Rons Field

 

Travel as its dictionary definition is to go from one place to another, typically over a distance of some length.

Over the past few months, I have done just that with a trip to Goa, India, then Rhodes.

Now its travel of a different sort, still going from one place to another, more locally by car, bus or foot.

 

This morning I decided that an early morning walk would be my travel. I felt a little out of sorts with the world and thought that fresh air and an appreciation on what’s around me would work.

As I left my house, moved through the housing estate into the country lane, I knew I was lucky. In just 5 minutes the view was fields, hills and further. With just a handful of farms and houses on roue. The temperature was the cooler side of warm, but it was nice to feel it on my arms.

 

A variety of birds joined me on my walk, large wood pigeons, noisy rooks and a handful of sparrows squawking in the hedgerows. Walking slowly meant I could appreciate the different colours of green from the trees and a selection of wildflowers. Some I can name and others I would need to look up. Their bright colours stood out in the high grasses and stinging nettles at the side of the road.

 

Todays walk was just a short one. I stopped at a gate and wondered. ‘Rons Field’ was the sign. The view here is quite beautiful as it stretches across countryside, large trees stand proud in their fields.

Inside Ron’s field there is a large copper beech which hangs with pride and the grass this time of year is high which waves in the wind. I wonder who Ron is or was and is it a field dedicated to him, or somewhere he loved being as a child or adult.

My mind flits from idea to idea, as I leave the field and make my way back home. A visit again in the autumn would be good to see what’s changed. That was a good thoughtful travel, which blew a few cobwebs away and left me with a positive cloud bobbing alongside me.

Room with a view

Normally I love a room with a view. Watching the world go by. Sometimes the pool view, watching guests enjoying their swim, or just waiting for it to be free.

A view of mountains, or rolling hills makes me feel privileged that I have come to discover somewhere new.

Occasionally the view of the beach, soft sands tempting feet to take those steps into crystal blue water.

I never mind the view, just feel very lucky that I am in good health, can afford to travel and enjoy different cultures, countries and food.

This holiday gave us a different view. Some people would have found it annoying, loud and would have complained. I was delighted, the view wasn’t particularly exciting. The roof tops of houses, banana trees showing us their fruit. Cats jumping from one wall to the next. The thing which we didn’t fail to miss were the airplanes. We were close to the airport. Watching different planes arriving from all over Europe and beyond was mesmerising, the wheels ejecting from the belly of the plane. The different colours and flags on each one. The roar of the plane overhead. A great privilege to see a constantly changing view.

Did the noise annoy me? No, was I frustrated by the constant planes overhead? No. It was a unique experience which supplied us with constant conversation. Great holiday had by all.

Kallithia Springs

The advantages of hiring a car means visits to those places which are harder to reach. Nine kilometres south east of Rhodes sits a bay which has been visited by meant for its healing thermal waters.

In the late 1920s an architect was commissioned to design the buildings which attracted more people to visit the serene settings for their health.

Sadly the by the end of the war the buildings had decayed. In 1999 the site started to be refurbished, visited by many cultures and nationalities.

As you wander around the serene paths that wander through trees, you look down to admire the pebbled floor that takes down to the domed white building. It’s smooth walls pulls your gaze upwards at the roof where stars cut out show the brilliant blue summer sky peeking through.

The bay holds crystal clear water that laps gently to the shoreline. I can see why visitors are attracted to such a beautiful site. The water is warm, which makes it pleasurable to swim.

So it your looking for a tiny piece of tranquility under the Greece blue sky, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Rhodes old town

A visit to the medieval Rhodes Old Town was quite high on our visiting list. A mere 15 minutes from our hotel made all the more inviting. We decided as travellers we would use local transport. We do this regardless of country and language barriers. We bought two return tickets at 12euros which seemed good value, worked out the bus times and waiting in rather hot sunshine.

The bus arrived, standing room only, no worries it was a short trip. However, it stoped every couple of minutes, continuing to fill up the already full bus. No air conditioning, no windows to open. The only relief was at it stoped a waft of warm air flew in. By the time we arrived in the old town the temperature was a good 10 degrees higher than outside which was about 34, slightly frazzled we stepped off to find a map in the shade.

We found the medieval fortress which surrounded the town the Knights of the order of St. John some emblems visible on some buildings, we walked along the pathway which crossed the barren moat, stepped through the archway into the city, habited but almost stuck in time.

We found ourselves strolling around the cobbled streets, often looking upwards at the fabulous architecture. Completely in awe of the workmanship but not paying attention to our route. Finding the most famous Street of the knights.

It was a unique experience, which we knew would come to an end. To exit we wanted to find the port, with no real signposts, my idea that if we went down hill we would find the port . Yet to see one on a hill. once found, huge cruise liners were sitting waiting for their holiday makers to return. Bus stop I thought, but no we were tired and the thought of a hot sticky bus journey was not to be repeated, we found a nice air conditioned taxi, a short drive back and a good rest for our weary feet.

Ancient Kamiros

Taking the car for another spin around Rhodes we contemplated a trip to Lindos to see the ancient ruins. Having read the write up we felt with one bad ankle and a dodgy kneee between us the steep climb during the midday sun possibly 36degrees was not a sensible choice.

We then found Kamiros, a lesser known site which to all its write up seems a better choice. Arriving, we parked under the only bit of shade and walked up the gentle slope to the entrance.

I thought of my archeological sister in law and wondered what this would mean to her.

The trees and flowers lined the entrance which opened up to the most stunning site most likely around 900BC the Late Early Geometric period. Wow was the mouth action, truly amazed and almost speechless. Set against the brilliant Greek blue sky, lined with Rosemary bushes stood the edges of a tow. Houses of various sizes, cisterns, baths and real look at Greek history.

Despite earthquakes Kamiros was inhabited until the earthquake I. 142bc.The chance to sit under the trees and absorb the ambiance was truly peaceful. It was nice having the time and space, absorbing the stillness of time.

From the edge of the cliff there are spectacular view of Turkey. The deep blue sea along with the blue sky made it quite mesmerising. I am glad we made the trip out.

Leaving the city ruins, we meandered down the windy hill, to a taverna next to the sea. A beautiful place to sit and reflect the day, with a glass of local beer. Cool and refreshing,

Valley of the butterflies

After hiring a car we thought we would explore Rhodes. I realised as we winded through narrow roads through the mountains I still hate heights. I wanted to go 20 miles an hour in the middle of the road. Luckily I wasn’t driving so I had to be content closing my eyes and holding on tight.

We arrived at the valley of the butterflies, a 1.5 km walk each way. The path meandered alongside a babbling stream , water jumping over rocks as the sunlight beamed through tree branches. The cooler air was a refreshing change.

Hundreds of jersey tiger butterflies fluttered around us. Deep red wings flashed through the air then landing their black and white wings hiding the red, great camouflage on tree bark.

We enjoyed the walk along the uneven path, climbing steps as we made our way higher up the side of the valley. Half way up was a waterfall, if I could I would have dangled my feet as the temperature started to rise. Although still under the canopy of trees we were gaining height and heat.

The map showed a cafe at the top, the thought of an ice cream or cold drink is a great incentive to keep going. The steps became steeper and we became slower. Out of the canopy of trees came the top. Brilliant blue skies, the sun as high as it could climb and no cafe open. We stood took in the view and decided that it was time to head back towards rage start.

Although the temperature rose, the walk was delightful and I was very glad I was wearing sensible shoes. I wondered how those in heels found the walk.

The ice cold lemonade and the air conditioning was gratefully received as we made our way back to the hotel along more narrow and winding roads with the hope that tomorrow I will be braver.

Lost

Discovering a hotel, little back streets, finding new restaurants is all part of going to new places which I find exciting.

This trip takes us to the Greek island of Rhodes, completely new to us.

The plane was as always late taking off, as we said goodbye to the cold grey English summer. Arriving on the tarmac of Diagoras Airport the heat of the sun wrapped around our bodies squeezing tight. One passenger commented sayin its so very hot. I thought yes fantastic isn’t it. It was quick through passport control and bags were waiting.

A short taxi ride to the hotel gave us little chance to get our bearings. Not to worry I thought. We are fairly well travelled. My partner has a good internal sense of direction and we have google maps no problem.

After dinner we thought a stroll into town just to walk off the travel. A kind couple showed us the way through the tiny backstreets to the edge of town. I was so busy chatting I didn’t take notice.

Wandering around we found a lovely bar, sitting for the first time the summer outside in the warm breeze was delightful.

Shattered it was time to go back to the hotel. Taxi said my partner. Really, it’s a 10 minute walk. No taxi my ankle is painful. We walked to the taxi rank. No surprise no taxis. Come on we’ll walk. I said. He asked if I remembered the way. My answer is maybe. I don’t always gave my direction sense turned on but I was willing to try.

Winding down the narrow lanes, there were no street lights, only light from the tiny houses. I felt confident until we reached the point of choosing a direction. Which way he asked. Not sure. Try your google maps. No internet. No chance. I asked him his thoughts. But he couldn’t remember. For a moment in time my heart sunk if he had no idea we were lost. He has a bad ankle and could hardly walk my back was in spasms. What a pair of old crocs I thought.

I found a wall. Sit here I said and I’ll go and look down that way. All the little roads looked the same. As I walked alone I had no idea how we would get back. We might end up roaming for hours. His idea go back and try and find a taxi but that felt unlikely.

I reached the end of the road and saw a sign for the hotel. I walked back and told him. Delight spread across his face, you found the way. He looked relieved. The hotel was just around the corner. I was so pleased. Back and ankle would both be happy.

My morale is take notice of where you’re walking you need to know how to get back. We will try again tonight and I know we will have success.

Looking through the lens of a camera.

This weeks travel was done through the lens of a camera. Regardless of age, there is nothing like capturing that all important moment in time. Maybe with an instant camera, maybe mobile phones or if you’re lucky enough with a pro camera.

During my life I’ve used all of these. The instant camera that gets sent off and you wait excitedly for the photos to arrive through the post. Sometimes disappointing not quite the shot you imagined, or just completely out of focus.

The mobile phone instant images for instant memories and if your go at editing the you get some quite dramatic shots. Most stay on the phone or on the cloud, rarely printing and being enjoyed by sharing.

Lastly the pro camera, my days of focusing and capturing are long gone. But seeing my son’s photos, executing the precise shot with energy and superb lighting is quite an art.

This month saw my granddaughter’s 7th birthday. I bought her an instant camera to capture that exact moment so she could share with family and friends. The pure excitement as she lined up the lens, took her photo and instantly printed it. The squeals of delight as she tore off the paper and showed everyone. Keeping each picture to remind her of the day. All her favourite animals, the red panda, giraffes, tigers and baby meerkats to name but a few. No one stepped in to say ‘take this picture’ or ‘not like that, like this’ or let me do it for you.’ Every shot was unique to her, her style, her choice. The best thing is she has all those little photos to remember her special day, done the way she wanted. To me that was perfect.

Maybe she’ll end up taking photos like her Dad, wanting that perfect shot, or maybe like me just wanting to catch that moment in time. one things for sure, she’s going to do it her way, her style and her love. There is nothing like looking through a lens with the eyes of a child. Every moment is thoughtful, captivating and enlightening.

Goan restaurants

I adore Indian food. I will happily eat spicy food breakfast, lunch and dinner. Every restaurant we went to this holiday was delightful on the tastebuds and authentic in atmosphere. From the tiny eatery with plastic tables and chairs right up to the upmarket new fine dinning restaurant.

Each place unique, some on the main high street in candolim, some down little beach tracks, others with a view over the whole area. It’s not just the food, but the excellent service and relaxed dinning experience.

I find it hard to choose. I love prawns so any dish is most enjoyable. Paneer dishes are so different from home. Then there is the thali dish. Lots of little surprises. Each with flavours that tingle in your mouth, hot rushes of spices and the colours that tantalises the eyes.

There is a different place to eat every night. After 2 weeks there were so many that we didn’t have the pleasure of trying out. I guess another trip might be in order.

We were lucky enough to dine out at a high end restaurant White Plate by Chef Jason. The tasting menu was such a delight. 7 courses which invigorated the taste buds, were art on a plate and served with an amazing narrative by the chef. Such a pleasant evening.

The colours, aromas and delights of every dish this holiday makes me fall in love with Indian food even more pre.

From Thali to fine dining all delightful

Beach life in Goa

Brilliant blue skies, searing heat and crashing waves. What’s not to like for the beach lover. In candolim the sandy beach stretches as far as the eye can see. The waves crash onto the beach and swimmers are warning of the riptide.

Water sports add to the feast of eyes. Jet boats power through the waves, parachutes fly into the air from this height the scenery must be amazing. I am not really one for speed or heights any more, I prefer the sedate soaking up of the sun. Reading to my hearts content, listening to the noise of the waves and chatter of different languages in the background.

By day the beach is full of mainly westerners who are the sun lovers enjoying the peaceful lazy days. Locals drift between shacks selling drums, scarfs and swimming shorts in bright colours for little money.

By night the beach is full of music and loud chattering. A real buzz of excitement fills the beach. It’s mainly locals or Indian holiday makers, taking dinner not in the shacks but tables laid out on the beach. Indian music fills the air, the conversing is local dialect and those peddling their wears have switched from tourist goods to neon lights, headbands and all things bright and colourful.

This isn’t the western tourists usual visit but for me a unique experience into chilled beach nightlife.