Principal's Forum

2010-10-12T22:51:00.003+13:00

Our Brisbane stopover was about family time and relaxation, however with two young grandsons we only got family time. Hehehe

Dinner out with the Vasar Whanau

2010-10-12T22:24:00.008+13:00

We were privileged to be invited out to dinner by Preuin and Katie Vasar. These are Mrs Vasar's family and both work for Fontera N.Z in Singapore. The environment we arrived in was very impressive, as was Bridget. Our evening was a real delight, especially when you are having dinner with two young NZ achievers who are working overseas for our NZ company. Cheers for the night or fun and good food Preuin

Singapore Flyer

2010-10-12T22:00:00.004+13:00

This was our last attraction before our homeward journey. Bridget's fear of heights is slowly disappearing but that might be due to our exhaustion level which is obvious in our eyes. However we hung in there and enjoyed every moment. Great sights of a very clean and viberant city.

Singapore: A clean and very interesting city

2010-10-10T22:36:00.004+13:00

Impression gain from only an afternoon in Singapore was of wide and litter free pavements, buildings that showed a blending of the old and new eras of Singapore's development, and a skyline which was made interesting due to some creative architecture . e.g Boat.

Farewell Hanoi. It has been wonderful. We will be back!!!

2010-10-04T18:24:00.004+13:00

Risking our life to get to dinner!!!

2010-10-04T17:50:00.005+13:00

Once our guide Han had arranged rides for us we took another tour of Old Hanoi and the markets before dinner. The decision to undertake this adventure on the day of celebration was rather fool hardy but what the hell!!! We will never forget this experience and all without any 'road rage'. All NZ drivers should experience Hanoi traffic before getting annoyed and aggressive with conditions back home.
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Our last lunch in Hanoi

2010-10-04T15:46:00.005+13:00

This lunch place was very busy and had a waiting list. One guy had been waiting outside for fifty years to get in. Bridget had a local help her with our selecction and she enjoyed the food. I wasn't too sure whether to eat mine or drink it!!! We love the challenges of Vietnam

Touching as many lucky charms as possible

2010-10-04T15:39:00.004+13:00

Here we are at one of the local famous temples with the rest of Hanoi touching every possible lucky charm we can.... especially now that our hoilday is coming to an end and we want MORE!!!! and no the last photo isn"t me with my shirt off....... well I don't think it is!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Family outing in Hanoi

2010-10-04T15:36:00.003+13:00

Scenes during our trip into Hanoi

2010-10-04T15:28:00.007+13:00

Many of the homes are very narrow and multi storeyed. Yes more scooters and we did see a wide range of street vendors, including this hair-dresser. Hair dressers working on street pavements were very common. I had visions of Mr Sheehan relaxing and getting a shave and hair cut here!!!!

Beware of the smiling old guy!!!

2010-10-04T15:18:00.004+13:00

The smiling con man took us for a ride... not only on his bike however that's the fun of travel...even though we were required to walk and extra 4 km after being dropped off. (Good for my waste line, Hehehe). Hanoi is celebrating 1000 years and at times we thought everyone in Vietnam was in town. The skills of scooter riders never ceases to amaze us and yes more weddings!!

Marble Village

2010-10-04T02:29:00.004+13:00

Often in Vietnam each town specialises in the manufacturing of something different. Hue was a town specilising in tailors making made to measure clothes. This village was full of factories making marble sculptures mainly for the overseas market. Yes you can see Bridget decided to try her hand at a new profession. No she wasn"t quite good enough to get offered a job so we are still travelling together. Hehehe!!!!

Sophistication to start with!

2010-10-04T02:12:00.006+13:00

You can see we started our evening in a very sophisticated manner and the evening went down hill from there. Hehehe!! However holidays are about having fun, great food and the occassional good wine. Just ask Miss Tuate or Miss Nahu!!!!

Visit to King's tomb and Citadel

2010-10-04T01:59:00.005+13:00

Vietnam have an extensive history of loyalty to the nobility and persecution by other nations therefore visits to significant land marks is very educational. Personally I knew very little about Vietnam. The extensive building associated to the citadel cover 60 hectres. The decorative art work needs to be seen to be believed. Fortunately the rain stopped to allow us to remove our $2 shop yellow cloaks. Hahaha!!

Yippee!! Viewing a Buddish Temple in the rain

2010-10-04T01:50:00.004+13:00

We had an afternoon trip to a Buddish Temple overlooking the river. This was about 3.00pm. Within minutes the sky opened up and it poured down. The Budda kept smiling, we got wet and the boat river back to our hotel on a Dragon Boat was almost in the dark. Scarey stuff because this never happens in NZ..... Yeah Right!!!!!

Ensuite

2010-10-04T01:37:00.005+13:00

Apart from our boat having an 'ensuite' our trip down the river in Hoi An will reveval little has changed over the years. Boats are the same design though the ferries are now transporting scooters and people. Markets are still beside the river and locals are still using the river for washing clothes and going to the toilet. Fishing techniques have changed little with nets being set then the fishermen banging their boats to scare the fish towards the nets.

Second cooking lesson

2010-10-03T17:44:00.003+13:00

Our second cooking lesson was in Hoi An. Hot competition as there was Bridget and I along with 15 Australian Year 11 students.... all girls. Us Kiwis did NZ proud, especially when I was able to flip a pancake and get it to land back in the pan. Great fun but don't ask us to cook dinner. Hehehe!!!!

Hoi An market place

2010-10-03T16:35:00.004+13:00

Going to a market place first thing in the morning to purchase the ingrediences for our next cooking lesson is an experience everyone should have. Supplies range from spices to live ducks. All the food is displayed on tables and everything is very fresh. We were intrigued by the number of live fish you could purchase. The smell of fish, meat, poutry, people and the inevitable scooter exhaust pipes is a real test to retain the contents of your stomach, but we did!!!!

Always the dare devil Nana!!

2010-10-03T16:24:00.005+13:00

Bridget was keen to experience the thrill of scooter riding in Saigon so Nguyen kindly took her for a ride through the streets during the morning traffic. Somewhere in this mass of scooters is Bridget's smiling face. I think she had her eyes open!!!! Hehehe!!

Scooter, churches and of course weddings!!!

2010-10-03T16:10:00.004+13:00

It would be very easy to sit and marvel at the antics of the scooter people of Saigon. Each trip we would end up looking at each other and say, " Bloody hell, did you see that?" Scooter watching is a very cheap entertainment......well worth the money. Hehehe!! We have also gate crashed many wedding to take photos of what seems very young beautiful people getting married. Reminds us of our trip down the aisle 36 years ago!!!! Hahaha!!!!!

It doesn't rain, it pours!!!!!

2010-10-03T16:01:00.005+13:00

Life goes on undisturbed even when it rains in this extremely interesting and bustling country. These shots are taken from our dry vehicle. Once the rain came (Very suddenly) the locals only stop for a moment to put their capes on then life carries on!!!

Almost stuck forever in a hole!!!!!!

2010-10-03T03:03:00.005+13:00

We spent a very interesting afternoon exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels which were a vital part of the Vietnam war for the Viet Cong. The tunnels were planned and build for lean, mean fighting soldiers and not for robust school principals. However I finally made it both in an out. The ingenuity of these soldiers had to be seen to be appreciated especially when it came to making effective booby traps. Our guide Nguyen was very informative & great fun...especially as he tried to push Bridget in.

Eating with the locals!

2010-10-03T02:56:00.004+13:00

Our last meal in Saigon was out on the street with the locals. The interesting feature was that the kitchen was also out on the street. To our surprise the Vietnamese pancake was delicious (Filled with veges and chicken) and we didn't spend all night on the loo!!!!!!

A quality lantern takes skill!!!!!!!

2010-10-03T02:43:00.006+13:00

Another craft activity we engaged in was lantern making. I won't tell you who made the quality example in the first photo but you will see I needed a helper by my side while Bridget worked independently. In the end we all celebrated a fun filled hour. No Buffy I don't intend introducing lantern making and demonstrating my skills....Hehehe!!

Shelley Eagle look out

2010-10-03T02:31:00.004+13:00

You may think the first photo is a scene from Master Chef by the way Bridget is standing at attention but alas it wasn't. We were involved in our first cooking lesson in Vietnam as part of our tour. There were also two German girls, Suzie and Julia involved with us. We cooked three dishes in traditional ways. The session finished with a test and since we all passed the cooking challenge we had a meal any Kiwi would be proud of....especially since we cooked it.

Impressions of Saigon

2010-10-03T02:21:00.004+13:00

Traditional life style from 500 years ago; scooters, traditional life style and more amazing sights of the scooter world of this city of 10 million. (I am positive 6million have scooters). The best example of scooter transport was 4 children and one mum weaving their way through the busy streets. Guest what?????? No helmets!!!!!!!

I want a Porsche for Xmas!!!!!!!

2010-10-02T19:20:00.005+13:00

Often at this time of the year my family is thinking what shall we buy our favourite Dad for Xmas??? The simple answer is a Porsche!!! John's neighbour...(who is now my new best friend) took me for a drive in his new Porsche. I won't disclose the power this superrb vehicle has but I can say, WOW!!!!!!. No more hankies for me guys, I want a Porsche!!!!!

Another view of Dubai

2010-10-02T19:10:00.005+13:00

We were fortunate to look through the area known as Old Dubai and the contrast from large city skyscrapers and flash cars was very noticeable. Old Dubai is the area where your labourers and housemaids mainly reside. The wharf is stacked with supplies being shipped to Iran and other such places. The place is a buzz with wheeling and dealing, what we would refer to in NZ as organised chaos. But who am I to judge as it seems to work for them.

Enthusiam and skill!!!

2010-10-02T19:01:00.004+13:00

We will always remember the opportunity we had watching both John and Charlotte riding. Their enthusiam to undertake this activity each day and the riding skills they exhibited were a pleasure to see. I have been inspired by their efforts so intend getting back upon my bike on my return home and go for a bike ride. What about a horse I hear you asking. Don't be bl... silly. Too far to fall!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A fun filled afternoon...and evening!!!!

2010-10-02T18:47:00.006+13:00

We had have the privledge of going out for lunch with John and Aud's friends. A magificent buffet and a few quiet drinks is an excellent way to spend a Friday in Dubai. Why??? Because being a Muslim country their Friday is like our Sunday and we all like going out on a Sunday...... Well we do even if you don't. Hahaha!!!!!

It is so easy to get lost in the suburbs of Dubai

2010-10-02T18:37:00.003+13:00

Bridget is standing outside Audrey and John's love house in Dubai. It was great that they were driving us around as you can see from the shots up and down the street that most houses in these areas look the same. However once inside the world changes and Aud's family home is full of family photos and beautiful art work. A lovely oasis for family to stopover. Of course you will have to step over John's and Charlotte's riding boots. Hehehe!! Thanks to the Hoonhout family for a memorable stopover. xoxoxo

Dubai lunch and boat ride around a shopping mall

2010-10-02T18:29:00.004+13:00

Yes you better believe it , after lunch we hopped on a boat and were taken around the hotels and shopping mall which covered an area six times as big as our school grounds. Size and class are all part of the Dubai building image.

A special showing for Kat

2010-10-02T18:20:00.002+13:00

Seeing you have got your wedding coming up Kat and we know Dwayne would have no idea about a classie wedding dress we thought we would send these revealing numbers through for consideration. The shop-keeper said you could ring them and they will give "Best Price". Hehehe

Are these two beauties sisters??????

2010-09-27T02:37:00.004+13:00

Yes this is Bridget's sister Audrey (John's wife). Their daughter Charlotte is a very keen horse rider. We were blown away with her confidence on a horse and felt very humbled since we have only advance to a donkey. Hahaha!! John has also taken up riding two weeks ago and all I can say is move over Mark Todd.

Dubai skyline. WOW!!!!!!

2010-09-27T02:19:00.004+13:00

We were picked up at the Dubai airport by John our brother-in-law who has lived in Dubai with his family and managed the Dubai HP organisation for the last 5 years. As he pointed out features of what made up the Dubai skyline we could only say, 'WOW'. Pity about the desert dust however you soon appreciated that alot of this dust is generated by the ongoing building of motorways and further skyscrapers. Thank goodness our vehicle has air-conditioning. 40 degrees outside!!!

Canal loch on the Nile

2010-09-27T01:56:00.007+13:00

It was a surprise to wake on our last day on the Nile to find we were moving into a loch. A bigger surprise was finding they could fit two Nile Cruise boats in at one time. Once in the loch pumps pumped out the water and drops the cruise ships down 10 meters before we continue on our way.

A four wheel drive into the Sahara

2010-09-26T19:28:00.006+13:00

Undertaking a 10 hour four wheel drive advanture into the Sahara Desert after completing a 10 hour train ride might sound a big ask and you are B... right!!!!!! However we hung in there and the rewards of the Sahara made the trip worthwhile. One can never underestimate the raw and rugged beauty that mother nature has crafted.

Reflections from the Nile cruise

2010-09-26T19:09:00.004+13:00

Beautiful sunsets enhanced by my beautiful wife; quality staff who have an enthusiastic sense of fun and the effort of 12 people from all over the world to respect and support each other through the challenges of Egypt. A nile cruise should be considered a great learning experience for all.

A view from a roof top pool

2010-09-26T18:46:00.004+13:00

We had an afternoon resting at a hotel pool in Luxor before undertaking our 10hour train trip back to Cairo. Yes 10 hours !!!!!! I will alway remember the beauty, the mystic and the wonder that Egypt has to offer a traveller. My other fond memory is no matter how far you are out in the country or where ever you look in the city everyone has a digital satelite dish on their roof. The power of TV should never be underestimated in influencing globle development, attitudes and perceptions.

Jeannie Coutts move over

2010-09-26T18:18:00.004+13:00

Not that I'm saying I'm an Expert....yet!!!!! but I have started my bid to develop the required skills in order to lead our school's equestain team. The essensial information from this novice is pick a small donkey so mother earth isn't too far from your feet. Photo two shows a view from the top. At all times if your front view looks like this you know you are still on the donkey. Having a slow donkey does have an advantage that you can take photos however there is also the issue of never making your destination before night sets in. Be afraid Jeannie... be very afraid!!!

A lesson in donkey riding from Bridget

2010-09-26T17:56:00.005+13:00

The first step is to talk to the donkey to become it's friend. Second is to tell all of those around you in a loud voice 'I think he likes me'. (Ensure the donkey hears this so he knows about this developed friendship). Thirdly when beginning the ride put on a happy smile to show those around you that you have faith in this donkey/ human friendship. The secret is never show any outward signs of your inside thoughts of FEAR!!!!! Hahaha

Buggy ride to the Temple of Horus

2010-09-25T20:38:00.004+12:00

This buggy ride allowed one to take in the smells of a big city on a hot sunny day, plus enjoy the smells of a very old and exhausted horse. However travel is about moving out of your comfort zone and we certaintly did when the horse decided to unload his catcher. Hahaha!!!

First record of medical instruments being used

2010-09-25T20:09:00.008+12:00

Nurse Bridget was amazed to view the wall carvings proving the Egyptains used medical instruments 3000 years ago. Our biggest surprise was a stethascope carved on the wall.

The wonders of Edfu Temple. 400 years to build

2010-09-25T20:02:00.003+12:00

There is always something to catch your eye on a Nile Cruise

2010-09-25T19:29:00.006+12:00

Adults playing party games is entertaining for all

2010-09-25T19:16:00.004+12:00

Beautiful Bridget never stopped smiling

2010-09-25T18:22:00.004+12:00

Nile Cruise Party

2010-09-25T17:49:00.004+12:00

The traditional Egyptain Nile party took some time in the craft markets and the make up cabin before we all contributed to a fun filled night. I am still wearing my make-up....Yeah Right!!!

Night out at the Aswan Markets

2010-09-24T05:22:00.005+12:00

The markets in all the tourist towns stay open until 11.00 pm because everyone want your tourist dollar. Surprise , surprise we discovered an Egyptain cafe serving Sheesha which is the Egyptain version of Arglia which we tried in Istanbul. Yes more coughing but alot of fun!!

Abu Simbel Temple

2010-09-24T05:08:00.004+12:00

On this day we were woken up at 3.00 AM and travelled for 4 hours by bus under police escort to the Temple of Abu Simbel. This trip was worth the effort because we saw a temple that was going to be lost forever under water when a dam was going to be built on the Nile to control flooding. UNESCO decided to sponsor the move of this temple so the Temple of stone was cut up and each block numbered. Then a new site was established 600meters up the hill out of the way of the rising waters of the Nile and the Temples was put back together like a giant jigsaw. An amazing accomplishment and an unbelievable visit. What a shame they didn't move it closer to our hotel bed!!!!!

Addition to family

2010-09-24T05:03:00.003+12:00

Our first night on our Nile Cruise was fun filled with everyone finding an addition to their family. These additions were done by the cabin boys by folding our towels. Our Tour Director Mohameed was over whelmed by his increased responsibility as you can see!

Sunset sail boat ride on the Nile

2010-09-24T04:51:00.006+12:00

Our tour group had a relaxing sail boat ride along the Nile. The boat is called a Flukka and we lay on mattresses, have tea and coffee served to us and watch the activities along the Nile and a very romantic sunset. What!!!!! Did I say romantic????? Must be an age thing. Hahaha!!!

Temple of the Golden Arches

2010-09-24T04:41:00.003+12:00

We decided to have a relaxing afternoon so went for a stroll along the Nile River and thankfully found the Temple of the Golden Arches. Nothing like some 'junk food' OCCASSIONALLY....isn't that right Miss Nahu?????

Bring back the Toot and Whistle!!!!

2010-09-24T04:09:00.008+12:00

A 14 hour trip by train from Cairo to Aswan could be considered alot of fun with ongoing refreshments, movies and luxury toilets however the reality is so very different. Our advise: Don't put a 14 hour train trip in Eygpt on your MUST DO TRAVEL list. I couldn't motivate myself to take a photo of the WC on the train but I will leave the vision of 80 passagers and one toilet for 14 hours to your imagination. Hehehe!!!!

Inspiration!!!!

2010-09-24T03:57:00.004+12:00

In case someone is inspired to make rock image of Bridget and I we hope the Sphinx will inspire you. Hehehe!!!

Bugger!!!! Tourists are always getting in the road.

2010-09-24T03:48:00.004+12:00

When you are at these wonderful sites it is always a bugger when you have the perfect shot and
some tourist stick their head in front of the World Wonder that you are trying to photograph or a tourist decides to dance in front of it. Bugger!!!!!

Clowning around at the Pyramids

2010-09-24T03:22:00.007+12:00

A visit to the pyramids can get too serious as you try and soak up thousands of years of history in the hot sun. I admired those hard working slaves who had to survive in these extreme working conditions and I feel for the thousands who didn't survive. The pyramids are an amazing feat of human vision and sacrifice.

I will never complain about Rotorua traffic again!!!!!!

2010-09-24T02:43:00.006+12:00

Here we are viewing the Cairo traffic from the safety of our bus. One needs to appreciate that Cairo is a city of 18 million people that increases to 20 million each working day as an extra 2 million people commute into the city for work. Blended with this traffic is the life of some workers which hasn't changed over 500 years. There are no lines on the roads in Cairo and many are three or four lanes wide. The final shot is taken at an intersection we are about to pass through. An extra challenge for you if you wish to drive in Cairo: At night when the street lights are on they drive only with their park lights shining so they can flash cars if they are geting too close. You better believe it!!!!!

Our final night with Andrew

2010-09-14T16:29:00.005+12:00

Doesn't time fly when you are having fun!!!! We have had so much fun sharing time with Andrew so our final meal out with him and Douglas created mixed emotions. We will always remember the exciting buzz of Istanbul and we will always remember the masses of people no matter where you went. Thanks for the great experiences and memories Andrew. Istanbul is a must stopover destination for our students when they undertake their O.E.

Final Day Sight Seeing in Istanbul

2010-09-14T16:09:00.004+12:00

Douglas was an excellent 'Tour Guide' taking us beyond the beaten tourist track in order to experience the more realistic, every life in this fasinating city of contrasts and culture. He took us to great heights, he had us eating fresh fish directly of the boats at the fish market and had us walking through the Grand Baazar which was full of spices, clothes, silks and of course watches. This Bazaar covered 10 city blocks. This was a marvelous way to end a wonderful experience in a city of 20 million people.

Smoking a Nargile which is a traditional Turkish Pipe

2010-09-13T17:33:00.006+12:00

The three of us are non smokers but the chance of experiencing this tradional Turkish activity was another unqiue opportunity. We smoked an apple flavoured tobacco. The process has you breathing in through the pipe then blowing out the smoke. You were not required to inhale the smoke and if you did as I discovered you quickly moved into a coughing fit. Our evening was filled with laughter as we tried to master the process. Our NAPE rated out this way. Andrew E for Expert; Bridget P for Practitioner and Garry N for Novice. I was bloody hopeless spending most of my time coughing so should have really been rated an N minus. Hahaha

Bus tour of Athens

2010-09-13T17:24:00.005+12:00

Yes the old traffic jams are part of every day life in Athens, however the historical sights such as the first site for the modern olympics and the Apolcoplis made the frustration of the traffic very insignificant. Most cities have these Hop On Hop Off bus tours. Your ticket covers your ride for two days so they are great to orientat yourself in these very big cities.

Mykonos. My choice for paradise. Why???

2010-09-13T17:04:00.008+12:00

Beauitful beaches and warm water, wonderful old and sun baked buildings and narrow streets filled with their on unqiue character and culture. Though Mykonos is very reliant on the tourist trade this area hasn't become too commercialised. When we next visit this area again Mykonos will be a definite planned stop over. I hope we find this paradise in a similar condition.
Julie put Mykonos on your 'bucket list'.

The Acropolis. A world wonder

2010-09-13T16:26:00.005+12:00

Positioned on a mountain in the centre of Athens is the remains of the Acropolis. I recommend that any student reading this blog research this world wonder. The Greek government is supporting reconstruction of this remarkable historical sight. We spent two hours attempting to take in the majestic beauty and wonder of this place. We could of easily doubled that time and still not be satisfied. The place definitely has the WOW factor!!

Classical Baby

2010-09-13T16:09:00.002+12:00

This was the name of our Hotel in Athens. The reception desk was a cut down Mini Cooper. Our other finding there were a delightful American couple who we made a instant connection with. One lesson which has been reinforce time and time again is friendliness attracts friendliness. One of the saddest occassions in Athens was farewelling Chrissy and Shaun as they had hired a car to explore Athens and we were flying to Turkey. I hope they made it because Athens traffic is diabolical.

Something for everyone at Athens Market Place

2010-09-13T07:54:00.003+12:00

Bridget found a whole street where fifteen shops were selling jandals. I discovered my idea retirement job selling fresh coconut pieces from a chair, in the shade and watching the world go by. Finally I discovered this statement on a t shirt. I'm positive all students will be able to relate to this at sometime in their life.....I know our kids would. Hahaha!!!!!!

Lasting Memories

2010-09-13T07:37:00.003+12:00

Cruising the Greek Islands has been a life changing experience and has planted fantastic images in our heads. A noteable one is the hill top living on all of these islands. Seeing these beautiful, white homes reflecting in the afternoon sun is a sight to behold. My photos don't do the beauty of this scene justice but I have tried in a hope that it will inspire you to want to experience the real thing. START SAVING NOW!!!!! I am.

A city of 20 Million is BUSY!!!!!!!

2010-09-13T04:47:00.004+12:00

These are a sequence of shots. Heading to a pedestrian underpass, walking into the underpass and inside the underpass. You can see they have shop on both sides of the underpass so you have the joys of shoppers, sellers and walkers. Hold onto your valuables!!!! To date we haven't been targeted by the many pick-pockets operating in these parts. The energy, the buzz, the noise, the smells all contribute to a memorable experience. Yes I did get 'misplaced' once so stood on a traffic island until Bridget and Andrew came back to find me.

Three building of interest

2010-09-13T04:24:00.004+12:00

This is one of the hundreds of Mosque that you will see in Istanbul. Over 90% of Turkish people are Muslim therefore up to five times a day you can hear the call to undertake pray echoing through the city. The second building on the river side with the large cafe area is a teacher retreat. I kid your not. The Turkish President believed in the valuable role teachers have to the growth of a Nation's people so he developed 8 of these through Istanbul. (Yes slight more up-market from our NZEI Units). The third photos was taken of an island in the middle of the river which is owned by a Turkish Football Club. There is five swimming pools on this island plus restruants, gym and a large conference area for shows etc. The cost is $60 dollars for a day pass and the use of these facilities. We went passed on our tourist cruise of the waterfront and waved to the rich people. Funny...... no one waved back!!!!!

Experiencing the Turkish Culture

2010-09-13T04:12:00.004+12:00

We were privileged to be accompanied by Douglas a teaching friend of Andrews when we dined out on Friday night. Our main meal was a Karasik which was a mixture of small Turkish pizzas, spicy meals and salads. I'm drinking a Ayran which is a mixture of yohgut, water and salt. (Yes very interesting taste) and then we experienced Turkish music at a cafe that we visited. Most cafes have live bands and the music is very catchy and rythmical. Ideal for dancing as you can see. Great night, great experiences.

View from Andrew's balcony

2010-09-13T03:58:00.005+12:00

The weather is hot enough here to encourage you to sleep outside. The apartment is about a 10min walk from the high energy city centre which is fill with bars, cafes and ongoing entertainment as the third picture demonstrates. However I guess one should expect crowded streets in a city of 20 million people. Remember New Zealand has 4 million people in the whole country....... well two less since Bridget and I are over here!!!

Welcome to Istanbul

2010-09-13T03:29:00.009+12:00

Catching up with Andrew (Bridget's brother who teachers in Istanbul) has been a highlight of our trip. Andrew was Page Boy at our wedding 36 years ago and we have admired the way he has developed himself into this worldly young man you see in these photos. A great example of courage was shown by Andrew when he moved to teach in Istanbul 10 years ago. Now he speaks fluent Turkish, has travelled to most places in the world and still knows how to effectively balance the social and culture part of being a tour guide for sister and brother-in-law. The social night life associated with Istanbul should be in everyones bucket list. The bucket could also come in handy. Hahaha!!!!!

Poor Bugger!!!!!

2010-09-12T20:50:00.003+12:00

We decided to go for a ride on one of these carts in Kusadasi. First there were alot of creaks when we climbed aboard and then some of our drivers mates gave us a push start to get our cart going. We did make our destination so I thought I'd better tip our driver for his efforts.

Next stop Kusadasi

2010-09-12T20:22:00.004+12:00

We woke the next day to find we were docked at the port of Kusadasi which is part of Turkey. The yacht next to us provides a cruise/ sailing experience around the Greek Islands. Didn't take many photos here as you didn't stop for fear of being accosted by aggressive Turkish sales men. This was the first time I'd experienced this type of in your face, push approach to selling and I'd have to say I did respond to it with great enthusiasm. We did purchase Bridget a gold ring which has the same Creek symbols that are on my weedding ring. The symblos represent endless life which means I could be still at RIS in 2050 Hahaha.!!!!

Farewell to Santorini

2010-09-12T20:12:00.003+12:00

Every day must come to an end and unfortunately we had to leave Santorini. We took the cable car down. not because I was some what 'stuffed' but because I wanted to take these photos for you!!!!! Yeah Right!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The rewards from personal effort.

2010-09-11T20:41:00.005+12:00

Photo one was taken at the final stages of accending the 588 steps to the top. You can see Bridget expessing her sense of achievement from within a rather exhausted body. Bugger I've run out of Personal Achievement Badges. Hehehe!! The final photo is a shot from the restrauant where we sat down for lunch. You can see our cruise liner in the background. Great photo, great day and great achievement. And yes the lemonade in the Greek Islands comes in green!! bottles. Hahaha!!!!!!

Courage and Commitment was needed

2010-09-11T20:23:00.004+12:00

Frame one shows the steepness of the path which we shared with the donkeys and others walking up. Notice on the left side of this photo how the path zig zags up. Photo two is Bridget celebrating the first quarter. Notice the donkey that has decided to stop and view the landscape rather than carrying a tourist up the steep climb. (Sensible donkey!!!). The third shot gives you a view from the half way mark. I often reflected on the attitude we want our students to leave our school with as we trudged our way up this steep climb on a very hot day. It was an attitude we demonstrated.

Santorini visit

2010-09-11T19:44:00.004+12:00

Santorini provided their own Tender Boats to ferry us to shore. It was at this stage our adventure began. You will see from the landscape shot posted a zig-zag line going up the cliff face. These are the 588 steps to the top where the township is. You can walk this path or ride the local donkeys up. Your other option is to take the Gondal ride. To the left of the zig-zag path you can see two Gondlas passing each other as one comes down and the other goes up. They transport 36 people at a time. With 4 cruise ships in the wait time was two hours for the gondals, 30 minutes for the donkeys and immediate start to walking the stairs. We walked the stairs. Sharing the stairs with donkeys carrying some very over weight tourists who have never riden a donkey before, tourists stopping to take photos and unwilling donkeys being driven down from the top to pick up more passengers resulted in a very unqiue experience that we will never forget. Sorry, I forgot to mention the donkey smells generated from their hot bodies and from the numerous times they decide to unload their catchers. An unforgettable experience!!

Just Cruising

2010-09-11T19:17:00.004+12:00

I won't attempt to share the feeling of peace when cruising through Greek Islands during a warm summers afternoon with great company and a good glass of wine....... also I would hate to make people envious and take their minds off the qualities of their own life. Bridget and I are indeed priviledged and very humbled by being allowed to experience this situation.

Morning surprise

2010-09-11T18:45:00.008+12:00

We spent the first day at sea swimming in the pool, sunbathing and having refreshments. Taking this type of punishment for 8 days does take it's toll on the body which has now gained an extra 5kgs of muscle around the abdomen area. Hahaha...photos to come but no poking fun!!!!! I can be this years Santa unless Mr Parry has put on weight. We woke to see this bridge pass us by before anchoring in the bay off the port of Itea. We had to use our ships Tenders to transport us to shore . These islands survive on a an intense 9 months of cruise ships visiting then close for the winter season. Here is what every shore line looks like as you arrive. Behind this are streets and streets of clothing and craft shops but I knew no one is interesting in shopping. Hehehe!!

Two excited Kiwis. I wonder why???

2010-09-11T18:18:00.006+12:00

The answer is we have just sighted our cruise liner The Ocean Princess at the Rome Wharf, all prepared for our 8 day cruise. We became even more excited when viewing our balcony room and the facilities on this 200 meter long cruiser with the capacity to take 680 passengers and needs 373 crew. The reality was we thought this a big cruiser however during our cruise we observed other cruisers that take up to 3800 passengers. Our cruise took us through the Mediterranean Sea and we visited the Greek islands of Itea, Argostoli, Santorini, Kusadasi, Mykonos before finally arriving in Athens. I will post photos of each of these stop overs as they each had their own unquiness. As well as the remarkable sights and experiences I was remindered of the importance of quality service, high expectations and effecctive leadership as I observed an effective team, leadership model operating this ship.

Final rant about Pompei

2010-09-10T05:22:00.003+12:00

The obvious social status apparent when we walked thru the houses Here you can see a bath room for the wealth Romans. Water was heated outside by servants and piped into these rather large baths. Considering the weight I've put on these holidays this would be perfect for me. Hahaha! You can see how the road were designed for the chariots and every so often there were stepping stones to get for one side of the road to the other without getting your feet wet, however these stepping stones were spaced to allow the chariots to get through. And of course you must always have the smiling tourist photo. Hehehe!

Three stand outs from Pompei

2010-09-10T05:11:00.005+12:00

1: The architeual brillance of these ancient Roman people. 2: The way those uncovering this treasured historical resource have uncovered and preserved the actual remains of those captured and killed by the vocanic ash. 3: The passion of our guide who lived every moment with us, felt every story he told to us and still had time to talk on his cell phone. Hahaha

Who knows about Pompei?????

2010-09-10T04:58:00.004+12:00

This city was completed destroyed by a volcanic erruption and it was only by chance that they discovered it's whereabouts and began uncovering it. I have to admit only having a vague recall of Pompei way back in my memory chambers. We spent four hours in the hot sun being guided round this historical place. We could of spent four days and still been taken in by the inspiration aspect of people long ago. Sorry I wasn't listening to the dates as I was drawn in by the magnificence of this new knowledge and experience. We are both so humbled by being able to experience Pompei

Capri. What an impression

2010-09-10T04:44:00.004+12:00

These shots are taken as our ferry boat arrived from Sorrento. One can't but be in awe of the people here who turned this fishing village into a must experience tourist destination. The people are extremely respectful as they are willingly to share their island paradise. However now looking for way to fish the tourist dollars out of the pockets of tourists has surpassed fishing for fish from the sea. But do you blame them?????

The mountain in one of these photos is the one Bridget and I took the chairlift. Courage and commitment......... once I opened my eyes...Hahaha

A Grand experience

2010-09-10T04:23:00.003+12:00

Our hotel in Sorrento was out of this world for a kid from the 'Block'. Five star treatment can be over the top when you are walking around in shorts from the Warehouse. Some American offered to exchange them for his pair of Prada shorts but I turned him down. The hotel is built on a cliff face over looking Sorrento and I thought the hotel courtesy car was over the top. However we did take it for a spin to buy some lemonade!!!

Blending the old and the new in Sorrento

2010-09-10T04:09:00.005+12:00

The sea front of Sorrento is a magnificant example of blending the desires of a new era with the demands of the old. In ancient times nations of people sort places to live where they could protect themselves. You can see by these photos how the cliff faces were really a fortess in ancient times when attacks came from the sea. Now the demands are catering for the tourists that flock to these areas. Not many from N.Z. as it is a very long way but for those from Europe and the UK no problem. Hotels are now build of these fortified cliffs with lifts that take wealthy tourists down to the sea where sun lounges are already layed out for their suntaning pleasure. No we couldn't afford a sun lounger at the seaside so had to make do with the 7 swimming pools at our hotel. Life can be so tough!!!!!!! Hahaha!! This place is a must stay stop over for all our students when they travel in the future.

My 60th birthday invitation

2010-09-10T03:51:00.008+12:00

As you know I sent an email to the Pope to meet up for a birthday dinner since I would be in Rome when I turned 60. Unfortunately he didn't reply so we went to his summer palace where he was staying as Rome was becoming too busy for him. His summer holiday home was fantastic but there were guards stationed at the door. I did send my darling wife up to use her catholic charm but alas she was turned away. Unfortunately the Pope missed out on a good night and my great company. hahaha!!!!!!!!!!

Some amazing sights but a very dirty city

2010-09-10T03:29:00.004+12:00

It is sad that I believe this city has negected it's pride in itself as they chase the tourist dollar. From the time we got off the bus one couldn't help but be taken back by the high level of litter every where. Admittedly we were dropped off at the whalf area and walked into the city centre but the consistent trend of rubbish piled up around tourist attractions and walk ways made me feel sorry for this city in future times. One thing Rotorua and our school is trying to achieve is a sense of pride. Pride and respect for ourselves as citizens of a wonderful city and members of a great school community. I would hate tourists to leave our city and school with the impression which I gained from Naples. I haven't put photos of the litter issue as I hope that when any reader of this blog see these photos they will be inspired to visit and HOPEFULLY come away with a different impression. I hope so for the sake of the future of Naples.

Boat Jam outside Grotto

2010-09-09T17:58:00.005+12:00

There are so many boats arriving with tourist and so few smaller boats being able to fit in the Grotto at one time the place is abuzz with noise, singing, yelling and boat horns making their presence felt. I felt they need Miss Tuate there to straighten them out. If the wind picks up creating too much of a swell it is too unsafe to try and get the small boats through the little hole into the Grotto. On our day we were the last boat through and there would have been up to 20 tourist boats waiting.

GROTTO Monster

2010-09-09T17:52:00.002+12:00

There is believed to be a monster in the Grotto that is the caretaker, ensuring people don't drop rubbish and pollute the area. You can see it's eye looking over the front of our boat as we are about to leave the Grotto. And no I didn't drop any rubbish!!!!! Yes I was scared!!!!!

Blue Water Grotto Capri Island

2010-09-09T17:41:00.002+12:00

A major attraction on the Island of capri is a boat ride out to experience the Blue water Grotto. This was a secret place for Roman aristrocracy use to go and bathe. The only way in is by small boat. You have four in a boat and lie down while the boatman pulls you through a small opening in the cliff face along a chain track. Their timing has to be perfect otherwise you get knocked out when you hit your head on the cave ceiling. Very exciting and great views of this crystal clear blue water. The boatmen sing, chant and basically do anything so you will be impressed and tip them.

Brown Undies Required

2010-09-09T17:04:00.002+12:00

Travelling by bus up narrow cliff roads is scarey enough but remember they travel on the right side of the road in Europe and at times there is only a light weight safety bar between you and flying in a bus. Boy on boy it's a long way down!!

Another Challenge

2010-09-09T15:55:00.015+12:00

This one was on the tourist island of Capri and rose to the highest point which was a mountain from where you could look over the whole island. You maybe thinking so what. Well for me it was the first time I've gone on a single chair lift. On the way up I kept busy taking photos but became more relaxed on the way down. I wonder why??? Fortunately Bridget followed me and promised to jump out and save me if I fell. Well that's what I was hoping as she is my 'Wonder Woman!!!! Hehehe!! Point of interest: You can't use spell check when using Wifi in another country as it checks words in relation to the language of that country therefore all my words are wrong. Quite deflating for me. Haha !!!!!!

New 'Chic Magnet for Matua Mark

2010-09-09T15:47:00.003+12:00

It's shiny white, convertable and has a roll out top to ensure you don't get too burnt on your head . Just the thing for Matua Mark to cruise those Mount beaches this summer. Oopps!!!! One extra.....leather seats.

Capri. Busy, busy, busy

2010-09-07T21:01:00.007+12:00

We will remember Capri for it's narrow roads filled with buses . little trucks loaded with goods and people. These electric truck can just sneak up on you with their loads of goods for the tourist shops and hotels.

Capri. An Italian Island Resort

2010-09-07T21:01:00.006+12:00

Here is a shot taken from our bus from behind the drivers seat. Exciting times travelling have been experienced on all the Creek Islands we have been priviledged to visit. As tourism has developed in all these areas so has the traffic challenges. On some islands the population swells from 10,000 locals to almost 100,000 during their peak tourist season. Who would want to be a bus driver????? Whaia Mel is the only one I know with the skills to survive though controlling her speed could be a challenge. Hehehe!!

Checking out venue for staff dinner

2010-09-07T20:55:00.002+12:00

Here we are on the balcony of our hotel in Serento. The views are magnifcent, the temperature warm and the food delicious. Great place for a staff dinner or even better for a 50th birthday for you know who?????

Great achievement Nana

2010-09-05T23:12:00.002+12:00

Yes Bridget has made it to the top of the Santorini cliffs and her reward is being allow to WINDOW SHOP!!!!!! Hahaha. There are currently four cruise liners in the harbour so the population of Santorini which is approx 10,000 has doubled today.

Ocean Princess leaving us behind

2010-09-05T23:07:00.002+12:00

Bridget got us late catching the last tender back to our ship so I had to hire a row boat and row us out to get on board. Hahaha Good story but not true.... this time!!!!!