Day 3 — Sunday 15 July 2018

Miniatur Wunderland — Where It All Began

After a good night’s sleep, I started the morning with a lovely breakfast at the same little Italian restaurant where I had eaten the previous evening.

Some delicious Bavarian ham, fresh crusty bread and cheese. A splendid way to start the day!

Today was rather special, because I was finally going to visit the place that had inspired this entire adventure — Miniatur Wunderland.

I could have taken the subway, but it was a beautiful morning, so I decided to walk the roughly two kilometres through the centre of Hamburg.

It was a very pleasant stroll, eventually bringing me into the magnificent old red-brick warehouse district where Miniatur Wunderland is located.

The buildings themselves are quite a sight, and I was already enjoying my visit before I had even reached the model railway!

I made my way up to the ticket office on the second floor, where I was told there would be a thirty-minute wait before I could enter.

Now, normally a half-hour wait might be a little disappointing, but there was a very good reason for it.

The organisers carefully limit the number of visitors inside at any one time, so that the exhibition doesn’t become too crowded and everyone has a reasonable chance of seeing the displays.

And there was a rather nice bonus.

While waiting, visitors could help themselves to complimentary tea, coffee and cold drinks in the little restaurant.

Very civilised indeed!

So I settled down with a drink, knowing that in half an hour I would finally be seeing the model railway that had started me planning this enormous journey.

When I finally entered the exhibition, I was absolutely captivated by the sheer size of it.

I had watched videos and seen photographs, but nothing quite prepared me for seeing it all in front of me.

And it wasn’t just the enormous railway layouts that impressed me. It was the incredible attention to detail everywhere I looked.

There were thousands upon thousands of tiny figures, particularly in the football stadium, where the stands were packed with miniature spectators.

The amount of work involved in creating such scenes was almost beyond belief.

But one of the things that really caught my attention was the remarkable road vehicle system.

Tiny cars, buses and lorries travelled along the roads, negotiating junctions and stopping at traffic lights just as their full-sized counterparts would.

Even the smallest cars had working brake lights and indicators!

They stopped correctly at traffic signals, waited their turn and then continued their journeys.

It was extraordinary.

As someone who has spent many happy hours building and operating model railways, I could appreciate just how much thought, engineering and patience had gone into creating all this.

The attention to detail was simply astonishing.

very real looking electric cables in South America

Knuffingen Airport

But without a doubt, the most impressive part of the entire exhibition was Knuffingen Airport.

This was something quite extraordinary.

Watching the aircraft being prepared for departure was almost like standing beside a real airport.

There was even a working, arrivals and departures board !

A tanker lorry would drive up to an aircraft and refuel it before moving away. Then the aircraft would taxi out towards the runway, following the markings and stopping where necessary.

And then, accompanied by the roar of jet engines, off it would go!

No sooner had one aircraft departed than another would land, taxi along the runway and make its way towards the terminal.

It was mesmerising to watch.

The airport markings, taxiway lights and runway lighting were all reproduced in astonishing detail.

Everything seemed to work together, just as it would at a real airport, only on a very much smaller scale.

I could have stood there watching the aircraft movements for hours.

Every 15 minutes, night falls and hundreds of thousands of LEDs light up and make everything seem even more magical.

And the airport wasn’t the only place where things were happening.

Elsewhere in the miniature city, fire engines raced through the streets to attend a burning house.

It was these little animated scenes that made the whole exhibition so fascinating. There was always something happening, and something new to discover.

One particularly clever exhibit was a model of the very building I was standing in.

Looking through its tiny windows, I could see an even smaller version of Miniatur Wunderland inside!

A miniature Miniatur Wunderland within Miniatur Wunderland!

I wondered just how small they could make it before needing a microscope to see the trains!

I had travelled to Hamburg especially to see this exhibition, and it certainly hadn’t disappointed.

In fact, it had exceeded all my expectations.

A Paddle Steamer on the Harbour

After leaving Miniatur Wunderland, I made my way down to Hamburg’s famous harbour.

Here I found a rather unexpected attraction — a stern-wheel paddle steamer that looked as though it had come straight from the Mississippi!

I decided to take a harbour tour aboard her.

The interior was beautifully fitted out and very elegant, quite unlike the modern sightseeing boats I had expected to find.

It was a lovely way to see Hamburg from the water, particularly after spending the morning surrounded by miniature trains, cars and aircraft.

A Soviet Submarine — and a Few Naval Memories

Back on dry land, my next stop was something completely different.

Moored in the harbour was the U-434 submarine.

Despite its German-sounding name, this was actually a former Soviet Tango-class diesel-electric submarine, now preserved as a museum.

I took this photo whilst on the harbour cruise

Having served in the Royal Navy many years earlier, I was particularly interested in having a look around.

During my naval days I had spent a short time training aboard HMS Resolution, one of Britain’s nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines.

I remembered Resolution being cramped enough, but this Soviet submarine was in a different league altogether!

Getting through some of the compartments and passageways was quite difficult, and I managed to bang my head a couple of times along the way.

Not exactly designed for comfortable sightseeing!

It certainly gave me an appreciation of the conditions in which her crew must have lived and worked.

Hamburg — Forty-Three Years Earlier

Walking around the harbour brought back memories of my first visit to Hamburg, way back in 1975.

At that time I was serving in the Royal Navy, and in true naval fashion we had travelled all the way from Plymouth to Hamburg by train to join our ship, HMS Eastbourne.

Eastbourne was sailing in company with HMS Glamorgan, and after leaving Hamburg we headed towards Rosyth in Scotland.

On the way, we even found ourselves chasing a Russian spy trawler around some North Sea oil rigs!

But my fondest memory of that visit was an evening ashore with my shipmate Jon , who would later rise to the rank of Rear Admiral.

We had become rather fed up with ship’s food and decided to go ashore in search of something decent to eat.

Wandering through Hamburg, we came across a very smart-looking steak restaurant.

Perfect!

We went inside, were shown to a table and handed the menus.

We opened them and looked at each other in complete astonishment.

On the left-hand page were photographs and prices of the various dishes on offer.

And on the right-hand page were photographs of some rather pretty young women!

I looked across at Jon.

“How much money have you got?”

“Twenty pounds,” he replied.

“Same here,” I said.

“Just the steak and a beer then!”

Forty-three years later, walking along the same waterfront, I couldn’t help smiling at the memory.

Life had certainly changed since those days.

And here I was, back in Hamburg, not aboard a Royal Navy warship but as a retired traveller, free to wander wherever the fancy took me.

With my memories of Hamburg in 1975 still making me smile, I made my way back through the city towards the Hotel Centro.

It had been a wonderful day, and my feet were certainly ready for a rest!

For dinner I returned to the little Italian restaurant next to the hotel, where I settled down with a pizza and a beer watching the world go by.

I had come to Hamburg to see Miniatur Wunderland, and it had exceeded all my expectations. The harbour cruise and Soviet submarine had been unexpected bonuses, and revisiting somewhere I had known during my Royal Navy days made the day even more special.

Tomorrow it would be time to pack my little suitcase again and continue the journey northwards to Copenhagen.

The adventure was only just beginning!

See you all tomorrow, I hope!

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 2 — Saturday 14 July 2018

Hamburg — The Adventure Goes International!

After a comfortable night at the Premier Inn Hub Hotel near King’s Cross, it was time to leave London and begin the international part of my great retirement adventure.

First, a journey on the London Underground from King’s Cross to Paddington, where I changed onto the Heathrow Express for the run out to Heathrow Airport.

My flight to Hamburg was with Eurowings, departing from Terminal 2.

After all those months of planning, I was finally on my way to the continent!

Arriving at Hamburg Airport, I made my way through immigration and headed for the railway station to catch the S-Bahn into the city.

The S1 line took me directly to Hamburg Hauptbahnhof, the city’s central railway station.

My accommodation for the next two nights was the Hotel Centro, conveniently located near the station.

It was a good place to begin the journey, particularly as I would be travelling onwards by rail in a couple of days.

Hamburg was where the whole idea for this adventure had originally started.

For years I had wanted to visit Miniatur Wunderland, the extraordinary model railway exhibition that I had seen in videos online.

What had begun as a simple idea for a trip to see a model railway had somehow grown into a journey across Europe and Asia.

And now, here I was, finally in Hamburg!

Having settled into my hotel, I ventured out in search of something to eat.

Just a hundred metres or so from the hotel, I spotted a restaurant with a large A-board outside advertising the special of the day.

“Schweinshaxe mit Bratensoße”

Now, my German is somewhat limited, so out came Google Translate.

Roast pork knuckle with gravy!

It actually looked very nice but not being a fan of pickled cabbage I decided to move on in search of something a little more to my taste!

Fortunately, right next to the hotel was a small Italian restaurant, the Capri, where I settled down at an outside table with a plate of pasta and a cold beer.

A very pleasant way to spend my first evening in Germany, soaking up the last of the day’s sunshine and watching the world go by.

Tomorrow would be the day I had been looking forward to for years — my visit to Miniatur Wunderland.

See you all tomorrow, I hope!

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 1 — Friday 13 July 2018

The Adventure Begins

Nervous, excited and yet very calm as my good friend Gary drove me to Bournemouth station for the 09:18 train to London Waterloo. I reclaimed my suitcase from his car and we hugged and shook hands warmly at the drop off area to platform 2, the “UP” line to London.

Bournemouth railway Station

Of course I had arrived far too early and with half an hour to spare I sat in the coffee shop on the platform to await my transport on this first leg of my journey that had been in my dreams in various forms for years.

My working life was over and I was free to explore! As I sat there in the “Pumpkin Café, ( now a Starbucks of course), I mulled over what I was embarking on. A journey of many thousands of miles through unknown countries whose languages I did not speak a word of.

I stirred my tiny sachet of sugar into my cardboard cup of tea and looked at my suitcase. A small cabin case which I had weighed in at 7.6kg on the bathroom scales. For many people this would have been only enough for a long weekend but for me it had to last nearly 6 weeks! Fingers crossed there was a hotel laundry along the way.

I checked the café clock again and it was time to venture forth on the biggest adventure of my life. A sudden thought flashed through my brain, had I turned off the water in my apartment? locked the door and windows? oh my goodness, no time to turn back and check now!

“The next train on platform 2 is the South Western Railway service to London Waterloo.”

The announcement woke me from my worries.

Time to go. The planning was finished.

I have always enjoyed reading books of exploration, Scott and Shackleton across the Antarctic and Colonel Fawcett through South America and in my modest way I could understand how they were feeling, setting off into the unknown.

It had taken me about 18 months to plan this trip. For many years I was enthralled to think of a trip on the Trans-Siberian railway, but it dawned on me that this would be a long journey and possibly very cold!

Moscow was on my list of places to visit as well as Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia and the Great Wall of China. I had also seen videos online about “Miniature Wonderland” in Hamburg, Germany, probably the biggest and certainly the best model railway in the world.

So my planning started, I booked a flight to Hamburg from Heathrow, there was no Going back now!

So that was how it started. I looked at the map and googled a few things and it seemed I could take the train from Hamburg all the way to Moscow with a ferry or two along the way.

The exciting possibilities of this journey helped to overcome the hectic time I had in my final couple of years at work and with visas to obtain for Russia and China there was plenty to occupy my mind.

Russian Visa Centre, London

So off to London, in a sign of the times there is no longer a buffet car on the train , not even a trolley service for a cup of tea. As the train wound its way to London I passed through all those familiar places, Christchurch, Southampton, Winchester, Basingstoke, all very familiar from my many journeys to London and I mulled over the very unfamiliar places I was going to. Google maps is not the best at showing what it is like in Mongolia or Kazakhstan and that is what made it more exciting.

After checking into the Premier Inn Hub Hotel at Kings Cross I ventured out for a walk on a bright spring afternoon. I came across the nearby canal where many long and very well decorated canal boats were moored. Such a pretty place right in the heart of central London.

The Regents Canal, just 300m from Kings Cross station

St Pancras Basin, with many canal boats and the museum on the opposite bank

I walked along the bank of the canal as far as Regents Park which was a very pleasant time, so peaceful in the heart of the capital city.

Photo Courtesy of “The Friends of Regents Park”

So back to kings Cross and a pizza with a cold bottle of Peroni in the nearby restaurant and so to bed, dreaming of the weeks to come.

See you all tomorrow I hope

TTFN

Bibbley

Uncle Bob’s Scenic Tours — A Journey Back to 2018

Some of my regular readers may be wondering why stories from my travels in 2018 are appearing on the blog again.

Well, there’s a story behind that!

Unfortunately, a number of my original travel blog entries were lost from WordPress. These were the accounts I wrote during my journeys, often at the end of a long day exploring somewhere new.

For a while, I thought they had disappeared for good.

However, with a little detective work, some help from modern technology and a fair amount of patience, I’ve managed to recover many of the original photographs. I’ve also unearthed my old travel itinerary, along with tickets, brochures and other souvenirs that I kept from the journey.

So I’ve decided to reconstruct the missing stories.

The first journey I’m revisiting is my great retirement adventure of 2018.

I retired on 24 June 2018, and on Friday 13 July, less than three weeks later, I set off alone on a five-week adventure through Europe and Asia.

It all started with a desire to visit Miniatur Wunderland, the enormous model railway in Hamburg. But, as often happens with my travel plans, one thing led to another.

Hamburg became Copenhagen, Stockholm, Helsinki, St Petersburg and Moscow. Then came Mongolia, China and Kazakhstan.

By the time I’d finished planning, what had begun as a visit to a model railway had become quite an adventure!

Along the way there were some wonderful experiences, a few surprises and, inevitably, the occasional moment when things didn’t go quite according to plan.

Among the highlights was an extraordinary visit to Star City, the Russian cosmonaut training centre outside Moscow, which very nearly didn’t happen at all.

I’ll be rebuilding the journey day by day, using my original itinerary, recovered photographs and whatever memories I can summon up eight years later.

These won’t necessarily be word-for-word copies of the original posts, but I’ll do my best to recreate the events as they happened, including the little incidents that made the journey so memorable.

So, if you remember reading these adventures the first time around, welcome back!

And if you’re joining Uncle Bob’s Scenic Tours for the first time, I hope you’ll enjoy coming along for the ride.

Next stop: Hamburg, where it all began.

TTFN

Uncle Bob

Day 24 – April 12th – Chengdu

If you remember from a day or 2 ago when we visited the bamboo lights we saw an enormous building just across the road, which we found out later was the “Global Centre.”

So in the morning we took another taxi to see what it was all about.

The New Century Global Center in Chengdu opened in 2013 and is recognised as the largest building in the world, measuring about 1.76 million square metres.

The building measures 500m × 400m x 18 floors high and is often cited as having enough space to fit 20 Sydney Opera Houses. Highlights include a giant water park (Paradise Island Water Park), a cinema, and ice rink as well as

Developed by billionaire Deng Hong’s Entertainment and Travel Group (ETG), nearly 400,000 m² (4,305,564 ft²) of the building is devoted to shopping. It also houses offices, conference rooms, a university complex, two commercial centers, hotels, an IMAX cinema, a “Mediterranean village”, a pirate ship and an Olympic-size skating rink. The centerpiece of the building is a water park (“Paradise Island Water Park”), containing a 5,000 m² (53,820 ft²) artificial beach, where a large 150 by 40 m (492 by 131 ft) screen forms the horizon to offer sunrises and sunsets.

The Paradise Island Park sits under a massive atrium at the center of the New Century Global Centre in Chengdu.

5* Intercontinental Hotel overlooking Paradise Island

In the foyer area they were recording a “China’s got Talent” show for the TV.

The main part was open for skating and the other end was being used for ice hockey practice.

from the waterpark we could just see the hotel rooms at the opposite end of the beach.

Golden escalators whisk you to hundreds of top end shops and restaurants

I dont normally rate shoppimg malls etc but this must be the most remarkable building I have ever visited and well worth spending some time there.

We had a lovely Thai lunch and then back to the hotel to pack ready for our flight to Singapore.

Chengdu is certainly much more than just the Pandas and we were glad we stayed four nights,

TTFN

BIbbley

Day 23 – April 11th – Chengdu

April 11th was another warm day as we set off in our taxi to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

Founded in 1987 by the Chengdu Municipal People’s Government. It started with six giant pandas that were rescued from the wild. By 2008, the research base had 124 panda births, and the captive panda population has grown to 83.

It’s aim is to “be a world-class research facility, conservation education center, and international educational tourism destination.”

Just after being dropped off by our taxi

And so all wearing our “Uncle Bob’s Scenic Tours” t-shirts we set out to see some pandas.

At the entrance we were again pleased to find that being over 60 we all had free entry and the only cost ws £1.50 each for the electric shuttle buggy to takw us to the main centre about a mile away, the park really is quite big.

Each group of pandas were in their own buildings, with a large outdoor area

of course the coffee would be panda themed

A little futher into the park we took a look into the art display.

Another couple of pavilions with red pandas

of course there were several souvenir shops

Luckily for our feet there were escalators on the way out

Past the buses to where our taxi was waiting

This was a great day out but quite tiring, the park is about 1,000 acres roughly the size of 560 football pitches with many of the pavilions about a ten minute walk between them.

In the evening wqe took a short ride to the Anshun Bridge, one of the most photographed night spots in Chengdu, a traditional Chinese covered bridge over the Jin River which is fully lit at night with golden orange illumination, reflecting in the water.

So we ened the day relaxing in one of the many bars near the bridge and watching the bridge come to life as dusk set in and the lights reflected beautifully in the river.

TTFN

Bibbley

Days 21 & 22 – Chengdu

Yesterday we spent a lazy morning packing and having a relaxed breakfast before heading to Sanya Internationasl Airport for the 3 hour flight to Chengdu.

Diane relaxing in the lobby after breakfast.

waiting for our flight in Sanya phoenix Airport

We landed at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport whch turned out to be 32 miles from the downtown area where our hotel was located. and checked in to our rooms.

very modern spacious rooms for only £35 per night

great warning sign on hotel window, well it was 20th floor!

When I booked our rooms I was pleased to se they were equipped with washing machines, which would be useful half way through our 4-week holiday.

Not quite being able to figure out which setting to use I uploaded a photo to ChatGPT which identified the machine and which setting to use. So after a quick shower we went out in search of a cold beer.

Ten minutes later we found the rooftop bar on the 22nd floor of the St. Regis Hotel and relaxed for a while. It was a lovely warm evening andwe wandered back towards our hotel where we had spotted a hotpot restaurant earlier.

Here we enjoyed some refreshments much cheaper tha the St. Regis rooftop bar!

The following evening we set out for the Chengdu Bamboo Lights, known as the “Tower of Life” or Giant Bamboo Fountain, are spectacular 39m high light and fountains at the SKP shopping Mall . These six giant bamboo structures feature LED lights, misting effects, and cascading water and ar truly superb with their changing lighing effects and water effects.

The shopping mall was very upmarket and had some great art sculptures and high end shops such as tiffanys and Cartier.

Another place we wanted to see were the “Chengdu Twin Towers”

The Chengdu Twin Towers, or Tianfu Twin Towers, are two 200m tall skyscrapers in the city’s financial district, representing a modern landmark with a massive LED light show on Tianfu Avenue. Completed in 2020, they feature “ice flower” patterned facades covering 52,000m2.

This was a truly spectacular end to another memorable day in China.

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 19 – April 7th – Sanya

At breakast the followimg morning we chatted about what to do and Diane said she had seen photos online of a giant Buddha statue in the sea and would like to see it. Having come across this statue whilst looking at things to do in Sanya I soon agreed and so did Gary.

“It’s about 25 miles away I said”, “25 minutes by taxi.”

“No problem, let’s go” agreed Gary and Diane and so I booked a taxi and we were soon on our way to the ‘Nanshan Buddhism Cultural Park’.

I may have said before about the cost of taxis in China but this 25 mile nearly half hour journey cost only £8.50, which for 3 passengers is great value. If

you are travelling to China just download the AliPay app and link it to your bank card before you arrive. This app is used everywhere to pay for all your meals, shopping and other payments and also includes the “Didi” mini app to book a taxi.

Simply click on the app, the built in GPS pinpoints where you are and you type in where you want to go, (in English), and it gives you a choice of vehicle types to choose from, ordinary taxi, executive car, minivan etc and the cost of each type for the journey. Then just click on the one you want and within seconds the screen shows the vehicle registration and type and the drivers name and how soon it will arrive.

I can’t stress enough how essential the AliPay app is in China, In four weeks I used on £30 in cash and the rest of my spending was with Alipay and on Didi. Even the smallest street food seller has the Alipay QR code to scan to pay them.

Anyway back to our trip. The Didi driver dropped us off at a car park by the side of a dual carraigeway where we saw quite a few tour buses parked up and a number of people getting tickets (and paying with Alipay of course), up I went and the lady handed over 3 tickets at £1.50 each and through the turnstiles we went.

“That was cheap” Gary said, Diane chirped up with ” What are we doing here in a car park ? I thought the statue was at the seaside?”

Well it all became clear, we were at the entrance to the park and the tickets were for the mile or so return ride to the ticket office!

after paying by scanning the QR code at the ticket gate 3 QR code tickets appeared on my phone for the electric buggy ride to the entrance proper

As with many cultural and scenic areas in China there are good discounts or even free entry for seniors, Here it was half price if you are over 60 and free entry if over 70. so Diane and I were half price at £4 and Gary was free. Always remember to bring your passport at all times as entry to all attractions requires proof of ID and age.

So off we went in the glorious sunshine to explore the park.

We wandered down the gentle slope towards the sea and past the many floral displays and food stands and after about 20 minutes we caught our first glance at the statue.

the 3-sided Guanyin of Nanshan (Goddess of Mercy) statue is 354 feet (108m) high, is the tallest Guanyin statue in the world and taller than the Statue of Liberty which is 93m tall.

The statue was built and park opened in 1998

The statue represents Guanyin, the Buddhist figure of mercy, and the three faces symbolize:

Compassion in all directions

Each face looks in a different direction (one toward land, two toward the sea), showing that Guanyin is watching over and helping all beings everywhere — no one is outside her care.

Different aspects of protection

Each face represents a slightly different role:

One face: peace and blessing
One face: wisdom and guidance
One face: protection from danger (especially for people at sea, important in coastal Hainan)

Unity of mind, body, and spirit

In Buddhist symbolism, multiple faces often represent different qualities unified in one enlightened being — not three separate figures, but one compassion expressed in many ways.

Why two faces look out to sea

Given Sanya’s coastal location, this reflects:

Protection for fishermen and sailors
Blessings for those travelling across the ocean
A link to Guanyin’s traditional role as a protector from peril

We stopped and rested at one of the many food stands and chatted about how beautiful the park was and how glad we were we visited.

We took a slow walk back up to the entrance and Didi ride back to our hotel for a dip in the pool to cool off before dinner.

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 18 – April 6th – Sanya

Sanya – China’s tropical resort

After a great couple of days in Haikou, situated in the north of Hainan we took a short 2 hour high speed train ride south to the tropical resort of Sanya.

Map of Hainan

The railway line goes in a circular routearound the island and we chose the anti-clockwise route to sanya , it being an hour shorter than going clockwise.

Arriving at Sanya was the usuual hubble of taxis and Didi’s and soon we arrived at our hotel, the ‘Four Points by Sheraton’ right scross from the beach at Sanya Bay.

Sanya is also home to the 7 star ‘Atlantis Hotel’, where for £10,000 a night you can get a room where the windows face into the huge aquarium, a part of the adjoining Aquaventure Waterpark: A massive year-round park with 36 slides, including the near-vertical “Leap of Poseidon” that passes through a transparent shark tank.

Anyway, back to reality!

From our rooms we had a clear view of the phoenix Island resort

In the evening the hotel has a beautiful light show.

See you tomorrow for a day out.

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 16 – April 4th – Haikou

Haikou has many European style streets with covered walkways, a real boon in the heat, it was 34C today.

Beautifully presented fruit in the local shops

We found possibly the smallest wine bar in the world. just a small window in a door!

A head popped out the door and passed us the wine list, some very nice and expensive wines on offer as we sat at the 2 small tables outside with electric scooters whizzing past.

Fancying something different for lunch we headed to a pizza restaurant and were surprised to find it was owned by a guy from Croydon and his Chinese girlfriend.

Terrific pizzas as well all traditionally made and super tasty.

So after a hot but enjoyable day in the old town we went out in the evening to a place recommended by the pizza restaurant owner.

Some well cooked lamb chops with broccoli and creamy mashed potato ended our day.

There were plenty of local places to eat but on this day we ended up with western food for a change and very nice it was as well.

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 17 – April 5th – Haikou

On the airport coach from Macau to Hong Kong Airport

We took a taxi from the hotel to the Hong Kong Airport coach station where there is an airport check in desk and our cases were tagged to directly go to our plane in Hong Kong and onward to Haikou airport on the island of Hainan, our next stop.

The Coach goes over the longest sea bridge in the world at about 30 miles long. There are two sections of tunnels to allow the many ships to safely enter Macau and Hong Kong ports.

The coach goes directly into the airport terminal and so bypasses Hong Kong immigration which saves a lot of hassle,

We were pleased to see our cases had made it and took a taxi to our hotel, I must admit my mistake as we arrived at the wrong hotel, however another 5 minute taxi took us to the correct place.

The hotel was superbly decorated and the biggest surprise was finding half a boat in my room!

In the evening we went out for a drink and found ourselves in “alcohol avenue”.

Just a load of chairs and tables along the waters edge, where a young guy appeared with some menus, mainly cocktails and beer brands we didn’t like,

“Got any Tsing Dao beer” we asked, and he said he would get some, to our surprise he jumped on his electric scooter and sped off down the road.

A few minutes later he came back with cold beers from the local shop and some glasses! What great service! he didn’t have our preferred beer so got some for us and still for only 50p more than normal.

And so we spent a lovely warm evening here just watching the boats go by, a peaceful end to a mainly travel day from Macau to Haikou via Hong Kong.

See you later for a day in Haikou

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 15 – April 3rd – Macau

Probably the main reason for visiting Macau are the famous casinos and off we set to see for ourselves. “To the Parisienne” I instructed our driver and ten minutes later we were dropped off at the half size Eiffel Tower.

Stepping inside we were blown away by the decor.

The place was huge and the interior was spectacular.

We ventured into the casino and were greeted by the sight of a room bigger than a football field with thousands of roulette tables, card tables and one arm bandits.

This was the low stakes casino where entry was allowed for everyone. There is also a high stakes casino by invitation only.

Diane discussing recipes with the French chef

All in all a fabulous place.

So went next door to the “Londoner” casino to see what they made of us.

It was ok but to be honest not a patch on the Parisienne.

The Venetian was great and several wedding photo shoots were taking place.

In the Venetian Gary and Diane took a gondola ride to celebrate their wedding anniversary, very romantic.

After this we were pretty thirsty but were surprised to find an Irish bar in the Venetian Casino and so relaxed for a while.

Later we went back to the Black Oyster and had a great time with Diane enjoying a super cocktail.

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 14- April 2nd – Macau

We took the “turbojet” fast ferry from Shenzhen port to Macau and a ten minute taxi to the hotel S, our home for 2 nights.

In the evening Diane was browsing the internet and with a smile on her face said she had found a bar just ten minutes away.

We will be off to the casinos tomorrow, so see you there!

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 13- April 1st – Shenzhen

A book shop in Shenzhen

The following day we decided to visit “window of the world” , just a 15m taxi ride away.

I went to the ticket office expecting to pay for 3 x £18 tickets but was pleasantly surprised by being sold, 1 over 70, free of charge, 1 over 65 at half price and 1 adult at under 65 full price. They do take care of the elderly here!

I had lost my hat and as it was a hot sunny day , purchased a new one in “Ozzie” style.

In the morning my glasses broke, (£1.50 from Poundland!). So managed to buy a new pair from the opticians opposite the hotel.

Window of the world is a mini world with 43 locations and is actually a lot of fun although it is a big park and needs at least half a day to look round.

Drone delivery

There were many coffee shops, ice cream stalls and restaurants around the park or get a drone delivery!

Also in the park were hundreds of school children on a day out and part of their tasks for the day was that if they found a foreigner they had to find out where they were from and what they thought of the park.

Needless to say we were in great demand for information and selfies. All the children were very well behaved though and welcomed us to China.

And so we had a great day and took a £3 20 minute taxi back to our hotel.

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 12- March 31st – Shenzhen

Just a short 90 minute train journey to Shenzhen, although to the opposite end of the city from our last time here when we stayed in the hustle and bustle of the financial and business district.

I must admit to being a bit confused when I booked the hotel described as being near to “Sea World”. I was expecting to be near a theme park with killer whales etc and it seemed strange when the area was described as having a lot of bars and restaurants.

So after checking in and a quick freshen up we strolled down to Sea World to find a tourist area full of eateries and bars. Not an Orca in sight!

The tourist information also mentioned a ship nearby and I said to Gary and Diane, “perhaps a pirate ship?”.

Wrong again, it turned out to be a small liner that was obviously moored up and then the land around it was reclaimed as it was 400m from the sea.

The ship had been converted into a dozen or more fancy restaurants with Chinese and Western cuisine available.

We followed the path to the seafront and strolled slowly in the bright sunshine.

The road bridge to Hong Kong in the distance

We all agreed it was a great place as we sipped a cold beer before heading back to our hotel.

See you all tomorrow,

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 11 – March 30th – Guangzhou

Was woken at 6AM by the noise of a tropical storm wreaking havoc with the trees outside my hotel window. Branches being torn off and littering the pavements and roads.

Thunder and lightening filled the sky. I thought to myself that this could be a wasted day and so asked ChatGPT for rainy day ideas.

Go to the Grand View shopping mall it suggested, it’s the best!

And so I called a taxi and 20 minutes later we were dropped off at a huge shopping mall. Not normally my sort of thing but this was very different.

In the lower ground level along with many restaurants and coffee shops we found a bakery for a brunch of toasted sandwiches and hash browns, very oriental !

On closer inspection it dispenses mini gold ingots

So we spent a pleasant couple of hours there while the rain cleared away and were soon back at our hotel for a brief rest before setting out for the Canton Tower.

The Canton Tower is a 600-metre-tall (2,000 ft) multipurpose observation tower and was topped out in 2009 and it became operational on 29 September 2010.

The tower briefly held the title of the tallest tower in the world before being surpassed by the Tokyo Skytree. It was the tallest structure in China prior to the topping out of the Shanghai Tower on 3 August 2013.

We collected our tickets from the ground floor ticket office and the elevator whisked us skywards.

Gary was nonchalantly leaning on the glass door until he realised the lift was on the outside and he could see a 1,000 foot drop just inches away.

The usual souvenir shop greeted us at the top with some stunning views over the Pearl River.

A calming cup of coffee before heading up.

Unfortunately I was unable to get tickets for the bubble car ride at the top.

So we made our way down the tower and at the exit was a super stylish piano.

Diane had been on the internet and found a good place for a drink and bite to eat and we soon found our way to “Hooleys Irish bar”

A couple of beers and a steak and ale pie later we ended our time here ready for our next stop.

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 10 – March 29th – Guangzhou

After a long but enjoyable 1000 mile train journey south we arrived in Guangzhou.

The internet said this was the place to be!

After dropping our bags in the hotel we headed out for a well earned beer at “party pier”, full of young dudes like us! lol

Expensive by Chinese standards at £4 a pint for Carlsberg export but a buzzing place of music, food and drinks.

Diane was soon in party mode!

We could see the Canton Tower all illuminated and looking very tall as we tucked into a late dinner and looked forward to going to the top tomorrow, At 450m.

But it was soon time to end the evening and a £1.70 taxi soon dropped us back at our hotel.

See you tomorrow for a full day of fun.

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 8 – March 27th – Luoyang Longmen

I had booked the entry tickets for the Longmen grottoes yesterday on the train as on the internet it warned that holidays and weekends could be busy and even sell out.

The morning was bright and warm with the park only a 10 minute walk from our hotel.

The eagle eyed amongst you will have noticed that this sign and those in Pingyao are bilingual, Chinese and French, rather than the normal Chinese and English.

This is due to both areas being UNESCO World Heritage Sites and the official UNESCO language being French.

It was about a 20 minute walk from the entrance to the ticket gate and we were soon in.

As usual, plenty of food and souvenir stalls

Some of the thousands of carved caves containing Buddhas.

Rest rooms are plenty, usually every 4-500m, and very clean, although mostly “squat” type

A unique form of Jade only found here with a pattern that resembles plum blossom

A boat can take you back if you are tired

Some of the rocks are not what they seem!

As usual we were much in demand for photos

So we had a great day but very tiring. In the park we enjoyed a tasty lunch with Diane and me sharing beef stir fry and rice and Gary enjoying “Grandma’s scrambled eggs with mixed vegetables“.

Feeling a bit thirsty we took a taxi into the city centre and found a craft beer pub with German lager at £1.25 a pint and so stopped there a while before heading back to our hotel.

I should also tell you that the “Didi” taxis here are super cheap, the 6 miles from city centre to hotel costing only £1.15.

And so off to Guangzhou tomorrow, see you there.

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 7 – March 26th – Pingyao

We left Pingyao with its narrow streets and alleys full of small restaurants and shops and as on our arrival the hotel laid on a top notch car for our 20 minute journey to the railway station.

After hearing a few “ooh’s and ah’s” from the back seat it became apparent that Gary and Diane had found the controls for the massage function so common in Chinese cars.

For only paying £30 per night in a 15th century courtyard hotel including breakfast it was great to get a courtesy car to and from the hotel.

So we set off on the first of 3 trains today to reach our destination of Luoyang Longmen.

Pingyao Gucheng to Talyuannan, then changing trains to get to Zhenzhoudong and finally a short ride to Luoyang Longmen and our hotel for 2 nights, the, jijia Meisu with 2 great rooms for just £24 per night. Each had a 100” projector TV as well.

On the train I booked our entry tickets to the grottoes, oh the internet makes things so easy these days, and all in English!

Well that’s just a short post today and hope you will join us tomorrow for our visit to the world famous Longmen grottoes.

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 6 – March 25th – Pingyao

After finding the dining room we finished our breakfast and headed out to explore the ancient walled city of Pingyao.

A super ceramic tile in the breakfast room

We walked leisurely up to the main east gate of the city and decided that even a small place like this was too big to explore on foot so we embarked on a city tour in one of the many electric minibuses.

Our guide stopped at many places of interest for us to explore and take photos.

Adding a red bows to the guardian at your doorway increases your protection from evil.

We stopped at a medieval building showing ancient building crafts and how the buildings, gates and shrines were built with hand tools and with no nails or dowels, just superb interlocking craftsmanship.

This was a great way to see the city which although quite small would be tiring to visit in one day.

At the end of the tour we stopped at a delightfully coffer shop and feeling refreshed we strode out on foot to see more of this most interesting place.

Gary and Diane decided to climb the city walls.

Even the outside of the very clean and modern public toilets were suitably ornate.

Eventually we had to stop for refreshments!

And so back too the hotel ready for somewhere new tomorrow.

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 5 – March 24th – Binhai Port

Not quite knowing what to expect we set off in our taxi for the 40 mile journey to the port district of Binhai and the “TEDA aircraft carrier Russian theme park”

As a young boy I can remember building a plastic kit of this impressive 273m long 41,700 tonnes fully loaded ship and was impressed by the number of missiles and radar aerials.

In 1996 after her time in the Russian fleet, Kiev was sold to Binhai Aircraft Theme Park in Tianjin. The concept was developed by world tourism and attraction consultant Leisure Quest International.

In August 2011, Kiev was developed into a luxury hotel after renovations costing £9.6 million.

The whole theme park is built in a Russian style with the “onion dome” roofs and feels quite strange but very interesting.

Being out of the main tourist season the park was very quiet with only a few visitors and a couple of school groups who as always were delighted to see us!

Gary and Diane with a missile ready to launch!

It was great to actually be part of a childhood memory and felt very surreal to be here.

After our ship visit we took our seats for a stunt car show featuring the winners of “China’s got talent” , a 7 man team of very skilled drivers.

After the show we spotted a guy holding a sign offering rides and Diane was quickly down at the front and well up for it, eagerly chatting to the driver whilst I sorted out the payment.

Diane ready to go!

Round and round she drifted with tyres screeching until finally coming to a halt after a memorable time, which she said was a great thrill.

And so back to Tianjin we went after a great day in a place that felt very odd, a park in China that looked and felt very strange but left us with great holiday memories.

See you all tomorrow!

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 4 – March 23rd – Tianjin

Porcelain Hose which was a bit disappointing yesterday

After breakfast we set out for the Ancient Scenic Zone, about 2 miles from the hotel.

There was a slight chill in the air and a light mist as we took a gentle stroll along the river and across the bridge by the shopping mall we visited yesterday for our roast duck lunch.

Only about 15 minutes later the sun broke through and the temperature lifted enough for our jackets to be stowed away in our backpacks.

Full of little stalls and shops selling traditional crafts and food we wandered around, tasting the food samples along the way, so very good chocolate items and pastries, no need to buy much as free samples were everywhere!

There were also plenty of not quite so ancient items such as these Tom and Jerry ice creams.

The ancient culture area is a 5 star rated tourist area

So we spent a pleasant hour or so meandering through the various offerings, Diane found several shops with Jade and silver jewellery which Gary was pleased when nothing really took her fancy.

Located half way between the Ancient Culture Area and our hotel was the Italian Concession and so we crossed back across the Hai He river to take a look around and have lunch.

The Italian concession of Tianjin was a small territory (concession) in central Tianjin controlled by the Kingdom of Italy between 1901 and 1943, officially ceded to China in 1947.

Flag

There are plenty of Italian style villas here with many having been converted into restaurants and shops and many a bit run down waiting there turn to be given a new lease of life.

Feeling hungry we stopped at a good looking restaurant and ordered our beer and pizzas, a truly authentic Chinese lunch, LOL.

These young ladies all dressed up for a photo shoot

And so back to the hotel for a rest before heading out for an evening river cruise.

A very helpful security guard at the river cruise terminal kindly helped me book our tickets on the Chinese app and with an hour to spare before dusk fell for our 7.30 departure we visited a local German style beer Keller.

Our river cruise set off and we were all stunned by the views of the illuminated buildings along the river, absolutely stunning.

Our hotel

Diane’s photo of the Tianjin Eye a huge ferris Wheel across the river

Virtually every building along both banks of the river for about 2 miles was lit up with millions of LEDs and lighting projectors, a stunning spectacle of lights and multi colour lasers.

And so after another very enjoyable but tiring day, we walked nearly 20.000 steps, we returned to our hotel for the night.

One of the food delivery robots joined us in the lift to make a delivery to the 47th floor.

See you all tomorrow for our final day in Tianjin.

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 3 – March 22nd – Tianjin

We left Beijing Nan (Beijing south) railway station on the 10:27 high speed train for the short ride to Tianjin.

A fast and very smooth journey as usual and just 30 minutes later arrived at Tianjin, our home for the next 3 nights .

As it was only 11.30 I was pleasantly surprised to find that we were able to check in to our rooms which were on the 47th and 48th floors of this centrally located hotel, with a stunning view over the Haihe River.

In the centre of a large roundabout between the railway station and our hotel stands the “Century Clock “.

Built in 2000 to celebrate the new millennium the clock stands about 40 meters (130 ft) tall Designed in a striking European-inspired style with Roman numerals and metallic framework Surrounded by sculptural elements representing the 12 signs of the zodiac it is a major landmark beside the river.

After a quick freshen up we were soon out in the spring sunshine to take a look around.

Just a short walk to the opposite side of the river we took a look in one of the many very large shopping malls and found a display of model cars and the 2023 Alfa Romeo formula 1 car.

This display of model cars was in honour of Zhou Guanyu, born in Shanghai (1999) and became China’s first-ever F1 driver when he debuted in 2022.

In the lower ground floor we went to find a coffee shop and came across a supermarket where some tasty looking Peking Duck was being prepared.

Feeling a bit peckish we bought a pack with the usual pancakes and sauce for just £2 and sat at an adjacent table to enjoy our snack, very nice it was too!

Nearby was the fish section with tanks of live seafood, crabs, oysters, other shellfish and all manner of fish I did not recognise.

Further down the road was the “Porcelain House” a very popular tourist spot for locals and foreign visitors.

This French style villa was covered in fragments of porcelain including thousands of ancient vases, plates, and bowls Marble carvings, crystals, and stone sculptures and Features a huge dragon decoration made from ceramic pieces along the roof and combines Chinese ceramic art with European architecture

Built and transformed by collector Zhang Lianzhi He spent 20+ years collecting porcelain and several years decorating the building.

Personally I found it quite underwhelming and not really worth the visit with a lot of hassle by guides dressed as policemen trying to get you to join their group.

After a short rest back at our hotel we ventured out in the evening and strolled along the riverside promenade.

Diane spotted a German style bar advertising “happy hour” with half price drinks and it took little to persuade Gary and I to agree to a cold beer.

As the sun dipped below the horizon and night fell , suddenly the whole area was bathed in light from an absolutely stunning light and laser show.

Our 51 floor hotel

All the buildings and bridges as far as we could see were part of the show

Stunning lasers centred on the century clock

And so ended our first day in Tianjin in truly spectacular style.

TTFN

Bibbley

Day 2 – March 21st – Beijing

Beijing – The Happy Dragon Alley Hotel

Day two is really an extension of yesterday as our flight from London Heathrow landed on time at 12:20 into Beijing Capital International Airport.

After the usual immigration checks which were pretty quick there is a short automated train ride to the baggage reclaim area. Within a couple of minutes we had our suitcases and were at the taxi pickup area in the basement level.

The “Happy Dragon Alley Hotel“ had messaged me yesterday with the hotel name and address in Chinese which was so useful and made the whole process so easy.

Their message

💕Hello, we are very excited to meet you soon. Before that, I will send you the address of our hotel again just in case.
Hotel Name: 春天映向酒店(北京王府井南锣鼓巷店)
📍Address: 78 Dongsijiutiao ,Dongcheng District
📍Chinese address: 东城区东四九条78号 or 炒豆合作社(东四总社)
Metro line 5 Zhangzizhonglu（ExitC）follow the pic direction we sent to u.
‼️ It is recommended that you can search “Happy Dragon Alley Hotel” for it on the Amap! Google maps doesn’t work so well in China and the address is inaccurate. You will probably go to the wrong way.
If u prefer taxi please show driver the Chinese address. If u use Didi search : 78 Dongsijiutiao
Remember to ask for a public one with meter,don’t be scamed too much.normally from the Pek airport is around 100~120rmb .Pkx is around 200-220rmb,depends on traffic.
By the way,may I know what time you will arrive hotel?
Anyway we wish you have a good day 😊
Happy Dragon Team

The half hour taxi ride at the normal furious speed cost £9 and were soon checking in.

The hotel is situated in one of Beijings Hutongs, narrow alleys built in past and mostly gone, having been re-developed in recent years as the city has been modernised.

I wanted to stay here rather than a large modern hotel to feel some of the vibe of old Beijing.

The hotel appears to be run be 2 charming young women and after checking us in , the first girl said she would show us to our room and grabbed 2 of our suitcases, “that’s ok , I can carry them, I am big strong man” I said,

“So am I” she replied” and strode off leading the way, cases in hand.

She had given us a map of the area and highlighted the places of interest to us.

And so we set off to explore and after a couple of hours we realised the long journey and 30 hours without sleep had caught up with us and we returned to the hotel with a bottle of wine from the 7-11 store,

Whilst chatting in my room there was a quiet knock on the door and the young woman from reception handed me a small card and a container of fruit pieces,

“ we just wanted to welcome you to our hotel and hope you have a lovely time” she said to me with a charming smile.

I should have taken the last photo when the fruit container was full!

What a charming to greet their guests and made us feel so welcome.

I am confident that with this level of thoughtfulness this hotel will surely be a great success!

And so this hotel will always be in my memory as a lovely place to stay, certainly not a luxury 5 star hotel but without doubt the most welcoming in all my travels.

TTFN

Bibbley

China 2026 – Day 1 – Friday March 20th

So off we go again, another trip with myself, Gary and Diane to China.

When we decided to jet off to China again so soon after our last trip in 2025 the main motivation was that we had a 2 year visa and could visit again without all the hassle and cost of a new visa.

Since then China is allowing visa free access to UK citizens for up to 30 days at a time which is great news for any of my readers who are inspired to visit this most interesting and friendly country.

Myself, Diane and Gary on our last China adventure

And so I found myself building an itinerary for another adventure with Gary and Diane which we soon agreed would include Macau and Singapore.

So a 29 day trip took shape, which I hope you find interesting to follow.

We will arrive in Beijing in the north of China for a stay at the “Happy Dragon Alley Hotel” before heading off on the train to Tianjin on Sunday morning.

we will journey through China from the north to the tropical island of Hainan in the south,

via a trip to an ex Russian aircraft carrier, a stay in a Ming dynasty hotel in a medieval walled city, visiting one of the largest and oldest Buddhist sites in the world, and the ex Portuguese gambling city of Macau.

Then a flight north to Chengdu to see the giant pandas and a 3 day visit to Singapore before returning home.

So fingers crossed that many hours spent online booking flights, hotels and train tickets all works out ok .

We are now in London Heathrow airport waiting to depart on our Lufthansa flight to Beijing via Munich and it seems we are going to Wetherspoons for a pre holiday drink and brunch to get us on our way.

I hope you can follow us on this trip and please keep in touch with comments along the way.

Must go now as Gary is back from the bar with wine for Diane and me and so will see you again in China tomorrow.

TTFN

Bibbley

Guilin

Following a very enjoyable but tiring few days in Chongqing we set off again on a high speed train for Guilin, some 857km to the south.

If you are thinking of a trip to China but are anxious about how to book train tickets then I can say there is ne need to worry. I used “trip.com” which I used on my PC before leaving the UK and the app on my phone whilst in China.

Chinese train tickets are only available 2 weeks before the train departure date but using trip.com you can choose from the easy menu which train you want to travel on and how many tickets you want and when tickets are available they are purchased for you. Seat choice is not an option but on all high speed trains the seats in standard class always face forwards, when the train reaches it’s final destination a team of workers quickly go through the train and swivel all the seats around.

When using the site for the first time younter your name, address and passport number together with your payment details and the reservation with China railways is made using your passport number and a confirmation email is sent to you and train details are easily shown on the app for reference.

At the railway station after going through the security check, and passing your bags through the scanner you get to the departure area.

When it is time to depart there will be a long queue of Chinese nationals at the check in gate having there ID cards scanned and a much shorter line of foreigners at a separate gate where your passport is scanned and the gate opens, simple as that. No tickets to forget or lose.

The departures lounge is usually above the platforms and so a short escalator ride takes you down to your train.

Photos courtesy of China airline travel.

There are other apps available for train tickets but I found trip.com extremely easy to use for airline tickets, entry tickets to attractions such as river cruises, more of that later. By the way I have no connection with trip.com and receive no commission from them.

So a few hours later we arrived at Guilin and transferred to our hotel, the Holiday Inn Express in the centre of the city.

Next to the hotel was the entrance to an area of restaurants, cafes and street food stalls and as usual many maniac scooter riders.

In front of the hotel was a large open square where the locals could be seen doing their morning exercises to music. In the photo you can see a glass pyramid structure with further ones at the other corners.

We were intrigued by these and too a closer look. They were actually stairs leading down to a large underground shopping centre known as the “Little Hong Kong”, selling mainly cheap clothes and shoes and is apparantly well liked by students and others on a tight budget.

On the far side of the square was an area of childrens rides and a large number of tame doves that lived in this windmill.

On our way back to the hotel in the evening there was some sort of show taking place in the square which was being filmed by Guilin TV.

Note the little plastic stools, these are everywhere in China, in the markets, cafes, bars, outside the food stalls and wherever people wanted to sit for a rest.

In true “Uncle Bob’s Tours” fashion we found an Irish pub in a side road just off Zhengyang Pedestrian Street.

There was plenty to chose from on the menu, both Chinese and western dishes, I had the beef in black bean sauce which was delicious.

The following day we toook the short walk across the square and down Zhengyang Pedestrian Street towards the “two rivers and four lakes scenic area”.

The two rivers are the Li and the Taohua and four lakes are the Rong, Shan, Gui and Mulong. The Two Rivers and the Four Lakes form a continuous picturesque waterway through the center of Guilin City and there are plenty of boat trips for you to while away an hour or two.

One of the main attractions are the Sun and Moon pagodas. Originally built in the Tang dynasty in the mid 7th century they were reconstructed in the year 2000 when the lake was drained and the original foundations were uncovered.

The Sun Pagoda is the tallest bronze pagoda in the world and is one of the few pagodas in the world that has an elevator. The Moon Pagoda has an octagonal base, is coated with glazed tile, has seven stories, and is 35 m (115 ft) tall. A tunnel under the lake connects them and where there was a small display of relics from the original pagodas. The entrance fee was only 35Yuan each, (about £3.50).

When illuminated after dark they are stunningly beautiful!

We took a very pleasant walk around the lakes.

Cormorant taking a rest from catching fish

The lake wa a popular place for photo shoots.

In the morning we crossed the square where we were picked up by coach for the 20 mile journey to the River Li cruise terminal to board our boat for the 4 hour sightseeing journey along the river to Yangshuo.

There are 3 classes of boat, 3 star 4 star and 5 star, the main difference being that in the more expensive boats lunch is cooked and served on board but we opted for the cheaper option where snacks and drinks can be purchased which suited us better.

Again we were soon in demand by the locals for selfies with these strange foreigners!

Before long our flotilla was cruising past the karst mountains where many smaller rafts were also enjoying time on the river.

The cabin area was spacious and comfortable and we had assigned seats for the trip.

Inside the cabin (first class seats at the front)

There were open areas on the roof of the cabin and at each end on the cabin deck.

Small holiday areas were dotted along the river.

Enjoying a spot of fishing.

A traditional Junk.

A traditional fisherman on his bamboo raft with his tame cormorants. The birds have a string around their neck and when they catch a small fish they eat it but if they catch a lager fish that they can’t swallow they bring it back for the fisherman.

In the morning we strolled through town in the opposite direction from the lake and came across the entrance to Jingjiang Princes’ Palace. This was built between 1372 and 1392 AD during the Ming dynasty and is now the site of Guilin University and also a tourist attraction with a hotel.

During the 257 years from the building of the palace to the end of Ming dynasty, 14 kings from 12 generations lived here.

Very nice gardens and a lake

We decided not to climb to the top.

There was a shrine in a cave where many people were praying.

The normal food stalls.

Today was an Uncle Bob’s Scenic Tours T-shirt day.

So that was the end of our short visit to Guilin where we had a great time around the lake and the river and were looking forward to our next stop in Shenzen and look forward to bringing you our memories from there.

TTFN

Bibbley

Chongqing Part 3

The following day we set off for the Three Gorges Museum.

For those not familiar with the three gorges dam, which is officially known as Yangtze River Three Gorges Water Conservancy Project, this is a hydroelectric gravity dam that spans the Yangtze River near Sandouping in central China, downstream of the Three Gorges.

The dam is 2.3km wide and 185m high. It is the world’s largest power station by installed capacity (22,500 MW) and became fully operational in 2012 and construction was fully completed in 2015.

On completion, the reservoir behind the dam flooded a total area of 632 km² (156,000 acres) of land and over 1million people had to be relocated

Costing approximately $22.5billion the entire cost of the Three Gorges Dam was recovered by December 2020, only 8 years after starting electrical generation, a remarkable achievement.

The museum, free to enter for those over 60, as are most public sites in China, tells the story of the area that was flooded to form the reservoir and it’s construction and contains many interesting exhibits.

As we left the museum we were once again asked for photos with locals as we were pretty much the only non-Chinese people there.

On the opposite side of the square outside the museum stands the “Great Hall of the People”, properly called the “Chongqing People’s Auditorium”. This is a large hall used for meetings of the local communist party and other major public events and resembles the Temple of Heaven in Beijing.

Not sure wht these 2 were up to!

Returning to our hotel on the monorail we came across a local scenic street and decided to take a wander through it as it was downhill.

Plenty of cafes, souvenir shops and food stalls.

Anfd of course more photos with the locals.

Get your icecream in a souvenir mug to take home.

It was quite a warm day so we stopped for some refreshment on the way.

Later that evening back in our apartment I remembered our robot friend on the ground floor, charging himself up by the vending machine.

As you may remember I had installed an app called “WeChat” which is used for making payments and hailing taxis. There is also a facility for scanning QR codes and so I scanned the code on the small sign on our coffee table.

A few clicks later and I had ordered some Pringles and we waited with interest!

Five minutes later the doorbell rang and there was “Robbie the Robot” with my delivery, brought by him from the ground floor to our 43rd floor apartment, he can operate the lifts and is very polite when asking you to make room for him in the lift.

This was actually Robbie’s mate, “Miss Robbie”

On the way to deliver my Pringles

So ended our time in Chongqing which was an extremely interesting and memorable few days. At times we were very tired after walking around so much but it was totally worth it, if you get a chance to visit there then all 3 of us would totally recommend it.

Another day of travel tomorrow by high speed train to Guilin, I hope to see you all there.

TTFN

Bibbley

Chongqing Part 2

The following morning we set off to visit Liziba station on line 2 of the

Chongqing Rail Transit System opened in 2005. Line2 together with line 3 are the longest monorail sytem in the world, carrying up to 637,000 passengers per day.

The system utilizes heavy monorail technology, which is capable of navigating steep grades and tight curves, making it suitable for Chongqing’s mountainous terrain.

Map of the metro system. Our hotel is at the start of Line 1 near the centre of the map. We changed to Line 2 (green) and rode 6 stops to Liziba.

The station is unique in that it is located on the sixth to eighth floors of a 19-story residential building, with the monorail trains going through the middle of the building. It uses specialized noise reduction equipment to isolate station noise from the surrounding residence.

The station and building were actually constructed together as one whole structure, and the monorail was not retrofitted through the middle of an existing structure as some people think.

Photo courtesy of David290 – Wikipedia

The station is quite famous and the city has built a viewing platform beside the street below to cater for the many thousands of visitors. Plenty of street vendors here selling souvenirs, drinks, fridge magnets, ice creams etc.

Another of the way to get around the city and cross the river is the Yangtze River cableway.

The Yangtze River Cableway, which has been operating since 1984, is the major means of public transportation for people crossing the Yangtze River from Yuzhong district to Nan’an.

Although only half a mile from the hotel is was all uphill and quite a slog!

The Cableway, stretching 1,166m, with a one-way trip taking 5 to 6 minutes, is a tourist spot rather than public transportation nowadays.

The ticket office looking great in the spring sunshine.

With Gary at the cableway station on the far bank.

The usual shopping street with plenty of food choice.

Down by the river was an area of restaurants and souvenir shops, our hotel in the background.

It was soon time to cool off.

After relaxing for a while we headed back to our hotel and decided to go up to the 53rd floor, which is reached by a lift from the basement floor of the shopping mall beneath the hotel.

I was feeling quite giddy at the entrance, let alone on the 53rd floor!

Great views from up there, this is looking back to where we had just come from on the other side of the Yangtze river.

Standing on the edge and looking through the glass floor it looked a long way down!

Holding my breath and not looking down seemed the best option and I was soon on the far side of the glass floor, holdng on tightly to the hand rail.

Diane soon joined me, as did Gary.

I was feeling quite brave and there was a Chinese guy too frightened to walk on the glass floor but I led him forward and he finally made it and was very grateful to me for helping him.

Some nice photo spots up there.

Photos by Sadie Architects who designed the Raffles City Complex.

There is also a swing but fortunately this was closed for maintenance!

Walking along the roof is also an option but we all felt it was a bit too windy up there for us.

We looked around and found a simulator ride with VR headsets but the operator said we were too old, had to be younger that 60! Bloomin cheek!

Part 3 of Chongqing will come later and I hope you enjoyed today’s post.

TTFN

Bibbley

Chongqing Part 1

After another very fast and very smooth 1,000 km train ride we arrived in the mega city of Chongqing which sits at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing rivers in central China.

Although small in comparison with the railway stations in Beijing and Shanghai, Xi’An North station is still quite impressive, with plenty of shops and seating areas.

With a population of over 32,000,000 Chongqing is said to be the most populated city in the world.

A hair raising 30 minute taxi ride from the station to our hotel with a driver who must have been a stunt driver in “Fast and Furious”, weaving in and out of all 4 lanes of the motorway into the city centre we were soon at our hotel, The Ascott Raffles City in downtown Chongqing, right where the 2 rivers converge.

Raffles City Chongqing consists of eight skyscrapers situated on a site covering 9.2 hectares Atop four of the 250-metre-tall towers is an enclosed skyway, called the Crystal, with a swimming pool, bar and restaurant and a glass floor outdoor space which you can see in the photo below, but more on that later.

The two 350-metre-tall towers connect to the other 4, via a cantilever bridge. Two other 250-metre-tall towers are adjacent to these six.

The Raffles City complex has 1.12 million square metres of space, including 150,000m² of offices and 1,400 apartments, a hotel, and a 235,000m² 5 floor underground shopping mall, railway station and cruise ship terminal, all very impressive indeed.

Our 43rd floor apartment gave us great views over the rivers and the city.

We stayed in a 2 bedroom apartment with a comfy lounge / dining area, a spacious kitchen and separate laundry room where we took advantage of the washing machine to freshen up some of our clothes at this midpoint of our holiday.

Thwe following morning on our way out for the day we spotted this little chap by the vending machine in the reception area, but more of him later.

We walked down through the huge and very impressive shopping mall to Chaotianmen Square near the cruise terminal where ships leave for the 3 day trip up the Yangtze River to the 3 gorges dam.

Once outside there was something we didn’t expect, a field of tulips and a windmill.

Chaotianmen dock with the river cruise ships.

A pleasant half hour walk along the riverbank brought us to Hongya Cave, also known as Hongya Dong, an 11-story stilt-building structure built into the hillside along the southern bank of the Jialing river and one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.

The complex is believed to have functioned as a fortress from 1046 BC and Its history can be traced back to the Hongyang Gate, dated from the 14th century during the early Ming dynasty. Stilt houses (diaojiaolou) were built along the river bank and were populated until 1949. As the shipping industry declined and the diaojiaolou were left in disrepair before starting to be torn down in 2005, newer buildings in the style of the diaojiaolou were built in place. Construction of the new complex alongside preservation began in 2006.

Plenty of places to stop for a bite to eat or a drink, all the noodle and rice dishes here were 10Yuan, about £1, as were the bottles of cold beer, very welcome on a warm day!

This place really comes to life after dark when all the lights are turned on.

The view across the river.

Luckily there are lifts and escalators built into this 11 floor building and so it was easy to get to the top, Which strangely enough was also the ground floor as the whole of Chongqing is built into the side of a mountain.

We strolled a bit further into the city going uphill and were soon at a large square with many shops around the edge on the second floor, remember this is Chongqing and is not what it seems at first glance!

Walking over to the far side and looking down from what is the 2nd floor on the opposite side of the square is also the 22nd floor on this side!

This open square with its many shops is actually the roof of a hospital.

After that we decided we were very tired and thirsty after wandering around this hilly city and so found ourselves a nice noodle bar and a couple of beers.

Part 2 of our time in the fascinating city of Chongqing to follow later.

TTFN

Bibbley

The Terracotta Warriors

We took a taxi for the 45 minute ride to the site of the Terracotta Warriors and were happy to discover it was not too busy. Many videos on YouTube show huge crowds which luckily did not appear during our visit, however it was still fairly busy but easy enough to see everything in comfort.

The Terracotta Warriors is a collection of over 8,000 life-sized clay soldiers and horses created by the firsat emporer of China, Qin Shi Huang, to protect him in the afterlife.

Entrance tickets cost £12 for an adult but as usual seniors get in free, all you need to do is show your passport.

Arriving at the tourist centre we were quickly through the usual security checks and onto the electric buggy, (50p each extra for the ticket), for the half mile journey to the main site.

The whole site is quite new and very impressive.

We entered Pit 1 and the sight that greeted us was stunning!

There are 4 main pits, this, pit 1 being the largest, which is 230 m (750 ft) long and 62 m (203 ft) wide, contains the main army of more than 3,000 figures. It has eleven parallel corridors, most more than 3 m (10 ft) wide and paved with small bricks with a wooden ceiling supported by large beams and posts. This design was also used for the tombs of nobles and would have resembled palace hallways when built. The wooden ceilings were covered with reed mats and layers of clay for waterproofing, and then mounded with more soil raising them about 2 to 3 m (6 ft 7 in to 9 ft 10 in) above the surrounding ground level when completed.

The figures, dating from approximately 200 BC, were discovered in 1974 by local farmers in Lintong County about 20 miles from Xi’An. The figures vary in height according to their rank, the tallest being the generals. The figures include warriors, Chariots and horses. Estimates from 2007 were that the three pits containing the Terracotta Army hold more than 8,000 soldiers, 130 chariots with 520 horses, and 150 cavalry horses, the majority of which remain in situ in the pits. Other, non-military terracotta figures have since been found in other pits, including those of officials, acrobats, strongmen, and musicians.

Over the 2,000 years since being built the original roof covering has collapsed and the figures were lost under several feet of soil. Each figure is painstakingly uncovered and put back together by a team of archaeologists.

During our visit we watched a very impressive 3d film about the history of the warriors and had our photos taken which were superimposed on Terracotta figures.

I think I made a great High Ranking Officer! LOL

Diane as an archer.

There was a large display of reconstructed figures for a closer look.

The figures were originally painted but as soon as they are uncovered the paint quickly fades although some parts have been preserved.

I didn’t win at arm wrestling with a warrior!

Diane pretended to be a warrior just being uncovered! LOL

The site is huge and has it’s own fire station with a very cute fire engine.

Must be a love thing!

On the way out there was a range of gift shops and cafes.

This young guy was a warrior in the making!

I was made the Emporer of China for 20 minutes.

After a super day out we were soon back at our “English Pub” for a well earned beer.

The Terracotta Warriors is a world class and stunning place to visit, not to be missed if you visit China.

see you all tomorrow

TTFN

Bibbley

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Beijing

We arrived in Beijing at 6.30 AM and took a taxi to our hotel, about 20 miles for £4 which was great. Throughout our 3 week trip we extensively used taxis as they were amazingly good value, I soon got the hang of ordering them on the ‘we chat’ app which was so easy. The majority of bars and restaurants have QR codes on the table and when you scan them in the app it brings up the menu, usually with an English option and just tap on what you want to order, tap again to pay and that’s it, so simple when you get used to it.

After a quick shower we were soon off to the heart of Beijing, the forbidden palace and Tiananmen square, where I have to confess I made a grave error.

Tickets are required for the palace and I had managed to book and pay for these before we left home. Only £2 each and loaded onto my phone. You must also register online to pass the security barriers to enter Tiananmen Square. After looking around for an hour we sat on a low wall for a rest and a sip of water and then walked up to the security entrance where I realised I had lost my phone. Panic set in as all our train tickets, hotel reservations and my money was on the phone! how could I have been so careless! We found a security guy who spoke English and explained the situation, he phoned the police and an officer quickly turned up. With the aid of google translate he soon understood the situation and after a few minutes with Dianes’s phone he soon located my phone which had been handed in to the police. A 5 minute walk to the security office where it was and I was reunited with my phone, a great testiment to the honesty of Chinese people and helpfullness of the police.

Tiananmen Squre is huge, said to be the largest public square in the world.

In the afternoon we headed across the 12 lane road to the Palace.

The complex consists of 8,886 ( yes that is correct 8,886) rooms covering 178-acres and has to bee seen to be believed.

Plenty of women dressed in traditional outfits.

The buildings and huge courtards go on and on, you can just see the end in the top right of the photo.

Our hotel was just a 10 minute walk from the palace and after a long hot day of walking we ended up with a couple of cold beers and looked forward to day 2 in Beijing.

The Jade Garden Hotel, our home for 4 nights and one of the top traditional hotels in Beijing. More about Jade later in the holiday!

So ends our first day and see you all again tomorrow.

TTFN

Bibbley

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Xi’An

The following morning we set off for the bullet train journey to Xi’An, the former capital of China, from Beijing West railway station.

The 1,134km or 705 mile journey took took only 4hours and 20 minutes!

The excitement was just too much for Gary.

Our hotel for the next 3 nights was in the heart of the old town within the ancient city walls.

Being quite thirsty after the long journey we asked the receptionist if the hotel bar was open but unfortunately it was closed. Our faces lit up however when she drew us a map to “Beer Street” only a 5minute walk away, so off we sped.

A short while later we were sat outside the imitation English pub for a few bottles of Tsing Tao, the local brew which was very good. As luck would have it there was a special offer on beer which we took advantage of.

The following morning we set out for a look around the town.

The many food stalls were busy getting ready for the day ahead.

Diane soon found a jewellery store where Gary bought her a lovely pair of Jade earrings for an anniversary present.

As in everywhere we went in China it was all very clean, always workers sweeping the streets or washing the roads and pavements.

The Drum Tower of Xi’an, along with the Bell Tower is a symbol of the city and was built in 1380 during the Ming Dynasty, it stands towering above the city center and offers a great view of Xi’an.

In the distance you can see the Bell Tower.

The Drum Tower got its name from the huge drum located within the building. In contrast to the Bell Tower, where the bell was struck at dawn, the drum was beaten at sunset to indicate the end of the day.

The impressive arrays of drums are only on show and visitors are not allowed to touch any of them.

But of course some people cannot help themselves and Diane got her first, (and not last!) telling off from the security guards for banging the ancient drum.

Leaving the Drum Tower we set off for the ancient city walls, one of the 4 main entrance gates you can just see in the background.

The city walls buil;t in the 14th century are very impressive, stretching for 8 miles and marking the end, (or start?) of the silk road, the ancient trading route from China to Europe.

The Chinese took great interest in the security of their trade products, and extended the Great Wall of China to ensure the protection of the trade route.

By the first century AD, Chinese silk was widely sought after in Rome, Egypt, and Greece. Other lucrative commodities from the East included tea, dyes, perfumes, porcelain, gunpowder and paper; among Western exports coming East into China were horses, camels, honey, wine, and gold.

In the underpass on the way to the walls we came across some pretty ladies in traditional dress.

And an advert for a daily show which takes place at the entrance each evening.

Later that evening we strolled along to the Bell Tower which was stunning all illuminated and busy with girls having their photoshoots or doing live stream on TikTok.

So ended our first full day in Xi’AN

see you all tomorrow.

TTFN

Bibbley

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The Temple of Heaven

The following day we took a 20 minute taxi ride to the south east area of Beijing to visit the Temple of Heaven.

As you will recall yesterday was a holiday in China for the Qingming Festival, also known as Tomb Sweeping Day, a 2,500 year old traditional Chinese festival dedicated to honoring and making ritual offerings to their ancestors and so the whole weekend was going to be busy with families enjoying a trip out and the coming of spring.

Entering the park, (free for seniors as are many places in China), we strolled along the Long Corridor, this beautifully crafted walkway stretches 350 meters, curving gently through the park. At 5 meters wide, it offers ample space for a leisurely walk. Its intricate decorations are not only visually stunning but also a testament to the artistry of ancient Chinese architecture.

The Temple of Heaven was used as a site by emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties to offer sacrifice to heaven and pray for bumper harvests. The northern part of the Temple of Heaven is semicircular while the southern part is square, a pattern representing the ancient belief that “Heaven is round and Earth square”. Surrounded by a double wall, and covering an area of 273 hectares, it is divided into the Inner Temple and the Outer Temple by the double wall.

May local ladies dressed in traditional clothes and putting a few yen into the pot for good luck.

The Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests, is the most iconic structure of the Temple of Heaven. This magnificent building is known for its unique, circular design and that no nails were used in its construction. Built in 1420, the hall symbolizes the harmony between heaven and earth, which was central to the emperor’s role as the intermediary between the two realms.

The whole park was very peaceful to wander through once we got past the crowds at the temple.

After a couple of hours it was time to take a rest with a cup of coffee.

The second part of the day was to be a visit to the Summer Palace.

Here I must confess to an error in going to the wrong entrance and having to walk a mile or so through The Old Summer Palace which was built in 1707 and served as a residence for the emperor. It is considered the second Forbidden City. However, it was destroyed by French and British soldiers in 1860 and has never been rebuilt.

Anyway after a pleasant stroll we reached the Summer Palace which is a well preserved imperial garden and one of the largest of its kind still in existence in China today.

In 1750, Emperor Qianlong (who reigned from 1735 to 1796) ordered the rebuilding of the Garden of Clear Ripples (the original name of the Summer Palace) to celebrate his mother’s 60th birthday.

We decided not to climb up to the top of pagoda get a better view!

This photo courtesy of “China Highlights”

The Stone Boat, also known as the Marble Boat or Qingyanfang, is a lakeside pavilion located on Kunming Lake, near the western end of the lake. The boat was first built in 1755 and was later rebuilt by Empress Cixi in 1893, using funds meant for the navy.

On the way back to our hotel in central Beijing we stopped off at the olympic park, the setting of the 2008 summer olympics and home to the iconic birds nest stadium, ( I wonder what the structural steel contractor thought when he first saw the drawings!) and the water cube swimming complex.

The water cube has two 50m olympic size pools, a diving pool and a stunning fun pool with many slides and water features.

And so that ended our time in Beijing and over a beer in the evening we recounted our days in this remarkable city full of the ancient and historic side of China and looked forward to our next stop in Xi’An, home of the Terracotta Warriors.

See you all there later!

TTFN

Bibbley

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The Great Wall

We chose to visit the closest section of the Great wall of China today, (Friday), as we thought it would be quieter then leaving it to the weekend, (WRONG).

After a good night’s sleep after the long journey from London and a lot of walking around Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden Palace yesterday we met in reception at 9AM and stepped outside the hotel to find the road closed to traffic and very busy with pedestrians walking towards the Forbidden Palace.

I tried to book a taxi on WeChat but all were busy so decided to ask the hotel receptionest to call us a cab.

“You would like a taxi to the Great Wall at Badaling, today? now? really?” asked the receptionist.

“yes please” I replied, unaware of why he was looking at me as if I was a stupid foreigner asking for a ticket to visit the moon. Anyway the car soon arrived and off we went for the 25 mile 40 minute ride.

Two hours later after crawling up the motorway in a giant queue of traffic I noticed the road sign that said “Badaling, Great Wall 10 miles”. Another hour later and we were there! The fare just £10, feeling sorry for our poor driver who was obviously not going to earn much today I did tip him £5 for which he was very grateful.

So joining the queue for the shuttle bus from the car park to the entrance of the wall we googled todays date, April 4th, which brought up this.

The “Festival of Sweeping the Graves,” also known as Qingming Festival or Tomb-Sweeping Day, is a Chinese festival celebrated on April 4th or 5th each year. It’s a time for families to visit the tombs of their ancestors, clean the gravesites, and make ritual offerings. The festival is a way to honor and remember deceased ancestors, as well as to celebrate the arrival of spring. It is a public holiday and after cleaning the graves of your ancestors a chance to enjoy a day out.

Well that explained the thousands of people heading for a trip to the great wall.

Anyway with typical Chinese efficiency the queue moved swiftly and we were soon atop the wall after a short ride on the funicular railway.

What a view! The long journey was well worth it. The wall stretches off into the distance as far as the eye can see. The whole wall stretches for over 13,000 miles and was started over 2,00 years ago to protect China from invaders from the north and the section at Badaling is one of the best preserved sections and the closest to Beijing which also means it can be very busy at times.

We had finally made it to the wall !

After a walk along the wall admiring the view we decided not to join the masses climbing even higher and thought that a leisurely walk down the mountain would be much easier and enjoyable.

In the distance down below you can just see the car park full of buses ready to take visitors back to beijing.

Luckily there was a good path down!

A lone warrior stands guard and protects the wall, keeping a careful watch for invaders.

Halfway down there was a rest area with toilets and where you could buy an ice cream, a cold drink or some souvenirs. As we reached the entrance there were plenty of people just starting the long walk up to the top! Rather them than me I thought feeling glad we took the railway.

And so we headed back to Beijing on the bus for only 20p each feeling quite tired but so pleased we had reached one of the highlights of our journey.

Hope to see you all for the next installment of our trip.

TTFN

Bibbley

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A return to China 2025

Those of you who read my last post will remember that I had planned a 3 week trip to China with Gary and Diane and finsally the day had come and with all suitcase packed we left on April 2nd for the drive to Gatwick Airport.

After leaving the car at the off-site parking company a short shuttle bus ride took us to the north terminal and the first sight of our aircraft for the 9hour 40minute flight to Beijing, the capital city with Air China.

Settling into our seats we looked forward to visiting a completely different country and culture. Although I had been to China before the temperature was in the high 30’s and was not completely enjoyable and i didn’t make the most of my time there.

lunch was beef with rice which was pretty good and both Diane and I were pleased to see the wine on the drinks trolley.

Our first taste of Chinese wine and certainly not the last!

So ends our first day and see you all again tomorrow.

TTFN

Bibbley

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Going East Again !

China 2025

it’s been 2 years since I spent 3 weeks with Gary and Diane travelling around Japan in May 2023. We all agreed it was a great trip and well worth the long flights there and back.

Japan is a great place, very clean and with very friendly people, if you get a chance I would certainly recommend it.

So when I mentioned to them that I was thinking of going back to China which I visited back in 2018, we discussed it over a glass of wine and decided that Uncle Bob’s Tours would make another 3 week trip to take in as much of this country as possible.

Over the coming weeks we chatted about it many times and I put forward an itinerary which they both said looked great and so arrangements were made with flights and hotels booked.

Itinerary

Wednesday April 2nd

Our tour starts with a leisurely drive to London Gatwick airport for the lunchtime Air China flight to Beijing China.

We will be staying at the centrally located Jade Garden Hotel which is only a five minute walk to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden Palace and a short metro or taxi ride to the rest of this fascinating city.

The Birds Nest Stadium the home of the 2008 olympics.

One of the highlights of Beijing will be a trip to the Great Wall of China.

Beijing Hutongs – Best Place to Know the History & Culture of Beijing

Taking in the atmosphere of old Beijing while strolling through the alleyways of the Hutongs where many original houses and shops are located will be so interesting.

How many entrances and exits to the Summer Palace? - Ruqin China Travel

A short metro ride will take us to the summer palace

Top 8 place to visit in Beijing Summer Palace | Beijing Walking Tours

After a few days in Beijing we will take the bullet train and soon be in China’s ancient capital of Xi’An

Xi’An city walls

The Wild Goose Pagoda

Breathtaking Tourist Attractions in Xi'an, China | Vietjet Air

The Bell and Drum towers

And of course the Terracotta warriors

Another bullet train will swiftly transport us to Chongqing, a city on the banks of the Yangtze river.

We will be staying in the Ascott Raffles City Hotel on the banks of the Yangtze river for a few days in this megacity

Taking in the sights of this super city , that’s quite a shopping mall!

Scenery of Tiansheng Sanqiao scenic area in Wulong district of Chongqing

Also planning to visit the Tiansheng Sanqiao scenic area

Tiansheng Sanqiao scenic area in Wulong District | Tiansheng… | Flickr

Then off to Guilin to check in to the Holiday Inn Express

Holiday Inn Express Guilin City Center by IHG, Guilin (updated prices 2025)

Guilin & Yangshuo China Trip Report - Tiny Urban Kitchen

Day in Hangshuo and river cruise through the Avatar mountains.

Deluxe 4 Star Li River Cruise Yangshuo to Yangdi - Li River Cruises

the seve star park near Guilin

Seven Star Park - Qixia Buddhist Temple,Guilin Qixing Gongyuan Travel Photos,Images & Pictures of Seven Star Park - Guilin Holiday

Shenzen will be our next destination in the deep south of China and just a few miles from Hong Kong

Louwu Shopping Centre And Where To Get Clothing Made in Shenzhen

the largest electronics shopping malls on earth

Take the metro we will be in Hong Kong in just 25 minutes.

Shenzen has many beautiful parks as well as a bustling nightlife

Then 1000 miles to Shanghai to our hotel on the historic Bund area

SSAW Boutique Hotel Shanghai Bund, Shanghai - Updated Price, Reviews & HD Photos | Hotels.com

A night view of the skyscrapers in Shanghai, China. (Shutterstock)

Jingan temple, a Buddhist temple in Shanghai, China. (Shutterstock)

A general view of the exterior of Yu Garden, Shanghai, China, Oct. 14, 2024. (Photo by İlker Topdemir)

Morning Exercises in Shanghai People''s Park

Shanhghai tower

2025 Shanghai Tower Observation Deck Admission Ticket - with Reviews

View from the Observation deck at Shanghai Tower

evening river cruise

Zhujiajiao Water Village

Shanghai's Ancient Water Towns: A Trip to the Past - My Magic Earth

Our final day to in Shanghai will end by taking the fastest train in the world, the Maglev to the airport for the overnight trip back to London.

Surveying the World's Fastest Trains, and a Possible New Entry to the List | Planetizen News

I will try and do a blog most days and look forward to your company and comments on what we hope will be a truly fascinating trip.

TTFN

Bibbley

Amalfi

After spending a relaxing few days in the charming “Mediterranean Rooms” in Castellammare Di Stabia, it was time for a trip out, my destination? Amalfi, Excitement flowed through me as I boarded the train from Castellammare Di Stabia to Sorrento, eagerly anticipating the stunning sights that awaited me.

As the train chugged along, I couldn’t help but marvel at the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The azure waters sparkled under the warm sun, creating a captivating scene. It was as if I was immersing myself in a real-life postcard. The short train journey was an opportunity to let my mind wander and soak in the serenity that surrounded me.

Upon arriving in Sorrento, I made my way to the NLG fast jet ferry station, eager to continue my journey along the coastline.

The ferry ride from Sorrento to Amalfi was nothing short of magnificent. The ferry glided through the crystal-clear waters, allowing me to admire the dramatic cliffs and colorful houses perched precariously on the cliffs’ edge. Nature’s beauty was on full display, and I couldn’t help but be in awe of this breathtaking coastal scenery.

As I stepped foot in Amalfi, I was immediately engulfed in a sense of chaos. The narrow lanes were bustling with activity, filled with tourists and locals alike. The fragrant aroma of Italian cuisine filled the air, enticing me to explore the multitude of restaurants that lined the streets. From homemade pasta to freshly caught seafood, Amalfi provided a gastronomic feast for the senses.

The narrow lanes were also home to numerous souvenir shops, offering an array of local crafts and trinkets. I couldn’t resist picking up a few souvenirs to remind me of this vibrant and lively town. It was both a challenge and an adventure navigating through the bustling streets, but the energy and liveliness surrounding me made it all worthwhile.

The time came to bid farewell to Amalfi and begin my journey back to Castellammare Di Stabia. Weary from a day filled with exploration, I found solace in the comfortable seats of the ferry. The tiredness washed over me as I allowed myself to relax and reflect on the incredible experiences of the day.

As the boat gently rocked, I closed my eyes and replayed the stunning sights, the chaotic streets, and the flavorsome tastes of Amalfi. The memories seemed almost dreamlike, blending seamlessly with the gentle rhythm of the sea. With a contented sigh, I drifted off to sleep, knowing that I had experienced a day of unforgettable beauty and adventure.

In conclusion, my trip from the Mediterranean Rooms in Castellammare Di Stabia to Sorrento by train, followed by the fast jet ferry to Amalfi, was a whirlwind of stunning scenery, bustling streets, and mouthwatering cuisine. The Amalfi Coast had captivated me with its natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere, leaving me with cherished memories to treasure. As I journeyed back, weary but content, I couldn’t help but be grateful for the opportunity to have experienced this slice of Italian paradise.

Off to Rome tomorrow.

TTFN

Bibbley

Onwards and upwards to Castellammare Di Stabia

After checking out of the Zara Hotel in the rundown neighborhood of Naples station, I made my way to Naples Garibaldi Station for the train journey to Castellammare Di Stabia.

As I approached the station, I couldn’t help but notice the long queues at the ticket office, stretching out like a never-ending serpent.

It seemed as though the travelers there were stuck in a time warp, waiting patiently in line to purchase their train tickets. I couldn’t help but wonder, why don’t they just use contactless payment like I did?

I breezed past the ticket office, feeling a sense of satisfaction as I tapped my bank card on the electronic ticket gate. It was a seamless process, quick and efficient. The convenience of modern technology had certainly spoiled me, and I couldn’t fathom why anyone would willingly subject themselves to the tedium of standing in those queues.

As the train chugged away from the city, I gazed out of the window, eagerly anticipating the sights that lay ahead. It didn’t take long for Mt. Vesuvius to come into view, its majestic silhouette looming over the horizon like a guardian of the land. The thought of the immense power that volcano held in its slumber was both awe-inspiring and humbling.

Continuing on our journey, we passed by the ancient ruins of Pompeii, a place frozen in time by the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius. The remnants of this once-thriving city served as a poignant reminder of the impermanence of human civilization.

Finally, the train pulled into the charming town of Castellammare Di Stabia. I stepped onto the platform with a sense of excitement and anticipation. The Mediterranean Rooms awaited me, promising a cozy haven in this picturesque coastal town. As I walked through the charming streets, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to explore the rich history and natural beauty of this region. My Italian adventure was far from over, and I couldn’t wait to see what new experiences lay ahead in Castellammare Di Stabia.

I messaged Anna, the owner of the Mediterranean Rooms as she had instructed me to do upon my arrival. Within minutes, my phone buzzed with a reply. She provided me with clear instructions on how to access the keys, and I was grateful for her prompt response.

The front door to the Mediterranean Rooms clicked open, and I stepped inside. The first thing that struck me was the spaciousness and cleanliness of the room. It was a breath of fresh air after a long day of travel. The pristine white walls and tasteful decor gave the room a welcoming ambiance. Sunlight streamed in through the window, casting a warm glow over the space.

I couldn’t help but feel a sense of contentment as I settled into my temporary home. The comfortable bed beckoned to me, promising a restful night’s sleep. The Mediterranean Rooms felt like a hidden gem, and I knew I had made the right choice for my stay in Castellammare Di Stabia.

As I unpacked my belongings and took in the tranquil atmosphere, I marveled at how technology had made my journey so much smoother, from the contactless payment at the train station to the instant communication with Anna. It was a reminder of how far we had come in simplifying the travel experience, and I couldn’t help but appreciate these modern conveniences that made exploring the world all the more enjoyable.

You may have noticed in a previous photo that the railway station in Castellammare has another purpose, it is also the lower station for the cable car to the top of Mount Faito. So in a reckless moment of haste I purchased a return ticket and entered the cable car station.

As there were 10 minutes to wait I looked around and could see into the motor room with the winding gear spinning away and the electric motors humming quietly.

The cable car slowly began its ascent, and as we gained elevation, the world below transformed into a breathtaking panorama. To the east, the majestic Vesuvius loomed, its iconic silhouette dominating the horizon. Its history of destruction juxtaposed with the serene beauty of the moment.

Leaving the lower station and crossing the Naples to Sorrento railway line

The views extended far beyond Vesuvius, revealing a patchwork of vibrant green forests and the azure waters of the Gulf of Naples. The Amalfi Coast stretched along the coastline, each charming village nestled against the cliffs like precious gems in a necklace.

As we reached the summit of Mount Faito, I disembarked and marveled at the cool mountain air. There was a sense of peace up here, a world away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. I wandered along scenic trails, the scent of pine trees filling the air.

At the top an advertising sign invited me to jump off the mountain!

There many trails around the mountain tops for walkers and cyclists

As the day drew to a close, I descended in the cable car once more, and the timing couldn’t have been more perfect. A magnificent sunset unfolded over the bay, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. Sorrento, bathed in the soft, warm light, looked like something out of a dream.

This cable car journey had been a revelation, a tapestry of natural beauty, history, and tranquility woven together. It was a day etched into my memory, a reminder of the wonders that await those who seek adventure in the enchanting region of Campania

And so that ends the day here, hope to see you all tomorrow.

TTFN

Bibbley

Naples Tour

Exploring Naples on Bus

As I woke up in my cozy room at Hotel Zara in Naples, Italy, the anticipation of exploring this historic city filled me with excitement. The morning sun streamed through the curtains, casting a warm golden glow on the walls. I knew it was going to be a scorching day, but the desire to discover the beauty of Naples outweighed the discomfort of the heat.

After a refreshing shower and a quick breakfast in the hotel’s charming dining area, I headed out. The air was already thick with warmth, and the bustling streets of Naples were alive with energy. I navigated the narrow, winding streets, taking in the vibrant sights and sounds of this ancient city.

My destination was the “Largo Castello,” where I intended to purchase a ticket for the City Sightseeing Bus Tour of Naples. The idea of exploring this captivating city on an open-top bus sounded like the perfect way to see its many attractions. The walk to Largo Castello was an adventure in itself. Cobblestone streets led me past quaint cafes, enticing gelato shops, and local vendors selling colorful trinkets.

Upon reaching Largo Castello, I was greeted by the imposing Castel dell’Ovo, a historic fortress perched on the seafront. Its ancient stone walls echoed with tales of centuries past. The ticket booth for the bus tour was conveniently located nearby, and I joined a small line of fellow travelers eager to embark on the adventure.

With ticket in hand, I eagerly boarded the City Sightseeing Bus, choosing Route A to explore the historic heart of Naples first. The bus meandered through the bustling Spaccanapoli Street, where narrow alleys opened up to reveal stunning churches, vibrant piazzas, and the rich tapestry of Neapolitan life.

The scent of freshly baked pizza wafted from local pizzerias, a reminder that Naples is the birthplace of this beloved dish.

The highlight of Route A was undoubtedly the Naples National Archaeological Museum. Although I didn’t have time to explore its treasures fully, I vowed to return later in my journey.

As the bus continued its journey, I marveled at the grandeur of Piazza del Plebiscito and the stunning Royal Palace of Naples, a testament to the city’s rich history.

Next, it was time for Route B, which promised breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples. The bus ascended the hilly roads, and my anticipation grew with each turn. As we reached the highest point, the vista that greeted me was nothing short of spectacular. The deep blue waters of the bay stretched out to the horizon, with the majestic silhouette of Mount Vesuvius in the distance. It was a view that left me in awe, a perfect reminder of the natural beauty that Naples possesses.

As the bus tour came to an end, I disembarked back at Largo Castello, grateful for the opportunity to explore this enchanting city. With memories of historic streets, delicious pizza, and stunning bay views etched in my mind, I returned to Hotel Zara, my heart full of the magic of Naples.

Some very large cruise ships in the port

My last night in Naples and taking the 1 hour train journey to Castellammare di Stabia tomorrow. Hope you will join me there.

TTFN

Bibbley

Naples and Sorrento

My journey from. Budapest to Naples went smoothly. A leisurely 10 minute stroll from my apartment to the bus stop to catch the 100E airport express which runs every 10 minutes in the daytime for the half hour journey.

No need to pre book or buy a ticket, just tap your contactless bank card and that’s it. Sit back and relax as your driver speeds his bendybus at breakneck speed through the suburbs and on to the Ferenc Liszt International Airport.

My Ryanair flight left on time and arrived into Naples 10 minutes early. Straight through the airport in 5 minutes, no passport or customs checks and just a 100m walk to the airport bus to the city centre. Again, just tap on and that’s it, the bus stops at the main railway dtation, where I got off and then carries on to the city centre a short distance away.

Now, I have been to Naples before, a few years ago and so was not shocked at how rundown the area around the station is. So if you go there, I have warned you!

So I picked my way past the literally hundreds of taxis beeping their horns at every moment, even if a pigeon flies in front of them it gets a dozen or more honks.

On past the cardboard city of homeless people, picking my way carefully through the potholes and missing cobbles and arriving 5 minutes later at the hotel Zara.

There was a 20 foot high sign on the wall with “hotel Zara” in neon but it did take me a few minutes to actually find it.

There it was, a small bell beside a large iron door. One press and the lock buzzed moments later and I swung open the door and stepped inside.

I was a bit taken aback by the scene which greeted me of dilapidated walls and floors like a scene from a disused building in a horror film.

Once I had checked in however I was relieved that the rooms were as good as the website photos.

The following morning I was back at the station but not at the main line Napoli Centrale but Napoli Garibaldi, which is below Centrale and operated by a different train company.

From here you can get to Mount Vesuvious, Pompei and Sorrento amongst many other places in this lovely part of Italy. Just over an hour later we pulled into the terminus station of Sorrento which I remembered well from my previous visit.

Walking from the station into town you may notice the cannabis shop.

Once you reach the main piazza there is some lovely architecture.

On past the piazza a myriad of small lanes spread out, containing shops, bars restaurants and souvenir stalls

Plenty of leather goods giving off that delightful smell of new leather.

Looking back down the main street with the mountains in the background.

A little further on I stopped for lunch in this lovely little snack bar.

Just a few feet away there was an antiques market with all sorts on sale, especially locally produced porcelain.

And fish and chips pub if you want a change from pizza

Sorrento town is on top of the cliffs and it is a fair climb down. Luckily there is a lift for 1 Euro if you don’t fancy the walk back up.

Down at the ferry port departures are for Capri, Sorrento, and Amalfi amongst other places.

So, after a great day I slowly walked to the station to catch the train back to Naples.

TTFN

Bibbley

The Blue Danube

This morning I thought that I can’t come to Budapest without going on a boat trip on the Danube River.

After looking at the many available trips on on offer I settled on the “Legend” operator as they had excellent reviews. Their jetty on the river was only a 10 minute walk from my apartment so on this beautifully sunny day I was soon on board. Plenty of room on the boat and soon one of the hostesses was around to take our orders for a complimentary drink.

So with my cold beer in hand we were soon off up the Danube and past many of the places I visited yesterday.

This bus tour around the city which then cruises up the river looks fun!

After about 40 minutes we arrived at St. Margaret’s Island where you could get off for for a stroll around and get a later boat back.

This couple were having their wedding photos taken in the Japanese garden on the island.

The Citadel atop this hill was built with the cannons facing the city to keep the locals in order rather than keep invaders out.

On past the presidents Palace and Buda castle.

The parliament was built on the Pest side of the river to give the citizens some say in things as the presidents Palace was on the Buda side of the river

And so off for a late lunch. What will it be?

I took the safe option of pizza and a beer

And so that ends my short trip to Budapest. I had a very enjoyable time and will see you all in Italy tomorrow.

TTFN

Bibbley

Budapest

Arriving in Budapest from Zadar, Croatia, was a breeze. No airport hassles, and soon, I was aboard the express bus hurtling towards the heart of the city. The ride whisked me through the outskirts, and before I knew it, I’d arrived at my rental, the “Charming Studio by the Danube.” Despite the street’s renovation, I was unfazed.

A brisk shower later, I ventured out and was surprised to find myself near where I’d stayed during my 2019 visit. Just a stone’s throw away, the mighty Danube greeted me. My eyes were drawn to an imposing building by the green bridge, so I headed over to explore.

So with some supplies of wine and snacks in hand, I couldn’t resist stopping for a quick beer at a bar on the Pest side of the river where my apartment is, savoring the city’s vibes, watching the boats go serenely by and thinking of tomorrow’s trip to the castle on the Buda side of the river.

After a refreshing cup of coffee in the morning i venture out into the bright morning sun. I had decided to visit the historic Buda castle today.

As I stroll along the picturesque riverbank, I encounter an array of grand river cruise boats. Their size and comfort promising an idyllic week cruising down the Danube for those lucky enough to be on board.

The cruisers looking resplendent in the morning sun

Crossing the iconic Elizabeth Bridge, I find myself at the Buda end, greeted by the soothing sight of a lovely waterfall. The sound of rushing water blends with the melodies of the city.

Lovely waterfall at the end of the bridge

Continuing my journey, I explore the serene castle gardens, each step revealing a glimpse of the castle’s historical significance.

To reach the castle itself, I opt for the charming funicular railway, which gently ascends the hill, offering breathtaking views of Budapest below.

Exiting the funicular railway, I couldn’t resist the urge to turn around and soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the majestic River Danube stretching out before me. The sun was shining warmly, casting a golden glow over the landscape, making it an ideal day for exploring.

Looking down at the chain Bridge, once the largest in the world

With curiosity piqued, I decided to start by touring Buda Castle. As I wandered through its ancient walls and courtyards, I was captivated by the sheer beauty of the ramparts and towers that whispered tales of centuries gone by. The historical charm was enchanting, and I felt like I had stepped back in time.

What surprised me, however, was the juxtaposition of modernity amidst this historic setting. As I strolled through the cobbled streets, I stumbled upon a Starbucks and even a Hilton Hotel nestled among the ancient buildings. It was a peculiar blend of old and new, a testament to the evolving nature of cities like Budapest.

Starbucks get everywhere! Have seen them in China, Kazakhstan and even Mongolia.

With each step, I felt a deeper connection to this city, a place where the past seamlessly intertwined with the present. Budapest had stolen a piece of my heart, leaving me eager to uncover more of its hidden treasures and unravel more of its stories.

And so ended my first day in Budapest, see you all tomorrow.

TTFN

Bibbley

Zadar to Budapest. September 6th

I stepped out of my apartment in Zadar, suitcase in hand, ready for the next part of my holiday. Today I am bound for Budapest, a city known for its stunning architecture and the majestic blue Danube that flows through its heart. With a few hours to spare before my flight, I decided to take a leisurely stroll along the promenade.

The promenade stretches along the coastline, offering a panoramic vista of the Adriatic Sea and countless islands in the distance. The crystal-clear waters sparkled in the sunlight, creating a mesmerizing display of hues.

Coming across a quiet spot along the promenade, I settled down on a bench surrounded by pampas grass. Through a gap in the grass, I caught sight of a magnificent sailing ship gliding across the horizon.

Its sails billowed elegantly, casting a shadow on the calm sea beneath. It was a sight that seemed straight out of a postcard, a scene of serene perfection.

As the sailing ship disappeared from view, I sighed contentedly, glad for this brief interlude of serenity amidst the flurry of travel. So I collected my thoughts and prepared for the journey ahead.

My time in Zadar had been a memorable one, filled with unexpected encounters and breathtaking scenery. As I left the promenade, I carried with me the image of the sailing ship, forever etched in my memory. It served as a reminder to appreciate the beauty in simple moments and to embrace the wonders that lay beyond every horizon.

With a renewed sense of anticipation and a heart filled with wanderlust, I made my way to the airport, looking forward to exploring the enchanting city of Budapest, and the blue Danube.

I am writing this from my seat in the cafe where a 300ml bottle of ber is 5 Euros rather than 3.50 Euros in town. Must sip it and make it last !

See you all in Budapest.

TTFN

Bibbley

Zadar – 5th September

Zadar to Ugljan

As I strolled through Zadar’s old town, the centuries of history seemed to whisper in every cobblestone beneath my feet. The narrow, winding streets were adorned with charming, weathered buildings which glinted in the morning sun.

I could hear the distant chime of church bells echoing through the alleys as I made my way towards the waterfront. The wind was brisk tousling my hair and carrying with it the scent of the sea.

As I approached the waterfront, the sound of waves slapping against the ancient stone walls grew louder, filling the air with a soothing rhythm.

The ferry to Preko on the island of Ugljan was my destination, I had bought my ticket online whilst having a cup of coffee an hour ago.

The water sparkled with shades of blue and green, promising a smooth crossing.I was early for the ferry so just relaxed on a nearby bench watching the many ferries and pleasure craft coming and going,

I boarded the ferry, feeling the anticipation of the island adventure ahead. The ferry’s engines roared to life, and we glided away from the historic town, leaving behind its timeless beauty.

As we crossed the Adriatic, the wind continued to whip around the ferry, but the sea remained fairly calm. I stood at the railing, gazing out at the open water, where the islands of the Zadar archipelago beckoned. The sun bathed the scene in a warm, golden glow, casting a serene tranquility over the journey.

With each passing minute, the island of Ugljan drew closer, a rugged coastline of lush greenery and hidden coves. As the ferry docked in Preko, I disembarked, feeling the excitement of exploring this snall coastal town.

Looking back toward Zadar with the mountains in the background topped by the clouds

The wind may have been a constant companion but I couldn’t help but smile, knowing that I was about to uncover the hidden treasures of Ugljan, a gem in the Adriatic waiting to be explored.

After a couple of hours it was soon time to board the Silba for the short journey back to Zadar

A beautiful sunset marks the end of a lovely day

Preko was snall, peaceful and very delightful. Plenty of people hiking and biking and a perfect place for a relaxing break,

So I am off now for a glass of wine and will catch up with you all tomorrow in Budapest, Hungary for part 2 of this trip.

TTFN

Bibbley

Zadar, Croatia, September 3rd – 4th 2023

Delayed Flight, Efficient Arrival

My flight from Bournemouth with Lauda Air started well but soon after we were seated and ready to go we experienced a 1-hour delay due to air traffic control issues.

but once we landed at Zadar Airport, everything went smoothly. Passport control and customs were impressively efficient, taking only 10 minutes from the plane to the bus that would take me to the old town.

I relied on Google Maps to guide me through the narrow cobbled lanes of Zadar to my apartment.

The old town has many narrow lanes with bars. Restaurants and shops.

Very clean and comfy apartment in the heart of the Old town

After a quick shower to freshen up, I ventured out to find some food. I stumbled upon a cozy spot that offered good value pepperoni pizza for only 4 Euros, and I couldn’t resist pairing it with a couple of cold beers. It was the perfect way to kick off my couple of days in Zadar.

The next morjing as I stepped out of my apartment in the heart of Zadar’s old town, I was immediately captivated by the charming cobblestone streets and the historical architecture that surrounded me. The air was filled with a mix of sea breeze and the scent of local cuisine wafting from nearby restaurants.

My first destination was the famous Sea Organ, a unique musical instrument played by the waves of the Adriatic Sea. As I approached, I could hear the hauntingly beautiful melodies emanating from the marble steps along the waterfront. Sitting there, watching the waves create their symphony, I felt an instant connection with this enchanting coastal city.

Pipes within the steps produce haunting sounds as the waves push air through them.

Leaving the Sea Organ behind, I strolled along the bustling harbor. The harbor was a vibrant hub of activity, with tour boats and ferries coming and going, each one promising exciting adventures to nearby islands and picturesque coastal towns. The colorful boats bobbed gently in the turquoise waters, their crews preparing for another day of exploration.

As I walked along the waterfront promenade, I couldn’t help but be mesmerized by the view of the distant islands on the horizon. The crystal-clear waters of the Adriatic glistened under the warm Mediterranean sun, casting a tranquil spell over the entire scene.

I took my time, savoring the atmosphere, the scent of salt in the air, and the sense of history that lingered in every narrow alley and ancient stone wall. My first day in Zadar had already become a very enjoyable holiday.

Hope you can join me for some more from Zadar next time.

TTFN

Bibbley

Off again for a short trip

I hope you enjoyed reading of my last trip to Japan with my good friends Diane and Gary. It was certainly a great place to visit and I thoroughly recommend it.

the people are so friendly and welcoming, the places are very safe and clean. we all had a great three weeks.

it was quite warm so we enjoyed a cold beer in Kyoto

Mount Fuji

we survived a minor earthquake whilst staying near mount Fuji which was quite exciting but nobody was hurt.

So I am off on Sunday September 3rd on a short trip to Zadar in Croatia, Budapest in Hungary and Naples, Sorrento, Amalfi and Rome in Italy.

I have been to all these places before but just wanted a relaxing holiday for 2 weeks in the sun with great sights, good food and great wine, so i hope you join me again for another ‘Uncle Bobs scenic tours’.

in the bamboo forest

I will leave Bournemouth airport on Sunday 3rd September 2023 on a flight operated by Lauda Air, on behalf of Ryan Air. For those of you not into motor racing, Lauda Air was started and owned by Niki Lauda,

former F1 world champion Niki lauda .

Lauda Air

As it is also the Bournemouth Air festival this week I hope I catch a glimpse of the world famous Red Arrows RAF display team who will be operating from Bournemouth airport this weekend.

The red arrows

So having started to pack my case and got some Euros and Hungarian Forints I feel I am nearly on my way to a bit of late summer sun and hope you will join me.

please contact me or comment on my blog and I will try and reply to you all.

TTFN

Bibbley

Akihabara – our last day in Tokyo

We didn’t want to go far on our last day and so headed to Akihabara just a 5 minute train ride away.

This is a district in central Tokyo famous for electronic goods and is the centre for the anime and manga culture.

Akihabara is also the major centre for J-Pop the teen music industry.

Diane was doing her best to mix it with the all girl teen bands!

Plenty of small electronics shops and thousands of vending machines.

The area also has plenty of ‘maid cafes’ where the waitresses are dressed up as French maids and chat with customers whilst serving their food.

Plenty of big multi floor electronic stores

This store was selling second hand cameras

Action figures were everywhere, this shop had an original Robbie the robot giant toy from the 1960s.

In the huge amusement centres were rows and rows of slot machines, the noise was deafening.

In one store Diane spotted a super fridge but Gary was not impressed.

Smoking is not allowed in the street and I noticed this sign on a door

And so, too soon we were on the 10.33 train back to the airport

The tower we visited a couple of weeks ago was shrouded in cloud on a dull rainy day

And that was it. A long tiring journey ahead of us as we thought back over a super 3 weeks in Japan. Time to plan my next holiday!

TTFN

Bibbley

The last 2 days – back to Tokyo

The following day saw us back at Shin Kobe Station for the train back to Tokyo. Three and half hours scorching through the Japanese countryside at 170mph.

The following day we took the expres local train to the seaside town of Kanagawa, an hour southwest of Tokyo.

Our first stop was a visit to ‘Taiizan Kotoku-in Shojosen-ji’ or more commonly referred to as the great Buddah, one of the most famous icons in Japan.

The Buddah stands 11.3 m tall and weighs in at 121 tons.

He was built in the 13th century and is still in original condition, having never been restored.

Just down the road was the 100yen, (70p) gift shop.

All around this coastal town were Tsunami evacuation route signs.

Down the road was the seashore with a few people taking g to the water.

Windsurfing and paddle boarding seemed popular.

Diane and I enjoying some delicious crepes.

This cafe offered you the chance to pet an owl whilst sipping your coffee.

And soback to Tokyo and thinking of our last day in Japan tomorrow.

TTFN

Bibbley

Nunobiki Herb Gardens & Waterfall

I am not a Gardner myself but must admit the gardens were delightful

Plenty of sculptures amongst the herbs and flowers

The ‘statue of love’ presented by the city of Terni in Italy, the home of St. Valentine.

The various herb gardens were grouped into the food they could be used for

The glasshouse had a superb terrace, coffee shop and restaurant

There are 12 themed gardens along the downward path

A bit further down was a small shelter with a recreation of an old kitchen and seats to rest our feet

Some rest areas on the way down with great views

Diane decided to put her feet up for a minute or two.

For the last hour the path had sloped gently down and there were plenty of seats to rest our feet.

At least the trees gave some shade from the midday sun.

An hour down the path and we reached Nunobiki waterfall.

It was very peaceful and relaxing to sit for a while

A sign said it was only 350m to the railway station where we started. A nice gently sloping path stretched out in front of us.

A short distance further down was another waterfall.

50m further on the path started to drop steeply. This last 350m took about half an hour of trying not to fall off the mountain

Back in Kobe Diane sent us both a message, “I had a super day but no more **&%x** cables cars!”

So that was end of our time in Kobe. See you all tomorrow.

TTFN

Bibbley

Kobe Day 2 – Mount Rokko, the way up.

Whilst having a relaxing drink yesterday, Diane asked “what shall we do tomorrow, any suggestions?”

“Well one of the main attractions is the Nunobiki herb Gardens and waterfalls on Mount Rokko” I suggested,

” on a mountain? Replies Diane, looking at me suspiciously, ” how do we get there? No more cable cars I hope” obviously thinking back to our trip to Miyajima a few days ago.

“It’s only a short one, just a couple of minutes” I replied, crossing fingers under the table to cover up my lies!

Diane looked suspiciously at me as she agreed. “We can walk down to see the waterfall as well, so only a quick one way trip on the cable car.

A few months ago whilst researching places to go I had read about Mount Rokko, Google told me;

‘Mount Rokko at 931m (3054 feet) is the highest peak in the Rokko mountain range giving spectacular views overlooking the cities of Kobe and Osaka. ‘

Oh well, I thought, as I sipped my rather nice Kirin, Japanese beer, better keep that to myself!

So in the morning we had a nice breakfast of coffee and pastries in the French Boulangerie opposite the hotel we returned to Shin Kobe Station and soon found the entrance to the cable car station next door.

While buying our one way tickets the lady at the ticket office looked at Gary and asked if he was sure he didn’t want a return ticket, ‘it’s quite a long way down, are you sure you can walk that far?’

I was giggling to myself as we got on the cable car,

The door was closed and we were soon on our way up the mountain.

Not far Diane, only another 3000 feet to go!

Soon the cable car station loomed above us and Diane started to relax and took some photos. The cable car lurched into the station and she saw the sign “middle station”

“Oh no, not again” exclaimed Diane as our car swung upwards once more. A few minutes later we were at the top on solid ground.

After the ride up I think Diane actually wanted a large glass of wine but settled for a coffee instead.

In part 2 we wander around the beautiful gardens and begin our decent of the mountain.

TTFN

Bibbley

Kobe

Was surprised to see a Toyota 2000 GT in the lobby.

The hotel is situated on a pedestrianised shopping arcade about a mile long.

Gary had lost his reading glasses but found some in the 100Yen (70p) shop

We walked down to the port area expecting to see the Kobe Tower.

What we actually saw was this! The tower was undergoing renovation.

An impressive hotel by the cruise terminal

The Kobe tower looking very unimpressive.

Kobe suffered a massive earthquake in 1995, damaging 240,000 homes killing nearly 5,000 people. A small section of the port area was not rebuilt and has been left as a memorial. In top left of this photo you can see one side of the concrete area moved about 6 feet in 20 seconds , ripping the city in half.

In the last 25 years the city has been rebuilt and strengthened.

It was a hot day and we soon found we were in China Town.

We soon found a little place for a cold beer in Chinatown

That endedour first few hours in Kobe, more to come tomorrow.

TTFN

Bibbley

Hiroshima – Day 2

The following day we decided to take a trip to Miyajima Island, just a 45 minute fast ferry ride from near the bomb dome, in the Sea of Japan.

Diane doing a Kate Winslet Titanic impression.

Mount Misen on Miyajima Island (more about this later)

One of the things the island is well known for are the incredibly tame deer.

They wander freely on the island and don’t mind being stroked but be very aware if you have food in your as they can bite through anything to get at it.

As with all coastal areas in Japan there are Tsunami warning signs, giving advice on what to do, escape routes and how high you are above sea level.

On we went through the narrow streets where there were many souvenir shops and street food vendors.

Along the seafront and through the Torii gate , guarded by some lions.

The famous floating shrine and Torii gate, first built in 593 and rebuilt in 1168. At low tide you can walk out to it and at high tide the gate appears to be floating along with the adjacent shrine buildings.

Nearby was a stunning g 5 storey pagoda, built in 1407.

A ropeway or cable car takes visitors upwards and a nearby sign read, ‘ropeway entrance 60m’, so off we went through the gate. Past some more shops and the fire station was an old man selling tickets and so we bought 3 single tickets. Didn’t buy returns as we planned a pleasant walk back down.

On we walked , past some lovely ponds and streams.

We had been walking about 10 minutes when a sign read, ‘ropeway only 10 minutes walk, or perhaps 7 minutes if you run a little’.

So after another 15 minutes a sign informed us it was only 100 steps to the ropeway. What it didn’t say was that the 100 steps were at a very steep angle, so we clambered up holding onto the handrail for our lives and were finally there.

Once in the cable car Diane started to look a bit nervous, “I hate cable cars” she said nervously. Bit late now thought Gary and myself!

It was a very long ride but soon we saw the cable car station coming into view. “Phew, I didn’t like that” said Diane and her face went ashen as she saw the sign saying ‘middle station’ !

Off the car we got and Diane said she would walk down and not go any further. Anyway it quickly became apparent there was no path down and as we had single tickets the only way was up!

Another long ride to the top of the mountain.

Diane was adamant she would walk down with Gary. That will take a couple of hours I thought, i cant do that with my dodgy knees, hips, ankles etc so I bought a ticket down and watched as they set off.

A short while later I was at the bottom and bought an ice cream to cool myself down as I waited for them. As I set in the shade I noticed a sign saying, ‘beware of bears, wild boar and snakes on the mountain pathways’ no problem I thought , the ambulance is parked in the fire station we noticed on the way up, they can deal with it.

And so back to the hotel for a drink on the 14th floor roof terrace none the worse for our day out.

TTFN

Bibbley

Hiroshima

The Hiroshima Bomb Dome, also known as the Genbaku Dome, is the only surviving building in the vicinity of the Hiroshima atomic bomb blast on August 6, 1945. The dome was originally the Hiroshima Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall and was designed by Czech architect Jan Letzel.

After the atomic bomb was dropped, the building was one of the few structures still standing near the epicenter of the blast. It served as a reference point for rescue workers and became a symbol of hope and recovery for the people of Hiroshima.

In 1996, the Hiroshima Bomb Dome was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is now a popular destination for visitors to Hiroshima. It stands as a reminder of the consequences of war and the importance of peace.

It was the only surviving building as shown in the plaque above.

I took Gary and Diane just 130m down a side street to see a little known plaque next to the hospital wall.

This marks the exact point (the hypocentre), at which 600m above the bomb exploded.

In the morning we walked just 200m from our hotel to the peace park and toured the museum.

We spent a very emotional hour here learning of the aftermath of the bombing. Many of the exhibits were horrifying to see,

One of the exhibits was a “Hiroshima Shadow”

A man was sitting on the steps of the bank, waiting for it to open, at the time of the blast.

His body was instantly vaporised leaving his ‘shadow’ as the only reminder of his existence.

There are many memorials in the park including this one fom Scotland

The mound contains the ashes of around 70,000 victims. Rach year on August 6th a service is held here for the souls of those who perished.

Quite a few parties of school children were touring the park.

After a hot and emotional day we headed back to our hotel for a drink on the 14th floor rooftop bar to reflect on our day.

TTFN

Bibbley

Kyoto Day 2

The previous evening we agreed on the dress code for today.

Yes, it was time for the Uncle Bob’s t-shirts to make an appearance.

As this was Gary and Diane’s first tour with. Uncle Bob I thought it was appropiate and by the magic of Ebay found us all one.

So it was off to the railway station for the train to Arashiyama leaving from platform 33. As we were finding out, all Japanese stations are very big, most of the main stations having 30 to 50 platforms serving perhaps 5 or 6 main lines and a similar number of subway lines. A bit of concentration required at times to find our way around.

Whilst waiting for our train the “hello kitty” train pulled up on track 32.

Japan has quite a few themed trains like this one which is decorated internally with hello kitty furnishings and themed food in the buffet. We saw other themed trains at Mount Fuji, such as Thomas the tank and Anime themed ones.

Anyway, half an hour later we were at Arashiyama and after a quick look at Google maps we were soon at the famous “bamboo forest”

It was quite surreL walking through the 50 to 60 foot high bamboo Grove.

The other main attraction in Arashiyama is the Iwatayama monkey Park, just across the river.

We soon found the entrance to the monkey park. “Only 350m to the park” the sign announced. “Great, that’s not far,’ we agreed and off we set.

Little did we know that reality soon set in. Yes, maybe only 350m, but what the sign didn’t tell us is that it was up a nearly vertical path of steps to the top of a mountain overlooking the town below.

Up we started, up and up! After half an hour I paused for a rest on a bench

My lungs were bursting and my legs were crying out “no more!” And so here I remained while Gary and Diane ventured to the top.

Back in Arashiyama we stopped for a well deserved coffee and a doughnut at Tulleys coffee shop.

Another branch of Tulleys was next to our hotel and was where we had breakfast each morning.

The coffee shop is on a path of columns, each decorated with a different pattern of traditional kimono material

Plenty of women in traditional dress at the Kimono Forest

We were soon back on the train to Central Kyoto and after a refreshing beer in a bar at the base of the Kyoto Tower we caught the subway train for the 5 minute ride back to our hotel.

And that was the end of our 3 night stay in Kyoto. Off to Hiroshima tomorrow.

TTFN

Bibbley

Kyoto

Moving on from Mount Fuji by Shinkansen bullet train we were loking forward to 3 nights in Kyoto

Kyoto is a historic city, known for its beautiful shrines, temples and Japanese architecture. It was the former capital of Japan until 1868.

Our first stop was the Kyoto Imperial Palace with its beautiful gardens.

Beautiful gardens in the Palace grounds

It was a hot day and we were glad of a rest in the shade.

An hour or so later we were on our way to Higashiyama.

After getting lost for a while we finally arrived at the oldest part of the city.

This a very busy place and plenty of people hired traditional dress.

Sokn it was time go back to the hotel. Our feet were aching after walking for about 7 miles and we all needed a cold beer.

And so ended a lovely but hot first day in Kyoto.

Mount Fuji

The next morning was dry and bright and after a coffee stop just down the road from our hotel we were soon back at the station for the 10 minute rain ride to lake Kawaguchi.

The Intermediate station is ‘Fuji Highland’ where is a large hotel, a theme park and surprisingly, “Thomas the tank engine land” . Something none of us expected.

Many local trains are painted in different themes

Arriving in Kawaguchiko we passed a restaurant with a great sign which lost nothing in translation.

Just down the road we had some very nice noodles for £3 at a roadside noodle bar. The choice on the menu was, noodles or fried rice, both were delicious

Down by the lake the views were fantastic!

Whilst we were down at the lake Diane bought us all tickets for the boat trip and cable car, so off we went.

Great boat trip over, we headed for the nearby panoramic ropeway.

Some great views from the top.

Our hotel is somewhere centre left of this photo

After a couple of beers we were soon back at our hotel after 2 great days in Fuji and looking forward to a couple of days in Kyoto.

TTFN

Bibbley

Time 04.16 – Mount Fuji Japan

After a busy day we relaxed in our hotel and shared a bottle of wine, (or 2)!

After an hour or 2 we were off to bed and looking forward to a couple of days exploring the area.

At about 04.10 I woke up and had to visit the bathroom. A couple of minutes later I was back on my Japanese futon and snuggling down for another couple of hours sleep.

As I tried to relax a strange feeling came over me. The room started to shake, the windows rattled in their frames and I thought that the glass was going to break.

The sliding doors separating the sleeping area from the bathroom started to slide back and forth.

Oh F*** I thought! Too much wine!

But no, Earthquake!

As soon as I realised what was happening it was all over. I had downloaded the Japanese safety app of what to do in the event of an earthquake or tsunami and couldn’t remember what it said.

Anyway I am sure it said something like finish that glass of wine you poured last night to calm your nerves, so I did and was soon asleep again.

In the morning I looked at the earthquake app and it said it was a large quake of magnitude 5.4, centred just south of Tokyo and felt for a wide area.

Luckily there were only a few serious injuries reported and at the same time there was another 5.2 magnitude quake in japan and a much larger one offshore in the Pacific ocean.

So on we went with our holiday and to tomorrow I will take you around Mount Fuji and the surrounding area.

TTFN

Bibbley

Mount Fuji

One of the highlights of this trip was going to be spending some time at Mount Fuji.

We boarded the train at Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, excited for the journey ahead.

The sprawling metropolis of Tokyo gave way to the lush green mountains of the Fuji-Hakone national park.

The train swayed gently as it followed the tracks as Diane and Gary chatted about their visit.

As we neared Mount Fuji Station we caught our first sight of the iconic mountain rising majestically in the distance.

We finally arrived at the station eager to see more.

After a walk downhill to our hotel we checked in to our rooms.

I had chosen this hotel as it was in a traditional Japanese style with futon beds and no TV in the rooms.

Off we went to explore for a while before retiring for the night.

In the morning I woke up and opened my bedroom curtains to a glorious sight!

Taking a stroll the town of Fujiyoshida I noticed a couple of jnteresting things.

What I originally thought were manhole covers were actually covers for fire hydrants, many painted with local scenes.

Even the traffic cones were getting into the action!

This just reinforces my belief of the Japanese sense of fun. Why be boring, make things that bring a smile and joy!

In a local souvenir shop Diane was also getting jnto the spirit of Fuji fun!

Anyway that ended our first day in Fujiyoshida. In my next blog you will hear of our rude and quite scary awakening at 04:16 the next morning in true Japanese fashion.

JISHIN !!

So TTFN

See you next time

Bibbley

A walk in Tokyo and going up in the world

As we relaxed over a beer after our karting experience we decided on a visit to the Tokyo Tower for our outing for the following day.

Hope it’s not too busy I said, it’s the last day of Golden Week here.

Golden week is a series of 4 national holidays occurring in the same week in Japan and tomorrow would be Children’s Day, the last of these.

So off we set in the morning and after a quick subway trip we’re back up on the surface and next to the Tokyo Tower.

The tower was completed in 1958 and stands at 332.9 metres tall.

A huge crowd of people were swarming in all directions, it looked like the tower was a popular spot on children’s day! Gary and Diane joined the end of a queue, we were not sure what the queue was for but it was the focus of most people’s attention. I tried and failed to get information about where the ticket office was and so after a few minutes I joined them.

As the designated person to operate Japanese machines after queuing for an hour I purchased 3 tickets for entry at 2PM.

So off went for a look around for a couple of hours.

There’s a shrine just down the road said Diane after studying her phone as we stopped for a coffee, why don’t we go there?

It’s just across the river and only about 5 mins walk from there.

Off we set and again Google maps in Japanese proved difficult. We consulted a couple of friendly local ladies on bicycles who pointed in various directions and on we walked.

NOTE TO SELF: going to need new shoes soon after all these miles,

We soon found a big shrine complex where it seems half of Japan had decided to spend the public holiday.

On the way we passed the Asahi beer headquarters with what I am led to believe is a flame on the top.

Anyway after another very pleasant 5 mile stroll in the sunshine we were back at the tower.

The views out over Tokyo were superb, we could see for miles.

And so ended another highly enjoyable day.

Off to Akihabara, “electric city” tomorrow, home of Anime and all things cute Japanese, should be fun!

TTFN

Bibbley

Tokyo cruising!

Many times I had seen videos on YouTube of go karts speeding around the streets of Central Tokyo with the drivers dressed as super mario and other cartoon characters.

“That’s totally bonkers but looks great fun” I thought and booted up Google to find out more.

1 hour around Tokyo, £100 including costume hire, promised the website.

The number 1 fun thing to do in Tokyo!

The number 1 must do in Tokyo!

I was hooked and read up some more.

International driving permit required, get one at the post office, only £5.50, bring your driving licence and passport.

An hour or so later and I had it.

Diane agreed straight away, Gary took a little persuading and soon all was booked with ” Street kart tokyo bay”!

Anyway fast forward and we were all waiting nervously in their garage, fully kitted out in our chosen costumes.

The mandatory safety video, instructions on brakes, indicators and “FFS don’t crash ” and then

“Drivers, start your engines!”

Oh boy, what have we got ourselves into we thought as we cautiously released the brakes and applied throttle and headed out of the garage.

,Vrom vroom! Off we set following our tour guide. Out of the garage and onto the streets of the biggest and busiest city on planet Earth! Totally bonkers! Only the Japanese would allow this!

Diane in front with Gary and me close behind

We soon got the hang of the heavy steering and negotiating the traffic lights, taxis and trucks. WHAT FUN!

Through the famous scramble crossing 4 times, scattering slow moving pedestrians!!

Through the bus station, past theatre land with hundreds of people taking our photos, what a ball !

I wished it could never end, but sadly we were soon back in the garage, beaming our biggest smiles ever!

What a great experience, do it if you can!

TTFN

Bibbley

Tokyo continued

So off we went up to Yoyogi Park, it was only 15 minutes up a fairly steep hill , just a couple of rest stops on the way.

Up past the NHK TV studios, I quite often watch this channel when at home as it has an interesting mix of news and articles about Japan and the neighboring countries.

Soon we were in a fairly big park with a couple of lakes and fountains and pretty busy with locals enjoying a walk or a picnic

The temperature was creeping up past 23C and we sat in the shade , relaxing in the tranquility of the park.

After a brief consultation of our map a visit to the nearby shrine seemed like a good idea. 20 minutes later we arrived at the first gate leading to the Meiji Shrine.

Meiji Shrine is a Shinto shrine dedicated to Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. It was built in honor of their restoration to the throne in 1868 and completed in 1920. The shrine is set within a peaceful forest and surrounded by towering trees, making it feel like a serene oasis in the bustling city. As you walk through the torii gates you feel a sense of timeless peace and tranquility.

20 minutes further on we came across a surprising scene. A rack of wine barrels from the Bourgogne region of France that had been consecrated here.

On the opposite side of the gravel path was a rack of Sake barrels from local producers

I’ve not tried sake before but sure I will soon

The shrine itself was a peaceful place despite the many visitors

After a brief stop we were off back through the park to central Shibuya for some lunch

Crikey, said Diane, we’ve walked over 2 miles! As we moved towards the park exit.

Over the bridge on the main road towards the city we came across a level crossing.

After waiting for several trains passed off we set. Turn left we all agreed and strode off chatting about the sights of the day so far.

20 minutes later we all looked quizzically at each other. I don’t remember this said Diane and I agreed.

Gary looked at his Google maps and said ” we should turn west and cross the main railway line and then head towards the sun with the wind behind us and we’ll be there in no time”

Off we set eagerly watching the sun and putting a finger in the air to test the wind direction. 2 rest stops later we were at the top of a hill, out of breath and longing for a cold beer.

“Are you sure this is the way we quizzed Gary”

Diane and I consulted our Google maps and soon realised…….

“You’re not connected to the Internet!, your map is upside down! FFS where the f##k are we!

The 3 of use decided on a way forward and 2 hours later were back in the city with a cold beer.

In the pub Diane consulted here map and called out, “crikey boys, we just walked 7.8 miles!”

My feet know I moaned, ordering 3 more pints!

Gary sat quietly in the corner seat looking innocently out the window!

TTFN

Bibbley

Tokyo May 4th

Waking up in the Ibis hotel in the high end shopping district of Ginza at 4AM I just couldn’t get back to sleep, even after my marathon journey of 26 hours to get here.

My room is very comfortable but quite compact with all the usual amenities and very good value at about £45 a night. I booked this trip 8 months when Japan was in lockdown and travel from overseas was not possible and I presume hotels were happy to get any reservations. I did look a couple of weeks ago and my room had gone up to £150!

Anyway my first surprise came when I sat on the toilet. It beeped and the bathroom extractor fan started.

“That’s a good idea” went through my head and I gave it no more though.

Sitting there and looking around the pretty normal bathroom I noticed a small remote control.

Making no sense of the lower 4 buttons with Japanese labels my eyes gazed on the other buttons.

Well, let’s try one I thought, wondering if it would dim the light or adjust the air conditioning.

Something whirred into action and I soon found out what it was as the warm spray of water hit me, “ooooh !!”

Totally a Gadget that only an oriental mind with their fastidious notion of cleanliness could of thought of.

Back and front warm water jets, with fully adjustable temperature and pressure. warm air dryer, also fully adjustable. With a heated seat and smell extraction fan.

I must have sat there for half an hour adjusting the various functions and think how comfortable it was.

Perhaps next time I should bring my cup of coffee and a book? LOL

Anyway it was soon time to head off out with Gary and Diane and take a look around. We won’t go far we agreed as we were all still pretty tired.

So we decided to take the train to Shibuya, just 25 minutes away but still very much in central downtown Tokyo.

You may have seen photos taken here of the famous ‘scramble crossing’, which must be one of the biggest pedestrian crossings in the world.

Absolute madness as the pedestrian light goes green, thousands of people make a dash to cross, many stopping to pose for a photo or video. Just start off in the direction you want to go and hope the people around you are also aiming for there.

Then the light goes red and in a matter of seconds the crossing is deserted and traffic is passing again

Safely over the crossing we wandered through the busy streets taking in the sights of the various eateries and shops.

One shop took our attention. Full of brightly coloured slot machines stretching throughout the building. Hundreds of them.

Fancy winning a ring with a plastic cheeseburger?

For between 100 and 400 yen, 80p to £3 you could be the owner of a burger ring, cute toy fluffy keyring or a pokemon character doing a vault jump

There’s a big park up the road with a shrine I told the others. “Sounds great, let’s go there” so up the road we went.

“Perhaps just for an hour” we agreed as we’re pretty tired. So after a coffee and cake stop we set off.

Google maps was summoned onto the phone and we headed for Yoyogi Park and the Meiji shrine which were a ten minute walk away.

Watch out for the second part of today’s story later.

TTFN

Bibbley

Tokyo part 1

Those of you who have eagle eyes will no doubt have noticed that my last blog, “here we go again” was actually posted after I arrived in Tokyo.

Well to be honest, I just clean forgot to press the ‘publish” button.

Whether this was down to old age, red wine or the excitement that comes from starting a new trip will never be known. Anyway my dear followers you are all caught up now and I will start my journey to the land of the rising sun.

Tuesday May 2nd.

The alarm gives me a rude awakening at 5AM. Since taking early retirement 5 years ago, this an event that rarely happens and take a few moments to realise what is going on!

Excitedly I gently crawl out of bed, kettle on and head for the shower. Whilst waking myself under the stream of hot soapy water my brain is working overtime.

Did I pack everything?

Have I got all the tickets for all of us? As you will recall my friends Gary and Diane are coming along on this trip.

Is my phone charged up? And my tablet?

Have I got my passport?

Did I finish uploading the forms on the “japan travel app”

Well that last point is a bit of a sore point. The app is designed to give you fast track entry into Japan. You create an an account online, entering your basic details and passport number etc, then

upload photos of your covid jabs QR codes and these are then verified as OK by Japanese authorities and an hour or 2 later you get confirmation this has been done and a QR code appears on the app for you to scan at immigration in Tokyo. Japan was still in lock down until only a couple of months ago and restrictions are only recently being relaxed.

Anyway this process sounds simple but did take quite some time to complete.

Next you fill in details of your visit, dates, name and address of hotel you are staying at, including phone number and post code, when this is completed, hey presto, another QR code appears on the app and saves you having to fill out the immigration and landing card on the plane, and of course that sight of 360 passengers all trying to borrow the same pen!

Finally there is the customs declaration form. Are you importing drugs or guns or any type of plant or seeds or animal products? So better finish that ham baguette before getting off the plane! When completed, “ping” a third QR code appears and you are done with it all.

Just a few days later I read the news announcement, “All Covid restrictions now lifted, your Covid QR code will magically disappear from the app on May 1st. Grrrr! All that time we spent on it!

Anyway, more about this later as you will see.

7AM on the dot Gary and Diane turn up and we are off to Heathrow. After many months of planning and talking we are finally on our way.

Our flight was with Cathay Pacific on a Boeing 777 Dreamliner and off we flew at 12.20, exactly on time. A glass of wine was sipped before lunch and we all drank a toast to a happy holiday.

Very nice it was too, washed down with another glass of red, well I am on holiday.

So we are are 2 hours into this 12 hour first leg to Hong Kong. So watch a film, plenty of choice on the inflight system. OK, only another 9 hours to go. Play some video games, try to sleep, can’t sleep have a glass of orange juice, only 8 hours to go! Twiddle thumbs, look at the map, blimey we are only just passing Turkey. So off go the cabin lights and try and rest, hour after hour go by and finally lights on and only 3 hours to go. I take another look at the map and notice we have flown over many places I visited previously, Taraz and Almaty in Kazakhstan, Mongolia and China.

The cabin crew spurt into action and after breakfast we finally descend into Hong Kong for a 3 hour layover.

Our new aircraft then speeds us to Tokyo. After an hour or so immigration cards and customs forms are handed out and we smugly decline as we have done ours weeks earlier. So we look on as only 357 people try and borrow one guys pen! Mutterings around the cabin, ” what’s the postcode of our hotel? What’s their phone number?, etc.

Off the plane we go and into the terminal we head. At the baggage carousel 2 airport staff had taken all the bags off the conveyor and lined them up for us to easily find, very helpful.

I turned to the others and said, OK, we will need to open the app and get our QR codes ready now.

Diane opened the app and said, “OK, got them open”

Gary’s jaw dropped as he uttered, ” WHAT!? not sure if I got mine, I thought they weren’t needed any more”

No, Gary only the Covid one not needed!

After a few frantic minutes of trying to remember passwords etc he did find them and forward we went.

So, off to passport control. I have never seen anything ike it, every 10 metres , airport staff bowed and directed us onwards, all smartly dressed and smiling, their white gloved hand showing us the way. Reaching passport control we were greeted with a “hello” please go to gate 7, the passport official smiled and greeted us with a polite nod, checked documents, took our fingerprints and photo, scanned our QR code wished us a good trip and within 2 minutes we were through,

Plenty more smiling faces guided us to customs gates, again scanned our QR code and passport and were in!

We all remarked that we had never had such an easy and pleasant experience at any other border control.

Well done Japan for giving your visitors such a warm welcome,

I Collected our train passes and made seat reservations for the Narita Express to Tokyo. Only an 8 minute wait for the train which was exactly on time and taking our seats I smiled with relief as we were finally in Japan and way to our hotel for 6 nights in Tokyo.

Diane took this great sunset photo from the train of our first look at the Tokyo tower

TTFN

Will get some pics of first day in Tokyo tomorrow.

Here we go again!

Tomorrow I start new travel adventure to Japan. A place I have always found interesting and wanted to visit.

Those of you who have followed my travels cannot have failed to notice that I normally travel alone but this journey will be different as my friends Diane and Gary are coming with me. So I have bought some new clothes, packed my case and am ready to jet off to the first stop in Tokyo.

I must say I am a bit apprehensive about the long travel time. London to hong kong will be 12 hours, then a 3 hour stop over before the final leg to tokyo of 4 hours.

In the days before a new journey I cannot help but remember the high points of previous travels

A great wish of mine for many years was to visit the great Wall of China !

Which was a superb trip and one that always sticks in my mind.

Kazakhstan was another wonderful place. This is the Bayterek tower where the Samruk bird laid this golden egg which contains the secret to human happiness.

And I cannot forget Mongolia ! A long day trip to the Chingis Khan statue and the climb up to stand on top of his horse’s head

Made it to the top via a lift in the horse’s tail

A private tour of Star City near Moscow where all Russian cosmonauts undergo their training. Here is my guide next to a statue of Yuri Gagarin, the first man in space.

An unforgettable visit to Chernobyl, the site of the world’s worst nuclear power accident. This is the scene in the kindergarten showing the discarded toys when a very hasty evacuation took place. Was a very emotional place.

So let’s see where the next 3 weeks takes me on trip through Japan. I hope can follow my blog and that I can show you some interesting sights.

TTFN

BIBBLEY

3 weeks until Japan!

April 11th 2023

Time has flown by since planning this trip last year and now it’s only 3 weeks until we will be at Heathrow airport, eagerly waiting for the Cathay Pacific flight to Tokyo via Hong Kong.

After booking my flights and hotels I had a visit from my good friends, Gary and Diane.

Gary and Diane in the Maldives

After I had told them of my plans both of them said they would love to go to Japan and asked if they could come too?

I immediately agreed and started to book their flights and hotels. An hour later everything was sorted and we went off to the pub for a chat about Japan and to toast our upcoming holiday.

So we leave on May 2nd at 12.20 and Arrive in Tokyo at 16.05 on Wednesday 3rd into Narita airport, about an hour away by train. As we will be travelling mainly by train I ordered Japan Rail Pass for us all as it works out cheaper than buying tickets for each journey and will be much easier.

The rail pass allows you to travel on most of the railway network including the Shinkansen bullet trains. Japan is famous for having a very efficient railway system but this does mean tickets can be quite expensive, so a pass made complete sense

Anyway , I am writing this post while I am waiting for our tickets to arrive, which are due this morning. You get a voucher which you need to exchange for your ticket at Narita airport. Rail passes cannot be purchased in Japan and are only available for foreign tourists. So that’s our first challenge, finding the ticket office.

Luckily many of the signs in Tokyo are in English.

Then it will be onto the ‘Narita Express’ railway to Tokyo and a quick taxi ride our hotel, the Ibis Styles in the Ginza district in the heart of the city.

In my next post I will let you know our itinerary and some of the places we hope to visit.

TTFN

Bibbley