was more inquisitive! They were mesmerising to watch and I could easily have stayed there much longer - but there was still more to see!</span></div>
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Only a short distance away was the West End Boardwalk to Cape Vlamingh - where as well as being a great place to admire the dramatic rugged coastline - if you are lucky, you may spot a pod of bottle nose dolphins or whales playing in surf. The area has an exposed shoreline platform that has been created by the strong waves in this area - making it an interesting geological site.<br />
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And can you believe it................although it is in the middle of nowhere - there is somewhere to buy refreshments and enjoy spending some time sitting in a deck chair looking out over the ocean.<br />
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Then it was time to catch the bus again, this time travelling along the northern coast of the island, passing bay after bay of pure white sand and turquoise sea.<br />
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As well as spectacular views out to sea, inland has picturesque wetlands, with the lighthouse in the distance - which are home to many species of birds. This is somewhere I would definitely like to walk around and explore the next time I visit Rottnest. </div>
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I travelled on the bus as far as Geordie Bay, deciding that this was an ideal place for lunch. Geordie's cafe has an extensive menu, places to sit inside or outside, a shop and Art Gallery attached - and is very close to some of the islands most popular beaches - Parakeet Bay, Geordie Bay and Longreach Bay. These are also a favourite mooring place of the hundreds of small boats that visit the island every day, so for me, they weren't the secluded paradise I was expecting. </div>
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You couldn't fault the soft sand and the crystal clear water - it was the perfect place to spend an hour or so relaxing. Keep a lookout though, for as well as fish swimming about, you are likely to have a sting ray pass by - I saw several!<br />
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From here it is an easy walk back past the golf course to the Thompson Bay Settlement, or you can catch the bus for free from Geordie Bay - back to the main bus stop in Thompson Bay.<br />
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There are still more bays and beaches to see (if you haven't seen enough), and as this area is close to where much of the accommodation is - you will find life guards on duty, which is re-assuring for families with young children. I was impressed with how many public conveniences there were on the island and the taps where you could fill your water bottle.<br />
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Whilst walking back, it gave me a chance to see some Quokkas in their natural habitat, in the shrubbery under the trees; they are so tame - there is nothing on the island to harm them. They really are the cutest little creatures - who have the art of posing for tourists off to a fine art!</div>
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It won't be long before you arrive back at Thompson Bay Settlement, the hub of the island, where you will find everything you need. There is a bakery, several boutique stores, different types of places where you can eat, drink and get ice cream. You are not allowed to ride your bike in this entire area (you can only walk with it), so many are parked up - you have to remember which is yours!</div>
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For those interested in history and the heritage of the island, there is the Museum in the Old Mill, the ex-convict John Lomas's Cottage, Rottnest Chapel, the Pilot Boathouse and the Salt Store - where salt was dried out and transported to the mainland - for many years it was the only source of salt in WA.</div>
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There are several quality places to enjoy a drink or meal, with a wonderful waterfront locations, such as Thomsons, Pinky's Beach club and Hotel Rottnest which is the place to be for entertainment, concerts and other events. To appreciate some of those, you have to stay overnight - now that is something worth asking the Tourist Information Centre to help me with next time :)</div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">It was the perfect place to spend the last hour of my day before catching the ferry back to the mainland. </span>And if all of that wasn't enough - there is Rottnest Movies, the Golf Club, a Family Fun Park, Karma Day Spa, countless cruises and tours and the Settlement Railway - a scenic ride up Oliver Hill. One day is never enough on Rottnest Island.<br />
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I had completely fallen in love with every part of Rottnest Island and knew that I would be back!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Lynne</i></b></span><br />
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Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-328555695100451222020-02-03T15:14:00.000+00:002020-03-02T16:38:48.937+00:00York<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">York</span></u></b></div>
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The walled city of York has historical and
cultural architecture at every turn; founded by the Romans in 71 AD and called Eboracum; then captured by the Vikings in
866 AD and renamed Jorvik. As the capital of the new Viking Kingdom, which covered much of the north and east of England, it became one of the most important cities in England - and still is. At the heart of the city stands the 13<sup>th</sup> century
Gothic York Minster surrounded by the almost-complete city walls, which enclose
a myriad of narrow, cobbled streets with traditional shops, restaurants, museums
and interesting places to visit and learn more about this fascinating city.<o:p></o:p></div>
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One of the highlights of any trip to York is to visit its magnificent Cathedral - York Minster, which is one of the finest Medieval Gothic Cathedrals in the world. A church has stood on this spot from 627, and at the end of the 11th century William the Conqueror ordered the building of a great Norman Cathedral here, although work on the Cathedral as it is now, didn't commence until 1220. </div>
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Apart from its history dating back thousands of years, having fabulous stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings throughout; your entrance ticket offers you a free guided tour to learn more about this iconic building. For an extra price, you can climb the 275 steps of the central tower for a panoramic view of the city; or you can visit the "Undercroft" - the foundations beneath the building to experience more of York's fascinating history with artefacts from Roman and Viking times.</div>
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The Great East Window contains the largest expanse of medieval stained glass in England and tells the story of The Creation to The Apocalypse.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimK11nI4K99ZRAS91MxH189JxVOtp7s4HIaE8oe0wo2xBwycV3iJTtpmmiMHoGbKuKvtSEY8GjkzmKtPA05C2yrK_-s6QNZ12o77xbST_o-RVDyzospNILYe1JUAAhHQ8zybAK6EAQnEk/s1600/York+Minster+%252815%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="1600" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimK11nI4K99ZRAS91MxH189JxVOtp7s4HIaE8oe0wo2xBwycV3iJTtpmmiMHoGbKuKvtSEY8GjkzmKtPA05C2yrK_-s6QNZ12o77xbST_o-RVDyzospNILYe1JUAAhHQ8zybAK6EAQnEk/s640/York+Minster+%252815%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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One of my favourite sections was the circular Gothic Chapter House, with its domed roof, stone carvings, stained glass windows and ancient carved doors; where day to day business of the Minster was carried out. The entrance to it is along a fairly low passage, which gives you no indication of what is to come and I was lucky enough to have this marvellous room all to myself!</div>
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As well as more incredible stonework, there are colourful, authentic tombs and memorials throughout the building dedicated to all sorts of people - dating back more than 500 years.</div>
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Your admission ticket is valid for 12 months, so you can always revisit. More information at <a href="https://yorkminster.org/">https://yorkminster.org/</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP0XYXtwoJ2B_r_-dqvp0fMjK6RF5MB9J-bFkIYmUSeNh1EYw96FLBjvboyeZOHlSmurizeqyIUaMtR9qETH46oyMlAQdApkNKiSCICroknphzNfTl3lGvTCMevxr3cE79HQ7H1AN8-cw/s1600/Barley+Hall+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP0XYXtwoJ2B_r_-dqvp0fMjK6RF5MB9J-bFkIYmUSeNh1EYw96FLBjvboyeZOHlSmurizeqyIUaMtR9qETH46oyMlAQdApkNKiSCICroknphzNfTl3lGvTCMevxr3cE79HQ7H1AN8-cw/s640/Barley+Hall+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Also in the Minster area you will find The Barley Hall (although it is quite hidden - in The Coffee Yard off Stonegate), a medieval townhouse; which has previously been home to the Priors of Nostell and even a Lord Mayor of York. The building was rediscovered in the 1980's when a derelict office block was about to be destroyed - and this magnificent building was found to be behind it. The oldest parts of the hall date as far back as about 1360, when it was built as the townhouse for the Nostell Priory.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUp8KwOTYX0yU-bNLNkvmw8QRmWlDDdRPl_JVC4Lql63zwYwf0dvbnAgsuX4-ZKdpLywjWIM34AO_HCFdmIYS2tGzUjKHpBbBsPv_Zca65zBcfNp9sunwx6rdKK-1xjrskIeP2qtBUwy4/s1600/Barley+Hall+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUp8KwOTYX0yU-bNLNkvmw8QRmWlDDdRPl_JVC4Lql63zwYwf0dvbnAgsuX4-ZKdpLywjWIM34AO_HCFdmIYS2tGzUjKHpBbBsPv_Zca65zBcfNp9sunwx6rdKK-1xjrskIeP2qtBUwy4/s640/Barley+Hall+%25284%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;"> It has now been restored to its original medieval splendour, where you can see its timber frames, high ceilings and decor and furnishings, that have been replicated from the time of Richard 3rd. It is open 7 days a week from 10am and more information can be found at </span><a href="https://barleyhall.co.uk/" style="text-align: justify;">https://barleyhall.co.uk</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8foQfh7DmRXfx6oy5YQeLgNsWIuEJKxxVoDMSxo6FUeS-A5I_h5Cs9QWrKBjyQ0QjvybX4HkrxuL0mjxvUrUWwfwV30qgpHzjNfd_MkC2fnuqWyjuKZM6809tjPGeGGBOP4DqhAkHI4o/s1600/City+Walls+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1313" data-original-width="1600" height="524" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8foQfh7DmRXfx6oy5YQeLgNsWIuEJKxxVoDMSxo6FUeS-A5I_h5Cs9QWrKBjyQ0QjvybX4HkrxuL0mjxvUrUWwfwV30qgpHzjNfd_MkC2fnuqWyjuKZM6809tjPGeGGBOP4DqhAkHI4o/s640/City+Walls+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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York's City Walls are approximately 2 miles long with 5 main gatehouses (known as Bars), dozens of towers and a Victorian Gateway. These walls are the most intact left in England and it is worth walking around at least a part of them - to capture the atmosphere, as well as great views of the city.</div>
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There are a few sections where parts of the wall is missing, but at the base of the staircases are maps telling you where the next section can be found. If you walk all the way around it will take about 2 hours, but there is so much to see on the way, that with regular stops it can take much longer.</div>
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Around the walls, look out for the Richard 3rd and Henry 7th Experience, where you can learn more about the lives of these 2 kings; with Henry defeating Richard to become the first Tudor king.</div>
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One of my main reasons for visiting York was to go to the Jorvik Viking Centre, which is built on the site of a Viking village discovered in the 1970's, in the centre of the city. You have to walk over the huge glass floor and see remains below of Viking houses, workshops and backyards - as it was 1000 years before; and see displays on the walls of one of the most fabulous recent excavations and what was discovered. The staff, dressed in traditional clothing are very informative and happy to elaborate on any of the findings here.</div>
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Although renowned as being fierce warriors, most Vikings settled into peaceful lives over in England. They were skilled craftsmen, especially with silver, gold, lead and glass; many were also farmers and fishermen. They were also acclaimed as being great sailors and traders, with links far and wide - hence acquiring goods from many different places all over the world.<br />
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You can have a journey or a ride in a "Time Capsule" that takes you through a 10th century Viking village, seeing how and where they lived, worked and died. There is an audio commentary throughout the ride with an option for it to be in various languages. This is a fabulous experience that is so well put together, I thoroughly enjoyed it and could easily have gone around a second time. </div>
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The figures are so life like - they are fabulous. Some of their faces have been reconstructed to match skulls that have been unearthed - so they really are authentic vikings.<br />
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Even the rat eating some left-overs looked real.</div>
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After your journey through the village, you can see over a thousand artefacts; unusual, ornate and rare items in the newly designed gallery - as well as skeletons that have been unearthed here in York .</div>
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You exit up the stairs and through the gift shop. The Jorvik Centre is well worth a visit; it is open from 10am every day and your ticket is valid for 12 months. <a href="https://www.jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk/">https://www.jorvikvikingcentre.co.uk</a><br />
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My next port of call was the Merchant Adventurers' Hall, again right in the heart of the city - described as another of York's medieval marvels. Dating back to the mid 14th century, this fabulous Tudor timber framed building is one of the finest remaining medieval guild halls in the world.</div>
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It isn't very expensive to go in, and you are given a free audio tour to learn more about York's early entrepreneurs - how they risked their own money in overseas markets in to bring wealth to the city.</div>
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As well as a great collection of art, silver and portraits (and this statue of Napoleon) , there are lots of stories to learn about York's townsfolk, as well as its more affluent citizens.<br />
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The main Hall is a wonderful room, and you can just imagine the goings-on here over the last 600 years; it is still used for noisy gatherings today - with weddings and hospitality events.<br />
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I can highly recommend a visit here, it is open every day from 10am (although it closes early on Saturdays) and has a delightful cafe and a small shop. <a href="http://www.merchantshallyork.org/">http://www.merchantshallyork.org/</a></div>
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York's Chocolate Story involves a guided tour over 3 floors, to discover how York became famous for numerous best-selling names in confectionery. You can see how cocoa is transformed from the humble bean into tasty chocolate and even try some samples. <a href="https://www.yorkschocolatestory.com/">https://www.yorkschocolatestory.com/</a></div>
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The Shambles is one of York's most famous and picturesque streets - which has featured in many films and TV shows. Situated between the Minster area and the town, this cobbled street is full of unusual shops - many of which you won't find anywhere else; the only problem is that it gets too crowded. It is not a very long street, but has a market running parallel to it - which is worth a visit.</div>
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Look out for Guy Fawkes Inn on High Petergate - the birthplace of the notorious Guy Fawkes who plotted to blow up the Houses of Parliament in 1605.<br />
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Clifford Tower standing on a raised mound of earth, is the remnants of a fortified complex dating back over 1000 years. This ancient monument was once a timber keep, built in the time of William the Conqueror, and the Tower you see now has stood here since 1245. It was once part of York Castle but is now owned by English Heritage - climb the steps for a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding countryside.</div>
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<a href="https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/cliffords-tower-york/">https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/cliffords-tower-york/</a></div>
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For me, York Castle Museum (which has never been a castle) was one of the highlights of my visit to York - totally unexpected and nothing like any other museum I have been to. It is in 2 separate parts - on either side of the entrance (where you will also find the cafe and the shop).<br />
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There are displays showing rooms from various centuries and most decades of the past 100 years; with artefacts that everyone can enjoy and sometimes relate to.<br />
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There are often temporary exhibitions - this one was about clothing and body shapes!</div>
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This was a room showing what a coffin-makers workshop might have looked like - intriguing!<br />
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The reconstructed Victorian Kirkgate street with its cobbled road, authentic shops and even a life-like horse and carriage is fabulous - the lighting even changes to make it appear either day or night-time.<br />
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There are characters dressed in traditional clothing, adding atmosphere to the area and you can even buy real confectionery from this shop; you really are taken back to the Victorian era here.<br />
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In the next part of the museum you will find more "normal" items and displays. One exhibition consists of toys and no matter what their age - everyone can relate to something from their childhood.<br />
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But then you come to a section called 1914: When the World Changed Forever - about Life in The Trenches which is absolutely brilliant. Here you can really get to grips with what it was like to have been in a World War One trench - not just on the Allied side, but on the German side too. There are many interactive displays to help - as well as smells and noises from the Front - so you could experience how grim and horrific life would have been for those on the front line.</div>
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This was one of the Gas masks that would have been used in WW1 - it seems so inadequate. There was also the chance to see some of the First Aid equipment that was used to save lives - that was frightening!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6_WL8YlWB4bJgkUaZly8SM5d2onhYtGGp2W5zef9y4x_YDe-JLPxDUaPD5FXro8UnmBbQ5VUu-IG7xSgaTQOLhY6f58rFDCg7Qvcjt4HwRnjEuDJwuTUte2MvJgG_TvE33BGYxRPULrE/s1600/York+Castle+Museum+%252832%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6_WL8YlWB4bJgkUaZly8SM5d2onhYtGGp2W5zef9y4x_YDe-JLPxDUaPD5FXro8UnmBbQ5VUu-IG7xSgaTQOLhY6f58rFDCg7Qvcjt4HwRnjEuDJwuTUte2MvJgG_TvE33BGYxRPULrE/s400/York+Castle+Museum+%252832%2529.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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On to another decade - a complete contrast; the next section was vibrant and full of life - The Sixties!</div>
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In this colourful interactive gallery you can see inventions that changed the world, from a space capsule, revolutionary technology to unconventional music and fashions.</div>
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The final section is in the original Georgian prison area which was once home to Dick Turpin the infamous highwayman; many of the tales we know about him are purely fictional but he was actually tried and executed here in York.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2eOhbnH4t6y9LaLT86CuLum_HLOU67xYn2Aem3hklJagBeNbnNyDaao1Z5YsWBGOVbC11QUxZuo5SX0byJDqEX89bdXQHNDLfvEFDLCtARKa3Jm43oucKITVFUxfiFh8uqC6MyGzMyI8/s1600/York+Castle+Museum+%252851%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1047" data-original-width="1600" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2eOhbnH4t6y9LaLT86CuLum_HLOU67xYn2Aem3hklJagBeNbnNyDaao1Z5YsWBGOVbC11QUxZuo5SX0byJDqEX89bdXQHNDLfvEFDLCtARKa3Jm43oucKITVFUxfiFh8uqC6MyGzMyI8/s640/York+Castle+Museum+%252851%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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With help from holograms (that come on whenever someone walks into the cell), you can learn about various characters, rogues, vagabonds and murderers that served out their sentences here and those who died here.<br />
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Many of its inmates were dealt harsh punishments, kept in dreadful conditions and even sentenced to death (you can see the stocks and gallows in the exercise yard) and thousands were transported overseas - never to return home again.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDh0tCcQAZuEZXhzFVtdlh7JA5MyanbgbHf-495Q6SHZA6qMnDck4aLSDUSR2SPOZvce3b67QdIvpM1KKCbpNB9PwV-Xwvav15KhWsfHMSwHIMYUTem8w6YHmbL6bSnRGHDuTojCvxkn8/s1600/York+Castle+Museum+%252835%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDh0tCcQAZuEZXhzFVtdlh7JA5MyanbgbHf-495Q6SHZA6qMnDck4aLSDUSR2SPOZvce3b67QdIvpM1KKCbpNB9PwV-Xwvav15KhWsfHMSwHIMYUTem8w6YHmbL6bSnRGHDuTojCvxkn8/s640/York+Castle+Museum+%252835%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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You can easily spend 2-3 hours at the York Castle Museum, it is well worth a visit. For more information <a href="https://www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk/">https://www.yorkcastlemuseum.org.uk/</a><br />
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There are many more museum-type places as you explore York. In 1930 when renovations were being carried out, the remains of a Roman bath house was discovered beneath this tavern. For a fee, visitors can see where Roman soldiers and citizens of the city came to bathe and relax.</div>
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For those of you who are interested in the war - there is the York Army Museum </div>
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<a href="https://www.yorkarmymuseum.co.uk/">https://www.yorkarmymuseum.co.uk</a></div>
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Fairfax House, a Georgian town house and museum is an interesting place to visit <a href="http://www.fairfaxhouse.co.uk/">http://www.fairfaxhouse.co.uk/</a></div>
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There are so many interesting buildings as you wander around - York itself is like a huge outdoor museum. There are also trips along the river for an hour - if you need to give your legs a rest! </div>
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And just for something that is as far away from medieval as you can possibly get...............!</div>
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It is definitely worth looking at buying a York Pass if you are interested in visiting lots of York's attractions, they are valid for varying amounts of days to suit your needs. <a href="https://yorkpass.com/city-pass-attractions/">https://yorkpass.com/city-pass-attractions/</a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Lynne</i></b></span><br />
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<br />Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-16906686103302636072019-12-20T00:31:00.001+00:002020-07-06T09:02:10.108+01:00India<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>India</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9QaKeqMnYDR7y4mjorqGATxoViPtl26sIYnRG09uBtfI4UQiXvtOMmVors6n-O-LtO488ocvIevgquMGo2QUijGcpC_bLleOrkYMZ6Oracruy2WtCAeiLC8aAQlIGxGncrR6nJpUoOvY/s1600/2019-11-14+09.23.22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9QaKeqMnYDR7y4mjorqGATxoViPtl26sIYnRG09uBtfI4UQiXvtOMmVors6n-O-LtO488ocvIevgquMGo2QUijGcpC_bLleOrkYMZ6Oracruy2WtCAeiLC8aAQlIGxGncrR6nJpUoOvY/s640/2019-11-14+09.23.22.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Arriving
at Delhi early morning, it was all systems go - as I only had one day to see
the best parts of this city. Delhi was as manic as I expected; people, animals,
and tuk-tuks everywhere – but surprisingly many of the roads were lined with manicured
trees although there were people living and sleeping along the edges of some
roads. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2ezejfhyphenhyphen6KUBanh-nGKKjWzQ3Tx46oF4yHGpBtoiTDwmBXJKBLuUJEsmSelGd5YMQOTqApOlPDpSfjviJpoCbGLv5yP8cdKByj5cAek61HbOQS5t0LYqX_z6UghDDiNeZISCnfNg79o/s1600/Delhi+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl2ezejfhyphenhyphen6KUBanh-nGKKjWzQ3Tx46oF4yHGpBtoiTDwmBXJKBLuUJEsmSelGd5YMQOTqApOlPDpSfjviJpoCbGLv5yP8cdKByj5cAek61HbOQS5t0LYqX_z6UghDDiNeZISCnfNg79o/s640/Delhi+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">First,
I went to Old Delhi, the main city until the 1500’s – to The Jama Masjid, one
of the largest </span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">mosques in India, built in 17</span><sup style="font-family: calibri, sans-serif;">th</sup><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;"> century from marble,
sandstone and limestone, by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. To enter the deep
red complex, I had to put on a long gown (even though I was quite covered up)
and remove my sandals. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ix_BA5CcvM_KgYHahwuPxfy_PwQURtGshSbXPXw4LiRJz7XOHbSpSik-OUYeM8NgPTl4tnHkb-Hb4vwY0BJwMMFGGYFGCqQDuIiea5xfPlxqZXodkzXSzzmBFn3QNk48q7CqQGqKCNo/s1600/Delhi+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="991" data-original-width="1600" height="396" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Ix_BA5CcvM_KgYHahwuPxfy_PwQURtGshSbXPXw4LiRJz7XOHbSpSik-OUYeM8NgPTl4tnHkb-Hb4vwY0BJwMMFGGYFGCqQDuIiea5xfPlxqZXodkzXSzzmBFn3QNk48q7CqQGqKCNo/s640/Delhi+%25286%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">It
consisted of a huge square with an open corridor on 3 sides, and in front of
the main building is a square pond where crowds of worshippers had gathered. The
main building is the prayer hall fronted by intricate arches, with 3 marble
domes on top and 2 minarets at each end. The floor of the mosque has 899 black
borders on white marble - that resemble prayer mats for worshippers. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8KBBPEK_UAoBWv104DX9FWsVVdzF4T6v3zn6hsqo987LWvAhxg5WDSAKD2pnRhk_BPrwz90yvJxfSBzp9QuyrzukfeHWxG41V7Jtx0a3AUmw4kCOD4nX6EtZ5rHhWIFiFjKj2e1wUa7M/s1600/Delhi+%252811%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8KBBPEK_UAoBWv104DX9FWsVVdzF4T6v3zn6hsqo987LWvAhxg5WDSAKD2pnRhk_BPrwz90yvJxfSBzp9QuyrzukfeHWxG41V7Jtx0a3AUmw4kCOD4nX6EtZ5rHhWIFiFjKj2e1wUa7M/s640/Delhi+%252811%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Surrounded
by this complex is the old city, with its narrow lanes, bustling bazaars,
terrifying motorbikes, spaghetti-like electricity cables and the occasional protected
tree growing through a building. This area was more akin to the Delhi I was
expecting; although exotic, it was chaotic, noisy, and seedy – not somewhere I
was particularly comfortable. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSfDoOqS3rnRqJH4uhzZkMSrAbbd1YvyzcJHik6z31lrueEhO3aL8UCcpNz-21GdYyBcGE6uKstK77wUrBtn-5Ix_yAX7b3hrzH6v-ZU4dtBDMiG5pW5THEAjLTTzgNN-uqbz53zQMVgY/s1600/Delhi+%252818%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSfDoOqS3rnRqJH4uhzZkMSrAbbd1YvyzcJHik6z31lrueEhO3aL8UCcpNz-21GdYyBcGE6uKstK77wUrBtn-5Ix_yAX7b3hrzH6v-ZU4dtBDMiG5pW5THEAjLTTzgNN-uqbz53zQMVgY/s640/Delhi+%252818%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
next stop was Raj Ghat – a pristine memorial garden dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi;
with a black marble platform marking the spot of his cremation, (the day after
his assassination on 30 January 1948) that has an eternal flame burning. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_id4KeEGL44ecyfrfkWuTepLynYs9DYVdEY6yV5veZtQIjRwmK19pD335F35N2bCjGEhrDt2hfcd7oZNVYhp5M5YoG1CNvDQFKfY5QPD2BKcvlt43PHT7Ud2403UrXI-1DSfxpwF0v0A/s1600/Delhi+%252822%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_id4KeEGL44ecyfrfkWuTepLynYs9DYVdEY6yV5veZtQIjRwmK19pD335F35N2bCjGEhrDt2hfcd7oZNVYhp5M5YoG1CNvDQFKfY5QPD2BKcvlt43PHT7Ud2403UrXI-1DSfxpwF0v0A/s640/Delhi+%252822%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Close
to here was Humayun’s Tomb, a fabulous set of buildings commissioned by the
Queen when her husband died in the mid 1500’s, and each quadrangle is
identical, with waterways running into symmetrical ponds, the same size trees
on every corner and perfectly cut lawns throughout. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTb901FsiPkAasP3A9ezf60akhe4sBTHFl0W_n-XWW9DCpnzRFs_3Nbs-MeqmqjM2Ie57rmD_QUU5YB342Rb_pra3mp-ldDr34Cx_d5-IDzqL9dLS9Y4QJPdFSGYLu_PQ1_qyv3i9xOPc/s1600/Delhi+%252827%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1093" data-original-width="1600" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTb901FsiPkAasP3A9ezf60akhe4sBTHFl0W_n-XWW9DCpnzRFs_3Nbs-MeqmqjM2Ie57rmD_QUU5YB342Rb_pra3mp-ldDr34Cx_d5-IDzqL9dLS9Y4QJPdFSGYLu_PQ1_qyv3i9xOPc/s640/Delhi+%252827%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
colourful central building with its mogul arches and domes is a wonderful sight
– the red/orange stone with contrasting white marble is one of the most
beautiful buildings I have seen – and a total surprise. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ_DqhPDfCvoX8x9hyphenhyphenDgq1A1or3mxv8CJS1EDcyaj0fdEkK0FgCCErqURjRMOBlPPZ2KRwSJLjkJdZJvVFwqll_1Gqih-giFizkmE_AMGi7AOBetPDgIaCMbpY87qHm5GkPPm44D49iXI/s1600/Delhi+%252831%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1154" data-original-width="1600" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ_DqhPDfCvoX8x9hyphenhyphenDgq1A1or3mxv8CJS1EDcyaj0fdEkK0FgCCErqURjRMOBlPPZ2KRwSJLjkJdZJvVFwqll_1Gqih-giFizkmE_AMGi7AOBetPDgIaCMbpY87qHm5GkPPm44D49iXI/s640/Delhi+%252831%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">You
have to climb steep stairs to reach the upper platform area, and inside the
rooms are empty except the one with the King and Queen’s coffins (although the
original ones are 10 feet below). The sunlight shining through the latticework
of the archways in this chamber was quite mystifying. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgoKIXE8h1Xp_dmMuACHQZQNS5PjIRb2F8F74WP2o-S3DHWJ88td52nIFAF3R8_QWUGvDR92eLrUUZbZZLheYdp9bMAu_cKC37F1Cgdm-nH9IsiHcWkamkgV2KOitYei-xZ8ItYoV4cow/s1600/Delhi+%252836b%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgoKIXE8h1Xp_dmMuACHQZQNS5PjIRb2F8F74WP2o-S3DHWJ88td52nIFAF3R8_QWUGvDR92eLrUUZbZZLheYdp9bMAu_cKC37F1Cgdm-nH9IsiHcWkamkgV2KOitYei-xZ8ItYoV4cow/s640/Delhi+%252836b%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">There
is another tomb in the grounds – Isa Khan’s Garden Tomb which is worth a look.
You could spend a lot of time here, admiring the buildings and enjoying the
gardens – for me, it was the highlight of my day. Driving back through the
city, we passed the spectacular Parliament buildings, an area which our guide
said resembled something between the city of Paris and the Whitehouse in
America. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHWwli-skNVFJePe6m4L-S-fdQ5j-jNyQqA23V218ntCNiVqnSCEOXUAlV2cKZD5GFr65pt1meKHacaIx00oHL8p8O7sVNZCvEvqp61rwy4TiOjKZIgzGsblUTOH7c75IpNU5TwNnBhLs/s1600/Delhi+%252840%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHWwli-skNVFJePe6m4L-S-fdQ5j-jNyQqA23V218ntCNiVqnSCEOXUAlV2cKZD5GFr65pt1meKHacaIx00oHL8p8O7sVNZCvEvqp61rwy4TiOjKZIgzGsblUTOH7c75IpNU5TwNnBhLs/s640/Delhi+%252840%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
final stop of the day was at Gurudwara Bangla Sahib - a prominent Sikh temple,
where I had to wear an orange bandana and remove my sandals again. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieaayO_A34puyIQz0ve0ZelL-ogEKq8hQkVuu3nl4b084ZCJ7mvrKhk2NLNGzcd_D0AJ9j1J703wIYZNeQd2dzjrW4BH0h9_oNX9dU0nyF3YWFz_udNovkQQZ0MtAgF0hp9JuaUAN4DbA/s1600/Delhi+%252840a%2529+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieaayO_A34puyIQz0ve0ZelL-ogEKq8hQkVuu3nl4b084ZCJ7mvrKhk2NLNGzcd_D0AJ9j1J703wIYZNeQd2dzjrW4BH0h9_oNX9dU0nyF3YWFz_udNovkQQZ0MtAgF0hp9JuaUAN4DbA/s640/Delhi+%252840a%2529+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
first section was the Gurdwara kitchen, were volunteers prepare food for up to
6000 people every day – regardless of their religion or race. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyphenhyphenEXc50aUjyrEYV3Dqho2BKoKHNoWMjS-YvD5twXlwi2GF_S3FJRtJMxmnN0PJ-F60DkDD9nNRfi59o2kpBP47e2XL2XUcefQQpZOaczIXexpgZNxq8VXx5GpZdYLKU0TUGhEmoeBZWw/s1600/Delhi+%252841%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihyphenhyphenEXc50aUjyrEYV3Dqho2BKoKHNoWMjS-YvD5twXlwi2GF_S3FJRtJMxmnN0PJ-F60DkDD9nNRfi59o2kpBP47e2XL2XUcefQQpZOaczIXexpgZNxq8VXx5GpZdYLKU0TUGhEmoeBZWw/s640/Delhi+%252841%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcKPOLop0cBFWYpBl1ORLFql9klZVkIU3PMM-hHbprcYJ07Gzoq7FzfhCJW4-oieEzXm7o7Q2-GBCqihNpXtwBhZ5kaq8yeZwDIvWt6Xdm2Ab1rkRTd7xL2Y6Ki53cnfjE7ZNqcKsEOQ/s1600/Delhi+%252842%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivcKPOLop0cBFWYpBl1ORLFql9klZVkIU3PMM-hHbprcYJ07Gzoq7FzfhCJW4-oieEzXm7o7Q2-GBCqihNpXtwBhZ5kaq8yeZwDIvWt6Xdm2Ab1rkRTd7xL2Y6Ki53cnfjE7ZNqcKsEOQ/s640/Delhi+%252842%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
main temple is pure white with a huge central golden dome, smaller domes at
each side, and more intricate arches. Once inside no-one is allowed to take
photographs – it was full of people worshipping. Outside there was another
surprise – the “Sarovar” – a huge square pool surrounded by numerous arches;
people can bathe in the waters to cleanse themselves. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEj0pw9tRJdRhujP2RqJw8vKOVCxeQrl5dYEFOjkD7ugPINxaIP83g0Ogo3dh-GAkQhUn3kUF_o-QUSEJGzfxrOgsCrPzeq3K08Pa19PV6A829SbU7ahEfNmYVQ4R6DFL8eBv_Lj91_k/s1600/Delhi+%252840a%2529+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEj0pw9tRJdRhujP2RqJw8vKOVCxeQrl5dYEFOjkD7ugPINxaIP83g0Ogo3dh-GAkQhUn3kUF_o-QUSEJGzfxrOgsCrPzeq3K08Pa19PV6A829SbU7ahEfNmYVQ4R6DFL8eBv_Lj91_k/s640/Delhi+%252840a%2529+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">It was a beautiful end to a whirlwind of a day in Delhi, which I had enjoyed much more than I expected to. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr9Hj_-WfNqkarOuUG-fZDjPQw3GiXGxN99vQpQm0wryGpM9gJqcsK_K28z3wm5QSrLw9WerVosIBmnBzUwyB967UeWb_KLiZ8Qf2dLdYeuwxq_16wFdtFm0a7ifs2xjD-OAs3R6t91Y4/s1600/Delhi+AGRA+%252892%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr9Hj_-WfNqkarOuUG-fZDjPQw3GiXGxN99vQpQm0wryGpM9gJqcsK_K28z3wm5QSrLw9WerVosIBmnBzUwyB967UeWb_KLiZ8Qf2dLdYeuwxq_16wFdtFm0a7ifs2xjD-OAs3R6t91Y4/s640/Delhi+AGRA+%252892%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
following morning, I headed south to Agra – sharing the roads with donkeys,
horses and carts, dogs, camels and cows - that have such an important status in
this country. The first place I visited was one of the finest Mughal forts in
India, Agra’s Red Fort, built in the 16<sup>th</sup> century from red sandstone
and marble on the bank of the Yamuna River - on the orders of Emperor Akbar. His
grandson Shah Jahan, (who built the Taj Mahal) instructed that extensions were
made using his favourite building material – white marble. </span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">The
fort was initially a military establishment, but Shah Jahan transformed it into
a palace, which later became his prison for 8 years - after his son seized power.
The fort’s impressive walls are more than 20m high and really do look
impregnable. Inside, it is like a city within a city, with various colourful
courtyards and numerous buildings. The Amar Singh Gate to the south, is the only
entrance point and climbing the pathway, I could see the dogleg design, which was
meant to confuse attackers who had made it past the first line of defence – the
crocodile-infested moat. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7t1pTh0bno7KKjcP7yvphGP0drzcCKdQDck_uHOKo6ObSCF-O9W3bcLTDWdjclgw1CQM1wVP1XzN9UO-rnb71PyKM4CGKsyY9GGPua2mI0uE4IbR55_41-vtMuAse7Ejvl3zfbL3mWg/s1600/Delhi+AGRA+%252893%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7t1pTh0bno7KKjcP7yvphGP0drzcCKdQDck_uHOKo6ObSCF-O9W3bcLTDWdjclgw1CQM1wVP1XzN9UO-rnb71PyKM4CGKsyY9GGPua2mI0uE4IbR55_41-vtMuAse7Ejvl3zfbL3mWg/s640/Delhi+AGRA+%252893%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">I soon
arrived at a gateway and could see over the immaculately cut lawn, to the huge
red-sandstone Jehangir’s Palace. In front of this is a giant bowl carved out of
a single block of stone, which many years ago, was used for bathing. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgsKjyGa4YLbTdwXrxXNDyZnB-y_AlugbS6hzooa8mX5o_9kKhy_bnzopzjzx7cfxl6uTgEN3JyrH8Vn-A5WQ7hpVRPp4OT6j9eX57upr0C5OBlKoppyEDERbZ3rbrE6lF0sQOFoma0I/s1600/Delhi+AGRA+%252894%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWgsKjyGa4YLbTdwXrxXNDyZnB-y_AlugbS6hzooa8mX5o_9kKhy_bnzopzjzx7cfxl6uTgEN3JyrH8Vn-A5WQ7hpVRPp4OT6j9eX57upr0C5OBlKoppyEDERbZ3rbrE6lF0sQOFoma0I/s640/Delhi+AGRA+%252894%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">With tall stone pillars and arches, this fort is a mixture of Indian and Asian architectural styles; and the large courtyard has a garden that has been brought back to life in recent years. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9mLT2t7xRL7hvqdVU1N-dFz-u61VFi0QaQtHa5SqogxqkTA21ZGwzYeurezS0yNEgjEWd17n7l-8cqurT22_IQLYyR28mjieElBUKblOd3dQOL4cWr_Qe7IS-sZc4WcwAJQqmwTtpR_o/s1600/Delhi+AGRA+%252895%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9mLT2t7xRL7hvqdVU1N-dFz-u61VFi0QaQtHa5SqogxqkTA21ZGwzYeurezS0yNEgjEWd17n7l-8cqurT22_IQLYyR28mjieElBUKblOd3dQOL4cWr_Qe7IS-sZc4WcwAJQqmwTtpR_o/s640/Delhi+AGRA+%252895%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Here
is the impressive Hall of Public Audience with its marble columns and carved
arches. There are also bright dazzling marble courtyards offering spectacular
views of the Taj Mahal - which can be seen through the ornate marble grills. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0lEIlii19O6rr__ApLdwhkHEY3ksxHXSK9fR5_XVpelLmxy6JpuoSaVxlb7RAm6-RNkdCYgMKVYysB2Y-BhLTP0WGFG8jiF2yp5yg1KLfPz7OXWnCJDtHzGc-mfYoaV2Kznt8UKGEqA/s1600/Delhi+AGRA+%252895a%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="996" data-original-width="1600" height="398" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj0lEIlii19O6rr__ApLdwhkHEY3ksxHXSK9fR5_XVpelLmxy6JpuoSaVxlb7RAm6-RNkdCYgMKVYysB2Y-BhLTP0WGFG8jiF2yp5yg1KLfPz7OXWnCJDtHzGc-mfYoaV2Kznt8UKGEqA/s640/Delhi+AGRA+%252895a%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.12px;">In one courtyard is the Mirror Palace, with its walls and ceiling inlaid with thousands of tiny pieces of glass that have a reflective mirror quality and glisten inside the building – but this was closed to the public when I was there. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4J5NuPRARYg57sHipntpFmJYmEOa_mtkh1LXi_hWA94IAND17JqUvAym6qi7330tD-rEZLFhSub5k2X1xMHUuA94ut7WsQ6Sb5JbwlPdfLUd_CW7jCcegLyjvSBBN6rDBT5YkeA0NXKs/s1600/Delhi+AGRA+%252896%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4J5NuPRARYg57sHipntpFmJYmEOa_mtkh1LXi_hWA94IAND17JqUvAym6qi7330tD-rEZLFhSub5k2X1xMHUuA94ut7WsQ6Sb5JbwlPdfLUd_CW7jCcegLyjvSBBN6rDBT5YkeA0NXKs/s640/Delhi+AGRA+%252896%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
Mathamman Burj is a white-marble octagonal tower, surrounded by sculptured
arches and decorated with semi-precious stones. This was where Shah Jahan was
imprisoned for 8 years until his death in 1666, and from here he could gaze over
the river at the Taj Mahal (the tomb of his wife); and when he died, his body
was taken there by boat. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIXPooGOyNAjNmmfyrOaSef3EfgpXi9uVxKiebtOYkAwU6ab-8jI6kifKUj5BCqEKJ_aVa4h4qJIubeIeaN1VMi_nXN-b8Gu1aQfBWwR-Bwd9kQm5uIqcm75j4nZMZcQK3Uw2JYniz1lE/s1600/Delhi+AGRA+%252897%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIXPooGOyNAjNmmfyrOaSef3EfgpXi9uVxKiebtOYkAwU6ab-8jI6kifKUj5BCqEKJ_aVa4h4qJIubeIeaN1VMi_nXN-b8Gu1aQfBWwR-Bwd9kQm5uIqcm75j4nZMZcQK3Uw2JYniz1lE/s640/Delhi+AGRA+%252897%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">It
was a very interesting place to visit and set the scene for one of the highlights
of my trip – visiting one of the New Wonders of the World, The UNESCO - Taj
Mahal. This ivory-white marble mausoleum, described as possibly the world’s
greatest monument, was commissioned in his grief, in 1632 by the Emperor, Shah
Jahan, to house the tomb of his favourite wife, a Persian Princess called Mumtaz
Mahal - who died giving birth to their 14th child. The Mughal tomb (whose basic
elements are Persian) is the centrepiece of a huge complex set in immaculately
kept formal gardens. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Security is very strict here, no food or sweets are
allowed (your bags are checked), you must have your body searched and you can
only take a camera or mobile phone – no videos. To keep pollution to a minimum,
traffic is not allowed near the complex and tourists must either walk (about 15
minutes) from the parking areas or catch a special electric bus. After walking
through a lawned courtyard, I came to one of the 4 Gates – they are identical -
as in all mogul complexes. The Gate was such an ornate building, and as I went
through it – the view of the Taj Mahal itself appeared - as magnificent as I
had expected. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQjmcCI09CXd7EmG-fxz1EDbc3bPP4dUAVe5L4tvjYTxV5r3W2fOFk_6k6kVOPwLwzEghl6mBHHxAH6utPUzqIMCv86W7ZsV_tTtn2vN6oJpeghD-VTSNl4DK85Es5xxUYuX6NCNu5Vo/s1600/e+Taj+Mahal+%252859%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1308" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOQjmcCI09CXd7EmG-fxz1EDbc3bPP4dUAVe5L4tvjYTxV5r3W2fOFk_6k6kVOPwLwzEghl6mBHHxAH6utPUzqIMCv86W7ZsV_tTtn2vN6oJpeghD-VTSNl4DK85Es5xxUYuX6NCNu5Vo/s640/e+Taj+Mahal+%252859%2529.jpg" width="522" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">There
were crowds of tourists clambering to take photographs of the first view of
this iconic landmark; but as soon as I was through this gateway, the crowds
dispersed and there was ample space to enjoy what I had come to see. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8jrQAiGhmaXNZv0zQOy2cNUYaOUt9M5XReVJ7sLsDpvjrcnONhdt9jCqOe2ocS-4-9yRtkURd5RAb4WgcBUNMXtBS5GICe6adwYJjVxYDM0Ne9dcsGFe3D3tUKF0573AHnq6fFN1scE/s1600/e+Taj+Mahal+%252859a%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1125" data-original-width="1600" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8jrQAiGhmaXNZv0zQOy2cNUYaOUt9M5XReVJ7sLsDpvjrcnONhdt9jCqOe2ocS-4-9yRtkURd5RAb4WgcBUNMXtBS5GICe6adwYJjVxYDM0Ne9dcsGFe3D3tUKF0573AHnq6fFN1scE/s640/e+Taj+Mahal+%252859a%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcUr2lIvbf5l55BVwBdUWazgXb2pM5TbLPih0myAIs4SifQgy42OEZKjs54iwiFs7_5atSvkmjJ5oD5VKnYjaTXrSwfWI2rkPFyx6y1kkWd7aLsTGNgmmydXIG5d2rKmMzVcd-dppAVp4/s1600/e+Taj+Mahal+%252866%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1245" data-original-width="1600" height="496" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcUr2lIvbf5l55BVwBdUWazgXb2pM5TbLPih0myAIs4SifQgy42OEZKjs54iwiFs7_5atSvkmjJ5oD5VKnYjaTXrSwfWI2rkPFyx6y1kkWd7aLsTGNgmmydXIG5d2rKmMzVcd-dppAVp4/s640/e+Taj+Mahal+%252866%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">The 300-metre square garden has raised pathways dividing each quarter into sunken flowerbeds, and avenues of trees - symbolising the 4 flowing rivers that are in every Paradise garden. It felt so serene and calm – a safe place to wander and enjoy the exceptional, unparalleled surroundings. </span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwmBgYsOcimN3xkQfsUI7iy5YcYlRFsMoO-XnXb8vWfw4lY3t_o0NEjTeA0Ggt7AIqqB9EWfHuP4VLPwQayvGGUw9R_GZsYiT_T0Bg2yYJcAfD6g2Nx9ECN6S180To6gpIWCsCgq8JwwI/s1600/e+Taj+Mahal+%252861%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1077" data-original-width="1600" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwmBgYsOcimN3xkQfsUI7iy5YcYlRFsMoO-XnXb8vWfw4lY3t_o0NEjTeA0Ggt7AIqqB9EWfHuP4VLPwQayvGGUw9R_GZsYiT_T0Bg2yYJcAfD6g2Nx9ECN6S180To6gpIWCsCgq8JwwI/s640/e+Taj+Mahal+%252861%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Halfway
between the gateway and the tomb itself, is a long pool positioned precisely to
reflect the image of the mausoleum; although from the opposite end – it also reflects
the image of the gateway. </span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGIdukJWvDlo2XsR6qo2Q6WF_jTU4u2W-kX-SduDr2NvczhT36kj4z_B9qmj3PMIQLc3Ymmdq02Y8sY_neoyJsM5kek15s_ZThrDRcGND9GpgtQjKEAiIvB_P2LXZHHQYfpez-Jymonow/s1600/e+Taj+Mahal+%252868%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1252" data-original-width="1600" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGIdukJWvDlo2XsR6qo2Q6WF_jTU4u2W-kX-SduDr2NvczhT36kj4z_B9qmj3PMIQLc3Ymmdq02Y8sY_neoyJsM5kek15s_ZThrDRcGND9GpgtQjKEAiIvB_P2LXZHHQYfpez-Jymonow/s640/e+Taj+Mahal+%252868%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Once
I reached the mausoleum itself, I had to put covers over my shoes to protect
the marble. Wandering around this incredible structure, it was hard to believe
that something so ornate and perfect, could have been built so long ago – and
that it is still in such immaculate condition today. When you get close you can
appreciate the exquisite detailing of the carvings, hundreds of thousands of pieces
of mosaic semi-precious gemstones of yellow marble, jasper and jade – all
highly polished, that decorate the entire building - the finest in Mughal
architecture. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZuYJS8QWK4s5zGmhoh_0khdU8WqdscvXgGlr1OzZAymzL_4HAb2RR__o0ZZPXCKGeT5AKwv-1juOhgwq94YU5G4e-yxLbvBA-5pWkDUSEXq5wU85X8VpMPsMUvc79_8O8ommcuhnfEds/s1600/e+Taj+Mahal+%252865a%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZuYJS8QWK4s5zGmhoh_0khdU8WqdscvXgGlr1OzZAymzL_4HAb2RR__o0ZZPXCKGeT5AKwv-1juOhgwq94YU5G4e-yxLbvBA-5pWkDUSEXq5wU85X8VpMPsMUvc79_8O8ommcuhnfEds/s640/e+Taj+Mahal+%252865a%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">White inlays are used in sandstone buildings, and dark or black
inlays on the white marble ones. The most spectacular feature is the 35-metre-high
marble onion-shaped dome that surmounts the tomb - with its top decorated with
a lotus design. The main inner chamber is octagonal and contains the false
sarcophagi of Mumtaz Mahal and Shah Jahan; their actual graves are at a lower
level. The interior walls are about 25 metres high, with upper arches that form
balconies or viewing areas. Every surface has such delicate detail, with more semi-precious
stones forming twining vines, fruits and flowers. Once inside this section,
there are guards checking that everyone is being respectful, being quiet, not
attempting to take photographs and keeping moving in one direction. There is
nothing else inside the building and you just follow the walkway around,
passing marble latticed arched windows and leaving by a different door. </span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">I
was lucky enough to see this amazing place in the late afternoon, and although
there wasn’t a breath taking sunset; as the light faded – the colours
intensified. The reflective pools turned vivid turquoise - contrasting
spectacularly against the marble mausoleum – I was very happy to be able to
capture this picturesque setting. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBhmjta_VRYncOxaOt5uhIquknyJC3dRjYMbfuydVHUQMWlaBgJI0DdY5t5ABgzd3qATDumYTpJCBmVh-NfAcdVNP5krpfdw461P2XuVoF5w61cQtkApIqt0p_r5LJ2-_Qa8Mhy8LzHQ/s1600/e+Taj+Mahal+%252867%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1349" data-original-width="1600" height="538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCBhmjta_VRYncOxaOt5uhIquknyJC3dRjYMbfuydVHUQMWlaBgJI0DdY5t5ABgzd3qATDumYTpJCBmVh-NfAcdVNP5krpfdw461P2XuVoF5w61cQtkApIqt0p_r5LJ2-_Qa8Mhy8LzHQ/s640/e+Taj+Mahal+%252867%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Returning
the following morning, although there wasn’t a colourful sunrise, the
atmosphere and quietness of the area more than made up for it. There were not
crowds like the previous afternoon (so I managed to sit on the famous “Diana’s
bench”), and the mist that shrouded the dome changed from a ghostly white to a
hazy blush pink.</span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGcvCHuIVD8LY_HqPoIsBFEKwL4dc7MmClm1pFfRLlbn-CT2el8oRZZdRr0I85C7UCcWQXFY1smkx4QGv2IdXzbIIyDyElN_Jsp9z2ZhyphenhyphenIo6tKfTPF4pIFwd0XDmqXvLlNC971LgTHLY0/s1600/e+Taj+Mahal+%252870%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1259" data-original-width="1600" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGcvCHuIVD8LY_HqPoIsBFEKwL4dc7MmClm1pFfRLlbn-CT2el8oRZZdRr0I85C7UCcWQXFY1smkx4QGv2IdXzbIIyDyElN_Jsp9z2ZhyphenhyphenIo6tKfTPF4pIFwd0XDmqXvLlNC971LgTHLY0/s640/e+Taj+Mahal+%252870%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> I left feeling quite satisfied that I had seen the magnificent Taj Mahal in all of its glory. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My tour in Agra was with <a href="https://www.travelcreatorsofindia.com/">https://www.travelcreatorsofindia.com/</a> which I can highly recommend.<br />
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKbP_K3H9GPBtW5uIaDkPBYl8glfue2rshen5m7PkegQxghx06py9WlArSp0OJW1b6od5kRz2Yr2K2jD2z-JXZbf1mPf_RF9raqzO6i6CZzIEySz1ohmFPQ70l0XUTQqnEeqb2zf3ZvMk/s1600/e+Taj+Mahal+%252872%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1146" data-original-width="1600" height="458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKbP_K3H9GPBtW5uIaDkPBYl8glfue2rshen5m7PkegQxghx06py9WlArSp0OJW1b6od5kRz2Yr2K2jD2z-JXZbf1mPf_RF9raqzO6i6CZzIEySz1ohmFPQ70l0XUTQqnEeqb2zf3ZvMk/s640/e+Taj+Mahal+%252872%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Leaving
Agra was an adventure in itself, with more animals on the roads than vehicles
and it wasn’t long before we stopped at Fatehpur Sikri – a deserted ancient
capital built in the 16<sup>th</sup> century. Due to scarcity of water, the place was abandoned after only 12 years and the entire city, with its deep red sandstone palaces, temples and buildings left almost intact. From the carpark, you have to take the “Tourist bus” up to the complex – this was an experience! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjT2_n_dcDtmoLob5hWGfxA1EUTiQI4vLzOgaDr1Z-eH4kPd3SHzCdz_1vX_-BZ388GO9JgnQ8mTthSDuIy8n35o_48W7Hr-cV4VbtSOlRdq3x3jLpSQnsX5mvTNBg7wRmSua3Sw57klY/s1600/Fatehpur+Sikri+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1302" data-original-width="1600" height="520" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjT2_n_dcDtmoLob5hWGfxA1EUTiQI4vLzOgaDr1Z-eH4kPd3SHzCdz_1vX_-BZ388GO9JgnQ8mTthSDuIy8n35o_48W7Hr-cV4VbtSOlRdq3x3jLpSQnsX5mvTNBg7wRmSua3Sw57klY/s640/Fatehpur+Sikri+%25287%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Inside
the complex was another Hall of Private Audience (different to other ones),
where the king would sit above and look down at his subjects; the Queen’s
chambers and many other buildings with faint remnants of paintings on the walls
and ceilings. Some of the five-storey buildings, with their pillars and arches
were very impressive even though they were completely open to the elements. I
particularly liked that the King’s bed was 10-foot-high, and when he went to
sleep, the ladder which enabled him to get into his bed, was removed – as a
safeguard against attackers! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghrK2bEwY2cIbG9I9-aZknhmImlZzaievw20yJuQ07rfFTDVjXMoJaKxIcahx7dpHBfKDHsimwqLcaYNBeR9rN1Q4u0OcHjOTdD1YEP3EXbSnJKB5ATNIgK-3OtneURue0BB35k36CEEw/s1600/Fatehpur+Sikri+%252814%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghrK2bEwY2cIbG9I9-aZknhmImlZzaievw20yJuQ07rfFTDVjXMoJaKxIcahx7dpHBfKDHsimwqLcaYNBeR9rN1Q4u0OcHjOTdD1YEP3EXbSnJKB5ATNIgK-3OtneURue0BB35k36CEEw/s640/Fatehpur+Sikri+%252814%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Only
5 minutes’ walk away is the magnificent 54-metre-high gateway, Buland Darwaza, the
entrance to Jama Masjid mosque. Hawkers were particularly troublesome in this
area, and they didn’t even leave me alone even when inside the complex; many
guides don’t bring tourists here for that reason – which is such a pity. The
deep crimson walls and multi storey buildings here are stunning; and in
complete contrast, in the middle of the courtyard is the white marble tomb of
Salim Chishti – a Holy man who supposedly helped the King get a successor when
most of his babies had died. The entire complex is a mix of Hindu and Mughal
styles – the numerous domes, arches, and different colours were more impressive
than the Palace complex next door, and it is highly worth a visit. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4UbyM_Ttt73tcrZmFOTelPjskp1cKZU8LZrH1qLxBsdlSQSBMAbq7hRDpWBdOHXrbyHrYOmH7isenaBwNRBolAtASS8FpUgsDj51uuk6GcS1sXKvtTKemuUnh68FkZAf7t0ubdH2pDI4/s1600/Fatehpur+Sikri+%252821%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1169" data-original-width="1600" height="466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4UbyM_Ttt73tcrZmFOTelPjskp1cKZU8LZrH1qLxBsdlSQSBMAbq7hRDpWBdOHXrbyHrYOmH7isenaBwNRBolAtASS8FpUgsDj51uuk6GcS1sXKvtTKemuUnh68FkZAf7t0ubdH2pDI4/s640/Fatehpur+Sikri+%252821%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">My
journey continued, but now along some of the worst roads of the trip; arriving
at Ranthambore National Park early evening. This National Park is one of the
biggest and most renowned parks in Rajasthan - a former hunting ground of the
Maharajas. Today it is a major wildlife tourist attraction spread over 392 square
km, and one of the best locations to see Bengal tigers in their natural habitat.
Ranthambore was declared one of the Project Tiger reserves in 1973, becoming a
national park in 1980. After a good night’s sleep, I was collected from the
resort at 5:30am, in an open topped gypsy vehicle - arriving at the gate in
plenty of time. You need to take your passport with you, as there are rigorous checks
on anyone entering the park, which is divided into zones and apparently you are
allocated your zone “by your boarding pass” – and you cannot deviate from this. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdrHBr6vULePPlFBjbSDHdO3J2tco1nNnlfRcoMB8IluIsnEqPfQcozioPEiXfE1nExjmTBLUKYkpFyuniNJwaQPzHfQ3Jj7R3nHMxJsYOAF_uiKfb7zHDyayNrtBFgFlNYYDDJOtFgPg/s1600/Ranthambore+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdrHBr6vULePPlFBjbSDHdO3J2tco1nNnlfRcoMB8IluIsnEqPfQcozioPEiXfE1nExjmTBLUKYkpFyuniNJwaQPzHfQ3Jj7R3nHMxJsYOAF_uiKfb7zHDyayNrtBFgFlNYYDDJOtFgPg/s640/Ranthambore+%25286%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">So,
my first Game Drive was in Zone 2, which saw us driving along the lower edge of
an escarpment, crossing many streams with water gushing over huge boulders – it
was a rocky ride! It was so atmospheric though; daylight was just emerging;
mist gently rising and the sounds of the jungle waking up – it was the most
incredible time. Towering 700 metres above was the 10<sup>th</sup> century
Ranthambore fortress, where locals were heading to, as it was a special
festival day in their religion. </span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVi4zZErhNckyWuNQYosT0jf94DR_p0RFm0PWmU5vKVIRjMKAN3yubiM0HEB8zqrhM24_K71j3YyTIU814nHJMyJR_D-H1pK3RqldD4zrOstnnvQt5pUGDh2iX8wizuCHig8LW0I5UunM/s1600/Ranthambore+%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVi4zZErhNckyWuNQYosT0jf94DR_p0RFm0PWmU5vKVIRjMKAN3yubiM0HEB8zqrhM24_K71j3YyTIU814nHJMyJR_D-H1pK3RqldD4zrOstnnvQt5pUGDh2iX8wizuCHig8LW0I5UunM/s640/Ranthambore+%25288%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQcYTQW9n7gPrYu4U4ilAtmsf41FYGbPdADSW9krstPu00UT3E50cyDAw_PLKTW-QHy2dnN7BdoIYpWDjaLgw0B8DraYI8QAPauu03Nwm9so11aXBYw2_VKbi7HjjSn4r3lUGDH156Kkk/s1600/Ranthambore+%252816%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1193" data-original-width="1600" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQcYTQW9n7gPrYu4U4ilAtmsf41FYGbPdADSW9krstPu00UT3E50cyDAw_PLKTW-QHy2dnN7BdoIYpWDjaLgw0B8DraYI8QAPauu03Nwm9so11aXBYw2_VKbi7HjjSn4r3lUGDH156Kkk/s640/Ranthambore+%252816%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">We
went through varying sorts of terrain, from dense rain forest to open
grasslands and wetlands, and I managed to see a wide variety of wildlife;
buffalo, antelope, several types of deer, wild boar, monkeys and colourful
birds. Although I wasn’t lucky enough to spot the elusive tiger on my first 4-hour
game drive, I had seen so much - and felt as though I was in my very own
Wildlife programme! </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgglXq6_gdeEGBdddCsjdVu6PML8VcuKa9YcLHmUAemhcdwqjInqMhl9ida7jEZpIQNwwaSyEAo-l40WcPn-ZLqO7C2BTSjvEYGwq1hC4Id_4h5k7VQtCJ0ZD0EcSE21dOURXY6wKSSDi4/s1600/Ranthambore+%252831%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgglXq6_gdeEGBdddCsjdVu6PML8VcuKa9YcLHmUAemhcdwqjInqMhl9ida7jEZpIQNwwaSyEAo-l40WcPn-ZLqO7C2BTSjvEYGwq1hC4Id_4h5k7VQtCJ0ZD0EcSE21dOURXY6wKSSDi4/s640/Ranthambore+%252831%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">After
a few hours rest and some lunch, it was time to go out again – this time to Zone
3 which was completely different. We passed the most enormous banyan trees,
with monkeys shouting all the time – the noises of the forest were so intense. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwOC-LtrzzXtmIdH63m5Tf_yZPnaiJrCyVWPpmUv6vqQLJp4Q9_h9CzXCSXdE1r4S4saARYH5vJWEYq2b2lGj5ybxoRPPrhUYp_LqC4QAC64GnL8zxb03oXyyOMbbRpt1gIlTcqWfKP24/s1600/Ranthambore+%252835%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwOC-LtrzzXtmIdH63m5Tf_yZPnaiJrCyVWPpmUv6vqQLJp4Q9_h9CzXCSXdE1r4S4saARYH5vJWEYq2b2lGj5ybxoRPPrhUYp_LqC4QAC64GnL8zxb03oXyyOMbbRpt1gIlTcqWfKP24/s640/Ranthambore+%252835%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
guide kept stopping and listening for “The early warning call”, a signal that
danger - a tiger, was close. Whenever a certain type of noise was heard, we
would speed off in that direction and then sit quietly waiting – but there was
no sign of any tigers. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM7EjYOYaaMQ4trtQTZLOMFPOtptHaCSn-hVxg601jzGhs4ajUSLpX0oRVT76F3W1wxLHUfVWnjHliTBx5vqrJNoWAUC183rw_Xheq-ER4j27lno5BDdIVF97Cu3nzMr3pEk6gpt3C_ss/s1600/Ranthambore+%252836%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1272" data-original-width="1600" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM7EjYOYaaMQ4trtQTZLOMFPOtptHaCSn-hVxg601jzGhs4ajUSLpX0oRVT76F3W1wxLHUfVWnjHliTBx5vqrJNoWAUC183rw_Xheq-ER4j27lno5BDdIVF97Cu3nzMr3pEk6gpt3C_ss/s640/Ranthambore+%252836%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">We
travelled around a couple of lakes that were full of crocodiles and saw more
deer in the grasslands; but then a storm arrived, and we had to sit still until
the torrential rain had passed. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD6AyBf_ec7ipFAANyZAh5S8Z3GoiDYo9lJ5UFjgCTCjtzxU_8sHw2aRuZD6X3HtKsRp7wLCnp3d9mC3RkI_1zCseDdJgsouhejhPsF9ZkTL4fHh_5x46q7660dRlmDvDn9xxnAgaMLHA/s1600/Ranthambore+%252841%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1184" data-original-width="1600" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD6AyBf_ec7ipFAANyZAh5S8Z3GoiDYo9lJ5UFjgCTCjtzxU_8sHw2aRuZD6X3HtKsRp7wLCnp3d9mC3RkI_1zCseDdJgsouhejhPsF9ZkTL4fHh_5x46q7660dRlmDvDn9xxnAgaMLHA/s640/Ranthambore+%252841%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
guide was recommending we return back to the resort, as the animals wouldn’t be
about in this weather; when suddenly another gypsy vehicle came towards us with
its passengers shouting excitedly. There was a tiger heading our way! The
excitement was immense. Our driver followed the other vehicle and parked up on
a rocky bank looking down onto a stream below – we had been told earlier that
60% of tiger spotting’s are by water – so this could be it. We waited and
watched; not knowing from where the tiger might appear. And then, there she was
– a magnificent female Bengal tiger. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4T8W7w6F96tpqZzF7k6ZMfJFKugF9QN3N_GJJhJL-iTnu0uLi1fpJFGZT2RTOnIo2-QVXb-g-Gu_iFlnkiQpGjZLfetsEKD4NycqJX3xheFc38Av3ecU3N3jjquRWm2UoVtZvLt5_gU/s1600/Ranthambore+%252850%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT4T8W7w6F96tpqZzF7k6ZMfJFKugF9QN3N_GJJhJL-iTnu0uLi1fpJFGZT2RTOnIo2-QVXb-g-Gu_iFlnkiQpGjZLfetsEKD4NycqJX3xheFc38Av3ecU3N3jjquRWm2UoVtZvLt5_gU/s640/Ranthambore+%252850%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; text-align: justify;">She casually came out from within some bushes, walking slowly down to the stream for a drink – it was a breath-taking moment.</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSPQmwxAF0vPqE8Gvfbw4yM008eENZgXggOZxLLyAAwukmgyaZHu5EsiM6RAb09xoUIhYTK_8DPEPXc8rDIJhhLEEA_aHwIjZrPkf3b_0CmeIFBUVtyiejFLBkLeznRWfguRI5ezmdrw/s1600/Ranthambore+%252857%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1239" data-original-width="1600" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNSPQmwxAF0vPqE8Gvfbw4yM008eENZgXggOZxLLyAAwukmgyaZHu5EsiM6RAb09xoUIhYTK_8DPEPXc8rDIJhhLEEA_aHwIjZrPkf3b_0CmeIFBUVtyiejFLBkLeznRWfguRI5ezmdrw/s640/Ranthambore+%252857%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;"> And just when I didn’t think it
could get any better, she came up the bank (to where we were parked) and walked
right past our vehicle – only about 6 feet away. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg98qvvujnUIA8H-z6q-f0s4t4IY4ArIojKcyxMD4w4CjJ1nC2UJvPt2B8qxWSzEtGiSDC-1qiJIWBexT63vX1d2bIl8ZgCElzf6yJV28UEp8sw-0gQEj8XrJpjn-gPJuUBul2_joGKieI/s1600/Ranthambore+%252866%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg98qvvujnUIA8H-z6q-f0s4t4IY4ArIojKcyxMD4w4CjJ1nC2UJvPt2B8qxWSzEtGiSDC-1qiJIWBexT63vX1d2bIl8ZgCElzf6yJV28UEp8sw-0gQEj8XrJpjn-gPJuUBul2_joGKieI/s640/Ranthambore+%252866%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">No-one
dare move or make a sound, and I don’t think I took a breath for several
minutes. It was one of the most remarkable moments of my life. But it wasn’t
over; not perplexed by us at all, she went and sat down on a rock not far away
– just so we could take some more photos! </span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-1EqFYuaz8GR7Axl3GqLbPGsfhPKEZIZhbn8DjKzbgnnG_rWtBWZDC-14puhoHbQgNZFzH6BE3-R6aGjPXzhQbd5qbTZ9bPZF9swpUNjakZ1FUh_xuM4lpXE2lOxMdm9et01wiWUUf6Y/s1600/Ranthambore+%252878%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1258" data-original-width="1600" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-1EqFYuaz8GR7Axl3GqLbPGsfhPKEZIZhbn8DjKzbgnnG_rWtBWZDC-14puhoHbQgNZFzH6BE3-R6aGjPXzhQbd5qbTZ9bPZF9swpUNjakZ1FUh_xuM4lpXE2lOxMdm9et01wiWUUf6Y/s640/Ranthambore+%252878%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAHLZCFXg4J_FgV9vpb855CAsJXfJwjK18ddfMGVY3GCCa9ozLYq85z_K_1ix-_BY8XjCip6lKrIznDsxxkcMEDPCldjpy0bqRr0sIdbrUAzKtf7nlpZmEX9akk9PIH72ZFl7ubgHoFy0/s1600/Ranthambore+%252871%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1203" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAHLZCFXg4J_FgV9vpb855CAsJXfJwjK18ddfMGVY3GCCa9ozLYq85z_K_1ix-_BY8XjCip6lKrIznDsxxkcMEDPCldjpy0bqRr0sIdbrUAzKtf7nlpZmEX9akk9PIH72ZFl7ubgHoFy0/s640/Ranthambore+%252871%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.12px;">This tiger was called Arrowhead and has 2 cubs which are just over 2 years old – we couldn’t help wondering where they were! But I was so happy with what I had just experienced – it certainly was “Sweet tiger dreams” in bed that night. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuN0ftifcWR6xW-3rOFTxom3to4u8pc9-0SFoVbqi4yXX_9kOlyFgpXlqs1xGQoHP-QIfzXw6mS-gVFqTk5u-gSkElcYcQltAFjQDgOn9YGcxA4uFOP3qohtC-Q4luAjKS_MVyhlY6v4s/s1600/Ranthambore+%252887%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuN0ftifcWR6xW-3rOFTxom3to4u8pc9-0SFoVbqi4yXX_9kOlyFgpXlqs1xGQoHP-QIfzXw6mS-gVFqTk5u-gSkElcYcQltAFjQDgOn9YGcxA4uFOP3qohtC-Q4luAjKS_MVyhlY6v4s/s640/Ranthambore+%252887%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Another
early start next morning, but I was confident I knew what to look for now, and
what the Early warning signal sounded like - as we headed into one of the more
remote zones. The previous days storm had caused most of the roads to become
almost impassable and it wasn’t the most comfortable journey. But the sun came
out and I enjoyed the scenery; the lakes abundant with water lilies or lotus
flowers, seeing the forest animals that were becoming commonplace now and
listening for that special call in the wild. After driving around for a few
hours, I felt happy that I had had my “Tiger experience” yesterday and would
have been happy to call it a day – but our guide heard something. And before we
knew it, our driver took off in the direction of the calling; but halfway up a
hill he suddenly stopped. At the crest of this hill – there was the silhouette
of a tiger (the shot I wasn’t quick enough to get). What a sight it was – just
for that moment. </span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg274OjNhC6VWjjOUzl0ZXccgkUGI_YuPg6h7BIPIb9uDEEYZ0L98qgWkUry7HTuIffUbnyym0OO_suZKIem-V9p2rmMXvigywzuEdL-Sk33vfSZSZDpmamFIAyR7ojPwT5LMLF73MC-9o/s1600/Ranthambore+%252897%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg274OjNhC6VWjjOUzl0ZXccgkUGI_YuPg6h7BIPIb9uDEEYZ0L98qgWkUry7HTuIffUbnyym0OO_suZKIem-V9p2rmMXvigywzuEdL-Sk33vfSZSZDpmamFIAyR7ojPwT5LMLF73MC-9o/s640/Ranthambore+%252897%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrUxgM45UFSSUpeLgWEW2xe9cV72orU6aMQJ-OqEadZOwsbMV3EBVa_laW2XDaESnEpxzeayRKvv8G4v8KJKMn35UAMyh2wJZ4LwH1Fk377mLd8Q5cEpPVG6rfdJlCV7K9CHUVt6Ucij8/s1600/Ranthambore+%252899%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1230" data-original-width="1600" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrUxgM45UFSSUpeLgWEW2xe9cV72orU6aMQJ-OqEadZOwsbMV3EBVa_laW2XDaESnEpxzeayRKvv8G4v8KJKMn35UAMyh2wJZ4LwH1Fk377mLd8Q5cEpPVG6rfdJlCV7K9CHUVt6Ucij8/s640/Ranthambore+%252899%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
tiger quickly moved into the undergrowth, spooked by our presence. We later
learned he was only a youngster, although you would have never guessed by the
size of him. He re-appeared a few more times, as if teasing us or probably just
checking us out. He was a magnificent animal with such bright markings - especially
in the sunshine; although within seconds of going into the undergrowth – he
became invisible. </span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0HghS9CfCr6sCLAnjr8TAmGRe877aj0R0hQgFEE2B9TLV-rmLgqrDJ-xTCbwgDk8xeoFxET66WZJsEuh0LPtNJww-QQgAJzo6KX0rpf_7Knbbfqr1dfcCD3FAJkgiIJnKMmzhlW6jICU/s1600/Ranthambore+%2528101%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1358" data-original-width="1600" height="542" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0HghS9CfCr6sCLAnjr8TAmGRe877aj0R0hQgFEE2B9TLV-rmLgqrDJ-xTCbwgDk8xeoFxET66WZJsEuh0LPtNJww-QQgAJzo6KX0rpf_7Knbbfqr1dfcCD3FAJkgiIJnKMmzhlW6jICU/s640/Ranthambore+%2528101%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
park had been closed for 3 months and only re-opened 2 days previously; so, he
was allowed to be wary. I could not believe how lucky I was to have seen tigers
twice – Royal Bengal Tigers, the national animal of India. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnEClo8E6hg-3Y7TFB86XK5M8StJ5LdYrg91gpPKRa0oaOl779PkymoqhVN3nPnneSzu5a0K4E7TS79Fic4lisjlQZcDPzzoQXv6LazXQyzN0sdUj4YHCaZv2IqM7I0ZRP8Q_bRHyfKOc/s1600/Ranthambore+%2528102%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1205" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnEClo8E6hg-3Y7TFB86XK5M8StJ5LdYrg91gpPKRa0oaOl779PkymoqhVN3nPnneSzu5a0K4E7TS79Fic4lisjlQZcDPzzoQXv6LazXQyzN0sdUj4YHCaZv2IqM7I0ZRP8Q_bRHyfKOc/s640/Ranthambore+%2528102%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.12px;">Ranthambore is an amazing place, dedicated to the preservation and protection of these majestic creatures; which due to the commitment of its staff, is seeing the tiger population increasing at last.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjxClRVkf-DYV5_h_XzrdbiXEdldPndhVYrISQKLeY8ioh8YWkEJeNUEmahXFoZ1M9LFpjzINNGzSWT3fqdUP4sHjo3rB8YZfZ8rY7PfQ0z5fSA-Dfivky7ScYmAvVycmLpYFEw1aXoSY/s1600/Ranthambore+%2528105%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjxClRVkf-DYV5_h_XzrdbiXEdldPndhVYrISQKLeY8ioh8YWkEJeNUEmahXFoZ1M9LFpjzINNGzSWT3fqdUP4sHjo3rB8YZfZ8rY7PfQ0z5fSA-Dfivky7ScYmAvVycmLpYFEw1aXoSY/s640/Ranthambore+%2528105%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">After
all that excitement, it was time to head off to Rajasthan’s state capital,
Jaipur – “The Pink City”. What a colourful city it is – although I would want
to call it The Orange and Pink City – as it is more of an orange colour! Just
driving through to my hotel was spectacular; the coloured archways or gates
leading into the Old City were exquisite – the colours, the carvings and the
size of them. Next morning, I headed off early again, only having one full day
here and determined to see as much of it as possible. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWivwHYOLBGBrUgKffzvM-dxv5YdYO1i5dzWUmQToWedz1FainmKFJWy_vhAkCQ1-RqDa1Cgpl8EXF802V9vaWk_AqvHhnhWc1l59yNUgoynsMssVSL84jlaARctf2SXgD8lCm3LuINU/s1600/s+Jaipur+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="951" data-original-width="1600" height="380" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWivwHYOLBGBrUgKffzvM-dxv5YdYO1i5dzWUmQToWedz1FainmKFJWy_vhAkCQ1-RqDa1Cgpl8EXF802V9vaWk_AqvHhnhWc1l59yNUgoynsMssVSL84jlaARctf2SXgD8lCm3LuINU/s640/s+Jaipur+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
first stop was just a photo opportunity on one of the main roads in the city - the Hawa Mahal - Palace of Winds, constructed
in 1799 as part of the women’s section of the City Palace. The distinctive
salmon pink lace-like façade that is seen from the street is an enormous
screened porch, only one room deep in most places. The 953 windows were
designed to allow the ladies of the royal court to watch the activities in the
streets below, behind their delicate latticework – without being seen. What a
beautiful building this is, made even more so by the fact that it stands amidst
chaotic, colourful local shops. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6wuRld57rdyJkUMHIpJfWuJlehjcbz0Atl58HhTgWaG6OD9pdzKjlljCkoSNj86Nq3DXWYkuzyRraS28ThWnBvW9hl120QRf_rXUOE5clI45Eydb8LKq2E8efhuPTyeAZ4kWJ5CIIZrc/s1600/s+Jaipur+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1154" data-original-width="1600" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6wuRld57rdyJkUMHIpJfWuJlehjcbz0Atl58HhTgWaG6OD9pdzKjlljCkoSNj86Nq3DXWYkuzyRraS28ThWnBvW9hl120QRf_rXUOE5clI45Eydb8LKq2E8efhuPTyeAZ4kWJ5CIIZrc/s640/s+Jaipur+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">We
continued on to the UNESCO Amber Fort, situated on a hill side, overlooking Maota
lake; and when we stopped to take a photo – there was a snake charmer by the
roadside. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTTkUCqNb_rMTxmaMC11NdPbopHMhSw6UyJv2GpS0Dk7FjSNckCJR7cgvXvivZ4kJxeZBlYP_HqChPgQKUzpvRgMKTj2uTPI0UVxjcfHpdA9BCPAmRbIhrLz5CYNeEUygDV8d9LBn5Z4Q/s1600/s+Jaipur+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTTkUCqNb_rMTxmaMC11NdPbopHMhSw6UyJv2GpS0Dk7FjSNckCJR7cgvXvivZ4kJxeZBlYP_HqChPgQKUzpvRgMKTj2uTPI0UVxjcfHpdA9BCPAmRbIhrLz5CYNeEUygDV8d9LBn5Z4Q/s640/s+Jaipur+%25286%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Amber
was the ancient capital of Jaipur state, and the palace and fort, with its
wonderful examples of Rajput architecture, used to be home to the Rajput
Maharajas. We drove up the steep cobbled hill towards the Fort and could see
the gate and large sandstone ramparts. </span></div>
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBeJ_wOwfejo5yW3Pfz90khJWuermM1zQnyitUuFP8XrfWXBhkD6VZ4l7C9nJhEp8jjC8KkwK4XFobsqvsr6dLrLfNC49Fe8XI0LRqWFIpnHZ2vFeAHIt0VtQhkzq9SZdzxLpPBl-XkNc/s1600/s+Jaipur+%25285%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1015" data-original-width="1600" height="404" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBeJ_wOwfejo5yW3Pfz90khJWuermM1zQnyitUuFP8XrfWXBhkD6VZ4l7C9nJhEp8jjC8KkwK4XFobsqvsr6dLrLfNC49Fe8XI0LRqWFIpnHZ2vFeAHIt0VtQhkzq9SZdzxLpPBl-XkNc/s640/s+Jaipur+%25285%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">On
certain days, elephants carry tourists up this road – that must be quite an
experience; but it wasn’t happening the day I was there. </span><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">Once
we arrived at the top, there were huge crowds of people all admiring the view;
the Fort and its walls - the Great Wall of Jaipur, disappeared into the distance. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYB-aWJKRAhUVKk32HpSnLLUFYMjvsq2_2dcwazcuSIF_Pt-fWBJy1ZG_GXG2FInHmtnRhtI9qyZWI1EsT3BIgoV8RXxbN_8wdIS5C9t6z3s0Gs_YtItzVK9-XTIEbs-q_21yGtJr3i3Y/s1600/s+Jaipur+%252815%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYB-aWJKRAhUVKk32HpSnLLUFYMjvsq2_2dcwazcuSIF_Pt-fWBJy1ZG_GXG2FInHmtnRhtI9qyZWI1EsT3BIgoV8RXxbN_8wdIS5C9t6z3s0Gs_YtItzVK9-XTIEbs-q_21yGtJr3i3Y/s640/s+Jaipur+%252815%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">The part I thought was the Fort, was actually the Palace, (the two are
connected by an underground passage which was an escape route in times of war)
which is laid out on separate levels, each with its own courtyard.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif;">
</span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyZKD4O-la7iGHvs5OA7Lr9_JDNcpCLpqsgoHgjQZxZG7zlj9VZPXB9s7fdL7G5h7QcI3UjDDqJCmuQzwOP2X3_cFCog3VOERw6NX3pbX_seh5LiffPZ_kw0JJuaD9Zc3mT7B9hDHDYhQ/s1600/s+Jaipur+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyZKD4O-la7iGHvs5OA7Lr9_JDNcpCLpqsgoHgjQZxZG7zlj9VZPXB9s7fdL7G5h7QcI3UjDDqJCmuQzwOP2X3_cFCog3VOERw6NX3pbX_seh5LiffPZ_kw0JJuaD9Zc3mT7B9hDHDYhQ/s640/s+Jaipur+%25287%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7lP4-OggFVKjTmhD6E2L7izMAA1L2IR1nqN9U2LlAgi4mF0rE0rVGDDNMWha2GOsofZl5LtIPZzR3iXz0OCPf06Ln4YM-1bUV5Z4YqXulsuVImRS3hZRQdrJFQJLi7kkDGFWBgDYUlVk/s1600/s+Jaipur+%252813%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7lP4-OggFVKjTmhD6E2L7izMAA1L2IR1nqN9U2LlAgi4mF0rE0rVGDDNMWha2GOsofZl5LtIPZzR3iXz0OCPf06Ln4YM-1bUV5Z4YqXulsuVImRS3hZRQdrJFQJLi7kkDGFWBgDYUlVk/s640/s+Jaipur+%252813%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">I
entered through the magnificent Lion Gate which is a completely different
selection of colours than any I had seen previously - intricate mosaics of
cream, beige, brown and greens. As in many of the other complexes I had seen,
there was the "Hall of Public Audience" and "Hall of Private
Audience" as well as more unusual places, such as Turkish Baths, domed
pavilions, marble lattice openings and balconies overlooking the gardens or the
distant mountains. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjxJxPGnGcbG3m1bBhkyfcEvYSkm1b6uz6uVvFI-8-YsQrwiGqFjtVuMPvEfiIBCGwHZSd_z1EN6Uu-GwcQrs9pl0haLtC9COm0ijnNIcCs5tiOCE5lB9-5gnp1HLLk3VbrGen10LdPgg/s1600/s+Jaipur+%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1253" data-original-width="1600" height="500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjxJxPGnGcbG3m1bBhkyfcEvYSkm1b6uz6uVvFI-8-YsQrwiGqFjtVuMPvEfiIBCGwHZSd_z1EN6Uu-GwcQrs9pl0haLtC9COm0ijnNIcCs5tiOCE5lB9-5gnp1HLLk3VbrGen10LdPgg/s640/s+Jaipur+%25288%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioCxOrJVcjgD-TCz5cMaEzJtQuC4NY8rdsziFSWUbZI6WoVB_HOlpVvB8bKOOFFEyF7h3bXMmTPHPG-UFeXAwwjp6ysAajSyXCQ6-Ebbn3sJLyZ7g8tiqjqktGWR0iJp4TKXebdRfr-8/s1600/s+Jaipur+%252814%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhioCxOrJVcjgD-TCz5cMaEzJtQuC4NY8rdsziFSWUbZI6WoVB_HOlpVvB8bKOOFFEyF7h3bXMmTPHPG-UFeXAwwjp6ysAajSyXCQ6-Ebbn3sJLyZ7g8tiqjqktGWR0iJp4TKXebdRfr-8/s640/s+Jaipur+%252814%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 17.12px;">But for me, the most fabulous part was the Mirror Palace; although you can’t go inside, the views from outside were breath-taking. It was one of those places where you want to keep taking more photos; the millions of mirrored glass pieces that make up the walls, the arches, the ceiling, and the alcoves were absolutely stunning. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIRQ_qibTQden3wEhIO3-TuOpRvC6N8B6zcUl4RhDALI1j3bEExmJgv-6eXm2ZcS-vADxcET142Xpz0PKbGH2jXnp66D2C7rjcClhh52AGdR7x2hngYvCsSTCaSMZliIqJKTMwxnXWvGc/s1600/s+Jaipur+%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="1600" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIRQ_qibTQden3wEhIO3-TuOpRvC6N8B6zcUl4RhDALI1j3bEExmJgv-6eXm2ZcS-vADxcET142Xpz0PKbGH2jXnp66D2C7rjcClhh52AGdR7x2hngYvCsSTCaSMZliIqJKTMwxnXWvGc/s640/s+Jaipur+%25289%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKa17teHFMRoxNfQK9TaSifqjov94BKvnwaMhGRV6PnUCxBGZfe21zXD5OBzxjZOoqmahf_Iz-Z_z9JkeFylrT6_SDwE_2an275bGEZQpJ_mDhinT_vH8DoR5SF20ztl6HooKwXSkxLPQ/s1600/s+Jaipur+%252810%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKa17teHFMRoxNfQK9TaSifqjov94BKvnwaMhGRV6PnUCxBGZfe21zXD5OBzxjZOoqmahf_Iz-Z_z9JkeFylrT6_SDwE_2an275bGEZQpJ_mDhinT_vH8DoR5SF20ztl6HooKwXSkxLPQ/s640/s+Jaipur+%252810%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrKMXemZSHmsIhvDWb7On7B7SW1Lj6encg8R8_Mbp_12yKkelihlCFBwSaHcv5KpYBfgZxhk2BaNrGiIQtKN9dFGUbAfB5Xf0K0eUDT4SULsF-hihsuU9C1fdMTnQY0WIk5wxypyN-rw/s1600/s+Jaipur+%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1271" data-original-width="1600" height="508" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOrKMXemZSHmsIhvDWb7On7B7SW1Lj6encg8R8_Mbp_12yKkelihlCFBwSaHcv5KpYBfgZxhk2BaNrGiIQtKN9dFGUbAfB5Xf0K0eUDT4SULsF-hihsuU9C1fdMTnQY0WIk5wxypyN-rw/s640/s+Jaipur+%252812%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">We
left the Fort and headed back towards the city, stopping at Lake Sagar to admire
Jal Mantar (The Water Palace), which appears to be floating on top of the calm Lake.
This isn’t somewhere you can visit – just enjoy the view from across the water. </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO7qqOJZsHTtY7P6RiSrxeKP-nHUlZHXbxASSeAnzmKkwl94F1lkvtiuvQ_0x5WMSUF_3ldoFEa0wGT5brZsh0GZbPUiyVETdWcLV81LZztWNaxQHvookB_bMgXNYHJZ7giwu26PdyWhk/s1600/s+Jaipur+%252816%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1107" data-original-width="1600" height="442" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgO7qqOJZsHTtY7P6RiSrxeKP-nHUlZHXbxASSeAnzmKkwl94F1lkvtiuvQ_0x5WMSUF_3ldoFEa0wGT5brZsh0GZbPUiyVETdWcLV81LZztWNaxQHvookB_bMgXNYHJZ7giwu26PdyWhk/s640/s+Jaipur+%252816%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Next
was the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jantar Mantar, a Royal Observatory built in
1728, for the observation of astronomical positions of the stars and planets. It
is the largest and best-preserved observatory – definitely one of a kind. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7N_m3JoCvxfP1Wo-6cgwn3T3-5ujzF9r8ubsQPr2BJWiAEDGByr1adqS0oJumbe9dT3TBl5EpX5QF8lbZSyl8V2icvbOgg91xVilbFOCqR8w_QfRKWh6GZ8aBD1XRKxsoJlaepyV6fA/s1600/s+Jaipur+%252817%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1043" data-original-width="1600" height="416" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT7N_m3JoCvxfP1Wo-6cgwn3T3-5ujzF9r8ubsQPr2BJWiAEDGByr1adqS0oJumbe9dT3TBl5EpX5QF8lbZSyl8V2icvbOgg91xVilbFOCqR8w_QfRKWh6GZ8aBD1XRKxsoJlaepyV6fA/s640/s+Jaipur+%252817%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiXYQW2h6vszR0vpjWycGrEGaWQsLM-lhyphenhypheneK7DOowdJtKS0l3ebRCpigmu00F9rHSKR3d61oE2UvAsaPidRHJNVsBX6csoCd-vk54ySpqDssuYFRzbcQcqPBkGOA4IHRsM-eq24S9_63o/s1600/s+Jaipur+%252818%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiXYQW2h6vszR0vpjWycGrEGaWQsLM-lhyphenhypheneK7DOowdJtKS0l3ebRCpigmu00F9rHSKR3d61oE2UvAsaPidRHJNVsBX6csoCd-vk54ySpqDssuYFRzbcQcqPBkGOA4IHRsM-eq24S9_63o/s640/s+Jaipur+%252818%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
complex contains 19 gigantic stone and marble shapes – all astronomical instruments
designed to tell the position of the Sun, Moon and other planets; and can measure
the time of day to within half of a second. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kcSFcVlNR33NQpktvkOvsmKqiXeJ1bIvkWLTJ5qaxmYUwNQMIoIvmYZxH11YzvPaAYIgnbI0QQKU8zZbeohUQK2KtdlU8kEArevoq5nvSoa0kIt1b0SR3BTD78VXW09V7JkBkJ_xH_w/s1600/s+Jaipur+%252819%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7kcSFcVlNR33NQpktvkOvsmKqiXeJ1bIvkWLTJ5qaxmYUwNQMIoIvmYZxH11YzvPaAYIgnbI0QQKU8zZbeohUQK2KtdlU8kEArevoq5nvSoa0kIt1b0SR3BTD78VXW09V7JkBkJ_xH_w/s640/s+Jaipur+%252819%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">There
are several sundials – including the World’s largest, in different shapes and
sizes – although all are nothing like you imagine – they are colossal.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuUx7KE14I1MTxRQzmBadrfn9NTxoj95HWvFPIOz-j5D3MK86BppiFkdDmhhdF6aOTYozJ308JPHkpc92zJNendyscWFhX3udHRdHY0R9o06CPTj60AYT-sstxhfAoBeGZet4TJcqDSxk/s1600/s+Jaipur+%252821%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1086" data-original-width="1600" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuUx7KE14I1MTxRQzmBadrfn9NTxoj95HWvFPIOz-j5D3MK86BppiFkdDmhhdF6aOTYozJ308JPHkpc92zJNendyscWFhX3udHRdHY0R9o06CPTj60AYT-sstxhfAoBeGZet4TJcqDSxk/s640/s+Jaipur+%252821%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
complex is surrounded by a tall wall, and in between the “instruments” are neat
lawned areas – it was a fascinating place to see, far more interesting than I
expected. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgib5FNXn6XfJS29leCHLM0Syr7sZc0-ZRaRXSLRuLGONMIKYk1MudLjnE3RwBt732AVuQnBUDbJguV0iHL69LKRKGul6nbAwAZW49UuqvpCMQLjeuPaau-ilE6GofGL6qXfgp6VBpNiW0/s1600/s+Jaipur+%252822%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1091" data-original-width="1600" height="436" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgib5FNXn6XfJS29leCHLM0Syr7sZc0-ZRaRXSLRuLGONMIKYk1MudLjnE3RwBt732AVuQnBUDbJguV0iHL69LKRKGul6nbAwAZW49UuqvpCMQLjeuPaau-ilE6GofGL6qXfgp6VBpNiW0/s640/s+Jaipur+%252822%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Across
the road from here is the City Palace and Museum, which is still home to the
Jaipur Royal family. The first museum contains a collection of textiles, clothing,
and art; whereas the Armoury museum has so many unusual, mainly lethal, old
weapons – but it is forbidden to take photos inside. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ8pPWUELDPuCRTK6XXitDIm-BBQLNhpBsrYbuA7AT6v9B9HYESqUsy8UA8K0YyvejbvYya979iboxENVm3eFvRJR-5vbsaa0UxG5N_uo6KZO4Vnx9NK0Q32a44pAAC3XNPqtItg1OC2w/s1600/s+Jaipur+%252823%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1067" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ8pPWUELDPuCRTK6XXitDIm-BBQLNhpBsrYbuA7AT6v9B9HYESqUsy8UA8K0YyvejbvYya979iboxENVm3eFvRJR-5vbsaa0UxG5N_uo6KZO4Vnx9NK0Q32a44pAAC3XNPqtItg1OC2w/s640/s+Jaipur+%252823%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidNQokbtHho4fV2-xlThxsl-PiMLVchvaq7mLKX3yWMZxyfDv1z9nyBdcJghkbBPrAyVT4jTC8ZcFFGkz4Mpx77AeB18lhdj5MeOIsK511p9f8VILGaC0XPZL2xZENi1VFxzkCrmyj_-g/s1600/s+Jaipur+%252824%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1162" data-original-width="1600" height="464" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidNQokbtHho4fV2-xlThxsl-PiMLVchvaq7mLKX3yWMZxyfDv1z9nyBdcJghkbBPrAyVT4jTC8ZcFFGkz4Mpx77AeB18lhdj5MeOIsK511p9f8VILGaC0XPZL2xZENi1VFxzkCrmyj_-g/s640/s+Jaipur+%252824%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">Through
another gate, with marble elephants standing guard, I came to the most fabulous
Hall of Private Audience I had seen – Diwan-e-Khas. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3u_S6X64XM3FNXBhyphenhyphenpIdShe27iC6npvDl7xGyJfQ3RGYsNWWNAOddNb0lrdNg7S0aYWz9nFuZorTSblF1aAualIwjgdrJdxTPlmrdaZeYHhKurlwBQ6m4I5TznPZafYjmEL_yF_ehtE/s1600/s+Jaipur+%252825%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU3u_S6X64XM3FNXBhyphenhyphenpIdShe27iC6npvDl7xGyJfQ3RGYsNWWNAOddNb0lrdNg7S0aYWz9nFuZorTSblF1aAualIwjgdrJdxTPlmrdaZeYHhKurlwBQ6m4I5TznPZafYjmEL_yF_ehtE/s640/s+Jaipur+%252825%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">This
open sided hall is a mixture of pink, orange and white surrounded by carved
arches; and within these are 2 gigantic silver urns. A hundred years ago, the
Maharaja took them on his visit to Europe, filled with 9000 litres of water
from the Ganges – they are the biggest silver containers in the world. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLXGCwUSCICnibCzzbaZSEJKP2B2F_PtKs51nYYNQYEnnpH8lraIFPUNkF517ax6ky_sQq6oDEFHsg-Wl3vXK_H9IGIE6QnN20m9ShtqpwMIF6Rm3_hvFgNJZ_0xCtvDyxYUlJB_uHXjo/s1600/s+Jaipur+%252826%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLXGCwUSCICnibCzzbaZSEJKP2B2F_PtKs51nYYNQYEnnpH8lraIFPUNkF517ax6ky_sQq6oDEFHsg-Wl3vXK_H9IGIE6QnN20m9ShtqpwMIF6Rm3_hvFgNJZ_0xCtvDyxYUlJB_uHXjo/s640/s+Jaipur+%252826%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">There
were more interesting courtyards to see in this area of the palace, one which
contained the most unusual doorways - 4 different ones. My favourite one was
the peacock doorway, which had peacocks emerging from the wall – it was
incredible – something else that was incredible! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; line-height: 107%;">The
final section of this palace was the Durbar Hall with its vaulted ceiling,
pillars, arches, mosaics, paintings on every wall, crystal chandeliers and the
pinnacle – its 2 thrones. This stately room has been used to hold receptions
for foreign dignitaries and to entertain royalty. </span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;">Walking back through the old city, I experienced the more
desperate side of the city and the people that lived there; but on the whole
Jaipur was the cleanest place I had seen on my tour. There weren’t that many
beggars – except at one set of traffic lights when a toothless old hag appeared
at our car window demanding money – and nearly scared me to death! I had been
worried about coming to India, but it had been nothing like I had expected – I had
loved every part of my trip. These places that make up India’s famous Golden
Triangle are an ideal place to start a love affair of India – I can now understand
how people say that you will be back to see more of this fascinating country.<span style="font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Lynne</i></b></span><br />
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Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-60106621940153480162019-11-30T12:10:00.000+00:002019-11-30T12:10:27.688+00:00Durham<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Durham</u></b></span></div>
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The City of Durham in the northeast of England has so much to offer; its magnificent Cathedral and Castle are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site - and it has so much culture, history, architecture, scenery and of course shops. Durham was one of England's walled cathedral cities, virtually impregnable as it was perched high up on a soaring peninsular, surrounded on 3 sides by the River Wear. There is evidence of its origins in Saxon and Viking times, becoming a city after 995AD, when a group of Lindisfarne monks arrived with the body of St Cuthbert, and placed it into a simple wooden church. The following century, Normans named the city Duresme, and wanting a stronghold in the north, began construction of the Cathedral and the Castle. As the city is almost surrounded by the River Wear, I started my day having a delightful walk along the tranquil riverbank where it felt as though I was in the countryside - not a stones throw away from the city centre.</div>
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There were surprises along the way, such as the Count's House, which was built in the 1820's as a folly or summerhouse; and named after Count Joseph Boruwlaski. He was a Polish entertainer who lived here in Durham for the last 46 years of his life (dying at 97 years of age) - but he was only 3'3" tall - that is why this small house was jovially named for him.</div>
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This grotesque sculpture (which is a seat on the other side) isn't old - appeared in the 1990's and is thought of as a type of graffiti !</div>
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There are various rowing clubs based along this stretch of the river, and you can also hire rowing boats or take a leisurely boat trip on the Prince Bishop River Cruiser, which is what I opted to do.</div>
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It was a very entertaining hour on board, with a full commentary and various refreshments served; and the scenery was quite spectacular - especially the reflections.</div>
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The Cruise goes as far as the Weir - that is where you get your first glimpse of the Cathedral towering above.</div>
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For more information and times of the cruises :- <a href="http://www.princebishoprc.co.uk/">http://www.princebishoprc.co.uk/</a></div>
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Next it was time to head up the hill into the picturesque town with its cobbled streets, market square and vibrant Indoor Market Hall - which is home to about 50 traders selling a wide variety of perishable goods, fashion items, home wares and gift ideas.</div>
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Look out for floral displays if you are there in the summer - this one represents a Bishops hat.<br />
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As you wander through the old cobbled streets you will see a huge array of old, quaint shops (as well as some modern ones) - I particularly loved this one "Durham in Bloomers"!</div>
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On the way up to the Palace Green, where you will find the Castle and the Cathedral; is Durham's World Heritage Site Visitor Centre. It is based in a refurbished almshouse, is free to get in and gives visitors an overview of what there is do see and do in this special area.<br />
<a href="https://www.durhamworldheritagesite.com/">https://www.durhamworldheritagesite.com/</a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">The Palace Green is a delightful open space where you will also find a Cafe, the Palace Green Library with exhibitions, as well as being home to the Durham Light Infantry Gallery and the Museum of Archaeology.</span></div>
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Building of Durham Castle commenced in the year 1072, on the orders of William the Conqueror, as a message to the Scots - that the Normans were now rulers of the country. This imposing fortress became a lavish palace for the Bishops of Durham (known as Prince Bishops), who had control of the lands between the Tyne and the Tees, raising taxes and armies to guard the area south of the border with Scotland. Despite numerous attacks over the centuries, the castle was never defeated. The last Prince Bishop, William Van Mildert was the founder of Durham University in the mid 19th century.</div>
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The only way to see inside the Castle is on a guided tour, where you can learn more of the history of this medieval stronghold. <a href="https://www.dur.ac.uk/durham.castle/">https://www.dur.ac.uk/durham.castle/</a><br />
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The Romanesque Durham Cathedral has been a place of worship for almost a thousand years. It has a fascinating history, being the final resting place of St. Cuthbert - the Bishop of Lindisfarne in the 7th century. Following Viking raids a hundred or so years later, the monks of Lindisfarne fled with St. Cuthbert's remains, and after carrying his coffin and The Lindisfarne Gospels for many years, they finally came to rest in Durham - which subsequently became a popular pilgrimage site. After the Norman Conquest, William of Calais was appointed the first Prince-Bishop of Durham and authorised the building of a grander cathedral to house the remains of St. Cuthbert. </div>
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One of the first things I came across was the Galilee Chapel and the tomb of Venerable Bede, who is sometimes referred to as St Bede - the greatest Anglo-Saxon scholar. He lived in the 7th century and wrote over 40 books on many different subjects - he is described as The Father of English History. His bones were bought to Durham by a monk and put to rest with St Cuthbert's in 1022; and later both were given their respective places in the new Cathedral.</div>
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The inside of the Cathedral is striking with huge pillars, different types of arches and ornate carved stonework.While most churches of that time were built mainly of wood, Durham Cathedral is made entirely of stone, a really ambitious undertaking at that time, helped by the fact that there was a sandstone quarry nearby. It was the first Cathedral in this country to have its vaulted roof completely made from stone. </div>
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There is stunning architecture throughout the Cathedral; the rib-vaulted Nave with its structural pointed arch, the dark wood carved quire stalls which are an impressive piece of craftsmanship, the marble floor and the colourful stained glass windows.<br />
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The enormous Rose window, which was originally made in medieval times, had to be redone after it was destroyed in the Reformation; and there are also various modern stained glass windows such as the Millenium Window, the Daily Bread Window and a RAF memorial window.<br />
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The colourful tomb above is that of Thomas Hatfield - one of the longest serving Prince Bishops in the 14th Century who was responsible for major improvements to the Cathedral.<br />
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St Cuthbert's relics are below this dark, simple marble slab marked ‘Cuthbertus’ and the stones around it are part of the original construction; which originally was far more ornate - studded with jewels and semi-precious stones. The elaborate shrine was destroyed in the Reformation and replaced with this simple one in 1542; but no matter what his shrine has looked like - pilgrims have always flocked to this place - seeking blessings and cures.</div>
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This prayer is recited on 20th March each year - St Cuthbert's Day.</div>
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There is far more to discover at Durham cathedral; the Cloister that has featured in Harry Potter films, The Open Treasure which is an exhibition telling the remarkable history of the Cathedral, the shop which is in the vaulted undercrofts - together with the Undercroft Restaurant. Admission to the main part of the Cathedral is free (but they do request a donation) although there is a charge to visit the Open Treasure. <a href="https://www.durhamcathedral.co.uk/">https://www.durhamcathedral.co.uk/</a></div>
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Just a short distance from the Cathedral is the Museum and Heritage Centre, which is in an old church; it contains displays describing how the city grew from medieval times into what it is today. It is full of fascinating objects dating back hundreds of years; as well as having a shop with refreshments and a delightful garden area.</div>
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If you fancy getting away from the city, head to the Botanic Garden which is set within the University Campus just outside the city - but within walking distance.<br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">This garden has a variety of landscapes to enjoy, and areas for everyone. There is an area specifically for children; and this section gives children the chance to get their hands dirty and have a go at making a Moss Garden.</span><br />
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As well as traditional flowerbeds, greenhouses, woodlands and wildflower meadows; the garden is full of quirky sculptures and objects to find; I found it absolutely delightful.<br />
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It is open every day (except Christmas), is reasonably priced to get in; and has a nice cafe and shop.<br />
<a href="https://www.dur.ac.uk/botanic.garden/">https://www.dur.ac.uk/botanic.garden/</a><br />
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Only a few minutes walk from the garden is another unusual treasure - The Oriental Museum, which is the only one of its kind in this part of the country. I have never been to anything like this before.<br />
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Displays are from various parts of North Africa to as far away as Southeast Asia - some dating back to prehistoric times. It is a very interesting building, on several levels (mostly accessible for wheelchairs) and very reasonably priced to get in - £1.50.</div>
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There are all sorts of things to see and learn about life in the Orient with the colourful interactive displays.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuG7QF-fSQ2aAU9NmCQjgtq3WK3-kQD8F5rD0ZNobp9JdyqSgzWgB7vNGN4Tz4Qe1IKvZ6vxkUf0Dg5qXLyPycOrM8sZ6ENyOh_D9rVG8tkm6OQUZX4Vq9YmsBdJ0n8PzQgS8Vlf1mlcM/s1600/14+%252819a%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuG7QF-fSQ2aAU9NmCQjgtq3WK3-kQD8F5rD0ZNobp9JdyqSgzWgB7vNGN4Tz4Qe1IKvZ6vxkUf0Dg5qXLyPycOrM8sZ6ENyOh_D9rVG8tkm6OQUZX4Vq9YmsBdJ0n8PzQgS8Vlf1mlcM/s640/14+%252819a%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcjEHvZ5wQ06zBeVWcwJyAAjmoUrVA0bqqv3jEE1m2u67Cw00jN_52QIRx4-WF66FQeH04ey4c5z27_NK5EjVYMRw5g-bjuJytD0l9wa6CfLA2C6Xk0Qqz29ThqGJReH6zQ05t-6bcfkw/s1600/14+%252820%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcjEHvZ5wQ06zBeVWcwJyAAjmoUrVA0bqqv3jEE1m2u67Cw00jN_52QIRx4-WF66FQeH04ey4c5z27_NK5EjVYMRw5g-bjuJytD0l9wa6CfLA2C6Xk0Qqz29ThqGJReH6zQ05t-6bcfkw/s640/14+%252820%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And there are even some Ancient Egyptian mummies in the North African section.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR57eGJ4BfW7DfPAzcPIl3457WPD6Wpo6Ox7BSv8qqH7_E8GEbV5uOl3HOuDztlnbgiN8MqXmI5nBV3C35G2tny6VU7q0HRT7WobDpAEUYo9lqmnRKM8Cwq7pRK-RXaVGI1sA56cCiEWI/s1600/14+%252821%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiR57eGJ4BfW7DfPAzcPIl3457WPD6Wpo6Ox7BSv8qqH7_E8GEbV5uOl3HOuDztlnbgiN8MqXmI5nBV3C35G2tny6VU7q0HRT7WobDpAEUYo9lqmnRKM8Cwq7pRK-RXaVGI1sA56cCiEWI/s640/14+%252821%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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As well as very old pieces, there are more modern ones such as this shrine below from Japan, that is only about 30 years old - but beautifully ornate.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB52dndaS3n5Os-a3We_q4zPHrjSfxeawnx7CgDwS48vwS9e6uS1xKXi9_hNteGLk6nH2_T_gYOXILBgHiEn9K7_I4HKRzikO6piyjdW1ooNQcc_aIFM8M9xZ43RaPdew07d5JswYBGhs/s1600/14+%252827%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB52dndaS3n5Os-a3We_q4zPHrjSfxeawnx7CgDwS48vwS9e6uS1xKXi9_hNteGLk6nH2_T_gYOXILBgHiEn9K7_I4HKRzikO6piyjdW1ooNQcc_aIFM8M9xZ43RaPdew07d5JswYBGhs/s640/14+%252827%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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You will find fighting regalia and equipment from places as far away as Korea and Borneo. There are artefacts dating back to hundreds of years BC and colourful shrines for Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh and Shinto religions.<br />
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I can highly recommend visiting the Oriental Museum, after all the English history of Durham city - it is something totally different. <a href="https://www.dur.ac.uk/oriental.museum/">https://www.dur.ac.uk/oriental.museum/</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIvudfU5MhNR-u7Hqmk1pfbtkk-CurS_yv-ej3qVQjsciM0f8I15M-tEqBCaFtv_nZr-QWQgwYPXSP_b4_JUWrj7eZMrTyGPF8l1OnKR8PpddvquO8To7S2bAc-Tp-RSg-0Lbf1deZsHM/s1600/14+%252829%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1182" data-original-width="1600" height="472" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIvudfU5MhNR-u7Hqmk1pfbtkk-CurS_yv-ej3qVQjsciM0f8I15M-tEqBCaFtv_nZr-QWQgwYPXSP_b4_JUWrj7eZMrTyGPF8l1OnKR8PpddvquO8To7S2bAc-Tp-RSg-0Lbf1deZsHM/s640/14+%252829%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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All in all, Durham has something for everyone, from the Ancient to the Modern, the Peaceful to the Lively; and if you find the right street - you may see this rainbow of umbrellas that are supposed to brighten up the dullest of days.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioMGMfg3D8j2rMQBRSNSZT7z4m2bUAEysoHbKrzSvsodnJDWhfe4TRON_AOAuI5CElhGqMJv5NQ6yR9TJ-OY_0kVnKAqlXwM_BFuIcUFPrN2fpx34BzZ8k7aRfFk2LkzITzy_PzYdu7C4/s1600/10+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioMGMfg3D8j2rMQBRSNSZT7z4m2bUAEysoHbKrzSvsodnJDWhfe4TRON_AOAuI5CElhGqMJv5NQ6yR9TJ-OY_0kVnKAqlXwM_BFuIcUFPrN2fpx34BzZ8k7aRfFk2LkzITzy_PzYdu7C4/s640/10+%25286%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Lynne</i></b></span><br />
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<br />Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-86026418457884375242019-09-20T19:27:00.001+01:002020-01-09T16:27:02.214+00:00Pisa<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Pisa</u></b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4cEDnAl9Oca17t8ju-J8Eb5KQ4Hpw3kGGBgavb5qE2mtAxbCoOj-Vpe6x5sJZGDW5immz128EO2b8yUzZK4XK5nEIzQl4Ytcjn2c5IjxdAhZ0ro0JMuubrSXjEv9xB0ImpS4gNXRNI-E/s1600/Pisa+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4cEDnAl9Oca17t8ju-J8Eb5KQ4Hpw3kGGBgavb5qE2mtAxbCoOj-Vpe6x5sJZGDW5immz128EO2b8yUzZK4XK5nEIzQl4Ytcjn2c5IjxdAhZ0ro0JMuubrSXjEv9xB0ImpS4gNXRNI-E/s640/Pisa+collage.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Having a spare few hours
before flying home from Florence, I just had enough time to see another of
Italy’s icons – the Leaning Tower of Pisa. From the Central train station, it
was very easy to get to, the Red LAM1 bus runs frequently dropping off in the
Piazza dei Milacoli, aka Square of Miracles, where the famous tower, church,
and baptistery are located. This area completely took me by surprise – I wasn’t
expecting so much to see here – or so many thousands of people to be about,
even though it was quite early in the day. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAN4-fCmAFpXgYOdYh98ZNhXGEDpQ1PKE-7XEzrSizdeU5HG9c9wXPWR-goIGmGTCFLG0rNc66BSxnliI2uCW7dJJVXnLe-l2zyiCFN44TWg19Z3TC5-yRRI8q4F4Y-RHDxC9vtYGWudc/s1600/5a+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAN4-fCmAFpXgYOdYh98ZNhXGEDpQ1PKE-7XEzrSizdeU5HG9c9wXPWR-goIGmGTCFLG0rNc66BSxnliI2uCW7dJJVXnLe-l2zyiCFN44TWg19Z3TC5-yRRI8q4F4Y-RHDxC9vtYGWudc/s640/5a+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Also known as the Piazza del Duomo,
it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. There is an ancient wall
surrounding the Piazza, and outside this you will find places to eat and drink,
as well as shops and stalls selling all sorts of souvenirs – mostly with a
“Leaning Tower” on them! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlD5vJ2Pe1l_HsFHtYaHhtY36KMVrPYukr4Cp4AGXi2DPQ8lrxqoR3rumHZEnQ_5betpac2KA1KiPDhfhz8PC4EvkQqR_z72REj2af1zI_SNHCqcf6YVppfzUp2uzT0bh5IhEfoWZUnf8/s1600/1+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1261" data-original-width="1600" height="504" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlD5vJ2Pe1l_HsFHtYaHhtY36KMVrPYukr4Cp4AGXi2DPQ8lrxqoR3rumHZEnQ_5betpac2KA1KiPDhfhz8PC4EvkQqR_z72REj2af1zI_SNHCqcf6YVppfzUp2uzT0bh5IhEfoWZUnf8/s640/1+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Walking through the Porta
Nuova (the gate opened by the Medici family in 1562) you are met with a fabulous
spectacle – the glorious buildings in the Square of Miracles. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlh-YDW-a7d45RMdvXwfeo9r6lEmy1TF4Z6Gkc-HvTmTi82H8YfYnmTQ0sdIC6uW-o8BJsmmxZNbWaJyj5qOD9yeniOxPjWJdKUft4B7uiYA57naqBgeKnP7eyCMYjGFD1M4ML1ZqPOEE/s1600/1+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1129" data-original-width="1600" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlh-YDW-a7d45RMdvXwfeo9r6lEmy1TF4Z6Gkc-HvTmTi82H8YfYnmTQ0sdIC6uW-o8BJsmmxZNbWaJyj5qOD9yeniOxPjWJdKUft4B7uiYA57naqBgeKnP7eyCMYjGFD1M4ML1ZqPOEE/s640/1+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">The first one is
the Baptistery of St. John, a Roman Catholic ecclesiastical building dating
back to 1152; it is the largest baptistery in Italy - 55 metres high, with a
circumference of more than 100 metres. This giant marble cylindrical building is
so impressive from the outside, gleaming white in the sun, with its contrasting
bright terracotta domed roof. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">It is surrounded
with intricate arches and carvings – artistic ideas created from countries far
and wide – when Pisa was busy trading all over the world. The interior is described
as overwhelming but lacks decoration; it has an octagonal font at the centre that
dates from 1246, a bronze sculpture of St. John the Baptist; and a pulpit that was
sculpted slightly later by Nicola Pisano, father of Giovanni. The Baptistery
has been constructed on the same unstable sand as the tower and cathedral, and
now leans 0.6 degrees toward the cathedral next to it.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhay1Kwp0pNzQr5-2M6JQjub5iPUE4MOSigB19yqI5nR9vVdRNucQDnSG8qWLh6VSMi6K8RI7pG-DoslDChho_vnNaWCCJD38-siCI-zyQQGFtX7OCng3h4KpnH5MDu-KjNC_ReE2yhvaQ/s1600/2+a+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1004" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhay1Kwp0pNzQr5-2M6JQjub5iPUE4MOSigB19yqI5nR9vVdRNucQDnSG8qWLh6VSMi6K8RI7pG-DoslDChho_vnNaWCCJD38-siCI-zyQQGFtX7OCng3h4KpnH5MDu-KjNC_ReE2yhvaQ/s640/2+a+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Cathedral of Pisa</span>, Duomo di Pisa, with
its marble facade, is adorned by columns and statues. The medieval Roman
Catholic cathedral (started in 1063) was built in Romanesque style and is
currently the seat of the Archbishop of Pisa.</span><span style="background: white; color: #333333; font-family: "droid serif" , serif; font-size: 13.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx6gIP5yGnHerRHbTeMk589On-uy-LrF-da4WkmHNZsAcX-sMHqDc24M3V5dpYMXV-x6m3CQbZ5eMcI6W5MVTpipBDoxy-5YsSXEJtp81wqCQ5gttU2bICe0cenb42MmZJd4BrMlUEmzM/s1600/2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1228" data-original-width="1600" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx6gIP5yGnHerRHbTeMk589On-uy-LrF-da4WkmHNZsAcX-sMHqDc24M3V5dpYMXV-x6m3CQbZ5eMcI6W5MVTpipBDoxy-5YsSXEJtp81wqCQ5gttU2bICe0cenb42MmZJd4BrMlUEmzM/s640/2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSX9ucHHzfIYC1veffbMFKO6X42GccRJb5ZbyCBwSGYadKIYJe4206e7PmgBvWZJpqNvF94gApkIaxXmvjxN18kVfaEZJXUMGlM1H1S2v6HZz7Pt1Cevj9ByV23XDntYVaovfPkBprrm0/s1600/2a+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSX9ucHHzfIYC1veffbMFKO6X42GccRJb5ZbyCBwSGYadKIYJe4206e7PmgBvWZJpqNvF94gApkIaxXmvjxN18kVfaEZJXUMGlM1H1S2v6HZz7Pt1Cevj9ByV23XDntYVaovfPkBprrm0/s640/2a+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The rich decorations on the exterior part
of the cathedral include mosaic, polychrome marble, and many objects which are
the spoils of war. The Griffin was one of the bronze objects bought back from
in Palermo in the year 1061 and was positioned on the eastern section of the
roof. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The amazing bronze doors are a real highlight; made by Bonanno Pisano, who
created an extraordinary piece of artwork - that depicts the ascension of
Christ. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px;">The inside is filled with more intricate carvings, beautiful statues and an elegant dome.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6_90wPxyT2sDOsw50tG0hYn_biZ3Q7f9VQxdWILMGYQW8OJQS6fstybw849zczL7snMoTBjpKg9PQF188W_eFxqlG5yYEoqcqAO6jtm31woer_RPsh6itl84MsYMNm8ijL1YdH4BIrg0/s1600/2b.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1326" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6_90wPxyT2sDOsw50tG0hYn_biZ3Q7f9VQxdWILMGYQW8OJQS6fstybw849zczL7snMoTBjpKg9PQF188W_eFxqlG5yYEoqcqAO6jtm31woer_RPsh6itl84MsYMNm8ijL1YdH4BIrg0/s640/2b.JPG" width="530" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The famous <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Leaning Tower</span> rises directly
behind the cathedral, in the middle of a large extension of green grass which
is immaculately cut - with strategically placed stripes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiahARw8varOQuxKWpWk9kZm7fEl_SAjSeBmsHLN2pbVm3gHNE6izUM6HeKWHiaffIu0INcazQQlbWZLcFQyZ2SORXstOVHH9Eec0FxY9Mpoe9WptbLQrgdj97ZyvEMSR72KbtLF6BkX8/s1600/3c+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiahARw8varOQuxKWpWk9kZm7fEl_SAjSeBmsHLN2pbVm3gHNE6izUM6HeKWHiaffIu0INcazQQlbWZLcFQyZ2SORXstOVHH9Eec0FxY9Mpoe9WptbLQrgdj97ZyvEMSR72KbtLF6BkX8/s640/3c+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I think they are mowed
in such a way that is accentuates the incline of the tower – because from some
positions, it doesn’t appear to be leaning at all. You aren’t allowed on the
grass in this area and it really does look very picturesque. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">For me, the downside
was that there were thousands of tourists trying to capture that special shot,
showing them holding up the leaning structure. They were standing on the fence
posts, and anywhere else they could position themselves - and was a bit too
much! The Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the most famous monuments in the
World - originally built as a freestanding bell tower for the cathedral. Construction
started in 1173 and it took 200 years to complete. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This magnificent marble
tower, which has 8 floors, is almost 60 metres high and at the top are its
original 7 brass bells. However, in order to get up there, you have to climb
269 steps. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLTAVO6pGNUAe7dhkwCzpweCBCg-04U64lfYF8Q51xTS31mK3cScF7VJ4DvxNoKrayEQ9Hk_kvubmGWLUiNnOjUEPR4VJ4uwoa1bsoX2fXR58eyLRP14T702y4tWtWeCeqn-DnD8TNvT4/s1600/3+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLTAVO6pGNUAe7dhkwCzpweCBCg-04U64lfYF8Q51xTS31mK3cScF7VJ4DvxNoKrayEQ9Hk_kvubmGWLUiNnOjUEPR4VJ4uwoa1bsoX2fXR58eyLRP14T702y4tWtWeCeqn-DnD8TNvT4/s640/3+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">When the builders got to the third storey, they realised the
foundations had destabilised; and due to the shifting soil underneath, the tower
has continued to shift ever since - falling at a rate of one to two millimetres
every year. If only they knew then just how famous this mistake would be!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In 1990 the tower was closed for the first
time in 800 years, over fears it might collapse; and it remained closed for the
next 11 years – until in 2008 monitors placed in the structure, showed that it
had stopped moving …….for now at least. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98tdEnVsRjWLsxlMgKSLBNmdftTswG3TXDy_q7z6zIKqvcXhyvVhmtYVisi3bAhPp0Ps0Z8aUpNwM3VYv8OWBDNZXLa9AeIUwa3fPKAg7JkXdD61JXqJFsonZ3tvXSdGiCG2GuCc4_a4/s1600/3+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi98tdEnVsRjWLsxlMgKSLBNmdftTswG3TXDy_q7z6zIKqvcXhyvVhmtYVisi3bAhPp0Ps0Z8aUpNwM3VYv8OWBDNZXLa9AeIUwa3fPKAg7JkXdD61JXqJFsonZ3tvXSdGiCG2GuCc4_a4/s640/3+%25281%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Around
the other side of the Tower is a small shop selling souvenirs, postcards,
stamps etc; this is also where you can buy tickets to go inside the various buildings. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">If you only want to see inside the cathedral, you can collect a fixed-time free
pass; or if you buy a ticket for any of the other places – you can go into the
cathedral free but at any time you choose. When I was there it cost 18 Euros to
go up the Tower and it was only 5 Euros to go in any of the other attractions.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The Camposanto is the long
marble wall along the northern boundary of the square - a kind of
cloister-cum-mausoleum. It was founded in 1277 to accommodate graves, that
until then, were scattered all around the Cathedral. Its long interior
corridors are full of ancient Roman sarcophagi and Renaissance tombs, separated
from the grassy central courtyard by delicate Gothic windows. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Camposanto means
"Holy Ground” and comes from the fact that the soil at its centre was carried
there from the hill in Jerusalem where Jesus is said to have been crucified. Pisa's
Camposanto used to be world-renowned, as one of Europe’s first public museums,
famous for its medieval and early Renaissance frescoes - but during World War
II much of it was destroyed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8vDSfIfvk06L1y7-ZM9hdcBkkDt_TpUrZ0DJoGwlS2-Khf5Z93kwCe8pUaji61Bozb_9y4CYnNRORuO5jQg-HWFgSpnMAgifa5f0YU4BqxIrdCbyG6H0T_xIlszENnu_bn71Pev3lrg/s1600/5+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF8vDSfIfvk06L1y7-ZM9hdcBkkDt_TpUrZ0DJoGwlS2-Khf5Z93kwCe8pUaji61Bozb_9y4CYnNRORuO5jQg-HWFgSpnMAgifa5f0YU4BqxIrdCbyG6H0T_xIlszENnu_bn71Pev3lrg/s640/5+%25286%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The walls surrounding the
Piazza, are the oldest city walls in Italy that have remained almost entirely
intact. Construction of them began about 1155, close to the Piazza de Miracles
and took 5 years to complete. They were built to keep out invaders and together
with the river and marshland – almost completely encompassed and defended Pisa. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Known as the Mura di Pisa, they are open most of the year, and for only 3 Euros
you can walk around the 3-kilometre path, having fabulous views of the towers,
ramparts and city gates (Portas). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORR0iI-ko7ty42VOC9BPfUJCBbDznS1kjcXHHHjoYucyHyutb1ms2zdrKSqIaaePLXCYDr4BLNfR8V9-xQ0DmAut9gOC5-N5xiphAanFNduiXVVb5wXLYJELp_TQlGM7OiqAw4z5CJFo/s1600/5+%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgORR0iI-ko7ty42VOC9BPfUJCBbDznS1kjcXHHHjoYucyHyutb1ms2zdrKSqIaaePLXCYDr4BLNfR8V9-xQ0DmAut9gOC5-N5xiphAanFNduiXVVb5wXLYJELp_TQlGM7OiqAw4z5CJFo/s640/5+%25288%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3Y2p2sW2SvQEQ0kfGwRAJb9XVreGoravbocFctMoQDIH2UehAfAKWZMvkJFjMnkeoZDAVX2F12w_taRvn7NelUtjOa1RmEyH2AWeloi4T5u_V4Q1EBhSZGpON5GrPqL3QuokBLYwsLM/s1600/5+%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE3Y2p2sW2SvQEQ0kfGwRAJb9XVreGoravbocFctMoQDIH2UehAfAKWZMvkJFjMnkeoZDAVX2F12w_taRvn7NelUtjOa1RmEyH2AWeloi4T5u_V4Q1EBhSZGpON5GrPqL3QuokBLYwsLM/s640/5+%25289%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I didn’t have enough time to walk all the way
around but was happy to go up and take some great shots of the buildings from
above and to see the graveyard in one corner; returning down the same tower
that I went up.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEYsTSlUKoiGzTwfkr4MUjMFo61_t2eebxMJjAuO4UsONvGzpJ8tPNEhqu2r4k5toBpdGVZG9ndAPYMGTI-qZBwhMFBlXt1M9N6YAVo_rh18o4BP5UCaHe8LaZZEniwBc8rYYhqa28DgI/s1600/5a+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEYsTSlUKoiGzTwfkr4MUjMFo61_t2eebxMJjAuO4UsONvGzpJ8tPNEhqu2r4k5toBpdGVZG9ndAPYMGTI-qZBwhMFBlXt1M9N6YAVo_rh18o4BP5UCaHe8LaZZEniwBc8rYYhqa28DgI/s640/5a+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">As time wasn’t on my
side, I had to think about getting back to the station and onto the airport. It
was quite a straightforward walk back to the railway station, along streets
that were so quiet after the chaotic main square; passing tiny churches,
courtyards, piazzas, interesting architecture and numerous quaint cafes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYBkgRWuXJaCGfgys0LcWPV2NywPf045Nob1MCnUEvHbjVRu4JGA0aYXH10SRyZeK3b1Zwa6qKKGQYOkW_XaC0KeIbmaxrcTSHxwRpoLo-jW-LJD1oaVmzaquHtl_hh0-Ot8S13gaCQTM/s1600/9+%252836%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYBkgRWuXJaCGfgys0LcWPV2NywPf045Nob1MCnUEvHbjVRu4JGA0aYXH10SRyZeK3b1Zwa6qKKGQYOkW_XaC0KeIbmaxrcTSHxwRpoLo-jW-LJD1oaVmzaquHtl_hh0-Ot8S13gaCQTM/s640/9+%252836%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Through an archway, I arrived at the calm waters of the River Arno – although
they must have been a hive of activity back in the day when Pisa was a thriving
city and trading port. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuIy9xR1X42aO2xyVeVxlOQpt8gUnI-mG2q3bhsUH2tRUB3Q4Cl4X47MYmvGg9255pO9uguszsqNC2jj5TfVfvlF_XBZO3HurNSNmyt8WK82dzylLN2uPfNncZskBjjN1bI5WZAuwaY8I/s1600/9+%252837%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuIy9xR1X42aO2xyVeVxlOQpt8gUnI-mG2q3bhsUH2tRUB3Q4Cl4X47MYmvGg9255pO9uguszsqNC2jj5TfVfvlF_XBZO3HurNSNmyt8WK82dzylLN2uPfNncZskBjjN1bI5WZAuwaY8I/s640/9+%252837%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLKvL016oCJLzPWR-IgkDaT1duuTm1csUuEWxhXF0gfepm1QNNvLkE8067jVAIrO-ktGra9-Z_NoETtrG2yDIV2wxpHQm6QKYk0PGEr3PCMsUsCENbMp-1oppkemLwDjMJr53phLJTD0/s1600/9+%252838%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXLKvL016oCJLzPWR-IgkDaT1duuTm1csUuEWxhXF0gfepm1QNNvLkE8067jVAIrO-ktGra9-Z_NoETtrG2yDIV2wxpHQm6QKYk0PGEr3PCMsUsCENbMp-1oppkemLwDjMJr53phLJTD0/s640/9+%252838%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">You can walk either side of the river for quite some
distance, along roads named after well-known people – and the most famous of
all from Pisa is Galileo. Across the bridge is the ornate 14<sup>th</sup>
century Santa Maria della Spina Church; which was supposed to house a famous
relic bought from the Holy Land in 1333 – a thorn from Christ’s crown - which
he wore during the Crucifixion. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8j9l5BpdQY5HnpN-qDZOm5NOaX93SVzairEJHzzrQElf8wwnH4ZSZhkJ2QG0CzJN86x8v0R3J8oV2rg2-GJfvgwvbQjAo4vavH5aOaLiqw15-junKeSHdwMGpwaIdT-FBRvNdgIvDSyY/s1600/9+%252839%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8j9l5BpdQY5HnpN-qDZOm5NOaX93SVzairEJHzzrQElf8wwnH4ZSZhkJ2QG0CzJN86x8v0R3J8oV2rg2-GJfvgwvbQjAo4vavH5aOaLiqw15-junKeSHdwMGpwaIdT-FBRvNdgIvDSyY/s640/9+%252839%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">When it was built, it had to reflect the
importance of the great treasure it held; so, the best artists of the time
worked on the it, making its elaborate Gothic façade befitting of the relic it
contained. The interior is contrastingly plain and is now a small museum
containing Medieval art.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOt1-sGxOufwT25ieuCJ5sxbIvlpVjIrzZmWNbD26lxDkZSoGn-wuKkZGK35ni783Ad_CM5W7HDGz635X6G3aLMxoXQYJCHG17j9ofQK8ZbJaDVjPdsswgyiHUYilw65vUlEnMASeow8c/s1600/9+%252841%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOt1-sGxOufwT25ieuCJ5sxbIvlpVjIrzZmWNbD26lxDkZSoGn-wuKkZGK35ni783Ad_CM5W7HDGz635X6G3aLMxoXQYJCHG17j9ofQK8ZbJaDVjPdsswgyiHUYilw65vUlEnMASeow8c/s640/9+%252841%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px;"> From here it is just down one street to the recently restored </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px;">Piazza Vittorio Emanuele II</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 16px;"> - one of the main meeting places in Pisa. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6NlaFkJasiHZI_cdb-zvFxUk-laNKiRkq5Xxl3GQFslHhj_6mTNhPZOSOQZtre1rmR4jB1ttaMK5HEr43nkNR-_T8PeOYpjdjkVUQSO3kBsq7uxlHnZZKMsOb7O-z4HVttoJarhIvnM/s1600/9+%252843%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif6NlaFkJasiHZI_cdb-zvFxUk-laNKiRkq5Xxl3GQFslHhj_6mTNhPZOSOQZtre1rmR4jB1ttaMK5HEr43nkNR-_T8PeOYpjdjkVUQSO3kBsq7uxlHnZZKMsOb7O-z4HVttoJarhIvnM/s640/9+%252843%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It has a café, ice-cream shop and
plenty of places to sit – all within a stone’s throw of the Railway station. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidmnkMk4xOe0wCal-hZzXVc2zFTfFu01L5Mi3V-uCIIIYlS15ii7GzgPHbG2YP1yAmrl-9kYRt-CcrxQ5YiFxFd1nbAY456o-Juogb7geF7uV9XglEZ5DPocHXZXfS8NcV74_GZ6vLKg/s1600/9+%252842%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1085" data-original-width="1600" height="432" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgidmnkMk4xOe0wCal-hZzXVc2zFTfFu01L5Mi3V-uCIIIYlS15ii7GzgPHbG2YP1yAmrl-9kYRt-CcrxQ5YiFxFd1nbAY456o-Juogb7geF7uV9XglEZ5DPocHXZXfS8NcV74_GZ6vLKg/s640/9+%252842%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBJmiXCNEAjpSlM8lhStjb_3YdmE1OseVO9HLRgqvhbXpV9rVm4-lfkhAd1dS3YXkQYFmoJGV81mT3QNKLOPVvrHrZcoYEc3_9jCSXM3c8iMbp7rtCv95iNwczQew4Yxy99a_fLAoGEkE/s1600/9+%252844%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1133" data-original-width="1600" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBJmiXCNEAjpSlM8lhStjb_3YdmE1OseVO9HLRgqvhbXpV9rVm4-lfkhAd1dS3YXkQYFmoJGV81mT3QNKLOPVvrHrZcoYEc3_9jCSXM3c8iMbp7rtCv95iNwczQew4Yxy99a_fLAoGEkE/s640/9+%252844%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It
had been a thoroughly enjoyable few hours in Pisa and I could have quite easily
spent more time there. I think I will be returning one day as there were other
things I would like to have seen, several National museums, as well as walking
the entire length of the City walls.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRG1AKbVbizXKxOKjlx60Xh7c4sLQQ4YAQFR8C7_bEzEHXnlze5Ox-mZUBEWG2vvvlJQmBjHPkaAghoyT-_sxsnU6_cFDVkBYh1S5JWf_TSnDG9-EFiMuDTSZQcdXQhepaYKdm1BOq80s/s1600/9+%252833%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRG1AKbVbizXKxOKjlx60Xh7c4sLQQ4YAQFR8C7_bEzEHXnlze5Ox-mZUBEWG2vvvlJQmBjHPkaAghoyT-_sxsnU6_cFDVkBYh1S5JWf_TSnDG9-EFiMuDTSZQcdXQhepaYKdm1BOq80s/s640/9+%252833%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Lynne</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u></u></b></span>Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-49954544374183965862019-08-25T16:54:00.002+01:002019-11-02T18:03:59.404+00:00Florence<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-size: large;">Florence</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></u></b></div>
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<b><u><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></u></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc9lSymuxWJwTrD1Ulak2Ijgz2mng0B7G_fmL18yVeA3SW6GNgKaRp-BWDlRLnCw7Skp2NXqONxdnc7RBIkV6A4q4soz4Q-4rQMNVJUrDBa_PihlQesoX8lppGwLsKQ8bNwot4goY9-2Y/s1600/2019-07-12+12.38.30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc9lSymuxWJwTrD1Ulak2Ijgz2mng0B7G_fmL18yVeA3SW6GNgKaRp-BWDlRLnCw7Skp2NXqONxdnc7RBIkV6A4q4soz4Q-4rQMNVJUrDBa_PihlQesoX8lppGwLsKQ8bNwot4goY9-2Y/s640/2019-07-12+12.38.30.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Florence, the regional
capital of </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; text-decoration: none;">Tuscany</span><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span></b></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">is</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> surrounded by bronze coloured hills
with vineyards and olive groves, and is a city with a turbulent action-packed
history. It is situated on the river Arno, which is spanned by the famous Ponte
Vecchio. Florence's most striking landmark is Brunelleschi's Duomo, and its
most reproduced sight is Michelangelo's statue of David. Its ancient buildings
all fit into a compact area and practically everywhere you look, you will find medieval
buildings, cobbled streets, towering marble basilicas and magnificent museums.
I had been advised to go to Florence several years earlier and had finally
decided to book a short break there, hoping to see as much as possible of this
remarkable city. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here are some of my
favourite parts. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGdQ2m7hudzHDp7-IMGXHnTYe1yzM_umF5_RWBB-lQQGGPz9VPm9Wi1LlESAK_LZwSZDe4s6HdKLSm44zHNiaLxE-vGY4MCOQQ0wZFIjTT0rhMgooPr5pICn3OcYNjHy92MPydB8j1TgA/s1600/DUOMO+%25282a%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGdQ2m7hudzHDp7-IMGXHnTYe1yzM_umF5_RWBB-lQQGGPz9VPm9Wi1LlESAK_LZwSZDe4s6HdKLSm44zHNiaLxE-vGY4MCOQQ0wZFIjTT0rhMgooPr5pICn3OcYNjHy92MPydB8j1TgA/s640/DUOMO+%25282a%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The iconic Duomo - Basilica
di Santa Maria del Fiore (Cathedral of Santa Mary of the Flower</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">)
dating from 1296, is on every postcard of the city - a truly amazing sight. This
Gothic basilica is one of Italy’s largest churches with its green, pink and
white marble exterior and the largest red brick dome ever constructed. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjBT4yuYZEohiUX0NRYxj8Zd3QgFR-0c9JROvj3ng-PYXIfe1YHi-EmLJOPbranC2p4sDoSXF2qPhjUmSLvX2R3PtaMhfnMu-NY0ixq1MkKnjJZ-1W0JI2KkoEOEVyvnLLO7gp4iJy5as/s1600/DUOMO+%25286a%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjBT4yuYZEohiUX0NRYxj8Zd3QgFR-0c9JROvj3ng-PYXIfe1YHi-EmLJOPbranC2p4sDoSXF2qPhjUmSLvX2R3PtaMhfnMu-NY0ixq1MkKnjJZ-1W0JI2KkoEOEVyvnLLO7gp4iJy5as/s640/DUOMO+%25286a%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It is
free to go inside, although you might have quite a wait unless you buy a skip-the
line ticket or a joint ticket for all the Duomo’s attractions (The Bell Tower,
Baptistery, Museo dell Opera, and Church of Santa Reparata). </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8Rrtu_D9AYSbd_eMMk8OSntAqg87rHFbCxZxIMibmSGrb3AFyYg4gTJKfai7k4x7kdwUdKwkMf71PoO7JYQODk_rdKGSQ86rkybL59PPfAvupCzn_dNMDyPXOhE4YaM5ryTaCisCohE/s1600/DUOMO+INSIDE+%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8Rrtu_D9AYSbd_eMMk8OSntAqg87rHFbCxZxIMibmSGrb3AFyYg4gTJKfai7k4x7kdwUdKwkMf71PoO7JYQODk_rdKGSQ86rkybL59PPfAvupCzn_dNMDyPXOhE4YaM5ryTaCisCohE/s640/DUOMO+INSIDE+%25288%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Brunelleschi’s
frescoes on the inside ceiling of the dome are quite stunning, and for me, the
best part of the inside of the Cathedral. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4xjFpr8A0nq56HEjChZVbawevu-tlfgwRsYAm-djaeqb4GpgF2Aiz89ztY-ObMfeY_sIBwdnLVpwEk6XH2Mtfozn16Ag0S25vn6LADF5tcwKMcuH2YPUzTBvpk4plssoYmnruUVAQzgM/s1600/DUOMO+%252823%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1030" data-original-width="1600" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4xjFpr8A0nq56HEjChZVbawevu-tlfgwRsYAm-djaeqb4GpgF2Aiz89ztY-ObMfeY_sIBwdnLVpwEk6XH2Mtfozn16Ag0S25vn6LADF5tcwKMcuH2YPUzTBvpk4plssoYmnruUVAQzgM/s640/DUOMO+%252823%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I enjoyed the architecture of the
outside more, it is so impressive and covers such an immense area; and whatever
time of the day you go past, it glows in a different light. The </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Baptistery
of St. John</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> stands right in front of the </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">Basilica and
is one of the <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">oldest religious sites in</span>
Florence containing beautiful 13<sup>th</sup> century mosaics.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIq4_ZqwOqGiPVlbpWmwTUqLlZmPLY5uaDDG-XjEoioL27lvsiSaZaIgJ587P0OFOQY-I0NEqI-HGwf5h0GvxSpB8KqxUuaxHBMA59oTnISYQL0NYVd91at4lLIsTIqzg5Jm_OrfJeghw/s1600/DUOMO+%25286b%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1279" data-original-width="1600" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIq4_ZqwOqGiPVlbpWmwTUqLlZmPLY5uaDDG-XjEoioL27lvsiSaZaIgJ587P0OFOQY-I0NEqI-HGwf5h0GvxSpB8KqxUuaxHBMA59oTnISYQL0NYVd91at4lLIsTIqzg5Jm_OrfJeghw/s640/DUOMO+%25286b%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Although its
origins are unknown, it is believed to have been built over the ruins of a <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Roman temple </span>dedicated to Mars as
early as the 4<sup>th</sup> century; and it was first described as a minor
basilica in 897. In <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">1128,</span> it
was consecrated as the <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Baptistery</span> of
Florence making it the oldest religious monument in the city. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgblsajA_oEadj_Jhx_Gy5wQ6GJM6B9UwGp400cB-YgX12ZT796FHuJjBOkLlFAGStrEAW0sPSidhII-NK32nhNH5ATcbKyK1cNB6rcxCqcl3tuyFllTTPzO85bw8ptNisSQFSkozQwAJY/s1600/DUOMO+%252819%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1246" data-original-width="1600" height="498" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgblsajA_oEadj_Jhx_Gy5wQ6GJM6B9UwGp400cB-YgX12ZT796FHuJjBOkLlFAGStrEAW0sPSidhII-NK32nhNH5ATcbKyK1cNB6rcxCqcl3tuyFllTTPzO85bw8ptNisSQFSkozQwAJY/s640/DUOMO+%252819%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It is an <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">octagonal shape,</span> clad in geometrically
patterned white and green coloured marble, that is typical <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Florentine Romanesque architecture</span>.</span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">On
3 of its sides there are<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> large doors,</span> famous
for their decorations. The oldest doors are the bronze ones on the <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">South side, made</span> around 1330,
consisting of 28 panels depicting <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">scenes
from St. John's life</span>. The <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Northern
doors</span> show <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">stories of the
Life of Christ</span> taken from the New Testament., and the golden <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Eastern Doors</span> with scenes from
the Old Testament are known as <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">the
Gates of Paradise -</span> after a famous quotation by <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Michelangelo</span> who is believed to have
exclaimed: "<i>they are so beautiful that they would be perfect for the
gates of paradise</i>". </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">The original doors are now in the Duomo Museum.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKfjfkH7UHJ5Ukc6GW1kZygWkga20650P5ENkwGo-AQ-KxZD5nRE9kmx6h04DRXtT3ZFXtwfAyrfAerDnvbp68fl_CBUuqyICcyZO8REFIKjpoWKenFw4TKZEU7o33s9pBU-DZ-mLIkkY/s1600/DUOMO+%25289%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKfjfkH7UHJ5Ukc6GW1kZygWkga20650P5ENkwGo-AQ-KxZD5nRE9kmx6h04DRXtT3ZFXtwfAyrfAerDnvbp68fl_CBUuqyICcyZO8REFIKjpoWKenFw4TKZEU7o33s9pBU-DZ-mLIkkY/s640/DUOMO+%25289%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">One of Florence’s lesser-known
secrets, and with some of the best views of the Duomo, is the Oblate Library
which is in the former Convent of the Oblate, between </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Via dell'Oriuolo</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> and </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Via Sant'Egidio</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">. It was originally
built as the </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Santa Maria Nuova
Hospital</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> in 1288. A few years later, the convent of the Oblate was
built, for an</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> order of women</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> who
devoted their lives to taking care of the ill - and the order lived here until
1936. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Fdz5Z3nU5RTda4ChkL0iCUOvbbgXDglAceQ0Mf-FXAhsz5gDuxrAfy_ic73bqaSNuqx2oygkeKWCmptJSDju6maIitNvW7af0hNkz38wWXbfdd3exbjmNLOUFoXFlotvbd9VTm6ovq4/s1600/LIBRARY+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1114" data-original-width="1600" height="444" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Fdz5Z3nU5RTda4ChkL0iCUOvbbgXDglAceQ0Mf-FXAhsz5gDuxrAfy_ic73bqaSNuqx2oygkeKWCmptJSDju6maIitNvW7af0hNkz38wWXbfdd3exbjmNLOUFoXFlotvbd9VTm6ovq4/s640/LIBRARY+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">The library’s main entrance is not at all what you would expect and could
easily be missed; it is through a cloistered area that surrounds a garden with plants
and seats. Today the Library has 3 different levels and as well as containing
documents on the ancient history of Florence and Tuscany, it has a </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Museum of Prehistory, a children’s section, a
newspaper library and</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">modern
reading rooms with computers.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn4AXB-wxtRj_lBNTzxsUNIgvaeT1gm7F1sCo_LMbVbw8ovGXzhtiJlkWbmSZduHdfn9Spgltc-Q6J66AHaUEaVadQjHd80p4yWa2awEHZemozfRoC-fuyIvcFc9f6V4k28uxTK0_zJjs/s1600/LIBRARY+%25282A%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn4AXB-wxtRj_lBNTzxsUNIgvaeT1gm7F1sCo_LMbVbw8ovGXzhtiJlkWbmSZduHdfn9Spgltc-Q6J66AHaUEaVadQjHd80p4yWa2awEHZemozfRoC-fuyIvcFc9f6V4k28uxTK0_zJjs/s640/LIBRARY+%25282A%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">My favourite part was the café on the 2<sup>nd</sup> floor, with</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> a </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">spectacular view of the Duomo</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> - a great place for a cappuccino away from the hustle of the streets below.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh46x81fUXLDB0lySCgtJwr1lA3defUFi7UTeFwVIisdv4BAePrPJiaabPclDKoF26yKbZ4x_jKnFlnXbgAGhdrOFTgcjSqzjT5f1qYJo3Ajz4dTRQZRua_mGZw9vW7DcF6jf8Yx3L8fSA/s1600/LIBRARY+%25285%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh46x81fUXLDB0lySCgtJwr1lA3defUFi7UTeFwVIisdv4BAePrPJiaabPclDKoF26yKbZ4x_jKnFlnXbgAGhdrOFTgcjSqzjT5f1qYJo3Ajz4dTRQZRua_mGZw9vW7DcF6jf8Yx3L8fSA/s640/LIBRARY+%25285%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Along the busy</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> Via dei Calzaiuoli with its numerous high
street shops, you come across the Church of Orsanmichel, that is free to go
inside – so it is worth having a look. It is thought a building was here since
Roman times and in the 9th century another was constructed on the site of
the kitchen garden </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> of the monastery of
San Michel. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">After being converted into a church, parts of it were used as offices and grain storage areas, designed to withstand famine or a siege. <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Orsanmichele</span> is famously known for </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">sculptures of its patron saints, placed in the niches on all 4 sides of the church. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmtZgL6N50hHfdPKf_aMlxOmgY93uwWllmqkztrrj90UdiSoAAECekhhtXU39xCQe4fCTq3SiPb71F87Zq9MnfDso0-aKxYxc7435zcbfuiifpqfP3D_gYeIfsMflA-o7SVDrWtCY1xzk/s1600/OSM+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmtZgL6N50hHfdPKf_aMlxOmgY93uwWllmqkztrrj90UdiSoAAECekhhtXU39xCQe4fCTq3SiPb71F87Zq9MnfDso0-aKxYxc7435zcbfuiifpqfP3D_gYeIfsMflA-o7SVDrWtCY1xzk/s640/OSM+%25284%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The first "Madonna of the
Graces" painting was on a pillar - which was soon followed by miraculous
events. Pilgrims inspired by the story of the miraculous appearance of the
Madonna there, began visiting in increasing numbers, especially after the Black
Plague in 1348. As the legend of the new "Madonna of the Graces" grew,
a tabernacle was commissioned to protect it – which still in place, this
masterpiece by Andrea Orcagna was completed in 1359. The stained-glass windows
added around this time are some of the oldest in Florence and illustrate the
miracles of the Madonna of Orsanmichele.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhylB5_Bla6el_MDutAQ1D85PZ0JudRi94roqtCvpsFYlth0agg3tVt2AWB1WL4LME6_UZ18WESgPx6SrefMftlZ8lY_YqNv8vfAmnW_D_tmaZdm590PAlWYp24ptluIwtwYqJsD__lysY/s1600/OSM+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhylB5_Bla6el_MDutAQ1D85PZ0JudRi94roqtCvpsFYlth0agg3tVt2AWB1WL4LME6_UZ18WESgPx6SrefMftlZ8lY_YqNv8vfAmnW_D_tmaZdm590PAlWYp24ptluIwtwYqJsD__lysY/s640/OSM+%25287%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Not
far from here is the Loggia del Porcellino</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">, the “New Market/<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Loggia del Mercato Nuovo</span>. The 16<sup>th</sup>
century</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> loggia was
originally intended for the sale of silk, luxury goods and straw hats, but
today mainly leather goods and souvenirs are sold. The focal point is the <span style="mso-bidi-font-style: italic;">Fontana del Porcellino</span> - "fountain
of the piglet" - the 16<sup>th</sup> century bronze wild boar</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> (The original is at </span><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; text-decoration: none;"> Palazzo Pitti and the copy you see today was made in 2008)</span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">.
Visitors are encouraged to place a coin in the mouth of the boar, after rubbing
its nose; and make a wish.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVMUtSzkFY7NPTG2nTIwMbfkIedD7rFqsdU348y5kzvzP6sADaVMmjeb8cKbovNuzK6eFUVpSv5I9pM6wpwsOe56e56hHFlmsnqwrrddptmRH5EqF5Mh_mnpT3bnCyut2_oA1zFqsWEXE/s1600/MKT+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1214" data-original-width="1600" height="484" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVMUtSzkFY7NPTG2nTIwMbfkIedD7rFqsdU348y5kzvzP6sADaVMmjeb8cKbovNuzK6eFUVpSv5I9pM6wpwsOe56e56hHFlmsnqwrrddptmRH5EqF5Mh_mnpT3bnCyut2_oA1zFqsWEXE/s640/MKT+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">A few streets away is the
Piazza della Signoria and the breath-taking Palazzo Vecchio – a fortress-palace,
built in the form of a castle with the 94-metre-high Arnolfo tower.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In 1299 the Florentines decided to build a
palace to house its government organizations, but it took centuries to complete.
Its function was to become the residence and workplace of the officials of the
republic, so it has several rooms, each with a unique personality. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Qadv1YAphWZeS3F-cP0wE5clu9eFqomPlw7wVeoS48gA7FnevP_zb5Kq4Xij4xtKoJIiNRwBA2DD8HS9-ezBEKV9xeHvZj0OHzRoCPG8nH1sqHw7tAORTowYMIfJ_B5qybUgY-hCMgk/s1600/PALAZZO+VECCHIO+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4Qadv1YAphWZeS3F-cP0wE5clu9eFqomPlw7wVeoS48gA7FnevP_zb5Kq4Xij4xtKoJIiNRwBA2DD8HS9-ezBEKV9xeHvZj0OHzRoCPG8nH1sqHw7tAORTowYMIfJ_B5qybUgY-hCMgk/s640/PALAZZO+VECCHIO+%25283%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In the 16<sup>th</sup>
century Cosimo I de Medici ordered its restructuring and redecorating to turn
it into his residence - acquiring its present appearance of a Ducal Palace.
Later though, he moved to the Pitti Palace; and Palazzo Ducale was renamed
Palazzo Vecchio, becoming government offices again. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSy50MJGb2s0ETUPMM0IbMKEx3gM5_cr595IyW-sug-CeWmlbKIvfgPHf0B1i0mpVOQgVjcLV0tULkSJGAWC0GKC1vbAMXIO3lLvyCeT0EkKLlIsVCjxSFnnifiITOseF4w0lhZMDdWdk/s1600/PALAZZO+VECCHIO+%252815%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSy50MJGb2s0ETUPMM0IbMKEx3gM5_cr595IyW-sug-CeWmlbKIvfgPHf0B1i0mpVOQgVjcLV0tULkSJGAWC0GKC1vbAMXIO3lLvyCeT0EkKLlIsVCjxSFnnifiITOseF4w0lhZMDdWdk/s640/PALAZZO+VECCHIO+%252815%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyGqif5KEHWrHU5fJnLhMPqHdpcGCdrAcLH9g8XGOGU8sbpBADWAN5-Jktk5P27VH19YbrD4GRhKpexcCtnp0FLlAR4Mt8StkbF4SGShJL1c3e-13Yfl_nntjZ_AaGtPbDTYmSrxEd68/s1600/PALAZZO+VECCHIO+%252823%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1204" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQyGqif5KEHWrHU5fJnLhMPqHdpcGCdrAcLH9g8XGOGU8sbpBADWAN5-Jktk5P27VH19YbrD4GRhKpexcCtnp0FLlAR4Mt8StkbF4SGShJL1c3e-13Yfl_nntjZ_AaGtPbDTYmSrxEd68/s640/PALAZZO+VECCHIO+%252823%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">He ordered the construction
of a corridor that connected the Pitti Palace with the administration offices (currently
the Uffizi Gallery) and the Palazzo Vecchio; to be able to move from one place
to another in comfort and privacy. Palazzo Vecchio is now home to the Museo dei
Ragazzi, the offices of the Town Hall and the Cinquecento Hall. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8P0gGaqHOJ5TTk9Lm9y8moikM3o5UtxKKUiKfpSSp4PpUnL0gImXzn9wWiWnt-yYnm7ddRc1sqk6dPYv-SpRyOYe0pas8tpMmt5L2TrrtfSb5usf-qaVeskvEO43rOPeCvHDhS5knduo/s1600/PALAZZO+VECCHIO+%25288%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8P0gGaqHOJ5TTk9Lm9y8moikM3o5UtxKKUiKfpSSp4PpUnL0gImXzn9wWiWnt-yYnm7ddRc1sqk6dPYv-SpRyOYe0pas8tpMmt5L2TrrtfSb5usf-qaVeskvEO43rOPeCvHDhS5knduo/s640/PALAZZO+VECCHIO+%25288%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">At the main entrance
are sculptures of Adam and Eve, Hercules and a copy of Michelangelo's David;</span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">and
in the inner courtyard there are stunning marble columns and more statues. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1yPhhrDHNtpydHnXO8MkDqxQCuVZxGp-XS-otj96Pt0faqvBaIRihHr96wdxHBdXlbiUSLXsht49AMy_y2x3WnciCRe1EYvGBcFQP-LBX8c_0AGjjELKhvMyidy0Sn-WrsuiDKCoUsm4/s1600/PALAZZO+VECCHIO+%252842%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1yPhhrDHNtpydHnXO8MkDqxQCuVZxGp-XS-otj96Pt0faqvBaIRihHr96wdxHBdXlbiUSLXsht49AMy_y2x3WnciCRe1EYvGBcFQP-LBX8c_0AGjjELKhvMyidy0Sn-WrsuiDKCoUsm4/s640/PALAZZO+VECCHIO+%252842%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Also,
in the Piazza della Signoria is the Fountain of Neptune, a huge equestrian statue
of Cosimo 1st and the marvellous Loggia della Signoria. This is described as a
small open-air museum, with various works of art such as the Kidnapping of the
Sabines and the Perseus with the head of Medusa. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu4McyjFP8Me8jYIxDXNnhyRUCZxdTSJ3QV1zUevMh2qp7OV_4_ZE_32pIiao_o6tHYJiWGPycmX-lkvrhVL6a1oUwF7g9eexOO7WZUK9e5qdVfKVwhtZ4j5rKpYkTCVfHPdl91oydPtw/s1600/PIAZZA+DELLA+SIGNORIA+%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu4McyjFP8Me8jYIxDXNnhyRUCZxdTSJ3QV1zUevMh2qp7OV_4_ZE_32pIiao_o6tHYJiWGPycmX-lkvrhVL6a1oUwF7g9eexOO7WZUK9e5qdVfKVwhtZ4j5rKpYkTCVfHPdl91oydPtw/s640/PIAZZA+DELLA+SIGNORIA+%25289%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The building is open on 2
sides, with huge arches and columns at the front; and has an extensive seating
area – it is one of the most delightful places in Florence to sit and watch the
world go by.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Adjacent to the</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; text-decoration: none;"> Piazza della Signoria </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">, is the </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; text-decoration: none;"> Uffizi Gallery,</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> built
in 1560, on the order of Cosimo I de Medici; as the offices of the Florentine
magistrates, hence the name </span><i><span lang="IT" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">uffizi</span></i><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">,
"offices”. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqleCp1taUPp7o5UUxhOCh95loPhXk1gLIkLsfh8JBvjsjpn6PUgE54LqlxYPwPGqIUHy50lOfdwtg8AAyY3wDCoXvdPvJdLJDphUwa36HdyX8GTdibrj0OcqovmnduqQXGzGKBlRKSmg/s1600/UFFIZI+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqleCp1taUPp7o5UUxhOCh95loPhXk1gLIkLsfh8JBvjsjpn6PUgE54LqlxYPwPGqIUHy50lOfdwtg8AAyY3wDCoXvdPvJdLJDphUwa36HdyX8GTdibrj0OcqovmnduqQXGzGKBlRKSmg/s640/UFFIZI+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieomk5Dq4_LDsZFfpEZshJMPEh5O6jtXgNOM5h0f4L8snKpsVm4q_0g9MmoDmy2mKD65ZpAsu7TjdQIbDgwaKLVDFjEQ9hdf0U_44h9AMZNfT1YOvBgj77uWsJhZqmcF0lQ78A56w4K2E/s1600/UFFIZI+%25289%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1238" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieomk5Dq4_LDsZFfpEZshJMPEh5O6jtXgNOM5h0f4L8snKpsVm4q_0g9MmoDmy2mKD65ZpAsu7TjdQIbDgwaKLVDFjEQ9hdf0U_44h9AMZNfT1YOvBgj77uWsJhZqmcF0lQ78A56w4K2E/s640/UFFIZI+%25289%2529.JPG" width="494" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Today the Palazzo degli
Uffizi houses the largest collection of Italian Renaissance art and paintings
in the world and is one of Florence's most renowned tourist attractions. After
the ruling </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> house of Medici died out, their art
collections were gifted to the city by </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; text-decoration: none;"> Anna Maria Luisa</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">, the last Medici
heiress. The Uffizi is known as one of the first modern museums. In the 16<sup>th</sup>
century its gallery was open to visitors by request, and in 1765 it was
officially opened to the public, formally becoming a museum in 1865. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU-Q3XQfk8L-MaaVkk_w_nlBL2Je3zq21B2gDIfH3ntvZcxchqxtOHn8_KtYO_0_K7dWj6CyxjHbRr_wcO4cPspM3Q7S_sI8oK4D2hDjGu8buxP-YmA1pap4oNlRdsG_A0jaHZ21dsh5k/s1600/UFFIZI+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="989" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU-Q3XQfk8L-MaaVkk_w_nlBL2Je3zq21B2gDIfH3ntvZcxchqxtOHn8_KtYO_0_K7dWj6CyxjHbRr_wcO4cPspM3Q7S_sI8oK4D2hDjGu8buxP-YmA1pap4oNlRdsG_A0jaHZ21dsh5k/s640/UFFIZI+%25287%2529.JPG" width="394" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">As well as
lots to see inside, along the outside walls are statues of famous Florentine
people and you can easily spend anything from 1 to 5 hours inside here. The
building overlooks the River Arno and can also be appreciated from across the
water. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJfa3zLsKVHyRfNrSd54BqT2P1W90VMX1ZgH8nUARywWh48rytx_kSWoRfsQkduQwZLNvXNzm5IuTyNhGYU6LSGQ6DkUYyWqA0F0lVmK8Reaxr8G4kuMrkSkPQpFH3bHhxxUCycjcWtas/s1600/PONTE+VECCHIO+%252815%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="566" data-original-width="1600" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJfa3zLsKVHyRfNrSd54BqT2P1W90VMX1ZgH8nUARywWh48rytx_kSWoRfsQkduQwZLNvXNzm5IuTyNhGYU6LSGQ6DkUYyWqA0F0lVmK8Reaxr8G4kuMrkSkPQpFH3bHhxxUCycjcWtas/s640/PONTE+VECCHIO+%252815%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The Ponte Vecchio - 'Old
Bridge' is one of the most famous landmarks of Florence and there has been a
bridge spanning the river Arno close to here, since Roman times. The current
stone bridge built in 1345, replaced an older wooden one, and had 43 shops on
top of its 3 arches. Over the top of the medieval shops, runs the Vasari
Corridor, a private passageway, linking the Palazza Vecchio and the Uffizi,
with the Pitti Palace. At the end of the 16th century, to try and make it more refined,
only jewellers and goldsmiths were allowed to do business on the bridge. This
tradition has continued and even now, the only shops on the bridge sell gold
and jewels; in the centre of the bridge there is a bust of Benvenuto Cellini, one
of the most famous of the town's goldsmiths. </span><br />
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6s6cr0Ve-gSV0N6HfG2q14RloI_xlkJHcpFA3CusfwWe9n1avbCdSiO9X4F-7t8a45F_KGadyPo8kHXyGCEXsLIRxMy_wMSoLajC8OwEL-bwjo4bvaadajoHlg9jx09lbvpfgNAgwvI/s1600/RIVER+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr6s6cr0Ve-gSV0N6HfG2q14RloI_xlkJHcpFA3CusfwWe9n1avbCdSiO9X4F-7t8a45F_KGadyPo8kHXyGCEXsLIRxMy_wMSoLajC8OwEL-bwjo4bvaadajoHlg9jx09lbvpfgNAgwvI/s640/RIVER+%25284%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The bridge has suffered from
numerous fires and floods in the past, but the closest it came to destruction was
during WW2; when the Germans retreated, they blew up all of Florence's bridges
apart from the Ponte Vecchio, instead blocking its ends with rubble from
demolished buildings. Also, in the great floods of 1966, many valuables were
washed away down the river from the shops above.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As well as walking over the bridge itself, it
is delightful to walk from one bridge to another, admiring the colourful views
along both riverbanks.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ0aEuUxGpAj0cfA_j3HZ6ILMRExN3SCq8hB0ifWeGmQOIm3IyAtrm0ZZshc5Szzass50ohikoN5ppOKX7t_8immwuOmZiJgsJCikIl5wdu0_iG3ETfGHbQYy5R2KWzSTFhOjcGDXdD1E/s1600/RIVER+%25287%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ0aEuUxGpAj0cfA_j3HZ6ILMRExN3SCq8hB0ifWeGmQOIm3IyAtrm0ZZshc5Szzass50ohikoN5ppOKX7t_8immwuOmZiJgsJCikIl5wdu0_iG3ETfGHbQYy5R2KWzSTFhOjcGDXdD1E/s640/RIVER+%25287%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">On the other side of the
river is one of my favourite places - Piazzale Michelangelo; an observation
terrace, where you can enjoy the most spectacular panorama of the city.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No matter what time of day you visit, you
will find the view from Piazzale Michelangelo offers the most stupendous
lookout over Florence. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQzZ7uxRjECru1pELZRT2wcrW-rSd1uk2JqAIIzGTemDm-12aJObcaj02swD-Gb2P20pVErb8vlXJaRDyv4HBkC6FnpDsUx0zmg3bWy26UWE_5dGbQOnfAPsgLbQdpHD5vgstdCj7JrwY/s1600/MICHAELANGELO+PIAZZA+VIEWS+%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="1600" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQzZ7uxRjECru1pELZRT2wcrW-rSd1uk2JqAIIzGTemDm-12aJObcaj02swD-Gb2P20pVErb8vlXJaRDyv4HBkC6FnpDsUx0zmg3bWy26UWE_5dGbQOnfAPsgLbQdpHD5vgstdCj7JrwY/s640/MICHAELANGELO+PIAZZA+VIEWS+%252812%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipkvfTxuKsm3vMoZC9jjky8zy0XWCcdiKJJQC1UIF47LHV-HJZeqD8RYgrHBRpzvM4eV2x5DzgPJWyySXbl4Eg-V5gAEYDg95XAJv4rg58CgNbqZ9Eqc73cIXFiwhH8MVKJ3vNh8M6ew4/s1600/MICHAELANGELO+PIAZZA+VIEWS+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipkvfTxuKsm3vMoZC9jjky8zy0XWCcdiKJJQC1UIF47LHV-HJZeqD8RYgrHBRpzvM4eV2x5DzgPJWyySXbl4Eg-V5gAEYDg95XAJv4rg58CgNbqZ9Eqc73cIXFiwhH8MVKJ3vNh8M6ew4/s640/MICHAELANGELO+PIAZZA+VIEWS+%25284%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It was created in 1869 by Florentine architect Giuseppe
Poggi, as part of major restructuring of the city. The terrace was intended to
be a showcase for copies of Michelangelo’s masterpieces – but that never
happened – although there is a huge bronze replica of Michelangelo’s David. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today, the piazza is filled with tourists,
vendors, and a delightful restaurant where you should definitely spend some
time soaking up the atmosphere and the view, whilst partaking in some
delightful refreshments. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaS0SmcXG9Tp7_C67mjnQYXfB9vUYIkZjugjqNdNSBoAHRSJns5TfTfrXSe9p-yjq5QYSR3vKC63JRoKAFkH-gzGgoyLhW87ugylkIKYWv7W1YVHVvdqAITeNlcV79vjTjRbaGJ1qHVLQ/s1600/MICHAELANGELO+PIAZZA+VIEWS+%252815%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaS0SmcXG9Tp7_C67mjnQYXfB9vUYIkZjugjqNdNSBoAHRSJns5TfTfrXSe9p-yjq5QYSR3vKC63JRoKAFkH-gzGgoyLhW87ugylkIKYWv7W1YVHVvdqAITeNlcV79vjTjRbaGJ1qHVLQ/s640/MICHAELANGELO+PIAZZA+VIEWS+%252815%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">You can reach the Piazzale by a number 12 or 13 bus or
you can walk up from the river. After spending some time there, I opted to walk
back down, following an easy pathway; where I came across the Bardini Gardens. The
entrance to these is a joint ticket which includes the Boboli Gardens and as I
was intending going there too, it was a useful addition to my day. The Bardini
Gardens are built on a steep hillside, with a grand stairway, neat lawns,
carefully tended trees and shrubs and colourful planting. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2x1cHCCiqzgutBUNkTrQyKq1XeANtotJIth73GQQq-mp_WB75M6ehdhh1UWQUlMBVfevrEuR2O3PFvEa_jVs92LiSVh96i8i6c1G_yYkDf4t0FEF_sO5lhu4NI82HtPecGNxg4v5dCaw/s1600/BARDINI+GARDEN++%25283%2529+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2x1cHCCiqzgutBUNkTrQyKq1XeANtotJIth73GQQq-mp_WB75M6ehdhh1UWQUlMBVfevrEuR2O3PFvEa_jVs92LiSVh96i8i6c1G_yYkDf4t0FEF_sO5lhu4NI82HtPecGNxg4v5dCaw/s640/BARDINI+GARDEN++%25283%2529+-+Copy.JPG" width="640" /></a><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">When I visited, the
Wisteria Corridor was in full bloom and was the most beautiful sight – a tunnel
of mauve flowers hanging from the arched structure; and the view of the city
with the surrounding hills, made it all feel so close.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDijXhA1DzvCKM4OX29Ho2RhdynY79KFLjkfK3MFAsgAsrKD1HhFmkThyX-yMTmp97yJqrgqUjsQ78Gd3qS6jC0dyzDPAc4jhssr_VhPXnMJuEyeDDXur5Plb70enZ2W8LTRXGkd9T2Pg/s1600/BARDINI+GARDEN++%25288%2529+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDijXhA1DzvCKM4OX29Ho2RhdynY79KFLjkfK3MFAsgAsrKD1HhFmkThyX-yMTmp97yJqrgqUjsQ78Gd3qS6jC0dyzDPAc4jhssr_VhPXnMJuEyeDDXur5Plb70enZ2W8LTRXGkd9T2Pg/s640/BARDINI+GARDEN++%25288%2529+-+Copy.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">These gardens are definitely worth a visit.
Next I headed downhill to the Palazzo Pitti, as behind are the Boboli Gardens -
described as an open-air museum containing treasures - put in place by the
Medici 4 centuries ago. They cover a vast area and were designed as a venue for
extravagant gatherings - dotted with statues, fountains and features taken from
the Medici art collections. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiHIuKpOiod299UTM7hOYYlWrSGZOzWxWSLOzxmnq-qdNH9vHkgjn23ZbgHPwJwka1fXrhkuCu4JLS1wVHXE50jLI7tUZsKgDiy37ux2HrClEsmMNDLJLAYGPRL-z2Bqokz5YOdijO5IM/s1600/BOBILI+GARDEN+%252819%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1090" data-original-width="1600" height="434" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiHIuKpOiod299UTM7hOYYlWrSGZOzWxWSLOzxmnq-qdNH9vHkgjn23ZbgHPwJwka1fXrhkuCu4JLS1wVHXE50jLI7tUZsKgDiy37ux2HrClEsmMNDLJLAYGPRL-z2Bqokz5YOdijO5IM/s640/BOBILI+GARDEN+%252819%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There is a lake with an ornamental island, a
variety of wooded hillside paths, and the Neptune Fountain. In 16<sup>th</sup> century
Tuscany, grottoes were an essential part of affluent family’s gardens, having
natural looking caves constructed and decorated with fountains, sculptures, and
frescoes. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyTbzhNGciY2mbMGUZ6oZZ6heTPpCiC_w-3C-5iFQqe4JbYqenI-uERvE4Qwsd64PLn-7pwb4nk0OpBAgYmFhn0V1ycUCTYJZdK9uwqeSloxQh1JSp-qKK_jDRQ95aE92GRl79W63jjNk/s1600/BOBILI+GARDEN+%252812%2529+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1315" data-original-width="1600" height="524" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyTbzhNGciY2mbMGUZ6oZZ6heTPpCiC_w-3C-5iFQqe4JbYqenI-uERvE4Qwsd64PLn-7pwb4nk0OpBAgYmFhn0V1ycUCTYJZdK9uwqeSloxQh1JSp-qKK_jDRQ95aE92GRl79W63jjNk/s640/BOBILI+GARDEN+%252812%2529+-+Copy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJvUPKzFeybY-ozNdFSIQYPWLqGJkL6MZLVX30jMjKGdCZrEtOiGXuqD0g7e2ZGFSUUsdkW9Tt6rT-iaBM4JuTElhyhTL2BnLe3JkedYnsij2okOdejTUSST0OiRlcz8ozIA4oY8awBb8/s1600/BOBILI+GARDEN+%252813%2529+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJvUPKzFeybY-ozNdFSIQYPWLqGJkL6MZLVX30jMjKGdCZrEtOiGXuqD0g7e2ZGFSUUsdkW9Tt6rT-iaBM4JuTElhyhTL2BnLe3JkedYnsij2okOdejTUSST0OiRlcz8ozIA4oY8awBb8/s640/BOBILI+GARDEN+%252813%2529+-+Copy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The grandest of the Boboli's grottos is the Grotta di Buontalenti
built about 1583; peering through the bars you can see the cave with ornamental
stalactites, sculptures and strange decorations. The Medici family Coat of Arms
is in the centre of the upper band, along with plaques featuring zodiacal
signs. Because of its unusual atmosphere, this Grotto was chosen for a dramatic
scene in the film Inferno – but I found it rather eerie and grotesque. I have
to admit that I was rather disappointed with the Boboli Gardens, they are
fabulously laid out, but it was a long way between the attractions - and there
wasn’t much colour. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl926WJ39o8sWNXAf2oC7IhlgLgkYR5IryBlkIuYOvS9zNOXs6xo1ddWu7BmmC1jJPKOHlMppxhLsRh1rUoNBU68KmuQz0Q19yDDbd3fnJo7kW9USFvQsah_xrGOVZovx2OmlwqoSNOow/s1600/BOBILI+GARDEN+%252817%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl926WJ39o8sWNXAf2oC7IhlgLgkYR5IryBlkIuYOvS9zNOXs6xo1ddWu7BmmC1jJPKOHlMppxhLsRh1rUoNBU68KmuQz0Q19yDDbd3fnJo7kW9USFvQsah_xrGOVZovx2OmlwqoSNOow/s640/BOBILI+GARDEN+%252817%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLvrHpgYHGAj8miYyqp2FDwnVxNQByipinkSwm3L7-lzfFxK0PD52u1XjW41aMgiA6YB_a5hAQQd0Z7AIEIBsxgMxKsUeT2cK9hm6LXeMBtir7EQsDU1qK7-jDgZiWYDq4r67mF51uNwE/s1600/BOBILI+GARDEN+%252828A%2529+-+Copy.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1152" data-original-width="1600" height="460" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLvrHpgYHGAj8miYyqp2FDwnVxNQByipinkSwm3L7-lzfFxK0PD52u1XjW41aMgiA6YB_a5hAQQd0Z7AIEIBsxgMxKsUeT2cK9hm6LXeMBtir7EQsDU1qK7-jDgZiWYDq4r67mF51uNwE/s640/BOBILI+GARDEN+%252828A%2529+-+Copy.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">They are initially the back garden to the Palazzo Pitti -
one of Florence's largest architectural monuments. The original palazzo was
built for the Pitti family in 1457 but later sold to the Medici’s - and became
their primary family residence. It was then enlarged and altered; a grand
courtyard and lateral wings added, and the facade begun to assume its present
appearance. Today, the Pitti Palace is one of the most important museums in
Florence, containing paintings from as far back as the 16<sup>th</sup> century (including
works by Raphael), the Royal Apartments, the Treasury of the Grand Dukes (Silver
Museum), and The Gallery of Modern Art.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEBLV6DtMnbSbbB8G3sr8dnEGzCxNxcWeKLp_26-NnkdVjPQ7o64nSzXMuuz8SZXnDQE0E63OJoyTJNqkicqbgzGDYNN8wwz_Fmxa3nwS3q61zsFVwjo6m-N0kvKqkJh-uR7YoI6AGhfg/s1600/SANTA+SPIRITO+BASILICA+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1030" data-original-width="1600" height="410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEBLV6DtMnbSbbB8G3sr8dnEGzCxNxcWeKLp_26-NnkdVjPQ7o64nSzXMuuz8SZXnDQE0E63OJoyTJNqkicqbgzGDYNN8wwz_Fmxa3nwS3q61zsFVwjo6m-N0kvKqkJh-uR7YoI6AGhfg/s640/SANTA+SPIRITO+BASILICA+%25284%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Also on this side of the
river is the Basilica Santa Spirito, home to Augustinian monks who came onto
the scene in about the 12<sup>th</sup> century. As you walk around the outside
of the church, you will see that it is rather stark with no marble decorations
and its façade was added about 1792. The church has columns dividing it into 3
aisles that surround the high altar, with pilasters on the side walls and a
coffered ceiling. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02eELA2xkEftwGS8UjOcHm7WyTRhhu0_pX69viuaQsjVdvWizwYZPs4N2KhzjVWG9RN_2WOuzSSslNpMGuAMeG-eunpEihIoRnegcEneKxknbN_33EV8bEROETO-5RfoAj2qf2YGa7eE/s1600/SANTA+SPIRITO+BASILICA+%25285%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh02eELA2xkEftwGS8UjOcHm7WyTRhhu0_pX69viuaQsjVdvWizwYZPs4N2KhzjVWG9RN_2WOuzSSslNpMGuAMeG-eunpEihIoRnegcEneKxknbN_33EV8bEROETO-5RfoAj2qf2YGa7eE/s640/SANTA+SPIRITO+BASILICA+%25285%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In 1492, At the age of 17, Michelangelo found refuge in the
convent of Santo Spirito, after the death of his patron Lorenzo il Magnifico.
It was within these walls that students and artists had the opportunity to analyse
corpses from the convent's hospital to study the anatomy of the human body and as
a thank-you, Michelangelo carved a highly realistic wooden sculpture to hang
over the altar. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Back over the bridge towards
the city and there is so much more to see. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIIwLgzNcnpRo7M6NPP5r6D2GVoBniSNt5FxM0stnKno54QkgVEgwyWQIdMaXItsqgahyphenhyphenRGYB7slsvfA1lAQuLcssHnnOq2A3aLbtB100X9494zluy67CuUH9P9fRUed-R5GM9xAd3_gM/s1600/SAN+LORENZ+BASILLICA+%25282A%2529+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIIwLgzNcnpRo7M6NPP5r6D2GVoBniSNt5FxM0stnKno54QkgVEgwyWQIdMaXItsqgahyphenhyphenRGYB7slsvfA1lAQuLcssHnnOq2A3aLbtB100X9494zluy67CuUH9P9fRUed-R5GM9xAd3_gM/s640/SAN+LORENZ+BASILLICA+%25282A%2529+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The Basilica of San Lorenzo, one of
the largest and oldest churches in Florence, is the burial place of all the
principal members of the Medici family. When it was consecrated in 393, it
stood outside the city walls and for 300 years it was the city's cathedral. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOgmnMrQxHpQo4ANw2XqMLXUlTStQFFEiDslhiDJHgvm1J2E67ojQJ1qWz74t_Mf5I428BKw4Lw6tkFlleQlmtrhSGopXs8BQpCAnyBCy8C-IskiNnSvRBaXnsh2lmjMc0A2xNUnvEKJU/s1600/SAN+LORENZ+BASILLICA+%25284A%2529+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOgmnMrQxHpQo4ANw2XqMLXUlTStQFFEiDslhiDJHgvm1J2E67ojQJ1qWz74t_Mf5I428BKw4Lw6tkFlleQlmtrhSGopXs8BQpCAnyBCy8C-IskiNnSvRBaXnsh2lmjMc0A2xNUnvEKJU/s640/SAN+LORENZ+BASILLICA+%25284A%2529+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje6N-Zh_HcayR_rZkxMTx7_TzbRJjOD3AgwQdL6vv6gvtsSbq2N9yLrzjC0BM7qLa08ideufRgPB2pGmkMj46cVMgttkw72j7-LB4ckGm1GuBowNaSgzGbuxU4fgjDxSV3qviW6yiguh0/s1600/SAN+LORENZ+BASILLICA+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje6N-Zh_HcayR_rZkxMTx7_TzbRJjOD3AgwQdL6vv6gvtsSbq2N9yLrzjC0BM7qLa08ideufRgPB2pGmkMj46cVMgttkw72j7-LB4ckGm1GuBowNaSgzGbuxU4fgjDxSV3qviW6yiguh0/s640/SAN+LORENZ+BASILLICA+%25284%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The
church is part of a monastic complex that contains important architectural and
artistic works: The Old Sacristy by Brunelleschi, with interior decoration and
sculpture by Donatello; the Laurentian Library by Michelangelo; the New
Sacristy based on Michelangelo's designs; and the Medici Chapels. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJ3099huh_TUz3k_ulfJHBXadclli7MnBOj9SrtixSRKuKWKc2NeP-h3avlnH0qlht4ZEiqSEwJsha0WFs7niWuT3J1h2pdhr9NbrYg6ZNVZXUFdjItSAa6UchzFpZKn7qBFUD61yFJ0/s1600/MEDICI+CHAPEL+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1561" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeJ3099huh_TUz3k_ulfJHBXadclli7MnBOj9SrtixSRKuKWKc2NeP-h3avlnH0qlht4ZEiqSEwJsha0WFs7niWuT3J1h2pdhr9NbrYg6ZNVZXUFdjItSAa6UchzFpZKn7qBFUD61yFJ0/s640/MEDICI+CHAPEL+%25282%2529.JPG" width="624" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Close to here
is the colourful <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">market of San
Lorenzo</span>, which comprises of an indoor market where you can buy all sorts
of perishable goods, and the outdoor section in the surroundings streets -
selling leather, clothing and souvenirs. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdU4iboD16S3jmHEkh9Kw3OJT3hVPguAQEsYgThkDQ8AYB-Q1Zkn5e8nMWfDw66FEey1QodD4aXcWtJ9iVwWXxci0OGbb0h26oYsrcSUXYoTrr98iNmrHGGLd81AbWFkBYOWFOBWPxR_o/s1600/SAN+LORENZO+MARKET+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdU4iboD16S3jmHEkh9Kw3OJT3hVPguAQEsYgThkDQ8AYB-Q1Zkn5e8nMWfDw66FEey1QodD4aXcWtJ9iVwWXxci0OGbb0h26oYsrcSUXYoTrr98iNmrHGGLd81AbWFkBYOWFOBWPxR_o/s640/SAN+LORENZO+MARKET+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There are many bargains to be had
here, but my favourite section was back in the main <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Mercato Centrale; on the upper floor is the gourmet food court which is
open every day from 10am until midnight. Here you can chose from so many
Italian and worldwide speciality dishes – the choice is mind blowing and I
would love to have been there longer to try more dishes! There were also local
delicacies such as cheeses, wine, gelato, chocolates, the pizza and pasta
stall, meat, fruit and vegetable and much more. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5-eLxYRHJCr7eG4TQDvGoAiEYHI9RU3z54_n0MmfBJ4h_x0qo3maOSTKVg3fyvZ62J1WfXRfemae5AFpgQhBJAzRvPTbQ7VpoFtCF62LomnHjgQoeiYWR1mij19fPD78zm8tcOU9IKY/s1600/SAN+LORENZO+MARKET+%25282A%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip5-eLxYRHJCr7eG4TQDvGoAiEYHI9RU3z54_n0MmfBJ4h_x0qo3maOSTKVg3fyvZ62J1WfXRfemae5AFpgQhBJAzRvPTbQ7VpoFtCF62LomnHjgQoeiYWR1mij19fPD78zm8tcOU9IKY/s640/SAN+LORENZO+MARKET+%25282A%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">You can watch bread being made,
how cheese is handcrafted or have a go at a pasta making class. It is
definitely worth popping into this beautiful building, with cast iron and glass
all around – especially when you are feeling a bit peckish!<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLeSzrJsA9F6_Sl2ekO9GZFWqXRNk8C3wB8RzpzWJsxKlIQ23lS2iTOK5lIG8i0st-9sF7yVlnzYfbjzS2CODzwKW5indboBpqVhExu0BdT9ag8K_T5tcZsc2cB6VRvf8VM5D6vBLhHgk/s1600/PALAZZO+MEDICI+RICCADI+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLeSzrJsA9F6_Sl2ekO9GZFWqXRNk8C3wB8RzpzWJsxKlIQ23lS2iTOK5lIG8i0st-9sF7yVlnzYfbjzS2CODzwKW5indboBpqVhExu0BdT9ag8K_T5tcZsc2cB6VRvf8VM5D6vBLhHgk/s640/PALAZZO+MEDICI+RICCADI+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Palazzo Medici Riccardi
built in 1444 by Cosimo the Eldest, was the first Renaissance building in
Florence; a cube shape with arched windows and doors arranged along its front façade.
Its 15<sup>th</sup> century courtyard and Renaissance garden are free to go in. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcrXuQ0h7ol7D1htF8_csJ-AK1K2qeX3TtIhkLzc1sHlmYwk50qe7yPkRLoSbBu6fHXvl6J2DCOnqGkwd950ub_o7QcH1kcJV_SS0gxTwy4qidTleU5yP7IxpULE1E-Tdq9hViSxq-H5s/s1600/PALAZZO+MEDICI+RICCADI+%25286%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcrXuQ0h7ol7D1htF8_csJ-AK1K2qeX3TtIhkLzc1sHlmYwk50qe7yPkRLoSbBu6fHXvl6J2DCOnqGkwd950ub_o7QcH1kcJV_SS0gxTwy4qidTleU5yP7IxpULE1E-Tdq9hViSxq-H5s/s640/PALAZZO+MEDICI+RICCADI+%25286%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyNNmXud8K0quGeIOCjXJU-Esu-1VMOxzk68n-KC_ompFbAcTGJKXQMls3tDO9qMuycvfLuSddRqT52DKN73kpAwAl7dzAx1SxfVBnu6hTwNRZLnKbGTO40Mu0ErLD0Auu4mfx1ji6i3w/s1600/PALAZZO+MEDICI+RICCADI+%25285A%2529+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyNNmXud8K0quGeIOCjXJU-Esu-1VMOxzk68n-KC_ompFbAcTGJKXQMls3tDO9qMuycvfLuSddRqT52DKN73kpAwAl7dzAx1SxfVBnu6hTwNRZLnKbGTO40Mu0ErLD0Auu4mfx1ji6i3w/s640/PALAZZO+MEDICI+RICCADI+%25285A%2529+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The most important works here are in the large hall, one of the most
significant examples of Baroque architecture in Florence - decorated with
frescoes. Perhaps the most important section of the palace is the Chapel, with
a 1459 fresco representing the Procession of the Magi. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyxrwE00XuRA5lvBAOSCouLqyLjNYpT4tubwSSNEWBapFgBrSQGrOv_LWWLt4egPS_11Iz5UhUt_BgWM5U8F6bGw1cwF5jBIZFeZ4i4RdgUEwswvEHV9l0s_qqpemCPds2VTDQ-X5C52M/s1600/PALAZZO+MEDICI+RICCADI+%252813%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1256" data-original-width="1600" height="502" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyxrwE00XuRA5lvBAOSCouLqyLjNYpT4tubwSSNEWBapFgBrSQGrOv_LWWLt4egPS_11Iz5UhUt_BgWM5U8F6bGw1cwF5jBIZFeZ4i4RdgUEwswvEHV9l0s_qqpemCPds2VTDQ-X5C52M/s640/PALAZZO+MEDICI+RICCADI+%252813%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I was happy just to walk
through the courtyard and garden, enjoying the surroundings before exiting on a
different street.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The 18th century San
Marco Basilica is in the square of the same name - founded in 1267 by
Silverstrine monks, it includes a bell tower, numerous side chapels<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> </span>and a museum next door. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhESYPz6Dj5ZlNTnrUgKALRK-vBDjHsbX9tgzhNGJOIVpM0tpeMckY5glyVTgCwEUN3vBYBTxokUylfFqNofTyWwfG_-6bRldd-Z2Yz5sNu_aQ8dokgKjng1U7_OsrqoL_VRcg-Y82ho8o/s1600/SANTA+MARCO+museum+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1191" data-original-width="1600" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhESYPz6Dj5ZlNTnrUgKALRK-vBDjHsbX9tgzhNGJOIVpM0tpeMckY5glyVTgCwEUN3vBYBTxokUylfFqNofTyWwfG_-6bRldd-Z2Yz5sNu_aQ8dokgKjng1U7_OsrqoL_VRcg-Y82ho8o/s640/SANTA+MARCO+museum+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There
are so many religious buildings in Florence, it is daunting which to choose
(and most charge a fee), and if you aren’t careful you may stop appreciating
them and miss the best ones. The next 2 should not be missed, so make sure, if
you don’t see any others – you see these; they are worth your time and money.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><br /></span></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6HJrKVF9_2doUz3zsiGUqPplaqe6-UAOaKTKNbEMFtnVD1Ce9VPPr1y1cOA7IIVlPwMbaoBhdH9CC5IzR05yZvtl3kFUjsI_3uquRavdiq2a9dGmcpt74JlYL8vXCN3mjNJWsRU1gnwA/s1600/SANTA+MARIA+NOUVELLA+BASILLICA+1+%252846%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1159" data-original-width="1600" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6HJrKVF9_2doUz3zsiGUqPplaqe6-UAOaKTKNbEMFtnVD1Ce9VPPr1y1cOA7IIVlPwMbaoBhdH9CC5IzR05yZvtl3kFUjsI_3uquRavdiq2a9dGmcpt74JlYL8vXCN3mjNJWsRU1gnwA/s640/SANTA+MARIA+NOUVELLA+BASILLICA+1+%252846%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Santa Maria Novella is
one of the most important Gothic Churches in Florence. Its entrance is opposite
the Train station and you enter immediately into The Cloisters of the Dead, an
ancient area with arched ceilings, that used to be dormitories for the
Dominican Friars – taking you back a thousand years. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFyUa4RYnTLMS9LyRPE3nvOz5152UCCC_WKD9Fm0A_PNE5WIcLmgwgXNsSu0rhldF_0hJDYK0Y2CTjKtNaHf0Y40AZ3rHijurjI4XEE6tFXUI_cwYiz2c231EVKURTUzpZ_6vUdKmD2dE/s1600/SANTA+MARIA+NOUVELLA+BASILLICA+1+%252852%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1265" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFyUa4RYnTLMS9LyRPE3nvOz5152UCCC_WKD9Fm0A_PNE5WIcLmgwgXNsSu0rhldF_0hJDYK0Y2CTjKtNaHf0Y40AZ3rHijurjI4XEE6tFXUI_cwYiz2c231EVKURTUzpZ_6vUdKmD2dE/s640/SANTA+MARIA+NOUVELLA+BASILLICA+1+%252852%2529.jpg" width="504" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The walls are covered in
hundreds of years-old frescoes of saints, the life of Christ and important
people from Santa Novella. There are 2 separate cloisters, the Green Cloister
has frescoes with scenes from the Old Testament on 3 of its 4 sides and, being
outside, some are rather worn. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj04IQS0QlO0e4Zv4Dui0Vh8YeuHnNmwSMEGJqwkxs20Bl83UrdMCC_vqWnKdC_SxJSkrEaRqWDnnSpJr1I7ji7lF4iHQ9yIjhx6Mb0pW4YD7_P5aTd3o9utFiPkJ09H6EoDNC7FJmzV2w/s1600/SANTA+MARIA+NOUVELLA+BASILLICA+1+%252863%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj04IQS0QlO0e4Zv4Dui0Vh8YeuHnNmwSMEGJqwkxs20Bl83UrdMCC_vqWnKdC_SxJSkrEaRqWDnnSpJr1I7ji7lF4iHQ9yIjhx6Mb0pW4YD7_P5aTd3o9utFiPkJ09H6EoDNC7FJmzV2w/s640/SANTA+MARIA+NOUVELLA+BASILLICA+1+%252863%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The Chapter House, (Spanish Chapel) is also here;
it was used by the courtiers of Eleanor of Toledo, wife of Cosimo I, and
features frescoes depicting Jesus Christ's passion, death and resurrection on
the front wall – it is a fabulous room. The other cloister, the Grand Cloister,
is so called because of its size, having 56 arcades surrounding its courtyard
corridor; also look out for the famous Santa Maria Novella Pharmaceutical and
Perfume Laboratory. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmpFG1oohaN7Vf98ATQJ1yFR18HlEY7qpG6pvlU2Kic9QiCSDWPPU79-WCzG9SVG6U6ZXvUtoUEHN_MMkEexSj8fNuF6yfy5Uhnxz41KVv8pN3vPSMuD8jFRQ1oYUg1sHOdMqbI7_OiC8/s1600/SANTA+MARIA+NOUVELLA+BASILLICA+1+%252883%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1227" data-original-width="1600" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmpFG1oohaN7Vf98ATQJ1yFR18HlEY7qpG6pvlU2Kic9QiCSDWPPU79-WCzG9SVG6U6ZXvUtoUEHN_MMkEexSj8fNuF6yfy5Uhnxz41KVv8pN3vPSMuD8jFRQ1oYUg1sHOdMqbI7_OiC8/s640/SANTA+MARIA+NOUVELLA+BASILLICA+1+%252883%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Then you come to the fantastic Tornabuoni Chapel, which has
got to be one of the most magnificent chapels I have ever seen. The inside
appears vast and looks even longer than it is, due to clever colouring of the
central arches. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjri4-HLbbUzSxebdQPGByTGDdKkmwCFTtmjZdLX-MX0LnlemB5KxOPvRVREj0yLTlwRoTR2_k-zIUyWzXQUstYY8QxUU2KzSqmxKxKmugQD9QkssOg9XUb_8dlA2NDBnnZtTydXzEmhA/s1600/SANTA+MARIA+NOUVELLA+BASILLICA+1+%252872%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjri4-HLbbUzSxebdQPGByTGDdKkmwCFTtmjZdLX-MX0LnlemB5KxOPvRVREj0yLTlwRoTR2_k-zIUyWzXQUstYY8QxUU2KzSqmxKxKmugQD9QkssOg9XUb_8dlA2NDBnnZtTydXzEmhA/s640/SANTA+MARIA+NOUVELLA+BASILLICA+1+%252872%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The magnificent marble altar was enlarged in the 19th century
and to me, resembles Florence in miniature, with white buildings and its red
domed roof. The Trinity, by <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Masaccio</span> is
on the far-right wall right as you enter the church, and the incredible Crucifix by <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Giotto</span> hangs above the central
nave. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhe1MdTeEe4bNaeLpPzqqDtd9LVIsFZM1G6MW6uIwt2lkLtiJnLhHGgdRtwO1ELtHe4dy787jzaRrQGc7O_JBWXdCJ16Fx_DwgYMtmQDkc4A6cdPJSJspv5fBkLsJTnOwfbu6l8q0uOY/s1600/SANTA+MARIA+NOUVELLA+BASILLICA+1+%252878%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhe1MdTeEe4bNaeLpPzqqDtd9LVIsFZM1G6MW6uIwt2lkLtiJnLhHGgdRtwO1ELtHe4dy787jzaRrQGc7O_JBWXdCJ16Fx_DwgYMtmQDkc4A6cdPJSJspv5fBkLsJTnOwfbu6l8q0uOY/s640/SANTA+MARIA+NOUVELLA+BASILLICA+1+%252878%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Strozzi Chapel</span>, to the right of the main altar, is dedicated to St. John the Evangelist and scenes of his life are portrayed in the beautiful frescoes painted by apprentices of <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Domenico Ghirlandaio</span> - one of which was a very <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">young Michelangelo</span>.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq6Itaf98Urt3FHnZDw2OSPes6gD6g6CDa1_M6-EqfyrcL9gy3SqNRdgpNy9daUSXpjH5EjBzTNmvB67I0E2TPGbqFM_CCbV9P5ps4d0C097lQ02Xr-ubEHpd_1M85jV6sQdQJhZn-pTs/s1600/SANTA+MARIA+NOUVELLA+BASILLICA+1+%252881%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq6Itaf98Urt3FHnZDw2OSPes6gD6g6CDa1_M6-EqfyrcL9gy3SqNRdgpNy9daUSXpjH5EjBzTNmvB67I0E2TPGbqFM_CCbV9P5ps4d0C097lQ02Xr-ubEHpd_1M85jV6sQdQJhZn-pTs/s640/SANTA+MARIA+NOUVELLA+BASILLICA+1+%252881%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Strozzi di
Mantova Chapel</span> is decorated with frescoes depicting Paradise and Hell -
Dante himself is represented in the Last Judgement just behind the
altar. You will want to spend several hours here, there is so much to see – it
is not just a church.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">The other place you should not miss is The <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Basilica di Santa Croce,</span> rebuilt in 1294 and the principal </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;"> Franciscan</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;"> church in Florence,</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;"> also known as The Temple of the Italian Glories.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipEFtUYt26I5_mE30YpQ53R2ur-G6XudFTMYt6dwHTcHrepXMcTWYBReAz0j1R-aCwetIBJWU4bCT16CvkFvw2CVPCRxefM6zRBRs33A9mMkp257umUHnfUtt8mwvF8KkW2nxlYoR9B6k/s1600/SANTA+CROCE+%252812%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1305" data-original-width="1600" height="522" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipEFtUYt26I5_mE30YpQ53R2ur-G6XudFTMYt6dwHTcHrepXMcTWYBReAz0j1R-aCwetIBJWU4bCT16CvkFvw2CVPCRxefM6zRBRs33A9mMkp257umUHnfUtt8mwvF8KkW2nxlYoR9B6k/s640/SANTA+CROCE+%252812%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfgcxUEnu9yhV_xwKIrPvOABhiAq_VJerQDAj191BYUpkjM-qYIanBE3FYjuPeTuqYDwcXBTL0-vv73HFLknV7KLXXo72IigxGyitxTfQ32bqRMCN03lV4dm3r42V6y1UqKqBgZLZWJgY/s1600/SANTA+CROCE+%252840%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1362" data-original-width="1600" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfgcxUEnu9yhV_xwKIrPvOABhiAq_VJerQDAj191BYUpkjM-qYIanBE3FYjuPeTuqYDwcXBTL0-vv73HFLknV7KLXXo72IigxGyitxTfQ32bqRMCN03lV4dm3r42V6y1UqKqBgZLZWJgY/s640/SANTA+CROCE+%252840%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It is the burial place of some
of the most famous Italians, such as Michelangelo, Machiavelli, Gentile, Rossini,</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> and Pisan-born <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Galileo Galilei</span>, who was tried by the
Inquisition and was not allowed a Christian burial until <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">1737</span>, (95 years after his death) and also
has a <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">memorial to Dante</span>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5mhq7WoroT21YohV0kbNJJNKYs2lIkc_EIEJJBPOrd8E6cNlfT-ULl1Dmp5xHHbaBUuqWCecrDmeoDsXRnD-TDHvHOSroGW4sWntKtInF3ss9DsTh80dhk-D2AdoRXEPSdlA_A8bnj0I/s1600/SANTA+CROCE+%252828%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5mhq7WoroT21YohV0kbNJJNKYs2lIkc_EIEJJBPOrd8E6cNlfT-ULl1Dmp5xHHbaBUuqWCecrDmeoDsXRnD-TDHvHOSroGW4sWntKtInF3ss9DsTh80dhk-D2AdoRXEPSdlA_A8bnj0I/s640/SANTA+CROCE+%252828%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There
is an immense artistic wealth in Santa Croce; with beautiful frescoes in
the Chapels showing scenes from the life of St. Francis and St. John the
Evangelist. The memorial to the 19<sup>th</sup> century playwright
Giovanni Battista Niccolini is said to have been the inspiration for the Statue
of Liberty. The<span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"> original structure
dates from 1212</span> when St. Francis of Assisi visited Florence, and later,
with a group of followers, he settled in the city, choosing an inhospitable,
marshy area just outside the city walls</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> - the original footings
were re-discovered after the flood in 1966 (which severely damaged much of the
church). The <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">present building dates
back to 1294 </span>and took years to finish and its exterior is covered with
a <span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">marble façade which was added in
1863</span>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSYZxrkcp81l_n2u3hhM09SkyVwasyARIWLv9grfQpnu9C2Icm1SbqZjA0xd_8ZUWRpTOWCo2vIc2pruQYTmv2s47djAreYPRPlmW3fs3bWKnVmTOlqhg1eLqgozDKCiPTKnULkcB0kMk/s1600/SANTA+CROCE+%252845%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1157" data-original-width="1600" height="462" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSYZxrkcp81l_n2u3hhM09SkyVwasyARIWLv9grfQpnu9C2Icm1SbqZjA0xd_8ZUWRpTOWCo2vIc2pruQYTmv2s47djAreYPRPlmW3fs3bWKnVmTOlqhg1eLqgozDKCiPTKnULkcB0kMk/s640/SANTA+CROCE+%252845%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoqut3ck1O9MQJJaqtpP2rXvdhF-9o_fufd9eGVv6utrZTqI7TnNiOzonAYh0lm8ovzR8_5JhQ2i66-Hva_KZXrMZobqn3rUn3ZrfYD295THRWr_VfrLHL3kDHUXfvBgbZ9oxWI90tL5o/s1600/SANTA+CROCE+%252850%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoqut3ck1O9MQJJaqtpP2rXvdhF-9o_fufd9eGVv6utrZTqI7TnNiOzonAYh0lm8ovzR8_5JhQ2i66-Hva_KZXrMZobqn3rUn3ZrfYD295THRWr_VfrLHL3kDHUXfvBgbZ9oxWI90tL5o/s640/SANTA+CROCE+%252850%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There are 16 family chapels behind the main altar, with numerous intricate,
brightly coloured frescos in the separate alcoves; and<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the Crucifix by Donatello,</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> known as the "farmer"
Crucifix, " due to the rustic, peasant appearance of the Christ figure. The
Ancient cloister in the shade of the 78-metre-tall bell tower, used to be a
cemetery; but now has with cypress trees, colourful shrubs, neat lawns and tombs
around the cloister.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmKW3c-dN0bbAskLEf-gGrPdRS9WdnQg1-n7ZYb_L02qpDWfoJKflFKRLpE7Cc9mbLIdo7sVUQ2s9X43IcjA2eesqnUK4wSIAIHjeQwTQTvUj2N6M9rfEhw_maDHn5DlQm1MTfqcYs4A0/s1600/SANTA+CROCE+%252867%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmKW3c-dN0bbAskLEf-gGrPdRS9WdnQg1-n7ZYb_L02qpDWfoJKflFKRLpE7Cc9mbLIdo7sVUQ2s9X43IcjA2eesqnUK4wSIAIHjeQwTQTvUj2N6M9rfEhw_maDHn5DlQm1MTfqcYs4A0/s640/SANTA+CROCE+%252867%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There are some famous people remembered here, so it is
worth spending some time finding them. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5amSLb7ssSk473La87zJhvPT2OQsohouF45U_6CCLGYLhIqxTfxgoX3DgKvjt19h_l9fDs4mfy-qIx8q4F-EkB1J0f0QGR3zd6kpOyczSPr24bp3Z34qMOUK2Yq7q07JdDdEQ1wOB0tA/s1600/SANTA+CROCE+%252839%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5amSLb7ssSk473La87zJhvPT2OQsohouF45U_6CCLGYLhIqxTfxgoX3DgKvjt19h_l9fDs4mfy-qIx8q4F-EkB1J0f0QGR3zd6kpOyczSPr24bp3Z34qMOUK2Yq7q07JdDdEQ1wOB0tA/s640/SANTA+CROCE+%252839%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Pazzi
Chapel<i> </i>was </span>used as the chapter house by the friars, its entrance
is supported by six Corinthian columns; the main room has an umbrella-shaped
dome, with frescoes looking like they are in the sky. The chapel is not large
but is described as holding up the four corners of the earth! There are 3
separate cloisters with covered walkways, each built at a different time – and
all very picturesque with interesting things to discover whilst walking around
them. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkXAEGQr8VC9mkDrucfB_LtcA4h3wuujDF1YAw6QnNiY0gNHGLYKYv4RsH_Dv6oCUclvW-z1MgR5TXzpaiHKt_PiNxWJ5F44eEt7rS9MlcUZW6tNs_mR9hSJ_sH8keQECPL_V5YmKzos8/s1600/SANTA+CROCE+%252872%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkXAEGQr8VC9mkDrucfB_LtcA4h3wuujDF1YAw6QnNiY0gNHGLYKYv4RsH_Dv6oCUclvW-z1MgR5TXzpaiHKt_PiNxWJ5F44eEt7rS9MlcUZW6tNs_mR9hSJ_sH8keQECPL_V5YmKzos8/s640/SANTA+CROCE+%252872%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The Refectory, where the Friars used to eat their meals, is another
fascinating place; there are more impressive frescoes on the walls especially
the one of the Last Supper and the entire end wall. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7BZowWTcNZbzgWswmZqD13hKqTzrNR1IoRqXjMyNWzpwX26HqKqLFMraX98tf92xAZllHiLMJnGT2ArXGpt7rBFWF9VmFkQggWbDqYoyc214ORnds0pPGJmgxCY8KGLOVHvpwT8Qs1M/s1600/SANTA+CROCE+%252874%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf7BZowWTcNZbzgWswmZqD13hKqTzrNR1IoRqXjMyNWzpwX26HqKqLFMraX98tf92xAZllHiLMJnGT2ArXGpt7rBFWF9VmFkQggWbDqYoyc214ORnds0pPGJmgxCY8KGLOVHvpwT8Qs1M/s640/SANTA+CROCE+%252874%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There is also a marker in
this room showing the level where the 1966 flood came to. There are so many brilliant
things that make this church so special, but it is its reputation as the final
resting place for so many famous names, that distinguish it from others in
Florence. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I loved The Basilica de Santa Croce, and it is definitely worth
spending a morning here. From the outside, you have no idea what is going to be
behind that marble façade – there is so much to explore.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I haven’t even touched on
Florence’s museums, except the Uffizi – but there are so many. The Galleria Del
Accademia which has the original statue of David by Michelangelo; The
scientific Museo Galileo; The Museo Nazionale full of art and sculptures and
the Archaeological Museum with a good collection of Egyptian artefacts.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I did go into the
Leonardo Da Vinci Museum and see models of everything he invented and the
vision he had in his lifetime – he really was a man who lived before his time.
I can highly recommend going here, it isn’t too expensive – but you can’t take
photographs inside.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzX6V7gOgTkwDZedctp6wcPHXOogVugCFmY0IldWyqHsH5MGjJXOmJnNs9stE3Hr9sTdBFAKGVO0DUFoMBTGzWz4ok3obX7LLT-NCv6uJhCnGM22lEzBcBvux_xnIiYhvwKM_RuQes8uw/s1600/LEONARDO+MUSEUM+%25284%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1037" data-original-width="1600" height="414" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzX6V7gOgTkwDZedctp6wcPHXOogVugCFmY0IldWyqHsH5MGjJXOmJnNs9stE3Hr9sTdBFAKGVO0DUFoMBTGzWz4ok3obX7LLT-NCv6uJhCnGM22lEzBcBvux_xnIiYhvwKM_RuQes8uw/s640/LEONARDO+MUSEUM+%25284%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">If you love history,
architecture, art, breath-taking sights and scenery – Florence, the City of
Frescoes, is the place to go. I had wanted to go for many years, and it didn’t
disappoint. Make sure you decide which places you want to see before you go –
you don’t be over-awed by the number of churches and museums. Lastly, my
favourite part of each day was early in the mornings before the crowds arrived……………..!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Lynne</i></b></span><br />
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Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-12688920593689225172019-07-01T19:40:00.003+01:002019-10-22T16:36:29.463+01:00Cinque Terre<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><u>Cinque Terre</u></span></b></div>
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The Cinque Terre meaning "Five Earths", is a coastal area in northwest Italy, comprising of five villages - Vernazza, Monterosso, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore - dating back to at least the 11th century. Monterosso and Vernazza were the first villages and the others evolved later. The coastline, five villages, and the surrounding hillsides are all part of the Cinque Terre National Park - a UNESCO World Heritage Site.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9olcLSmO5L3HcQ10AxX6H1RrHeDd2ENqk35eJygDUCobosNOYQtR8SckR4m18DyiTea9KhKmYbI7G0YfD7PR5qng5Nk7_F_4ZhQPeyEWbgw4DJoDRVRM8Sw4plUO2-oYsJB3dOu65cZM/s1600/A+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9olcLSmO5L3HcQ10AxX6H1RrHeDd2ENqk35eJygDUCobosNOYQtR8SckR4m18DyiTea9KhKmYbI7G0YfD7PR5qng5Nk7_F_4ZhQPeyEWbgw4DJoDRVRM8Sw4plUO2-oYsJB3dOu65cZM/s640/A+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Over the centuries, people have built terraces for their homes on the rugged, steep cliffs that overlook the sea; and paths, trains and boats connect these villages, but cars cannot reach them from the outside. In the 16th century the inhabitants had to reinforce existing forts and build new towers to defend their area from attacks by the Turks. Cinque Terre experienced economic decline from the 17th century, recovering when an arsenal was built in La Spezia, a short distance down the coast, and it gained a railway link to Genoa. This railway led to migration away from the area and a decline in its traditional industries; until tourism began in the 1970s, when tourists started coming to see the fisherman's painted cottages. </div>
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I had decided a day trip (albeit a long one from Florence) was going to be the best way for me to see this very special area. My first stop was at Manarola - the second village along the coast of the Cinque Terre – separated from the first village of Riomaggiore, by a tunnel. The coach could only go so far down the steep road, so I had to walk the rest of the way – although that wasn’t far. </div>
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Manarola is built on a high rock 70 metres above sea level and is one of the most charming and romantic villages. At the bottom of the main street is a tiny harbour with a boat ramp, picturesque multicoloured houses facing the sea, and several restaurants. Every time the sea is rough, boats are pulled up onto the main road. The village is all ups and downs, with steep narrow alleys leading to the sea. </div>
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There is a delightful footpath around the bay, called Via dell’Amore (Lovers’ Lane), with fabulous views of the coastline. On top of the headland of Manarola, is the Gothic styled Church of San Lorenzo built in 1338 and its bell tower which, years ago was somewhere to watch for potential pirate raids and ring out to the villagers below. </div>
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The tour didn’t allow very long here, which although there wasn’t much to see, it would have been good to explore at a more leisurely pace. From here we walked through a tunnel to catch the train to the next village.<br />
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It was only one stop to the next village – Vernazza; described as the most beautiful of all Cinque Terre’s villages; even considering in 2011, it suffered a devastating flood, damaging much of the village and killing 9 people. Vernazza is described as the crowning jewel among Cinque Terre and has been named as one of the most beautiful towns in Italy. Its steep streets are traffic free, with pastel coloured homes several storeys high, the epitome of a picture postcard. </div>
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The main cobbled street (Via Roma) is lined with little cafes, and colourful shops; and side streets lead on to narrow lanes, with sea views at every turn. The shops here were selling lovely clothing, lace and ornaments as well as souvenirs – and there were some traditional Gelato shops. When in Italy – you just have to – don’t you! </div>
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At the bottom of the main street is a beach and a small harbour, this is the only secure landing point on the Cinque Terre coast. This bay is surrounded by such colour, with the houses, magnificent architecture and the azure blue Mediterranean ocean. It is a delightful area to sit and relax, watching the ocean, children playing and enjoying restful time in the quaintest surroundings. With an ice-cream in hand, it couldn’t be more perfect. Vernazza is mentioned in documents as early as 1080, and has been used as a military base, working to defend the coast from Saracen pirate raids, which often devastated the nearby towns. </div>
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The St Marguerite church built in a Roman style in about the 11th century overlooks the harbour and has a beautiful octagonal cream coloured tower. The square boxed shape Doria Castle was also built in the 11th century for the protection of the village and surveillance of the entire coast; the terrace and the tower are open to public. The watch Tower is such a well-known symbol of Vernazza and can be seen on most photos of the village. </div>
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After some delightful time soaking up the sun and the wonderful atmosphere of this picturesque place, it was back on the train heading to the next village. </div>
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Monterosso is the biggest and the oldest of the Cinque Terre’s villages (more like a town really) - divided into 2 parts, the old and the new village, but is described as the least charming of the Cinque Terre villages. It has the biggest beach (Fegina) of the entire coast and is more of a resort, providing lively tourist activities and evening entertainment; and the lovely long pebble beach (if you like that sort of beach) that gets very crowded during the summertime. </div>
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The older village can be accessed through a tunnel that runs beneath the San Cristoforo promontory.<br />
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The old village is so different to the new Monterosso; with narrow streets, colourful buildings, quaint shops and traditional places to eat. And when in Italy you really do get the best pasta dishes! We were given more time here, so I was able to have a relaxed lunch; before doing a little exploring.<br />
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There are so many interesting buildings to admire in the old part of the village. The Gothic Church of St. John the Baptist with its narrow stripes was built in the 13th century, and close by is the Baroque Chapel of Mortis et Orationis (meaning for "Death and Prayer"). This building is very similar in style but with thicker stripes – and I did manage a quick look inside this one. </div>
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On San Cristoforo hill, that separates the 2 parts of Monterosso, you can see The Church of San Francesco and the Cappuccini Monastery, that was built in the early 17th century. In the past, Monterosso was guarded by 13 towers, but only 3 are left today - one of them is the Aurora Tower. Next to it, there used to be a castle, and the Monastery of San Antonio al Mesco - but neither have survived and the tower is currently a private house. </div>
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After a delightful few hours at this resort, it was time to move on again. The next part of my day was a restful trip on the ferry that runs a regular service along the coastline, seeing more colourful villages perched high up on the rocks and cliffs - one of the most fascinating landscapes in the Mediterranean. </div>
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After about an hour, the boat rounded a rocky headland, and I could see an impressive building perched high on top of it - that looked like a large sinister looking black castle fortified with towers and high walls. This wasn’t a castle but the beautiful 12th century Gothic Church of San Pietro. </div>
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We continued into the huge bay known as the Gulf of Poets with a fabulous view all around; passing the "Palazzata"- the name given to the sea front, which is lined with old houses. A few minutes later the boat pulled in at Porto Venere, a medieval fishing village just south of the Cinque Terre, and part of the Italian Riviera. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW3vZmKfF16PEXhONZx0Td6_YhqY23A0Pl-LrDIDkD91kHtUOt_WfCn1uxLoALpoSkFKPoRzkcavRDVCzbAw6MxQSmn__fTSois-5xpRRQgarGrT9cYMgquf5N_FCIdQdy2XDA1Ei5TJE/s1600/S+Porto+Venere+%252815%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1033" data-original-width="1600" height="412" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW3vZmKfF16PEXhONZx0Td6_YhqY23A0Pl-LrDIDkD91kHtUOt_WfCn1uxLoALpoSkFKPoRzkcavRDVCzbAw6MxQSmn__fTSois-5xpRRQgarGrT9cYMgquf5N_FCIdQdy2XDA1Ei5TJE/s640/S+Porto+Venere+%252815%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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The only way to reach here from the Cinque Terre is by boat, or from La Spezia by boat or by bus. The charming village of Porto Venere is itself another UNESCO World Heritage site and I didn’t find it quite so busy here – perhaps because it was more spacious that the villages of Cinque Terre. </div>
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Its picturesque harbour is lined with brightly coloured houses, while narrow medieval streets lead up the hill - from the ancient city gate to the castle.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ZLj5zR6TcV7vCPEJSVeJsQQvATZsY7IB7td-ZXoBpFvKEmRx98A96P5bxIvUyrDSnzFX17eyqlaSJUxYAhFhbYBnLKyaHpiGqMhuFOU70ZBj9Kzu4JojHH0UrBwJ3Sr_v9FJEeKwryE/s1600/S+Porto+Venere+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2ZLj5zR6TcV7vCPEJSVeJsQQvATZsY7IB7td-ZXoBpFvKEmRx98A96P5bxIvUyrDSnzFX17eyqlaSJUxYAhFhbYBnLKyaHpiGqMhuFOU70ZBj9Kzu4JojHH0UrBwJ3Sr_v9FJEeKwryE/s640/S+Porto+Venere+%25281%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">If you head through this 12th century Town Gate with its Tower, you are entering the historical centre of the city; and its main street Via Capellini, is lined with interesting shops and restaurants. One shop even had a curtain outside that was made from elongated pasta!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This
area with its old buildings and narrow streets takes you back a thousand years.
I headed up this main street, there is only one going upwards – you can’t get
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPBw8jg1fq4403WqDyTR5dnykWd8LzVDHAEk20PtIhMwR_LVvaOd1MGNTLAO09kPDZcEBjMXzCfIY0K4mUofO3H-TdyMzaAORP6wDXn62T4SVPgsF0o5Zrwc9OfmXottKT6BPebzXzbMc/s1600/S+Porto+Venere+%252817%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPBw8jg1fq4403WqDyTR5dnykWd8LzVDHAEk20PtIhMwR_LVvaOd1MGNTLAO09kPDZcEBjMXzCfIY0K4mUofO3H-TdyMzaAORP6wDXn62T4SVPgsF0o5Zrwc9OfmXottKT6BPebzXzbMc/s640/S+Porto+Venere+%252817%2529.JPG" width="480" /></a><br />
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At the top, at the tip of the promontory is the picturesque church of San Pietro that I had spotted earlier. There is also Doria Castle standing on top of the rock, which was first built in 1161, but it was significantly reconstructed in 1458.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjizy09cKV-LLUiA3o72JglvGKELoamdiNkj2Ag8GprdLFfDA0IZJU3_MMh2-lLWOxN1FIPaGAP5BQtRO6HBje-cB0hf_SLVhyphenhyphenA1Ql1pV4uuQM7gRYeUeNh9qJDkYFS82INIzfRAZcDU/s1600/S+Porto+Venere+%25287a%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1284" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjjizy09cKV-LLUiA3o72JglvGKELoamdiNkj2Ag8GprdLFfDA0IZJU3_MMh2-lLWOxN1FIPaGAP5BQtRO6HBje-cB0hf_SLVhyphenhyphenA1Ql1pV4uuQM7gRYeUeNh9qJDkYFS82INIzfRAZcDU/s640/S+Porto+Venere+%25287a%2529.JPG" width="512" /></a><br />
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It belonged to the Doria family who played a very important part in the life of Gulf of Genoa. Now it is one of the main landmarks in Porto Venere, and open to visitors, from where you can have spectacular panoramic views over the town, San Pietro church and out over the ocean. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYLQuxcL6aNxdIF2ucFnLqAGRqmdYa_9j-xwlqr3aRValWbcgHKHF8j8UrVsDkztz5NRmVQBidMy1Pwl7XUtInmT4CWg2J_CE7_Vjb7IJX-3ckR1FcfoWFG6cqI-EWOrVXjL4hWTNcNYY/s1600/S+Porto+Venere+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYLQuxcL6aNxdIF2ucFnLqAGRqmdYa_9j-xwlqr3aRValWbcgHKHF8j8UrVsDkztz5NRmVQBidMy1Pwl7XUtInmT4CWg2J_CE7_Vjb7IJX-3ckR1FcfoWFG6cqI-EWOrVXjL4hWTNcNYY/s640/S+Porto+Venere+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Between San Pietro church and Doria Castle are the ruins of two cylindrical structures which used to be mills and guard towers - to give the population an advance warning if enemies were attacking. The views up here are so impressive - it is possible to visit the three nearby islands - Palmaria, Tino and Tinetto, which are just off the mainland by boat. </div>
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You can also see Byron's Cave, La Grotta di Byron, a rocky area leading to the sea, where the poet Byron used to swim. There is a great view of the castle here too.</div>
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Heading back down towards the harbour, I thought I would go a different way, and how different it was. A labyrinth of narrow paths, stairways connecting the different levels, quaint colourful houses with window boxes – and no-one about. I came across the 12th century Church of San Lorenzo where every year people celebrate the Miracle of the White Madonna, the patron saint of Porto Venere. </div>
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Back down at the harbour, the sun was still shining, and it was time to catch the ferry to La Spezia where the coach would be waiting.</div>
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It was a delightful end to my trip to the coast; every single part of it had been like nothing I had ever seen before – completely enchanting.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Lynne</i></b></span><br />
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Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-78732529504182700902019-06-01T09:10:00.001+01:002019-06-11T08:55:45.744+01:00Great Barrier Reef<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">A day on the Great Barrier Reef</span></u></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify;">One of my days whilst at Airlie Beach, was to go on a day trip out to the Great Barrier Reef. I had booked the tour well in advance, I wasn't coming all this way and missing out on an opportunity of a lifetime. It was one of Cruise Whitsundays tours, that leave from the Port of Airlie every day at 8am. I had no idea what to expect, but packed my camera, swimwear, sunscreen, towel and hat. It was a beautiful clear morning - which was hard to believe, as a cyclone was supposed to be hitting that area later that day - I kept expecting the day to be cancelled.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie77Xl2rOuASBXwGzlXQEzzq2iJ58EZ0q_pMjuWZBP3cobPXCAnm7AzZsYypDNAzQQi4T7wfFQo3TQTMzmN_2DtNibroBQ8GrudbNLVZvT2Vx938vXE00l190-5x00o7eXYLB9i3T4Jn8/s1600/2+%25283%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie77Xl2rOuASBXwGzlXQEzzq2iJ58EZ0q_pMjuWZBP3cobPXCAnm7AzZsYypDNAzQQi4T7wfFQo3TQTMzmN_2DtNibroBQ8GrudbNLVZvT2Vx938vXE00l190-5x00o7eXYLB9i3T4Jn8/s640/2+%25283%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify;">I boarded the catamaran and decided to make the most of the fine weather - sitting outside on the top deck. The ship was very well </span>equipped; you could sit inside, outside, or up to a table in air conditioned lounges; you could help yourself to tea, coffee and water and there was even biscuits and light snacks put out - and a bar where you could buy extra refreshments, alcohol and soft drinks. After 30 minutes we reached Hamilton Island where we took on more guests. As we approached the island the water around the marina looked wonderfully calm and picturesque.<br />
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Once we left Hamilton Island, the ship picked up speed and it was invigorating sitting up on top - several people lost their hats in the breeze!<br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify;">We passed many of the Whitsunday Islands, a collection of varying sizes and shapes, inhabited and not - as we made our way out towards the Coral Sea. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify;">There are 74 islands that make up this world famous area, that were once settled by the Ngaro, a sea-faring people, and the Gia and Juru Clan. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify;">Captain Cook sailed his ship the HMS Endeavour,
through the passage between the islands and the coast on Whitsunday – and gave them the name </span><span style="font-size: 12pt; text-align: justify;">Whitsunday Islands. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW2NZoDE2-RLKfTvlM6kB9k64azr61fL9-XSer7zZeNGQkbpsNUiQbPRs8Cq5x521D4TaS5Ggp81iEBUavfptci3zC87TLG-8d4ZeGc3VPzYVI2KZedQ7jSHcllF08WwkykCxQFGDCk9Y/s1600/3+%252850%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgW2NZoDE2-RLKfTvlM6kB9k64azr61fL9-XSer7zZeNGQkbpsNUiQbPRs8Cq5x521D4TaS5Ggp81iEBUavfptci3zC87TLG-8d4ZeGc3VPzYVI2KZedQ7jSHcllF08WwkykCxQFGDCk9Y/s640/3+%252850%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">We were all given a talk on what was going to happen once we reached the reef, what activities we could take part in, what signals we had to use whilst in the water, the equipment we had to use and what time lunch was! An hour or so out of Hamilton, as we approached </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef, the water changed to a luminous </span>turquoise<span style="font-size: 12pt;"> colour - absolutely </span>breath<span style="font-size: 12pt;">-taking! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji7vrXZJY_e0pbsnzo9pLfYiloEgAbXyf3uQjTMdsNJ_umPfWU1zRSpw0Ykl-Y5BrFuc0iH3P7wYAxlP7RxAmvfxpWeHDc_lYJyKOTkR1xw10QCS3zLV0mtxKmRNzpA0lPqAR6viaPN2U/s1600/3+%252853%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1069" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEji7vrXZJY_e0pbsnzo9pLfYiloEgAbXyf3uQjTMdsNJ_umPfWU1zRSpw0Ykl-Y5BrFuc0iH3P7wYAxlP7RxAmvfxpWeHDc_lYJyKOTkR1xw10QCS3zLV0mtxKmRNzpA0lPqAR6viaPN2U/s640/3+%252853%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8a7GGreWr8TsJakVh3AjhleILtGq6dwNxW0MJX0xzjfUa3Q4ZwmVtZ6kGfHlvTUssDF6IX9hluet7IUT-8J-GMwcLrjy4zc5BzK9g54k-g4cee5s9N4hCwxb7i_cOe7PWNr9OalY_bgA/s1600/3+%252858%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8a7GGreWr8TsJakVh3AjhleILtGq6dwNxW0MJX0xzjfUa3Q4ZwmVtZ6kGfHlvTUssDF6IX9hluet7IUT-8J-GMwcLrjy4zc5BzK9g54k-g4cee5s9N4hCwxb7i_cOe7PWNr9OalY_bgA/s640/3+%252858%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Once we arrived at the spacious floating Heart pontoon, at Hardy Reef, we had 4 hours to please ourselves - there was plenty to do. Whilst still in dry clothes, I decided to go on the semi-submersible submarine tour first - this felt nerve-wracking enough (but I needn't have worried).</span><br />
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I climbed aboard and went down the steps, where there were seats on both sides of the submersible in front of huge windows. The engines started and we began our trip around the edge of the reef. Unfortunately the movement of the water and sand disturbed the ocean floor and it made visibility difficult for some of the time.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht5BAyhvEvgiqcoKHUjALI2J1SJJErbR0uAyoJvpoh1A8v901QiihVxSuaL9kaSOGVMLZTFSdDPyxHYJTR3dOxt5q0tW13xyot_pWv0V3ZBq8uXTZDeTDy0V1SYuUMgTIHQa617BHgImo/s1600/3+%252866%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht5BAyhvEvgiqcoKHUjALI2J1SJJErbR0uAyoJvpoh1A8v901QiihVxSuaL9kaSOGVMLZTFSdDPyxHYJTR3dOxt5q0tW13xyot_pWv0V3ZBq8uXTZDeTDy0V1SYuUMgTIHQa617BHgImo/s640/3+%252866%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">It was fascinating seeing the </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">underwater world along the edge of the reef wall, with magnificent
corals and colourful marine life - but due to the light inside the submersible or colour of the glass - my photos didn't come out as well I expected. It was interesting listening to the Reef Interpreters tell us all about the corals and fish that live here on the Great Barrier Reef and how endangered they are.</span></div>
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Next it was time for what I had come here for, to go snorkelling on the reef. I have to admit to being terrified, I am not the bravest swimmer and when I have snorkelled in the past - I have had a rubber ring to hold onto - and I couldn't see any of those available to people who were not actually drowning! But there are some things you just have to do - and this was one of those things. So, I put my swimwear on and then went in search of a stinger suit that would fit me................</div>
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Then a mask and snorkel, life jacket .........................and a pair of flippers. It was exhausting getting ready!</div>
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Then I found that we could have a polystyrene woggle to hold on to - that could be my bouyancy aid! And I wasn't the only person who wanted one - I didn't feel so bad then. So I was all kitted up and had to walk down onto the metal platform, have everything inspected, tested the hand signals and in I went. There was a rope to hold onto, I would be fine..........................and I didn't intend being in the water very long................Look at all those fish!<br />
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There were crew members watching everyone in the water, checking with us all the time, incase we needed any help or to be taken out - it was very reassuring. I have never used flippers before, but as the current was really strong - we weren't allowed in the water without them. Remember the rope I was supposed to be holding, what rope! I forgot about that very quickly and was happy floating around on top of the water marvelling at everything below. I wish I could have captured it, but it will have to be always in my memory - the starfish, the coral, the multicoloured fish ...........<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU9uWalTO1xAGPWkEpBy0n48lUsShzRqz_IL_JO6s4S99dMJuNmCGpsnaYW7o56AyNUSCrViCRUo7QWJYPzUWmmffVHCwYi9K0dHifjs83C_jTzyhZXaB0FLkRhnWfNbiPT4QgBuOhFwc/s1600/3+%252878%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgU9uWalTO1xAGPWkEpBy0n48lUsShzRqz_IL_JO6s4S99dMJuNmCGpsnaYW7o56AyNUSCrViCRUo7QWJYPzUWmmffVHCwYi9K0dHifjs83C_jTzyhZXaB0FLkRhnWfNbiPT4QgBuOhFwc/s640/3+%252878%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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..................and the huge one! I turned around and there he was - a giant groper. I tried not to touch him but he seemed insistent on getting as close to me as possible. The ship's photographer was just there at the right time and got these amazing shots.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXeQCzIVnpUYTEktO3atI3LeXMFb6h5pU2DurlrBM-nqe7PvTFb1jvoOo6QObMxXvD6IIr-_qFcRqUzzLQS6chn2iSqz8w6X57WqRcSTLy_x1HW-nxRDyagz1oGDSfqDDlQrsNf7COzFo/s1600/1+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXeQCzIVnpUYTEktO3atI3LeXMFb6h5pU2DurlrBM-nqe7PvTFb1jvoOo6QObMxXvD6IIr-_qFcRqUzzLQS6chn2iSqz8w6X57WqRcSTLy_x1HW-nxRDyagz1oGDSfqDDlQrsNf7COzFo/s640/1+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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So much for not being in the water long - I was in there for over an hour without swallowing any sea-water, first time ever; I was so thrilled by the spectacular ocean that I had not panicked once - I could snorkel at last. And what a place to do it properly. I was absolutely ecstatic with all I had seen - especially my huge friend. What an unbelievable experience it had been. Back on the pontoon, it was time to get everything off and put then in their correct places - ready to be cleaned and for the next person to use.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6xjgSiDrrsmQEjP7uSHtrWP2Z25Qoa529rSmmomHSrZ5o9CUOJwfVXI1YvYwRm7_oNdN8qvfCQq1mvMyYwAmTntTubsvlFBp2Ea5iRh9vYINl1GnAh9Zu2cDnO7qQwky5cJdhEiCakyE/s1600/3+%252889%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6xjgSiDrrsmQEjP7uSHtrWP2Z25Qoa529rSmmomHSrZ5o9CUOJwfVXI1YvYwRm7_oNdN8qvfCQq1mvMyYwAmTntTubsvlFBp2Ea5iRh9vYINl1GnAh9Zu2cDnO7qQwky5cJdhEiCakyE/s640/3+%252889%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 17.12px;">If you're new to snorkelling, and are nervous like me, the crew were wonderful in encouraging everyone and keeping them safe. I was so grateful that my experience had been so magical.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAO-OlWQFJZY2cLJ4WgmliL_IJHjJ0aQLVvpJ7STgFXS3ulQhPXG7Lf-vkCct3BpIfevMaXHAVB6svIE-eZ9wD5tDTI-Gvj-RIfmAmTTKjHHRxXwuc6NQ-8SdvK49lFZpwzLhWy5-uPiw/s1600/3+%252880%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAO-OlWQFJZY2cLJ4WgmliL_IJHjJ0aQLVvpJ7STgFXS3ulQhPXG7Lf-vkCct3BpIfevMaXHAVB6svIE-eZ9wD5tDTI-Gvj-RIfmAmTTKjHHRxXwuc6NQ-8SdvK49lFZpwzLhWy5-uPiw/s640/3+%252880%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now it was time for lunch, which was served on board the ship, there was an excellent choice of meats and seafood (local fresh prawns), salad, vegetables etc - just what was needed after all of that exercise.</div>
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I sat in the sun for an hour eating my lunch and watching everything else that was happening. You could book a helicopter flight to appreciate the reef from above, and to see the nearby famous Heart Reef. I was fascinated to watch the helicopters take off and land on what seemed to be the smallest floating pontoon.</div>
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...............And just marvel at the colour of the surrounding ocean. It was truly bliss!<br />
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One more thing to do before my time was up, and that was <span style="font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">visiting the underwater viewing chamber. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Lr13k6-F34of_Onb7FF-XAzfmpV9awK9Z4Uk91VXK6dA8bhwOJohNZDil7K6ctwjx0qahB0lKEpes8cDVoo3vIAJTQEaJdF3SscbmOA-ZxOC9zflsTTN3Cl1gK9Ew8hgjcCp7dLiXqA/s1600/3+%2528102%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-Lr13k6-F34of_Onb7FF-XAzfmpV9awK9Z4Uk91VXK6dA8bhwOJohNZDil7K6ctwjx0qahB0lKEpes8cDVoo3vIAJTQEaJdF3SscbmOA-ZxOC9zflsTTN3Cl1gK9Ew8hgjcCp7dLiXqA/s640/3+%2528102%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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It did look a bit grubby going down there............<br />
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But, as in the submersible, the colours didn't seem as bright through the glass - it was far more vibrant when I was snorkelling.<br />
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It was time to say goodbye to the Great Barrier Reef and start the long journey back. </div>
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The photographs that had been taken throughout the day were shown on the television screens and the crew also bought tablets around for you to look at; you could purchase a single photograph or a package. I just had to buy mine - not just for the memory - they were brilliant.<br />
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The Great Barrier Reef is a natural wonder of the world, it can be seen from outer space and it is under threat from pollution and global warming.<br />
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It is home to :-<br />
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1625 species of fish<br />
133 species of sharks and rays<br />
3000 species of molluscs<br />
30 species of dolphins and whales<br />
630 species of starfish and sea urchins<br />
one of the worlds most important populations of dugongs<br />
one third of the worlds coral species<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">What an amazing place! What an amazing day!</span></b></div>
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Whilst in this area, I had a few other fabulous days out, some with Cruise Whitsundays again - if you want a look, just follow these links :-<br />
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<a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com</a>/2019/05/airlie-beach.html</div>
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<a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com</a>/2019/05/hamilton-island.html</div>
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<a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com</a>/2019/06/whitsunday-island.html</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thank you for taking time to follow my adventures,</b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><i>Lynne</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><i><b><br /></b></i></span>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>These are my other blogs :-</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://lynnemorleys.blogspot.com/">http://lynnejmorley.blogspot.com</a></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: x-large;">http://morleysjourneytoozandback.blogspot.com</a><br />
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<br />Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-33775456793026031622019-06-01T09:10:00.000+01:002019-06-01T09:10:25.916+01:00Whitsunday Island<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><u>Whitsunday Island </u></b></span></div>
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My second day in this wonderful region, was a day trip to Whitsunday Island to see the world-famous Whitehaven Beach from Hill Inlet Lookout. I had opted to do this was on a full day trip out to the island, which involved some hiking up to the Lookout. I was very excited about seeing the spectacular white sands and turquoise ocean, that on the shifting tides, create a breathtaking mosaic. Whitsunday Island is the largest of the 74 islands in the Whitsunday group. No-one lives on it today but was once settled by the Ngaro - a seafaring people. In 1861 the first logging camps were built on the island, under the orders by Eugene Fitzalan to exploit the large pine trees which were for construction of buildings on the mainland.</div>
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We left the Port of Airlie early in the morning (7:15am) on one of Cruise Whitsundays comfortable catamarans and were shown to seats especially reserved for the 'Full day' passengers. We had a briefing about what we were supposed to be doing once we arrived on the island. Unfortunately, the weather forecast wasn't very good, a cyclone was close-by, so we were all hoping that we would just get to Whitsunday Island and back home again safely. After picking more passengers up at Hamilton Island we were on our way, and it wasn't long until we reached Whitsunday Island.</div>
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As we approached Whitehaven Beach, one of the longest stretches of pure white silica sand, the rain started to fall. The Captain said he would get us as close as he could, so we could see the famous beach - but the weather was getting worse - and this may be the only view we got of the beach.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkD19avyKuot0GmHmSBNSZCsfyO7sy1YPGSncYD6dkui9yg_hpsVIyQCm0XqhmO3zFmqWhz2n4BK8_gBkzakA3Gt69LPzTx4tJ8ZSPmn9PGmeW5N4sIFrNOb7GAQEdofEybCZnc63XAIk/s1600/3+%252843%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkD19avyKuot0GmHmSBNSZCsfyO7sy1YPGSncYD6dkui9yg_hpsVIyQCm0XqhmO3zFmqWhz2n4BK8_gBkzakA3Gt69LPzTx4tJ8ZSPmn9PGmeW5N4sIFrNOb7GAQEdofEybCZnc63XAIk/s640/3+%252843%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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Whitehaven Beach is 7 km long, with a BBQ and a camping facility - nothing else. You can get to it by boat, seaplane & helicopter. The beach is known for its crystal white 99% pure silica sands and turquoise coloured waters and is often voted one of the top beaches in Australia and throughout the world. The weather didn't look that bad.........just for a minute or two!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDj3mzuSsLL1IAteA_Vd47qkGoQ1S-2661AvoPfaTagh-EMx_eTGbsY_QhZMUDEWs9gQZJUn8cp36ZWqDY3wvMYvR1amU_ejfHTkC80VprSHZro8NvDa6AeSLuqXs0AcFK2WLNRgoAP-U/s1600/3+%252850%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDj3mzuSsLL1IAteA_Vd47qkGoQ1S-2661AvoPfaTagh-EMx_eTGbsY_QhZMUDEWs9gQZJUn8cp36ZWqDY3wvMYvR1amU_ejfHTkC80VprSHZro8NvDa6AeSLuqXs0AcFK2WLNRgoAP-U/s640/3+%252850%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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The ship went to the nearby, more sheltered Chance Bay, and dropped some of the crew off, with the equipment to start making the barbecue lunch. The colour of the water here was absolutely lovely - even in the rain.<br />
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The people who were here for the full day were then transferred onto smaller boats, as the current was too strong for our big vessel to get any closer to the shore, once aboard we sped off in a different direction. </div>
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There was hardly any shelter on this speedboat, and the storm was racing behind us. It didn't take long for it catch us, and I have never been in rain like it. Together with the speed of the boat, spray from the sea and the driving rain - I can't remember ever being so completely wet through. All I was worried about was keeping my camera dry.</div>
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After rounding a rocky point, the rain stopped; and to reach the shore, we had to jump into the water and paddle to the beach - getting even wetter! It wasn't cold though and as soon as we started walking, we soon dried off. </div>
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We were dropped off at Tongue Point and taken on the 1.2 km walk through the bush to Hill Inlet Lookout. There are only 2 trips that include this walk on their itinerary - so there wasn't many people about. It is recommended that you try to reach the lookout when the tide is low to fully experience the beautiful mixture of colours that emerge from the ocean. I was just glad that the storm had stopped, and I was able to finally see this breath-taking phenomenon. Even though the sun wasn't out, you have to agree that it is an incredible sight.</div>
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There are several viewing platforms on which to admire the swirling patterns of the sand and sea - as it comes in and out if the inlet on each tide. Every photograph picked up a different pattern in the pristine white sandbars, and a different shade of blue ocean. This is the third most photographed icon in Australia.</div>
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The Whitsunday islands were the traditional home to the Ngaro people, who are one of the earliest recorded Aboriginal tribes - having lived here for at least 9000 years. Archaeologists have discovered tools, traps, bones and rock art in various places throughout the Whitsunday islands. </div>
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The Ngaro were also known at the Canoe people which they built from 3 diamond shaped pieces of bark that were sewn together with roots or vines. In these primitive boats, they were able to paddle between the islands.</div>
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After some time at the lookout, we headed back down a different pathway, coming out on Lookout Beach, itself an incredibly picturesque area, with bronze rocks and mangroves outlining the stunning beach.</div>
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Many of these plants were used by the Ngaro people - to eat, to make tools and weapons out of, for medicine; everything for their daily life.<br />
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This section of beach, known as Betty's Beach is very special in its own way; this whole area which is at the north end of the world famous 7 km Whitehaven beach is only accessible by small boats - so it is never going to over-run with tourists.</div>
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If you look up into the bush, you can make out the viewing platforms.<br />
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Our little boat came back to collect us and take us around to Chance Bay for our lunch - more white sand and coloured rocks. Apparently, it is a mystery of how the sand on Whitehaven beach is almost 99% pure silica sand - it doesn't come from any of the local rocks - which don't contain much quartz. Scientists have several theories that they are working on - in the meantime the area is preserved as a National Park for everyone to enjoy.</div>
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The crew who were dropped off earlier were busy preparing a delicious lunch for us all; there were beach games for the children and stinger suits if anyone wanted to go in the water. It was such a tropical paradise - that you could almost forget all the nasty creatures in this ocean that wanted to harm you or even worse!</div>
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A brave local lizard wasn't worried by all these humans on the beach - he just walked right on by.<br />
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After lunch, we were told that the weather and sea currents had improved so much, that our main vessel had managed to moor up at Whitehaven Beach and we could all go there now. Some people decided to go there in the small boats, but I opted to walk through the bush, on a designated walking trail - that wasn't too far. </div>
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Our informative guide pointed out a variety of interesting things on the way, such as plants that were used by the aboriginal people, edible ants that tasted like lime - always keeping a lookout for something else to show us.</div>
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I was rather pleased with myself to spot a snake in a tree stump that we passed (only noticing it by the colours of its skin moving) - it was a type of python.<br />
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The track split in 2, and there was an extra path called Solway Circuit that went up to a lookout; I just had to go up and have a look. Not such a good view as earlier in the day, but there was more wildlife!<br />
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It was all downhill from here, an easy walk through the bush to reach the world-famous Whitehaven beach that I had come here to see. After all day on this island, I was finally on it. Living up to my expectation - it really is the softest, whitest sand in the world - good for polishing jewellery but dangerous to cameras!</div>
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The pure white sand goes on as far as you can see, with dense bush land long its inner edge - the only building is a very welcoming Eco toilet block. All the equipment that the crew bring onto the beach, for the comfort of the passengers, is carefully packed away - leaving no traces behind.<br />
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Back onboard the catamaran, we were treated to afternoon tea and a well earned rest. The day had turned out much better than I expected at the beginning of it. I was delighted to have actually seen the amazing, mesmerising swirling sandbars and turquoise sea at Hill Inlet - I felt extremely honoured to have experienced such beauty. Cruise Whitsundays are a fabulous company to go with, they certainly look after you so well, everything was first class and I can highly recommend them. It really had been the best day.<br />
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<br />Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-57850692762341779862019-05-30T14:10:00.001+01:002019-06-01T09:10:37.760+01:00Hamilton Island<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Hamilton Island</span></u></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAVSgvydGANe8a_30ksBblv8yXEPr2-9GUBY8oM9Vh4ltsCwCnVec2_WldIM4g-dDobFJP-oYUNuQNWIYpfRc6_FbfaNB6lzQuuMWjpisqFe121k8zdGnf1_YrQD4Z6w0MLxnbwlUC8IA/s1600/IMG_1547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAVSgvydGANe8a_30ksBblv8yXEPr2-9GUBY8oM9Vh4ltsCwCnVec2_WldIM4g-dDobFJP-oYUNuQNWIYpfRc6_FbfaNB6lzQuuMWjpisqFe121k8zdGnf1_YrQD4Z6w0MLxnbwlUC8IA/s640/IMG_1547.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hamilton Island is the largest inhabited
island of the Whitsunday Islands - off the coast of Northern Queensland,
approximately 550 miles north of Brisbane and 318 miles south of Cairns. The
Whitsundays were formed when sea levels rose thousands of years ago, drowning
numerous mountains that were situated close to the coast; these are now visible
out of the Coral Sea with their distinctive shapes covered in thick vegetation.
Hamilton has its own airport and is served by several ferries, which can only
carry passengers, mainland vehicles are not allowed on the island except for
those of tradespeople and public transport. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBGZcjzFFkbN_zpF5WfHQPFuv_AcvS7tBdCXgnLnUcN5TUY81BjoMg7hiZqF12ic3q9JHkr76FV95onPPLUhdvqb4_JhTTvwCVVRxMWsq-KRffcjLUUUX-0OQ6nA6jPYnOi0ywXTohrjw/s1600/1+%2528105%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBGZcjzFFkbN_zpF5WfHQPFuv_AcvS7tBdCXgnLnUcN5TUY81BjoMg7hiZqF12ic3q9JHkr76FV95onPPLUhdvqb4_JhTTvwCVVRxMWsq-KRffcjLUUUX-0OQ6nA6jPYnOi0ywXTohrjw/s640/1+%2528105%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hamilton Island was purchased in
1975 when construction of a harbour began, followed by resorts in various
stages, but a fire destroyed some of the complex in 1985. It was placed in
receivership in 1995 and in 2003, Bob Oatley, an Australian winemaker purchased
the island; and since then it has won many awards including the Australian
Traveller 'Most Desirable Island Escape' Award. If you haven’t booked to stay
on the island you can visit it in several different ways; Cruise Whitsundays
offer a Hamilton Family Day, Hamilton Adrenalin, Hamilton with Whitehaven Beach
as part of a 2-island tour; or Hamilton Freestyle. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi80k0hyphenhyphen8zbFjmczM7gpZigq2Cj8qWDf5wY9qbV8JxDQpBXZQPIx173ugv7NKSFy-u1ROmOd_sWqUnHS-DITidJnwFhJCtU59BB_5Zi5fKyFBzFbdEP562kuBIg4GsM-2xW_3951pnQLWg/s1600/1+%252816%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi80k0hyphenhyphen8zbFjmczM7gpZigq2Cj8qWDf5wY9qbV8JxDQpBXZQPIx173ugv7NKSFy-u1ROmOd_sWqUnHS-DITidJnwFhJCtU59BB_5Zi5fKyFBzFbdEP562kuBIg4GsM-2xW_3951pnQLWg/s640/1+%252816%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This last one was the one I
opted for as I had been told that half a day wasn’t long enough to enjoy
Hamilton - and this tour gave me a whole 8 hours to explore. There is another
tour that sounded like my sort of thing - Hamilton’s Nature Escape where you
hike up to Passage Peak and have breakfast with the koalas – but that was booked
up. The early morning journey from the Port of Airlie only takes about 30
minutes and once you arrive at the picturesque marina – the day is yours. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQo4rqAx1JM-L_hS08nY3P3Dvb_qIgsKqUvHExl3tNk_FYEVvCfEEg-lU1JQHcYsyURU4APSoTSENEwcYMFG1oy3kcIwHn5PzuQUAHZjlYmwxws4Tp8lQiobSeE9ZL-gYE-HczXO3CiX8/s1600/1+%252817%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQo4rqAx1JM-L_hS08nY3P3Dvb_qIgsKqUvHExl3tNk_FYEVvCfEEg-lU1JQHcYsyURU4APSoTSENEwcYMFG1oy3kcIwHn5PzuQUAHZjlYmwxws4Tp8lQiobSeE9ZL-gYE-HczXO3CiX8/s640/1+%252817%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVfRzdLSfIlhcCm9B-o1K4H5IVSkRfgfa1VkSbSHm1Qoo8aowlRLYYZ597J5i6M7uN8DlbnRPhcgCGKmLVgCFtfSDTyI9z1sHEq0lQySgerqFehBwHP5ueK3cDjMvbgZcSZ-hDT3HwfFU/s1600/1+%252818%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVfRzdLSfIlhcCm9B-o1K4H5IVSkRfgfa1VkSbSHm1Qoo8aowlRLYYZ597J5i6M7uN8DlbnRPhcgCGKmLVgCFtfSDTyI9z1sHEq0lQySgerqFehBwHP5ueK3cDjMvbgZcSZ-hDT3HwfFU/s640/1+%252818%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">T</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">here
is so much to see and do on Hamilton Island and I was keen to explore it my own
pace, so I had reserved myself a golf buggy before I arrived – perfect for a self-guided
tour. There is a public shuttle bus that operates on the island serving major
points of interest, but I fancied something different.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFEA3NTztncfng8QrE21o4NxtAcKfhh1w445tf_McpQ-4EQlaYwDjSeNKwZqLbalZzG6LktR2ouMprhUq42GTr96Bl16e9u1qFKlScZi4GbXydxvVgPGBioceSi9y2FP7kkbx0RUiwqGk/s1600/1+%252821%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFEA3NTztncfng8QrE21o4NxtAcKfhh1w445tf_McpQ-4EQlaYwDjSeNKwZqLbalZzG6LktR2ouMprhUq42GTr96Bl16e9u1qFKlScZi4GbXydxvVgPGBioceSi9y2FP7kkbx0RUiwqGk/s640/1+%252821%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I am not a golfer and
had never driven anything like this before. From the Marina it was just a short
walk up the hill to the buggy hiring depot. The pickup was very efficiently
done, and the price very reasonable – only $70 for 4 hours. After a quick
briefing – I was ready to go (I was so delighted that I could reach the
pedals). They are electric powered, and I was assured that unless I drove
constantly for the entire 4 hours – I wouldn’t run out of power. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY5tVSYAWT3VOt9U1CEQrP5KYfrqY9UvNI8cmKIkTlXIBxR4pUkCdtomVN_PYtRZKqH1kLCzetIrqSA2B8hFi157z_KLlDnWMexZhQffuNWsZIx5Ih4bxVgddVg7mjg29pN8lpKVp832Y/s640/1+%2528157%2529.JPG" /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">There is a speed
limiter on the buggies, so that when you drive through any of the built-up
areas you cannot go above 20 kmph. </span><span class="MsoHyperlink" style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="https://www.hamiltonisland.com.au/reserve-your-buggy">https://www.hamiltonisland.com.au/reserve-your-buggy</a></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">
Heading off down the road was only nerve wracking for one minute – it didn’t
take long to get the hang of it. I passed through the main resort part of the
island, with quality accommodation, hotels, chalets, lodges and apartments; a
reception area with bars and activities for the guests, and several outdoor
swimming complexes. Once on the island I was free to use any of these
facilities – but I wanted to make the most of my transport and see as much as
possible within the 4 hours first. I drove to the very end of Resort Drive – luckily
it is a straight road – admiring the beautiful pools, wallabies on the lawns
and the view of the ocean. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXP7voTRSRYpCiT2mJQzuZSsUaTQV8G14_SfGT97eEjZWnTGQUxeyxOc6YM8yYO5FEgYZ_a79eJZ4FZjE7viMI_sULFeKRYwvmW3so64_HE-VKtJcoYf0USLX0AsQJD9wKHMMzb2dWYyo/s1600/1+%2528143%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1191" data-original-width="1600" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXP7voTRSRYpCiT2mJQzuZSsUaTQV8G14_SfGT97eEjZWnTGQUxeyxOc6YM8yYO5FEgYZ_a79eJZ4FZjE7viMI_sULFeKRYwvmW3so64_HE-VKtJcoYf0USLX0AsQJD9wKHMMzb2dWYyo/s640/1+%2528143%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I parked up at the end of the road, practised
reversing and took some photographs of the picturesque Catseye Beach, and to
have a look at the various walking trails.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH9M1BAxGGe0ZWszfmf5QexjtNFyrtugQbwEbmX_wndybkt20A6FZQN_1x8PIRsFxv5WlPI3UmFmEb-1EiScW_GSECj6ApxzFJg6SJn-VFxvOOVxwXqjhA4LjgjMm8RR1a7xNI2Ytv888/s1600/1+%252830%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1047" data-original-width="1600" height="418" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH9M1BAxGGe0ZWszfmf5QexjtNFyrtugQbwEbmX_wndybkt20A6FZQN_1x8PIRsFxv5WlPI3UmFmEb-1EiScW_GSECj6ApxzFJg6SJn-VFxvOOVxwXqjhA4LjgjMm8RR1a7xNI2Ytv888/s640/1+%252830%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv7-BiXuJFdbY6rHzvHY2B3W8Yu6QHvzNpgOH6X56vOv3XW8A7KMZSSqKzkQzr47KQEOD7b9RCjVxDq8ApBs4WLea-3EPSga99RTkkzLS5kCzg8iBo_8wuF_nhEy5wIVytfz4v818xmhQ/s1600/1+%252827%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv7-BiXuJFdbY6rHzvHY2B3W8Yu6QHvzNpgOH6X56vOv3XW8A7KMZSSqKzkQzr47KQEOD7b9RCjVxDq8ApBs4WLea-3EPSga99RTkkzLS5kCzg8iBo_8wuF_nhEy5wIVytfz4v818xmhQ/s640/1+%252827%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: justify;">
<span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://www.hamiltonisland.com.au/nature-and-wildlife/bushwalking">https://www.hamiltonisland.com.au/nature-and-wildlife/bushwalking</a></span></span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> Confident now, I
headed back through the resort and out towards Palm Valley where there are Quad
Bikes and Off Road Adventueres. Hamilton’s golf driving range is out here – and
is definitely something quite different - the golf balls have to be hit into a
lake! That must be why it is called Aquatic Golf!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL6K5iNkxQFS7hktsoKaWgwHdEa131KT8f43G_eMiIZBJiLBvA87nL5t7hoJvlODneAmhXHbeKXAHppkH5n8ZaW7tGBwPnmkbvSMRLWZZUjuyj1QxfRDhmf91RrvFVhLRGHwxBfctdbNA/s1600/1+%252844%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL6K5iNkxQFS7hktsoKaWgwHdEa131KT8f43G_eMiIZBJiLBvA87nL5t7hoJvlODneAmhXHbeKXAHppkH5n8ZaW7tGBwPnmkbvSMRLWZZUjuyj1QxfRDhmf91RrvFVhLRGHwxBfctdbNA/s640/1+%252844%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNxLGJ5qCzmQyx2f3zg_Z0aYEB0ZEXa4z7fKsa4v-OIkwCXo0ze_3VECCSdrRphQWL1F4pC_vtAKHyCZ4LP9WOAtXgdacCCd2RQzDyk_g0UOW6mcGrAK46eXBpQzTedzhr4GqqmJ68n6M/s1600/1+%252845%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNxLGJ5qCzmQyx2f3zg_Z0aYEB0ZEXa4z7fKsa4v-OIkwCXo0ze_3VECCSdrRphQWL1F4pC_vtAKHyCZ4LP9WOAtXgdacCCd2RQzDyk_g0UOW6mcGrAK46eXBpQzTedzhr4GqqmJ68n6M/s640/1+%252845%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnEeU7SLKyzSmyzzraKtnMPLuaX8zrasR_QxRMtko0n_vibX9MLToNHoLEDsWnN43nmxinsPmdkmlabytSgSg0_hKGsgS0p8lQlc7fVDyXmKlGUInwJSVuacm0FTRnuUx6XHfV2idqH5I/s1600/1+%252846%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnEeU7SLKyzSmyzzraKtnMPLuaX8zrasR_QxRMtko0n_vibX9MLToNHoLEDsWnN43nmxinsPmdkmlabytSgSg0_hKGsgS0p8lQlc7fVDyXmKlGUInwJSVuacm0FTRnuUx6XHfV2idqH5I/s640/1+%252846%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRqRcvaQrKMc-Q76Io-AwrueeJZp-Kt2dl4loHcGGT5_a6NcbQA5wjAQDM4DNngJ0eahcWfoWuQhbZ1s77yhM0nwdL-bZXMwrCy1w5eRefjrYtmwPRpIEuWe7kuYlYHmIP9VwSkac-hEM/s1600/1+%252847%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRqRcvaQrKMc-Q76Io-AwrueeJZp-Kt2dl4loHcGGT5_a6NcbQA5wjAQDM4DNngJ0eahcWfoWuQhbZ1s77yhM0nwdL-bZXMwrCy1w5eRefjrYtmwPRpIEuWe7kuYlYHmIP9VwSkac-hEM/s640/1+%252847%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Hamilton Island’s 18-hole
Golf course is on the nearby Dent Island and is accessed by a boat transfer. The
airport is along the road this way too, the quaintest little terminal sitting
by the edge of the calm ocean. </span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiqLC7k6MN_0nCDwJp-e3HFRVoO5A2F4k8ACYeTpM2V-SUkb3g9006G4WjaRGPlU8cdwr1iDVRrinC-qTW35mM-CmXie27f87nD30ipEtnERLVJHeduTMPQg1khebAQgajb1tJD6C6pEk/s1600/1+%252861%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiqLC7k6MN_0nCDwJp-e3HFRVoO5A2F4k8ACYeTpM2V-SUkb3g9006G4WjaRGPlU8cdwr1iDVRrinC-qTW35mM-CmXie27f87nD30ipEtnERLVJHeduTMPQg1khebAQgajb1tJD6C6pEk/s640/1+%252861%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPIoBYDyNEfObhJYyyOxuTnO1WweXQ01CHDJAXxcDwr4QSYNDpyM6NZ_rCvkXVnb9jNbpL13gJZ8kPm_pNhyeJVKhJsYtiT4TKqOeP8wH0w6JhwTWgDlL7MMDLY_Zg654OBPQ1eaNGByo/s1600/1+%252863%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPIoBYDyNEfObhJYyyOxuTnO1WweXQ01CHDJAXxcDwr4QSYNDpyM6NZ_rCvkXVnb9jNbpL13gJZ8kPm_pNhyeJVKhJsYtiT4TKqOeP8wH0w6JhwTWgDlL7MMDLY_Zg654OBPQ1eaNGByo/s640/1+%252863%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Over the hill, with more great views of the
marina and back into the hub of things – oh I was enjoying myself! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZyKa63UMYS5XBKLqlKjAoAPPJfQbAVGsCVL-eikiqNepdirdara43DU2w2Qdu6rw40VSszlT4WkageYcsUgy0ekBy73DngILKjKE7ZH8ZliSDRWKk-2XghTWGUhO3-1Ib00qYddrtkI/s1600/1+%252867%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjZyKa63UMYS5XBKLqlKjAoAPPJfQbAVGsCVL-eikiqNepdirdara43DU2w2Qdu6rw40VSszlT4WkageYcsUgy0ekBy73DngILKjKE7ZH8ZliSDRWKk-2XghTWGUhO3-1Ib00qYddrtkI/s640/1+%252867%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There is a
Wildlife Park that has shows with reptiles, birds, dingoes and koalas at
varying times throughout the day. If you are staying on the island, you can pay
once and then have unlimited entry into this park – that is good value. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijYbFHvQ-S9tX7qflDSGLDa2bcBpdb_jMi0sa8efbJorHA_wCg9B1Xh0FBm4EriF0GnZwLighGhdvggdddsULmZI0iinuYoh40M_IBp10Ylv92dvtTiXUaSRCJVifFelQe2rD98sSTBhE/s1600/1+%252824%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijYbFHvQ-S9tX7qflDSGLDa2bcBpdb_jMi0sa8efbJorHA_wCg9B1Xh0FBm4EriF0GnZwLighGhdvggdddsULmZI0iinuYoh40M_IBp10Ylv92dvtTiXUaSRCJVifFelQe2rD98sSTBhE/s640/1+%252824%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJe1iqQErWEQduuB37TsZzJ6YTXIuxYlcpNSdNj1vwsiMtqrCP_Fun9tqLIISUGDb3tisn_JFkNX1pM7pSl2iii9WWfaxSaYP6rRH4S5R-drEGx5IipP5hSVKx46751soOq1tJm66_D-0/s1600/1+%252826%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJe1iqQErWEQduuB37TsZzJ6YTXIuxYlcpNSdNj1vwsiMtqrCP_Fun9tqLIISUGDb3tisn_JFkNX1pM7pSl2iii9WWfaxSaYP6rRH4S5R-drEGx5IipP5hSVKx46751soOq1tJm66_D-0/s640/1+%252826%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I had
been told that One Tree Hill Lookout was a wonderful place to go for fantastic
panoramic views of the Whitsunday Passage and the islands in the distance (that
once were rainforest mountains). It was only a few minutes’ drive from the
centre – nowhere is very far away on Hamilton. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_e_MBe98Hzp5mtesszQcpGLWe1XaZa_HEwEX_ljGMGqnl8loxFo7_nqIgn9t9q-N6jb4Bt8N31C9J5s1trnqOxybm7caWcwwHpcIAL18SOUQZuQwy4hZvc5udz71vdDGdwoeJT7wZs8/s1600/1+%252878%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU_e_MBe98Hzp5mtesszQcpGLWe1XaZa_HEwEX_ljGMGqnl8loxFo7_nqIgn9t9q-N6jb4Bt8N31C9J5s1trnqOxybm7caWcwwHpcIAL18SOUQZuQwy4hZvc5udz71vdDGdwoeJT7wZs8/s640/1+%252878%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINmIGrsDnncpVq-I62Xp9L-vjehN6rpGZzfB6A0_1gdeSJKMlQQt__mqjKLHsAmH3_e4I7GJLkgTs6Ta5r479i5xeZzeXWJYkaIONR9t3_YEn1UNbEtLxOdlKKUKUE5BSRcPRnCinGX0/s1600/1+%2528104%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhINmIGrsDnncpVq-I62Xp9L-vjehN6rpGZzfB6A0_1gdeSJKMlQQt__mqjKLHsAmH3_e4I7GJLkgTs6Ta5r479i5xeZzeXWJYkaIONR9t3_YEn1UNbEtLxOdlKKUKUE5BSRcPRnCinGX0/s640/1+%2528104%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpq4dEoWg8XN5g__nbE3jjMi9FPUL9_BDKM04f2SDytleGtq0_B0bzL7EZvsYc5OMWwxL5e-FD4X1oqkW3OvMy_lV6G_S1lFMpv4nvbFEgrwDgxnoSG72SSRkDtwgfYKWergzr_-8o2y4/s1600/1+%2528102%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpq4dEoWg8XN5g__nbE3jjMi9FPUL9_BDKM04f2SDytleGtq0_B0bzL7EZvsYc5OMWwxL5e-FD4X1oqkW3OvMy_lV6G_S1lFMpv4nvbFEgrwDgxnoSG72SSRkDtwgfYKWergzr_-8o2y4/s640/1+%2528102%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">One Tree Hill is somewhere you
just have to go – the views really are magnificent. It is also renowned for its
rather special café which does a great coffee or a refreshing cocktail
(alcoholic or not) – it is definitely one for the bucket list. I was very happy
to spend some time sitting on the balcony with a lovely fruit punch. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBGOPyJg9KjsVJTMECLiwn2Ch-WggHwIR3OyQiMO7VBsQlvgX4oQwF_sIh-iC6RW73NAKLeBRFEoRgTfuYdyjUL-1I7SKmQ2Dn5aVm0a-VyBVVTQS9cc6c6uET-gLYesM8xMCmksUZNY/s1600/1+%2528110%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwBGOPyJg9KjsVJTMECLiwn2Ch-WggHwIR3OyQiMO7VBsQlvgX4oQwF_sIh-iC6RW73NAKLeBRFEoRgTfuYdyjUL-1I7SKmQ2Dn5aVm0a-VyBVVTQS9cc6c6uET-gLYesM8xMCmksUZNY/s640/1+%2528110%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">From here
you can, not only see out towards the other islands, but you can get a feel for
the rest of Hamilton and catch up with some of its resident wildlife – its
friendly wallabies and cockatoos.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF0Fr6yQmMsxaqFEcaNrXbbz62gmv5hFSbytjQzjG_SOvAWaLiOfWJ-0zxFUBY0pDVbZHdG0V3TsEQfAzlMu9aev8JMGipHTiChYsPAuY59eLXmlCjE6XjC82eTMal-KIQhiIXgCCFa08/s1600/1+%2528108%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF0Fr6yQmMsxaqFEcaNrXbbz62gmv5hFSbytjQzjG_SOvAWaLiOfWJ-0zxFUBY0pDVbZHdG0V3TsEQfAzlMu9aev8JMGipHTiChYsPAuY59eLXmlCjE6XjC82eTMal-KIQhiIXgCCFa08/s640/1+%2528108%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi44BZ40z3Lf9PyXme0cqfNoQBs3n5UoxQC4mYtafS4zB8TnmH0lEML4pPhlqCuf0sdZfbriA0kOlFiTcPZuuVREav0mSm3yLdbat7F8lVx9cUMq_nKS8HLN1X2ftMPXnZ7xsjfZrLRDVk/s1600/1+%2528121%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi44BZ40z3Lf9PyXme0cqfNoQBs3n5UoxQC4mYtafS4zB8TnmH0lEML4pPhlqCuf0sdZfbriA0kOlFiTcPZuuVREav0mSm3yLdbat7F8lVx9cUMq_nKS8HLN1X2ftMPXnZ7xsjfZrLRDVk/s640/1+%2528121%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There was always somewhere to park the buggy,
you just had to remember what your number was – as they all looked the
same! </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAca89lkNZhK9Qy487CS8rBX36H0NL4ZQXYKitL-loutsPKOvhyphenhyphenGyNsypNe8i7VotOJU-ppXgZXpsu06MqNVXzIyw1scLZmWwECWhmN0Thh95xh5NGDcyAkCIjYDMLefv7nbSWyWHGDOw/s1600/1+%252886%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="784" data-original-width="1600" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAca89lkNZhK9Qy487CS8rBX36H0NL4ZQXYKitL-loutsPKOvhyphenhyphenGyNsypNe8i7VotOJU-ppXgZXpsu06MqNVXzIyw1scLZmWwECWhmN0Thh95xh5NGDcyAkCIjYDMLefv7nbSWyWHGDOw/s640/1+%252886%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The next little roads – on the
farthest end of the island, were where the classier holiday homes/villas were;
with street names like Melaleuca Drive and Whitsunday Boulevard. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvQfuSUm26zjdWqAtsCp-upeKWzx1QGvHsqWcTXqIOy5K-bUoIgnl1dHyACLd87WqXzlqRRe4oJPOI_2BWWiAUr-IdHFuvrKqvPGfYgamkyyRHuubte-m_nPjAv623_k6YV9vBZssHNRU/s1600/1+%252882%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvQfuSUm26zjdWqAtsCp-upeKWzx1QGvHsqWcTXqIOy5K-bUoIgnl1dHyACLd87WqXzlqRRe4oJPOI_2BWWiAUr-IdHFuvrKqvPGfYgamkyyRHuubte-m_nPjAv623_k6YV9vBZssHNRU/s640/1+%252882%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4EX0NuhJFFv0UaMpDAkh1YxR-SmsW9fNr03UZWPsXvrdbBD5xtQ_PY7_pwvpkUURJ8go5K9M1xq2z_KoWMfKzoUwPln8dCW3EJx4DLiWrkkI70ftx2_qR_kDSyvGTfSGhkfnuVVhhQgU/s1600/1+%252884%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4EX0NuhJFFv0UaMpDAkh1YxR-SmsW9fNr03UZWPsXvrdbBD5xtQ_PY7_pwvpkUURJ8go5K9M1xq2z_KoWMfKzoUwPln8dCW3EJx4DLiWrkkI70ftx2_qR_kDSyvGTfSGhkfnuVVhhQgU/s640/1+%252884%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">After travelling
around these, I came to the far end of the Marina – and was now on Front
Street. This is the hub of the island, where you can hire jet skis, try
sea-kayaking, book fishing tours, catamaran trips, and numerous other
activities; you will also find marine supplies, and various other types of
quality retail outlets. </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I discovered the most unusual shop/shack called Foot’s
Artworks; I had seen something similar in Airlie Beach and was told that it was
all work by one man who has only these 2 shops. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikIDNrxWlaN_LS-WGdqv98lMyw5iNvWnIEBZf7uJrEp1b4w_RPEc_P9Oph8VhKFf63_HGgmOPXVp_v8e1BUabh-EVGgo6lOm1vbtpMEIKw93-Z12rDuyBhxuog4x-yFqbIKNGtAVQH2IU/s1600/1+%2528135a%2529+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikIDNrxWlaN_LS-WGdqv98lMyw5iNvWnIEBZf7uJrEp1b4w_RPEc_P9Oph8VhKFf63_HGgmOPXVp_v8e1BUabh-EVGgo6lOm1vbtpMEIKw93-Z12rDuyBhxuog4x-yFqbIKNGtAVQH2IU/s640/1+%2528135a%2529+%25281%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtQ6oH2K-jauX7ox54bbL33YmWNU0tn-j-0jCu1k20ZtDwllBa90uYjhiJE8LE6dQ-5zz9jxXk-eBWxxdYjneVZYPPD6bybbwEe6kuDylTZpMtgawRm0c1lzfgQtgM0r5zzPDzleBeM4g/s1600/1+%2528134%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtQ6oH2K-jauX7ox54bbL33YmWNU0tn-j-0jCu1k20ZtDwllBa90uYjhiJE8LE6dQ-5zz9jxXk-eBWxxdYjneVZYPPD6bybbwEe6kuDylTZpMtgawRm0c1lzfgQtgM0r5zzPDzleBeM4g/s640/1+%2528134%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj8IFQIhL4KTB-1kE9VTUzvUiRFP64BSwcR-Bdk3ttczD_650vPPUpvrCg5tAIO-SSJzi9v9k4xWjcrs43ksw2QPDZfWVqYTqgeeAwPiBa62aXuuU_PYQNYeEAXKjhLerI6NfsmvilGBQ/s1600/1+%2528137%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj8IFQIhL4KTB-1kE9VTUzvUiRFP64BSwcR-Bdk3ttczD_650vPPUpvrCg5tAIO-SSJzi9v9k4xWjcrs43ksw2QPDZfWVqYTqgeeAwPiBa62aXuuU_PYQNYeEAXKjhLerI6NfsmvilGBQ/s640/1+%2528137%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Australian artist, Foot Young, is based at Hamilton Island and sculptures the
most beautiful creatures in marble, he has hundreds of original different
works, ranging from a selection of small pieces to enormous outdoor
works. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxBrC5BQqbdcYBNNQWocfoDyegjfmsT3jJfpSZi2N8VE_LHo7RD4QZmQEOP45eOs_OoCN4QBh1NyVluhGSKMlFP9qdTo8Qdv-GN8NHI4aYYwyA1XNNkmzejLq2p9ZVHJQosP5XFORmSs/s1600/1+%2528129%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbxBrC5BQqbdcYBNNQWocfoDyegjfmsT3jJfpSZi2N8VE_LHo7RD4QZmQEOP45eOs_OoCN4QBh1NyVluhGSKMlFP9qdTo8Qdv-GN8NHI4aYYwyA1XNNkmzejLq2p9ZVHJQosP5XFORmSs/s640/1+%2528129%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPLeSlf8ahbYGNuM4q1Vv7shv6GrBivz20A3aYDE55e7yVWiQuQ9FZZ69w4qxJXpECAdqeLgnjU0CrLByofLi5FAW5A6UJuMS2RhQ7GsXw1RnnChIrwQ9Q_vvAh3VO9knOENw-JdFfPyI/s1600/1+%2528131%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPLeSlf8ahbYGNuM4q1Vv7shv6GrBivz20A3aYDE55e7yVWiQuQ9FZZ69w4qxJXpECAdqeLgnjU0CrLByofLi5FAW5A6UJuMS2RhQ7GsXw1RnnChIrwQ9Q_vvAh3VO9knOENw-JdFfPyI/s640/1+%2528131%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I was in awe of everything I saw and just had to take a small one
home with me – even though I would have loved a 3-foot-high seal or dolphin!
Close to here is the Island Bowling – an ideal place to spend as hour if the
weather isn’t very good; and the weather wasn’t at its best the day I was there.
I had been dodging a cyclone for the past few days and its remnants were
catching up with me. But being in the golf buggy, I was able to stay dry for some
of the time. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4B91P_lXn-4FBPxwa3fsJobpYMHkFjn6PR43rFTcUke_IcMd0TdkltwJoro7THQO9abvMJqwM94XtbWLSKCJdmZxT8cGRBRnO9jnBFiCT6IJaLxW7J_eFt0S4VWqj3O85-kzzywnv0Js/s1600/1+%2528140a%2529+%25285%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1384" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4B91P_lXn-4FBPxwa3fsJobpYMHkFjn6PR43rFTcUke_IcMd0TdkltwJoro7THQO9abvMJqwM94XtbWLSKCJdmZxT8cGRBRnO9jnBFiCT6IJaLxW7J_eFt0S4VWqj3O85-kzzywnv0Js/s640/1+%2528140a%2529+%25285%2529.jpg" width="552" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">As part of the day-package tour, lunch was included (either
at Marina Tavern or at Manta Ray Café) - I had chosen lunch at the Marina
Tavern which was very well organised, there was a good selection and it was
very tasty. A friendly cockatoo thought he would join me – he likes the chips
there too!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKlFfAZnMS9DYEi5ZJpEPCUpUX0lXfQFp0H8IQU2Hewmam46Ymn0TLhkQWR3miS5I7biJCiml_-euOKZ7BteiLiQk-lrWJ1he8ihptO4p6jbWH4csKSStMGY7VEiXOEL0yp6Q683FZ6ak/s1600/1+%2528140a%2529+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKlFfAZnMS9DYEi5ZJpEPCUpUX0lXfQFp0H8IQU2Hewmam46Ymn0TLhkQWR3miS5I7biJCiml_-euOKZ7BteiLiQk-lrWJ1he8ihptO4p6jbWH4csKSStMGY7VEiXOEL0yp6Q683FZ6ak/s640/1+%2528140a%2529+%25282%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The Marina Tavern has a beautiful outlook over Hamilton Marina, there
is plenty of buggy parking over the road and is very close to the main shopping
area. After lunch it was time to take the golf buggy back; I thought 4 hours
would have been enough but wish I had had it for longer - especially with the
weather becoming so miserable in the afternoon. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignHAsuc5sOrlKT0M1qUwU_fG4g0Sa3aXemvpssR4-P5yFGNrP6wWVUnRGu6KsTT2XkbbawI3QcEBNY0OGZs-MW0YJTDtqt2aDw7s2KT0Wn6DqjbnNU2pujmNUnhJ-03XxJgZVIfk83bE/s1600/1+%2528156%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEignHAsuc5sOrlKT0M1qUwU_fG4g0Sa3aXemvpssR4-P5yFGNrP6wWVUnRGu6KsTT2XkbbawI3QcEBNY0OGZs-MW0YJTDtqt2aDw7s2KT0Wn6DqjbnNU2pujmNUnhJ-03XxJgZVIfk83bE/s640/1+%2528156%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKl8vODxIcjpNRq7N1aJdM0Kdd4vKaFpW1GAWrpSxelt9U0xfuxQCZxAey_ZsXVDpimwQw9MgWRmgWvu-EprjlIOP-0Gj5bcW2w59oI5fb1L6DMJ4QfqvCpT_UShn2yddPHt8a8985uJk/s1600/1+%2528140a%2529+%25284%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKl8vODxIcjpNRq7N1aJdM0Kdd4vKaFpW1GAWrpSxelt9U0xfuxQCZxAey_ZsXVDpimwQw9MgWRmgWvu-EprjlIOP-0Gj5bcW2w59oI5fb1L6DMJ4QfqvCpT_UShn2yddPHt8a8985uJk/s640/1+%2528140a%2529+%25284%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNSjGG5MZu-ykcdhz1uUvojNPXKzekMLmzWiljwC_Xm8DadVdzAlYSfCyI9EJiSiW6htT_eOyERsgbiIs94lfEZVRZ2nctzZfbkVdW5q1qEQXHN-bpFV-QewpTc9RPEw8efH5SzMCG4XM/s1600/1+%2528158%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNSjGG5MZu-ykcdhz1uUvojNPXKzekMLmzWiljwC_Xm8DadVdzAlYSfCyI9EJiSiW6htT_eOyERsgbiIs94lfEZVRZ2nctzZfbkVdW5q1qEQXHN-bpFV-QewpTc9RPEw8efH5SzMCG4XM/s640/1+%2528158%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">So, I walked back to the
Village Main Street and spent some time browsing in the touristy boutique shops
and a found lovely art gallery that even gives art lessons. A delightful area
to stroll around – if it hadn’t been so wet. Hamilton Island has so many other
activities that I haven’t even mentioned; as well as water based fun and
getting close to wildlife; there is mini-golf, go-karting, 2 spas, or you could
just relax beside any of the many pools or try paddle boarding on Catseye
Beach. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicfyfjjOSfAcNXs_JuMvg1lT_baZt5vOVzQiZiy_F78BOU3DZNnyGVwXUpG1A3868nhnAxcBnJ6P_a5AYzQuI6h95G34TfCOxjwHJ2-ItCLcmK5Pb1Bgy13lQyPiW5x8KwdxrmKQShjZw/s1600/1+%2528147%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicfyfjjOSfAcNXs_JuMvg1lT_baZt5vOVzQiZiy_F78BOU3DZNnyGVwXUpG1A3868nhnAxcBnJ6P_a5AYzQuI6h95G34TfCOxjwHJ2-ItCLcmK5Pb1Bgy13lQyPiW5x8KwdxrmKQShjZw/s640/1+%2528147%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lgPcbfw9n3jlT-JbGSUrcMJVwsrIGyHjBQFyY-9tmQOWy0VnSoKO37TUGS04VVmRCmJ_ETcBvYzy2lMfEwo87VTAbP5sA3klLKoKgFPPnlDbEdhRnCYXkE27l8xyxMfIA95YAkfSHLs/s1600/1+%252893%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1lgPcbfw9n3jlT-JbGSUrcMJVwsrIGyHjBQFyY-9tmQOWy0VnSoKO37TUGS04VVmRCmJ_ETcBvYzy2lMfEwo87VTAbP5sA3klLKoKgFPPnlDbEdhRnCYXkE27l8xyxMfIA95YAkfSHLs/s640/1+%252893%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">There are plenty of opportunities to try so many different activities
when visiting Hamilton Island, but make sure you enquire beforehand as you may
need to book them before you arrive – as they do get booked up very early. On a
positive note, no matter what the weather, there is always something to do,
there are plenty of public toilets and great filtered water stations. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91LUuO5AiBNOIEHXAQZ6VrSesjUB0AgcBhLm_KBpdoMNuW92TQBnhzV7QhlaHVJNkIhYMUJdHbIgCw_c1GIgVJY_vgKdffCae3Kv27t3lSiEFuI5cE5JApd0UzbQ8Mxxa5nE87cfkhto/s1600/1+%2528141%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh91LUuO5AiBNOIEHXAQZ6VrSesjUB0AgcBhLm_KBpdoMNuW92TQBnhzV7QhlaHVJNkIhYMUJdHbIgCw_c1GIgVJY_vgKdffCae3Kv27t3lSiEFuI5cE5JApd0UzbQ8Mxxa5nE87cfkhto/s640/1+%2528141%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I can
highly recommend a trip over to this delightful island with <span class="MsoHyperlink"><a href="http://www.cruisewhitsundays.com/">www.cruisewhitsundays.com</a></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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I have also done blogs on my other days in this area if you want a look :-</div>
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<a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com</a>/2019/05/airlie-beach.html</div>
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<a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com</a>/2019/06/great-barrier-reef.html</div>
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<a href="http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com/" style="font-size: x-large; text-align: justify;">http://lynnemorley.blogspot.com</a>/2019/06/whitsunday-island.html</div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Thanks for looking,</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Lynne, </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></span>
<span style="font-size: 12pt;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Please check out my other blogs ..............</b></span></span></div>
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<br />Lynne's Bloghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16724634569204715610noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4108164353124117856.post-3874774977508292402019-05-30T13:39:00.001+01:002019-05-30T13:39:30.822+01:00Airlie Beach<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<b><u><span style="font-size: large;">Airlie Beach</span></u></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLK8G9zcVfroCrOgMWuUBKG0R5dAIRIAlIh5J3oVkfLXq4KGaeJ4-uSVB7o3oKRNRzYGhAxwBrHNY2Y7Tzkdk7foAzHPTLrvQ9Mj9iY0TtEdLn0-OKY4VZWBufJTxojAa-LcCXBnj-tbY/s1600/AB.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLK8G9zcVfroCrOgMWuUBKG0R5dAIRIAlIh5J3oVkfLXq4KGaeJ4-uSVB7o3oKRNRzYGhAxwBrHNY2Y7Tzkdk7foAzHPTLrvQ9Mj9iY0TtEdLn0-OKY4VZWBufJTxojAa-LcCXBnj-tbY/s640/AB.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">From
Proserpine airport it is only a 40-minute drive to Airlie Beach, affectionately
known as The Gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. I
had booked a hotel in the town for a few days so I could do some exploring - in
particular a few of the Whitsunday Islands and the Reef. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">I
had made reservations with Cruise Whitsundays for each of the day trips well in
advance, and was so glad I had; as they were nearly all booked up when I
arrived. All Cruise Whitsundays vessels leave from the Port of Airlie, although
other trips also depart from Abell Point Marina and Shute Harbour. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">I was lucky
that my hotel overlooked that Port and was easily within walking distance. The
terminal is a modern building with a café, toilets, shop and a very efficient
passenger enquiry and embarkation system. They can even arrange transport to
and from wherever you are staying. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Apart
from spending my days out on the Cruise Whitsunday boats <span class="MsoHyperlink"><a href="http://www.cruisewhitsundays.com/">www.cruisewhitsundays.com</a></span> it
was very pleasant to explore the town of Airlie in the evening or on my free
day. Airlie has a reputation of being somewhere tourists, especially
back-packers, pass through, but it is a town with lots to offer as well as
being a base for at least a few days. The main street is crammed with shops, where
you get buy everything from swimwear, souvenirs, locally made jewellery and
very special polished marble sculptures, some which were several feet high (I
just had to buy a tiny one!).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">There
are numerous bars, restaurants, and take-aways – selling cuisine from all over
the world – at prices to suit every travellers budget. Some of the classier
restaurants in Airlie have fabulous views out over the ocean, such does Hemingways
at Abell Point Marina – another beautiful spot. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">There
are several tourist information outlets where you can book varying types of accommodation,
as well as many of the different trips that are on offer in this fabulously
diverse region. Airlie isn’t just the place to go out onto the ocean and visit its
neighbouring islands. Just a few minutes from here is one of the area’s
best kept secrets - Conway National Park, where you can walk to scenic lookouts
and along numerous trails that wind through the rain forest seeing the
occasional seasonal waterfall and maybe an endangered Proserpine Rock Wallaby.
The Coastal Fringe Circuit is a flat, easy walk of 1.2 kilometres (0.7 miles). </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">You
can book countless trips to various places from Airlie both south – such as
Bowen or if you want to go further north up the Queensland coast, you can go to
Magnetic Island, Townsville and Cairns. If you fancy taking to the air, there
are many scenic flights out to see the reef, some of which will land on
secluded beaches. You can experience the ocean in so many ways - from diving,
kayaking, thrilling jet boat rides or relaxing by cruising on sailboats – not
only just for a few hours, but for several days. There are various companies
that specialise in sport fishing, taking customers out to try their luck
catching barracuda, tuna, sailfish or even marlin – I would love to have had the
time to try that! </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Each
of the days I had booked to go out with Cruise Whitsundays were all very
special; a day on the Great Barrier Reef, a day on Whitsunday Island and one on
Hamilton Island (details can be found below).</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">But
my final day was spent exploring Airlie itself, from the famous Blue Heart at
the top end of the main street and passing where the market is which is held
every Saturday on the esplanade (with locally made jewellery, clothes and
crafts). </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbmr58Y3zGtqiUdAxi_Q6XdbOq-LkilPAKINCrCB3gpdfsF7POPs1qCnHuUKGleqWlu1UDlm2NqijTeAKykOKBl1OSJCmGV-BCX6Aeoa_ecLEtVCwIN6L-vE9u2chT85saCq95vUkrKXA/s1600/2+%252824%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbmr58Y3zGtqiUdAxi_Q6XdbOq-LkilPAKINCrCB3gpdfsF7POPs1qCnHuUKGleqWlu1UDlm2NqijTeAKykOKBl1OSJCmGV-BCX6Aeoa_ecLEtVCwIN6L-vE9u2chT85saCq95vUkrKXA/s640/2+%252824%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">If you look down the side of the buildings, you may find a
surprise, as wall-art is becoming increasingly popular in this area. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYGG_1DwAfY1OkHCUfp3YZuCX8CKznid_zEX207obM3uLUns2gH3KU9AWLgvjbEQqNGnvo2wMxICnrIhTqrboifR3ncTttEBCOknMyTx6M_lLd2dP4v9970SwrbHXUkzMMDdU0BCxRJI/s1600/2+%252890%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1291" data-original-width="1600" height="516" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheYGG_1DwAfY1OkHCUfp3YZuCX8CKznid_zEX207obM3uLUns2gH3KU9AWLgvjbEQqNGnvo2wMxICnrIhTqrboifR3ncTttEBCOknMyTx6M_lLd2dP4v9970SwrbHXUkzMMDdU0BCxRJI/s640/2+%252890%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">Between
the main street and the beach is a huge man-made lagoon that is surrounded by
immaculately kept parkland with shaded areas and free </span>barbecues<span style="font-size: 12pt;">. It is free for
everyone to enjoy, no matter where you are staying – like having you own
private swimming complex. The friendliest lifeguards are on duty, keeping the
separate lagoons safe for everyone to enjoy during daylight hours. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It was early
in the morning, there was hardly anyone about and the calm, clear, safe water
was a refreshing change from the nearby ocean - which is full of things that
can kill you in an instant. There are several colourful blocks with toilets and
changing areas – it has been very well designed with plenty of amenities close-by. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjUNZTb1paRujvWy4nbwTZQ_qPUDS8rfplsCups9qBRCDHu4lIkYBw14G8MrnRNdvvYSZh03kRf3bSeUoAyQHSDsEdNiVq6wJgR6s8rAt_59ukths1h7YhuRQf1lCh4okxIalmGDuavJs/s1600/2+%252869%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1128" data-original-width="1600" height="450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjUNZTb1paRujvWy4nbwTZQ_qPUDS8rfplsCups9qBRCDHu4lIkYBw14G8MrnRNdvvYSZh03kRf3bSeUoAyQHSDsEdNiVq6wJgR6s8rAt_59ukths1h7YhuRQf1lCh4okxIalmGDuavJs/s640/2+%252869%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">It is a delightful walk along the esplanade each direction from here, palm
trees fringing sandy beaches, (where you can hire paddle boards), colourful
marinas full of millionaire’s boats to admire; and little cafes and bookshops
to stop at and while away the hours. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs87sqDiL-ioG7-8nOOIeiVAmGudyZ3r1rdQqRTK4hr1FzHtUmtIQzKg28um-appDZEyBs84bLKL69Kz0zTd5nJLgMyEZ95l69cZFrPn5z19F-oC5lXNDXhDu68OB8-lyU6hmZf1dwSxg/s1600/2+%252831b%2529+%25282%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs87sqDiL-ioG7-8nOOIeiVAmGudyZ3r1rdQqRTK4hr1FzHtUmtIQzKg28um-appDZEyBs84bLKL69Kz0zTd5nJLgMyEZ95l69cZFrPn5z19F-oC5lXNDXhDu68OB8-lyU6hmZf1dwSxg/s640/2+%252831b%2529+%25282%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"> </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-vr6r-hdzsvmPOVgY5sulRUWidgxa-SwmeLgmvxQa9CHycJLj0bWRSDX7r1lhId71HfOk9hGuX30GFuHp-JUQ1BhCE797oLouBL8jyBYDj1yAAsJr0upz0aEU1mWX7gxJ8xV-b0jqXwc/s1600/2+%252831c%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-vr6r-hdzsvmPOVgY5sulRUWidgxa-SwmeLgmvxQa9CHycJLj0bWRSDX7r1lhId71HfOk9hGuX30GFuHp-JUQ1BhCE797oLouBL8jyBYDj1yAAsJr0upz0aEU1mWX7gxJ8xV-b0jqXwc/s640/2+%252831c%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt;">The
only downside to this tropical paradise, as mentioned earlier, is that no
matter how inviting the ocean looks, it is a perilous world full of deadly
beasts. As well as sharks, rays and crocodiles, marine stingers may be present
in these waters all year round, with October to May having the greatest risk. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqSsPCi7ol2gO6a7WCmEkHyEZhF2kRyuOT2iirvJrIf-al8XgkwpSB8HqOhtHQfZ1Iv8ZVfVIyVYc7bp0fGY2FZSKHbh3M9yz2teS8YwmmvJctOVxq4LpKkQs2FsywAMmF_cNhqZvJf7Q/s1600/2+%252831a%2529+%25281%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqSsPCi7ol2gO6a7WCmEkHyEZhF2kRyuOT2iirvJrIf-al8XgkwpSB8HqOhtHQfZ1Iv8ZVfVIyVYc7bp0fGY2FZSKHbh3M9yz2teS8YwmmvJctOVxq4LpKkQs2FsywAMmF_cNhqZvJf7Q/s640/2+%252831a%2529+%25281%2529.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">When
taking part in any organised tour in the Whitsundays, all operators have
protective stinger suits available for its customers - for snorkelling,
swimming and diving; but when walking along the beach by yourself – I felt it
was too risky to go in the water even for a paddle. Apparently, in the summertime
when the water is warm, calm sheltered sandy bays are somewhere of particularly
high risk from poisonous jellyfish, and as they are my favourite sorts of
places - I found that frustratingly disappointing! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">There
are 2 main types of 'stingers' in this area, the Irukandji Jellyfish and
the Box Jellyfish. Irukandji are a group of small jellyfish whose
stings can cause serious illness but there have only ever been 3 recorded
deaths. Irukandji species have small, box-shaped bodies, ranging from only
1cm wide, which are transparent and virtually impossible to see in the water, having
4 tentacles, 1 on each corner. </span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The
less common Box Jellyfish are larger 10-30cm, transparent again but with
numerous tentacles. Their stings cause immediate severe pain, especially if the
tentacles are left wrapped around the body, and need to be immediately
neutralized by vinegar, as substantial stings covering half of one limb can be
fatal. All beaches along this coast have vinegar to treat stings whilst waiting
for urgent medical attention.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Don’t
let what is in the ocean put you off visiting the North Queensland coast and
Airlie itself, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the ocean without being put at
risk. It is one of the most picturesque areas with so much to offer and if you
are ever in this part of the world – make sure you reserve a few days here to
explore. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Airlie Beach and everything that I did
whilst staying there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Thanks for following............</i></span></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Lynne</i></span></b></div>
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