Day 26 Epilogue

New Years Day and it is a very sluggish morning for us. We met Jason at Westfield Shopping Centre Shepherd's Bush (the smaller Westfields). It only has 3 basement levels and 3 floors. The Vue cinema is upstairs with 17 cinemas. We decided to watch Hobbit Part 2 the movie did not start till 4.30pm. We bought the tickets from the ticket machines and chose VIP seats 2 pounds more but most of the cheaper seats were already sold. The movies here are more expensive than home a normal ticket would be about $22A.

We went to find some food. Being New Years Day everything was busy. So Jason new of a quieter food hall. So off we go there just happened to be 1 million kids there but we lined up for our food anyway. Jason got his food first a found a table. Sharon and I were next followed by Katie looking very angry. I thought she was angry from having to wait so long but it was some Indian guy behind her. He kept pushing into her personnel space and leaning over her and putting his hands on the bench. She told him to F off but did not make any difference. After she settled down Sharon & her went off shopping Jason and I went looking for a kindle again. There was no electronic stores so we just wasted time looking around. Back at the cinema Sharon & Katie waiting and in we go. Half an hour of adds, all seem to be about holiday destination not in England. No wonder the English are not aware of there own heritage. I guess we are no better everyone in Australia only seem to want to go to Bali. The movie finally starts 10 minutes in and I'm finding it hard to keep my eyes open. A few scenes I don't know how they got to that point so I guess I better buy this movie also. Katie loved it the only person not struggling to stay awake.

After the movie we went to a Witherspoons Pub which is a chain throughout England. Jason was not sure if we would like it or not. It is cheap food and beer. I said we will check it out and if we don't like it we will go elsewhere. The place was fine, found a table ordered food and drinks. Jason bought his own meal and I ordered Katie, Sharon's and mine. Katie had a glass of Merlot and chicken burger with chips, Sharon had coke and toasties and chips, I had a pint of Hobgobblin my most favorite beer and a vegie burger. It all came to 16.50 pounds about $32A dollars cheap. The beer was about $4.20A a pint. The food was OK but the beer was better. After this back to the apartment to start getting ready for leaving back to Perth the next day.

Thursday Morning
Here I am sitting on the sixth floor of our apartment the sun is streaming in and overlooking London. This is my third time here and possibly our last. There is more to see but a lot more world out there to explore. Jason still wants to stay longer and I do hope he finds a sponsor that will employ him. I wish him well. It  has been great spending the last 4 weeks with him and I am very proud of what he has accomplished in such a short time. If he does stay we will have to find some place in the world to catch up and explore.

I asked everyone what there one stand out event was off coarse there has been many but I was after just one stand out time. Katie's was Christmas day playing in the snow on top of the mountains, Jason's was King Ludwig II castles mainly because this king lived a fantasy life. Jason thinks he mind is always in a fantasy so thinks there is a connection with the king. Sharon's was simply spending time with Jason. Mine was Christmas dinner in the glass lift lobby on the 14th floor of our hotel with the seven off us laying on doonas or sitting on chairs drinking beer, wine & champagne and plenty of nibbles while looking out over Salzburg and the alps in the distance.

The bar was set last year with Greenland and Iceland something to strive for when we keep travelling. We have experienced many things on this holiday. Some places we visited again something I don't like to do but I did enjoy these areas again mainly because we found new things to explore. Sharon and I have learnt more about packing our backpacks and what to improve on in the future when we travel for a couple of years.

Thank you to everyone reading our blog there has been nearly 1300 views since our first post.

Happy New Year to everyone now its time for us to go back to work and save for our next adventure.

Day 25 London - Cotswolds

Up early for our last full day of experiencing England. New Years Day is just going to the movies and just resting. We have all had it could not do much else. Catch the tube to Manor House and walk to Jason's and pick up the car for another stressful day for Sharon. We arrived about 8.30am got in the car and drove 2 mins for our first stop at Sainbury's so Katie can get some cold and flu tablets she is suffering from more English diseases. Katie was amazed at the size of the supermarket. Couldn't find what she wanted and had to asked directions. Found the tablets then back to the car. Sharon did well to get us out of London. We were on our way to Oxfordshire and through the Cotswalds. Jason and I was looking at what we could do he had researched a few places and decided to look for old Roman Villa ruins and a stone circle before we end up at Stratford on Avon. Jason plotted the coarse to North Leigh and the Roman Villa. The GPS took us through small lanes covered in puddles and mud. You need to pull over at times to let other vehicles pass so after a bit of sliding in the mud we were back on track again. Pulled out on a main road right where we needed to turn off to the Villa. Followed the signs and parked on the edge of the road. There was railway works near the villa so had to walk through a muddy field and follow there bypass pathway. Came to a gate with a very wet sign with running ink pointing us to the direction of the Villa. There was no workers today being New Years Eve so no one to been seen. Followed the path over the railway bridge to private property signs and no villa. Disillusioned we head back over the bridge to the runny ink sign. Found another sign saying if you want to go to the villa ask one of the workers to guide you. Great but what if no one is around. Wandered off back up the original pathway to the car which we are not meant to be on. No one around so could not see a problem. Came across another running ink sign directing us down a laneway. Yay finally found the Villa.

The foundations have been excavated and in a small housed enclosure is the original mosaic floor built back in the 4th Century AD. It was locked but you could see through the dirty window. Well intact for its age. Had a wander around few photos and on to the next spot.

We put in our coordinates and head to the Rollright Stones and the Kings Men Stone Circle. The stones are on an unmarked road between two villages and we hope for the best. Arrive at the no name road and turn off. We found the right one few cars parked off the side of the road so here we are. We walk over the other side of the road to a view over Long Compton village and rolling hills and cows and some stone with a metal fence circling it.

Back across to the other side of the road and in to see the Stone Circle. The Kings Men Stone Circle is 4500 old and was a gathering place for Neolithic people.

Had a wander around went and had a look at the Whispering Knights Burial Chamber. It is a set of stones which the myth says are suppose to move down to the River every New Years Day.

Very appropriate being New Years Eve.

Back to the car and put in the coordinates of Stratford on Avon. It took us through the Village of Long Compton and we found a Pub there called the Red Lion. Decide to have lunch here it was about 12.30pm. Didn't want to leave it like yesterday and have the chance of not getting lunch. Quite a few car in the carpark and we enter the door saying Restaurant and Baa. Had a chuckle by this and went down the stairs to another fantastic pub. They were busy but found us a nice table out the back through a labyrinth of tables and rooms. Jason asked what real ales were on tap and the waitress mentioned Hooky which was produced about 5 miles away Ok 2 pints of that. Nice beer strong flavour went down well. We all ordered lunch mainly from the set course menu. Once again great meals. Went off to find another ale at the bar and chose one called Cotswolds. Smoother than the other one and slid down even better. While I was at the bar there were more people wanting tables but they were being turned away no more room. We arrived here just on time again. After lunch Jason & Katie decided to play in the playground and try the obstacle course. The timber was very wet and slippery. Just as well Katie is female she could of had a very painful experience.

So onto Stratford and a nice drive through the country before we reached our destination. It was getting dark again so tried to drive to a couple of tourist spots mainly Shakespeare's birth house. Jason kept saying to turn but the road always seem to be one way streets going in the wrong direction. Decided to find a car park but above ground this time. Didn't have to pay, some lady gave us a ticket with 2 hours left on it. Went for a walk down to the canals getting very cold and dark. We then went and had a look for Shakespeare's house.

Sharon & Katie was more interested in the Christmas shop. Time to go and back to London and return the very damaged muddy car. We were suppose to fill up the car so we would not pay the exorbitant Avis fuel price. Sharon was fixated on getting the car back so didn't take any notice of us saying we need to fill up the car. We pulled up to the return bay and the attendant asked if we filled up the car. Sharon says she was to stressed to do anything about it. He told us we will pay a lot for the fuel at this stage Sharon just wanted to get away from the car. Next we had to tell him about the damage to the fender he replys by saying I will have to get my manager. The manager rocks up looks at our receipt and says thats OK you have taken out the insurance so there will be no cost and these things happen. Into the office to fill out an indecent report and told us there was about $1100 A damage. We didn't mention the other knocks.

Back on the tube and Jason and I decide to try and get into the New Years Fireworks in London. It is now 7.15pm and Jason thinks it will be to late. Katie & Sharon go back to the apartment. We arrive at Embankment station to crowds of people. We are herded through the streets and Jason says the best spots will be gone. They set areas aside first in get the better viewing sites then they fence them off and open up a new area. Eventually no one else is allowed in. They were still letting people in when we arrived but Jason decided we would not be in a great viewing area so both disappointed we head back to the apartment. We have a few drinks and being on the 6th floor we could get a view over London. Every now and then there was fireworks going off at random times throughout the city. Come midnight there was fireworks everywhere you look. We could see the main ones in Central London so I watched between the TV and our window. Much to Jason's annoyance because I kept blocking his view of the TV. Well after midnight you could still see fireworks everywhere. Private fireworks in England is not illegal. Jason leaves to go back home and we go straight to bed we are all absolutely exhausted.

Day 24 London - Bath

We met up with Jason at Earl's Court Station later than we wanted but it's getting harder to get going in the morning. The four of us are getting very tired but still keen to push on. Got to Heathrow Terminal 5 to pick up our rental car. We had booked a Hyundai I30 but being late notice we where offered a choice of 2 others. One for our quoted price the other a Citreon DS5 Diesel with all the trimmings and GPS for another 10 pounds a day. Decide to take the Citreon. Next do you want to pay for the Fuel OK take that also. Do you want extra insurance 20 pounds a day. I tell him we have travel Insurance he said that's fine but you have to pay any damages upfront. I decide we will take that also. An extra driver was 10 pounds a day and Sharon was happy to do all the driving. So off we go with another $380 aussie dollars gone from the account. Jason telling me I got ripped off with all the upselling. He is probably right but still works out a lot cheaper than the 4 of us catching tourist buses to where we want to go. At least this way we have the freedom to go and do what we want with no time constraints. He wasn't convinced especially about the insurance.

We find our nice shinny car and we all pile in. Sharon & Jason in the front seats Katie and I in the back. First problem it is the most advanced car Sharon and I have ever seen. Everything electronic. Wheres the ignition there is none its a push start button. Where is the hand brake lever there is none its a push button on the console. Katie was a great help she knew where everything was. Wheres the boot lid where the mirror adjust because all the mirrors are folded in. Katie decided to get out of the car and show Sharon more things about the car. She slams the door into the car next door. First mark on the car. After about 15 mins in the car park we are off very slowly down the winding very tight car park and onto the motorway towards Stonehenge.

Its a very nice car. Opened all the sunroofs 3 of them and let in the light. It was a very wet gloomy day the worst we have had on our whole trip. After about an hour we stop for a break for breakfast. Porridge for Katie, Pancakes for Jason and toasted sandwich for Sharon. I didn't eat I had breakfast before we left. Finished off everything and through the rain back to the car. Sharon presses the button the dash lights up into reverse and we go no where. Jason & Katie are giving Sharon advise press the starter button again all the dash lights go off. Go through the process again the dash says disengage clutch. Sharon says that she has so she presses the starter button again the dash lights up. Jason & Katie says the car must be running I thought I'm very deaf or it is a very quiet car I can't hear anything. Puts it into reverse don't go anywhere. At this stage Sharon is getting flustered and Katie and Jason are still giving advise I stay quiet. Sharon finally puts her foot on the clutch and the car starts. Disengage clutch means put you foot on the clutch so it will disengage it from the gearbox. So off we go back on track to Stonehenge.

When Sharon and I were last at Stonehenge you came to a fork in the road one left the major motorway and one right that took you to the Stonehenge tickets and entrance. You walked under the road and up to Stonehenge. Lots of people but you could walk all the way around where there was less people around. They have now grassed over the road so access to Stonehenge is by the major motorway to a roundabout a couple of km away. We make our way to the car park buy our tickets at the recently opened tourist information centre. They now have a great audio and visual display in there exhibition room. Artifacts from the area and well worth seeing. It opens up outside to a mock display of one of the stones. It is set up so you can gauge how many people you would need to move one of the stones. You press a button pull on the rope and it points to how many men are required Both Jason and I need 100 men. Someone else tried it, didn't even register. Next you line up for a bus to take you to Stonehenge. It had been raining heavy with extremely cold winds when we arrived and decided to wait until it cleared. Everyone else had the same idea so masses of people now wanting to get on the bus.

Arrive at Stonehenge with lots of people around and walk on the new pathway. They are trying to control the numbers here over 1,000,000 people visit Stonehenge a year. So in the near future you will have to book well ahead to get to Stonehenge. I expect it will be controlled like Neuschwanstein Castle ( Disney Castle ) where you are allotted a set time and if you roll up without a booking you may or may not get in. By comparison Neuschwanstein Castle has 2,000,000 visitors a year. 

The pathway only goes a third of the way around now so no 360 degree view. That's why in the exhibition room you stand in the centre and get a 360 degree view on video of Stonehenge through the ages. Katie liked Stonehenge it one of those must see tourist traps, but we are glad to get on our way.

Jason had found some out of the way places and head off. Much nicer than being on motorways. Driving through rolling misty hills. Katie was enjoying this much better. We are heading to a village called Nunney. It has a castle ruin. We pass the turn off to Nunney and Jason finds us another way in through very tight fitting laneways. We find the ruins next to an extremely fast flowing muddy river.

Nunny Castle was built in 
"1370s by Sir John de la Mere, a local knight who was beginning to enjoy royal favour. Extensively modernised in the late 16th century, the castle was held for the King during the Civil War, but quickly fell to Parliamentarian cannon in 1645: not until Christmas Day 1910, however, did the gun-damaged portion of the wall finally collapse."  We all enjoyed walking around the moat and through the castle ruins.

We were going to look for a nice pub for lunch and Katie yells out I found one. Through the castles ruined window there was a view looking out to the local called Georges. We all agree to try it out. After a walk through an old church and cemetery we head for the George. Kitchen was closing in ten minutes but they let us in to a great meal and some ale. Lovely English pub and Katie is enjoying being away from all the tour groups and starting to realise how off the beaten track is far better. After lunch head off to more great scenery and end up in Bath. We headed up to the highest point to overlook the city.

Great view and after a while with the sun sinking at 3.30 in the afternoon decide to head into the city for a walk. Sharon was getting stressed out driving in the narrow streets , I don't blame her. We look for a parking lot and find an underground one and proceed to go down the very narrow driveways. Find a spot Sharon parks next to a pylon and I can't get out. Crawl over to the other side open up the door bang the door hits the next car mirror. This 20 pounds a day insurance is looking pretty good at this time.

We walk out of the carpark into almost dark it is now 4.00pm. Have a wander around town. It's to dark for photos. Lots of people around still shopping. Head back to the carpark after about an hour. Sharon has to back out to let me get in the car. All in and off we go to the very tight fitting exits. Sharon is getting worried about maneuvering through the exit ramp. Katie assures her there is plenty of room. CRUNCH Sharon hits the rear passenger fender on the exit pylon and wants to check out the damage. I say don't worry that's why we paid the extra insurance. Finally get out of the car park with a very nervous Sharon and follow the directions on the GPS. It sends us down a very narrow road with cars both sides of the road. It's a dead end road and no were to turn around. Sharon now is a mess and Katie says she will drive the car out so they swap seats and Katie is now at the wheel. She puts the car in reverse and the car goes forward over the kerb crunch there goes the front end of the car. Jason and I get out of the car to help guide Katie out of the very tight spot. She backs the car back between push bikes pot plants and cars. After a few attempts gets out by just missing a car by an inch. Back on track with Sharon in the drivers seat and head back to London. There is very little parking available throughout London and we are leaving the car outside Jason's were he has parking permits for visitors. Sharon does well getting through London traffic and requires a stiff drink by the time we are finished for the day. She finds a parking spot in Jason's street. The street is on a hill and has about a 15 degree incline. Sharon pulls in and needs to back up the incline a little to get the car properly parked. She has now had enough and gives up and refuses to back the car up. She insists I do it. I get in the drivers seat with about 2 feet in front of me before hitting the car in front. Go to grab the hand break to use to hold the vehicle in place while I reverse up. There is non off coarse only that stupid little electronic button on the console. I put the car in reverse try to go backwards up the hill the car goes forward. Much closer now to the car in front. What am I going to do. I know, I will leave the park brake on take up the clutch and release the brake. The car stalls and rolls forward. Now getting even closer to the car in front. I remember these cars should have hill start assist. Press the starter release the handbrake release the foot brake and the car stays great hillstart technology. Put the car in reverse hit the accelerator the hill start releases and the car goes forward again. Now I'm starting to shake. I can't give up no one else is going to do this. Just decide to give up on technology and just drive the old way ride the clutch up the hill. So up I go park the car and Jason says I missed the car in front by an inch. Sharon wanted me to hit the other car so she wouldn't be alone with her crushed fender.

Back to the tube and our apartment for another fun filled day of adventure.

Day 23 Catch Up / Ice Skating

One of our slowest starts so far. We had arranged to meet Paul, Tracey, Aliesha & Brianna at Covent Gardens Train Station by 12.00pm. We arrived just before 12.00 and proceeded to one of the 3 lifts. Ahead were a mass of people waiting to go up and I decided for the stairs (193 in a spiral ) and left Katie and Sharon waiting. Powered pass everyone to lots of sucking air behind me, moans, people stopping having a break a kids running in different directions. Starting to get dizzy now and finally the top. Turned a corner to be greeted with even more steps. Finally made it to the top out through the gate to be tapped on the shoulder by a very cold Paul. Tracey, Aliesha & Brianna didn't seem to cold. Paul still hasn't adjusted to England Winters even after 11 years. A few minutes later Katie & Sharon arrive sucking in air, Paul thought they were putting it on because I told them they were catching the lift. They didn't want to wait with the masses either.

We decided to grab a coffee and wait for Jason to meet us. Passed a scary living statue painted gold who appeared to be suspended in mid air. After a bit of thought worked out how he was doing it and went around the corner in Covent Gardens. Aware of the pricey tourist traps I checked the prices and coffee seemed to be priced OK. Katie and I received our cappuccino's and ripped off again there must of been an inch of coffee in a large cup and the rest just foam. Jason arrived and we decided to find somewhere for lunch. Jason mentioned a pub he could not find and Brianna made a executive decision to go to Nando's. I wasn't sure about this, much prefer a pub but off we went. It wasn't far and in we enter. Nice reception area but the main dining area was down a spiral step. Wow how good is this place nothing like in Perth. It had a large table the 8 of us fitted and plenty of variety in food. The place was extremely clean and well organised service and great food. Tried a Portuguese beer not bad but will never beat the Germans. After lunch we all head for the Covent Garden Markets. I lasted about 15mins before Paul agreed to find a pub. Found a pub in the markets and headed in. Down more steps into a nice quaint English pub. A little busy but enough room to down a couple of brews with Paul & Jason. Paul was reserved only one cider but by the time we left Jason was on his 3rd.

After everyone else met up with us again at the pub and a few drinks it was time to part ways with Tracey, Paul, Aliesha & Brianna. The 4 of us headed for another coffee before heading off for our 1 hour of Ice Skating in front of Somerset House.

We were booked in at 5.30pm and started to get ready at 5.15pm. We have seen a few ice skating rings on our current travels but these are the most magical. The area is amazing Somerset house is nicely lit up with Xmas trees ablaze. Now we are all booted up and raring to go. We finally hit the ice. It took me 40mins before I finally did hit the ice but a very nice Ice marshall young lady assisted me to my feet. I haven't ice skated for 25 years so one tumble in an hour I think was acceptable. In the mean time Jason & Katie are doing well a bit wobbly but never tumbled. Sharon was still hanging on to the rail after 45mins while most of the first timers had their legs and were off. I was surprised by the lack of experience skaters there was. I think when you go to warmer countries like Australia they are better skaters. Sharon finally leaves the rail holding onto Katie's hand. After a hour and sore feet and shines we head off for dinner to a Mexican Restaurant called Wahacca.

Once again nice service and filling food we talked about what to do the next day. I mention hiring a car and driving on Monday to Stonehenge and Bath. On New Years eve we can head off to Cotswold's. Everyone agrees and once back at the apartment we book a car for the next day to be picked up from Terminal 5 at Heathrow Airport.

Day 22 Retail therapy ( Katie & Sharon) / Tough Mudder ( Jason & Evan)

Well we finally got out of the apartment about 1/2 later than intended. I think we are all feeling tired.  Met Jason over the road from Oxford Circus station and headed off to a waffle place for Breakfast.  Evan and Katie had waffles with Banana, strawberries and nutella, Jason had strawberries and maple syrup, I had a croissant with nutella.  Drinks were lovely....Smoothies and cappuccinos.
Once finished we met up with Jade and Leon outside Bond Street station , hugs all around and we all parted ways.  Leon to go home, Evan & Jason off on their forest walking adventure, and us girls SHOPPING!!!! SALES!!!!

We went into Debenhams , Katie bought two tops ....:)
House of Frasier ...so many shoes...Katie was in heaven.  She even bought boots...didn't even look at the price and went straight to the counter with them and handed over the card!!  lol...I'm thinking a complete re packing of her suitcase!!! lol
Next up was  John Lewis.....I bought two jumpers for 2 for the price of 1, Italian cashmere cotton ...1 for Evan and 1 for Jason....sadly nothing for me...But I could hear a collected sigh from Evan that the credit card wasn't empty....But there is still plenty of time. It was lovely having the time with Jade and really appreciate it more because she wasn't feeling 100% .
We left Jade at 4.30 as she had other things to do.  Made plans to hopefully catch up on the day we leave to come home.
Katie and I made our way back to the apartment to unload, change shoes and then rest a bit as Katie's knees were a tad sore....then let the boys know that we were on our way.  They were in a Pub....tough life!!  Katie took the lead with the trains we were taking.....I kept Jason up to date by text as to where we were.....I did however ask during the trip are you sure its mansions that we get off instead of staying on the Piccadilly line to Manor house???? Katie was positive it was Mansions...another text to Jason that we had nearly arrived at Mansions house and got a reply with WHAT???? Katie had indeed stuffed up....we should have stayed on the Piccadilly to Manor house station...lol   So get off and find the right line and turn up an hour later than what we should have.....:) Off to Jason's house for dinner and Dr Who.

Evan & Jason's Bit

After a quick hello to Leon & Jade and asking if Leon wanted to go with Jason and I for a nice stroll through Epping Forrest he declined. (it turned out to be a good decision for him). Jason decided to stop at Stratford Staion to look for a Kindle Paperwhite for part of his Xmas present. There is a Westfield shopping centre there that was built for the Olympic games last year. It is right next to the Olympic Stadium and Pool area. This shopping centre is five stories and the largest shopping centre in Europe. Not bad for an Australian company. After trying 3 shops we gave up no one had any stock apparently very popular Christmas present this year. Back to the station and on our way to Epping. We past villages and farm land asked Jason how far out we were it is less distance than it is to our home from Perth to Wellard amazing use of land in a high population city. Arrived at Epping it was now 1.30pm. Walked for about 20 mins before reaching the edge of Epping Forrest. Epping Forrest was handed over by Queen Victoria for public use. It was her hunting grounds which she had never been to. The only time she was there was to officially hand it over to the public. It is one of only 3 old growth forests left in England and one of the largest (sounds great doesn't it). As most people are probably aware London had about 40mm of rain lately. About 1/2 of what we could get at home in a day of solid rain.

When we finally reach an entrance we had to cross a cricket field to find a hidden path on the other side. The cricket ground was grass covering mud and my first concern of what might lay ahead. Found the path which was just mud and proceeded to find the main path. Once we were on one of the many pathways it did improve to the occasional quagmire. It is a nice walk which reminded me of many medieval films which has very similar settings. The occasional creek with small bridges would be a great walk in summer without the slush.

We were trying to head towards the centre of the forrest where there is a information centre and pub. Occasionally you come across a carpark with a map of the area and your only reference apart from map boy jnr who assures me he knows where he is going. After an hour we come across the second map of the day and realise we are heading away from the pub. We need to go straight and head right on the next path we see. After a short walk I notice a path to the right and said this is where we need to go. Map boy jnr disagrees and we continue straight. After another 15 mins walking come to the end of the path and he realises we should have turned right. I now take control and we head off on another path that was skirting the edge of the forrest. The pathway is muddy but at least we are not in the middle of an unknown area. Pass a few people and come out near some houses. I asked a lady walking her dog where the information centre was and she looks at me blankley. It was a very long walk where we needed to go. She asked where we really needed to go and said we want to finish at Chingford. Looks at us now concerned gave us directions mentioned all the mud and said don't forget it will get dark shortly. Now I'm starting to get concerned but off we go. A lot more mud more people and a nice little bridge great finally on the right track. The path stops after the bridge and could not find any pathway to continue on. Heard some people over the ridge and headed in that direction. Finally found a well defined path and continued in the direction of the setting sun. The pathway came to another intersection and Jason said we need to turn right. OK I will put my faith in you again but note everyone else is going straight ahead. We came to another road crossed over where there was new fencing and Jason could not remember seeing this before but we will press on. Eventually he relaxed and said he knew exactly where we were. Came to a T junction and said turn right and we will come to the information centre and pub so off we go. The other direction is to Chingford. Five minutes down the path to a sinking sun I told him to give up and head back to Chingford. So off we go in the opposite direction and pass everyone we had already power walked past to some smirky looks. I asked Jason how much longer he says about 1/2 an hour I did not realise we were that far away. So pick up the pace and Jason is confident we are going in the right direction. 20 mins latter we come across a 4 way intersection and he looks concerned. If Jason looks concerned think how I now feel with the light fading fast. He tells me to stay where I was and he heads of down one off the tracks to get his bearings. He comes back with uncertainty in his eyes and decide to head straight. Passed a young couple pushing a pram which amazed me with the amount of mud. I asked them if this was the track to Chingford and I get another blank stare. Then something switched on in his mind and assured us we were going in the right direction. With very little light left and renewed confidence of we fly to be confronted with the worse amount of mud ever. It was a field of mud but had no choice so off we slosh and finally reach Chingford in the dark. Found our train station and Jason was staving now, we had had no food since our waffles for breakfast. Jason says there is a supermarket just up the road. We pass a pub and kept going after 5 mins asked were this supermarket was he is still saying not far. Saw a fish and chip shop and made the executive decision to stop here. Bought some chips and sat down to eat them. Jason checked the train time table and found out we had just missed one and next one was in half an hour. They should run every 15 mins but due to maintenance the time had changed. No problem back to the pub we passed and a quick pint. Cheapest pint so far. Outside of London they are cheaper 2.65 pounds. 1.99 pound breakfast.

After the pint back on the train to meet Katie and Sharon at Manor House. A few line changes and we were there near Jason Home. Got a message from Sharon that they were leaving shortly. Great time for another pint at Jason's local. Price of the beer now going up 4.50 pounds. Downed the pint and the next message from Sharon was they had 8 stops before reaching us. Jason realises straight away they were on the wrong train and heading for Mansion House. Jason is 17 stops away not 8. Time for another pint then and get ready to meet them at the Subway exits. There is 7 exits and had no idea which ones they were arriving at so waiting on the corner like a call girl they finally appear out of one and we are off to Jason's for a chinese dinner.

Day 21 All trains lead to Purley

Our last breakfast in Salzburg before Terri & Greg head off to Belgium and the rest of us back to London. Sharon, Jason, Duncan & I walked Terri & Greg over to their train before leaving at 10.00am it was only a 5min walk from the hotel. On the way back checked to see what time the buses ran to Salzburg Airport and back to the hotel which is only 100m away to get ready to check out. Walked back to the bus station bought our ticket 1.80 euro each and the bus arrived. 20 mins bus ride out to the airport short walk into the terminal a few minutes wait and checked in our luggage. We had a 2 hour wait before we boarded the plane for a 1.5 hour flight back to London. We worked on our blog had coffee and some eats and time to board our plane. Customs check on our passports. Duncan, Sharon & Katie got through and Jason and I were in another queue. Our first problem of the day the customs officer asked where my stamp was in my passport when I left London. I said it should be in there but he could not find it. Asked what day I left and said could not remember. I showed him Jason's passport with his stamp and said I left the same time with 3 other people. He eventually found the faded stamp in the book and let me through. On the bus to take us to the plane and entered through the rear of the plane. Duncan was up the front in club, Jason was on a window seat next to Sharon. Katie and I was behind, Katie on the window seat me in the middle next to some old guy. Katie was starting to get very anxious in a small plane and held my hand very tight as we took off. Not a bad flight but a little bumpy landing and a crushed hand once again from Katie. We arrived on time and set our watches back an hour to 2.20 pm. We needed to get to our apartment in Earls Court by 5.00 pm because there is no one in attendance after this time. Jason had pre-purchased our tickets to get a train from Gatwick airport to Victoria Train station then a tube to Earls Court. A trip that would normally take 45mins plenty of time to get to the apartment.

After a long walk to customs and a 15 min wait to get through we proceeded to pick up our luggage and say good by to Duncan he was heading back to Attleborough. Jason new there was work being done on the line we needed to take so our train was not an express just a normal train that was going to take us longer. We needed to catch the shuttle to the other side of the station so off we went. Jason found out that there had been a landslide so our train to Victoria Station had been cancelled and coaches were going to take us there. Joined a long queue to catch a coach and Sharon was getting concerned we wouldn't make the apartment in time. She rang them up to say we were delayed and they said there will be a porter available to let us in. We finally got on a coach and found out it was not going to Victoria Station but another one called East Grinstead and then catch the train from there. We arrived at the station and there was two platforms and a lot of disorientated people. There was a train at platform 2 heading for Victoria Station. You needed to walk up the stairs and over to the other side. There was an angry announcement over the speaker for everyone to hurry up and get on the train no one could move because the gates were closed. The train left. Another train arrived at platform 1. Another angry announcement to say the next train to Victoria Station is leaving at Platform 2. So as we approached the train staff, one is telling platform 1 is heading to London bridge. Another train staff is saying it is headed to Victoria station so we get on the train at platform 1. All the staff are stressed and no one knows what is going on, the only calm people are the patrons. The train leaves and it is headed for London Bridge not where we want to go. Jason works out if we get off at East Croyden we can catch a train to Victoria Station. The time now is 5.00 2 hours 40mins after landing. We got off at platform 4 the next train was to Victoria Station arriving in 3 minutes. Great from there only one tube to Earls Court instead of 3 from London Bridge because of maintenance. Next thing the board changes to correction no longer a train to Victoria Station. Next train in is to Purley no good. The fat controller went off to see what happened to the train to Victoria. He never came back with an answer and all the staff had disappeared. Another correction next train to Victoria is delayed by 25 mins. Next train in is for Purley all those wanting to go to London Bridge go to platform 2. By now Sharon is getting annoyed Katie is absolutely ropeable Jason & I are just laughing with the total disorganization. He tells us this happens all the time and is the reason he is always late for work. They promise a train is coming next thing it is delayed. Apparently to many private run transport companies not working together. After more corrections on the board and more delays finally a train to Victoria. The train was absolutely packed and we are trying to get on with all our luggage. Finally settle in and then there is an announcement that the train is now going to London Bridge and not Victoria. We should have stayed on the first train to London Bridge we were on instead of waiting 40 mins on East Croyden Station. Katie and Sharon said we should have caught a taxi but a taxi from East Croyden Station would have been about 100 pounds ( 200 aussie dollars ) Jason just told them it is all part of the travelling experience. We were thinking of getting a taxi from London Bridge instead of taking 3 more trains back to Earls Court. When we got to London Bridge total chaos everyone wanting taxis so back onto the trains. My oyster card would not let me through not enough money on it. Looked at the ticket office and ticket machines crowds lined up and snaking around barricades. Knowing about there train system managed to find another machine hidden around a corner no one there put money on my card and off to the Jubilee line to catch a train to Bakerloo line at Waterloo. These stations have plenty of stairs and no escalators so Jason carried Katie's suitcase downstairs. This is why Sharon's suitcase was destroyed last year and we decided to use backpacks instead. They maybe inconvenient taking them off and on but is the best way to move around in cities full of stairs and we have found plenty on this trip. Next change was the Piccadilly Line at Piccadilly Circus to get to Earls Court. Once we were at Earls Court more stairs that Katie had to carry her suitcase up. We headed to the a exit expecting to turn around and head out at Earls Court Road not to be, more work being done and we had to go the long way out to get to the apartment. Total travel time 4.5 hours from Gatwick to travel 40 km.

We signed in, Paul the porter was very helpful and we were shown our room very promptly. It is a different room from last time but far superior no road noise separate Toilet & bathroom and more roomy. The lift is small and can't carry everything at once so Jason and I stayed downstairs and talked to Paul. He said to us it was great to see us laughing about our experience. We told him Sharon & Katie could not see the funny side of it.

We decided to just buy burgers, beer & wine and have it in the apartment and get ready for more adventures to follow.

Day 20 Boxing Day

We had to meet at the lobby by 8.20 am to be pick up by 8.30 to be taken out for the day for a sleigh ride about 1.5 hours drive from Salzburg. The bus took us through Salzach Valley and past many quaint villages. We went through 5 tunnels and saw another amazing fortress perched up on a mountain. We ascend the Steirische Ramsau to the base of an alpine glacier the Dachstein. In the small village we stopped and had a 2 1/2 hour stop for a wander and lunch at the hotel before heading for our sleigh ride. Jason and I walked around the village and took photos of the mountains, building and ski slopes. The village has a population of 2000 and accommodation for 6000. At 1.05 we were back on the bus to be taken to our awaiting sleigh.

The bus stopped and everyone was looking around. Should we get off?  I think was going through everyone's mind. Finally one group decided to get off and the rest followed. Greg kindly offers me the use of his waterproof pants. A little big, but they will do! Our guide then turns around and says, when the horses and sleigh arrive, "The south Africans!" Off they go. "The seven!" Our small group looks at each other, is that us? Yes! into the sleigh we go.

All neatly sitting in our seats, a cute little blanket laid over our laps, guide in our carriage and off we go. The sleighs were a four wheel drive/proper sleigh. So when we were on bits where there was no snow, the driver changed it to the wheels and on the snow back to the wooden skates. Two horses per carriage and the views all the way around were spectacular. Throw in a little singing and we have a very happy Aussie carriage.
We stopped after about 45 minutes while the horses had a chance to catch their breaths and for all of us to get a hot chocolate or coffee. Although, just off to the side of the little cafe/pub was a hill covered in snow. Duncan and Greg decided that the lure of gluwien/hot chocolate was greater than the joy of playing in the snow.
So the rest of us headed for this hill. Yay!!! Snow fights, rolie polies, running up and down, a successful snowman later and our half an hour break was up.

Back to the horses and sleigh we go. More spectacular views of skiers, mountains, doggies and beautiful houses we were back at the bus. Those of us that played in the snow were thoroughly exhausted. Although, we did get a few snores out of the two that went and drank in the pub. Too bad we didn't get a video.
Back to the hotel to go and get ready for dinner.  Our last night together before we part ways.
Jason found a brewery on Trip Adviser that was given 4 1/2 star rating.... about 1 km away from the hotel. When we left there was light rain but no one was concerned. Found the brewery after walking through back alleys. It was a micro brewery with its own German Style Beer Hall. When we walked in the first thing we noticed was very sticky floors and three large halls 2 non smoking & 1 smoking. Found a large table with only 2 people seated there and asked to join them they obliged. We didn't know what to do whether it was table service or self serve. I decided to do a recky and work out what to do. In the hallways they have small food stalls set up much like our food halls back home. Just decide what you want buy and take back to your table. Working out the beer purchase took me longer. They have shelves full of 500ml & 1000ml steins. You grab the size and how many you want and go to one of the two cashiers. Tell them how much you want and hand over the money and they give you a receipt. I wanted to buy three 1000ml steins one for Jason, Greg & myself. It cost 3 euro for 500ml & 6 euro for 1000ml. You can also buy cooldrink and souveniers from the cashier they just put it on the receipt. You next go and hand over the steins to the guy pouring the beer from an oak barrel so no gas in this beer. There is only one beer available so no choice. The beer pours very quickly and takes only a few seconds to fill up three 1 litre steins hence the sticky floors they all over flow onto the floors. With the three halls filled to probably 300 people in each room all wanting to buy beer there is no queue this system is very efficient. When you go back to fill your steins they have a water font there with 6 outlets that have motion sensors to turn on the water to rinse out your stein. The beer was great and not very strong so after two one litre steins we didn't feel very tipsy. After this fantastic beer hall experience it was back to the hotel and get ready for leaving tomorrow back to our various destinations.