Hebridean Princess – a magnificent Scottish cruise
Alan Fairfax visits historic homes in Scotland on a Western Isles cruise with Hebridean Island Cruises….
Battersea Revisited
A couple of years ago we visited Battersea Power Station while it was still being redeveloped. There has certainly been a transformation today. Now the building has been repurposed and is surrounded by modern apartment blocks. There is also a calendar of leisure events. This December, when we visited again, it was all about Christmas. […]…
Central London in December
In December we spent a few days in London – the prime reason was to visit a relative who was no longer fit to travel to us for Christmas. While we were there, we explored places which were decked out to encourage shoppers. We visited Borough Market for the first time. The area, as you […]…
Round UK
I am surprised that we chose a round UK Cruise, we don’t enjoy cruising on the sea as there is too often nothing to see. We waited on the banks of the Thames and gazed at our ship moored along side HMS Belfast in front of The Shard warm sunshine. What better place to commence […]…
Real Value for Money
Ambience is a beautiful ship. Lots to do on board, wonderful food and drinks, great entertainment. Very caring, friendly and professional crew. Excellent value for money….
Boxing Day treat
We visited Bournemouth on Boxing Day, enjoying a stroll around the bay in the sun. The 3 ss – sea, sand and sun – a truly magnificent combination on our doorstep…
River Thames Sightseeing Cruise
During our stay in London we booked a 24 hour Hop On Hop Off sightseeing cruise. The weather forecast for that week in December was dreadful – so we picked the most suitable day. We joined the cruise at Greenwich Pier and travelled as far as Westminster Pier where we disembarked. (The other two stops […]…
4* Or Are They?
Why do supposedly 4* hotels let you down when everything else is delightful? Superb facilities, outstanding outlooks but the restaurant staff really needed to up their standards. The menu very limited in variation and substandard for supposedly quality meals. Restaurant Service was extremely poor; we had to continually suggest requirements e.g. “it would be nice […]…
Oxford UK.
We decided this year to commence exploring towns and cities in the UK instead of travelling abroad. As neither of us had visited Oxford, this was our choice. We stayed at the Voco Oxford hotel .A wonderful and sensible location set in tranquil grounds. Nice ground floor room, with windows opening out onto a small […]…
Norfolk Royale Hotel: New Alfa hotel
This hotel recently acquired by Alfa coach company is certainly one of their best even before their planned adaptions in certain areas and provide some single rooms. Good situation not far from Bournemouths Gardens and has a covered swimming pool. Rooms very comfortable and excellent food with very friendly staff….
Magnificent artworks in a stunning setting
JMW Turner spent the winters in Margate and this gallery is built on the site of his holiday home. The huge picture windows give stunning views of the magnificent seascape and sunsets he liked to paint. The cafe’s not bad either! A must-visit when in Margate….
Unveiling Cork: Ireland’s Crown of Culture
For a short break, look no further than Cork. I ate too much, talked plenty, remained teetotal, learned a lot, and saw a ton. I wager I will return there soon….