Monday we transferred to the El Mouradi Palace about a twenty minute hike from Port El Kantaoui. We went from four star all-inclusive to five star half-board. I question the five stars. The resort is huge and appears to be an older hotel, with smaller rooms, smaller chairs, smaller lobby (although just as elegant) and smaller pool. The Internet is slow and costs eight dollars an hour, so we will be off the grid much of the time. We were spoiled with all-inclusive free internet.
We no longer get free drinks and the port is the only place to get wine so our first priority was established. On our two kilometre walk, it became clear we were going in the right direction. Trails of tourists returned dangling plastic bags heavy with wine bottles. The “nouveau old” port funded by Kuwaiti money is clean and touristy, also a great destination for a barefoot walk on the beach.
It is a tough life, however we appreciate the variation in buffet food, as well as the twenty kilometres of beach and our easy access to the stretch of sugary sand.
Nearby Sousse is a delight. It cost less than 50 cents to get there by bus. The medina, though not as big as the one in Tunis, is full of interesting sights including the Ribat (an ancient fort of 859 vintage), the great Mosque, Turkish baths, an elegant old home converted into a museum, minarets- traditional square Tunisian brick and one fancy Turkish octagon- and of course shops and shops and salesmen. We’re not reacting so they’re having more trouble pegging our nationality to advance their sales pitch.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Tunisia Travels
On our quest to find the real Tunisia, we took some interesting tours. Travels to the temple of Minerva and ancient Dougga exposed us to the countryside, small towns and Roman ruins complete with aqueducts built over two thousand years ago and still functioning. In a van with driver, guide, and one other couple we covered over 450 kilometres in one day. We passed miles of olive groves, wheat fields resplendent in the green of early spring, rugged mountains gouged by marble quarries. Off the main highway, the back roads are rough. And you thought Winnipeg had potholes! The roads are shared by cars, trucks, sheep and people on donkeys. Some rode side-saddle while talking on a cell phone!
Every town large or small has one or more mosques with tall minaret standing above the other buildings. The first call to prayer I heard gave me the shivers.
Every town large or small has one or more mosques with tall minaret standing above the other buildings. The first call to prayer I heard gave me the shivers.
Our next tour was with a “large group” to the remains of ancient Carthage, and the pretty tourist town Sidi Bousaid. Well.... although it did not improve our opinion of large bus tours, we did see some interesting ancient artifacts, museums and more tourist areas.
My favorite tour was the one we did on our own.
We figured out how to take the people’s transportation, the bus, to Tunis. Walking out of the bus station we were hijacked by a friendly cab driver who took us to the “Champs Elysee” of Tunis near the great Medina. This main street is very European with coffee shops and restaurants on both sides. But the real adventure was the Medina. It is an oval-shaped walled city originally built in the eighth century. We crossed the boundary from Europe into Arabia and entered an area of 270 hectares where more than 100,000 people live- an alien world. The Medina houses one-tenth of Tunis’s population in a maze of narrow streets, pathways sometimes only five feet wide, much of it covered. Shops- selling clothes, bolts of cloth, jewelery, hookahs, food, pastries, art, absolutely everything you could ever imagine- crowd into the narrow space. It felt like entering an ant hill or beehive. Thousands of Tunisians, not tourists, were shopping, selling, eating and chatting. We got lost more than once, but people always pointed us in the right direction. It was a great experience. We made it back to the hotel safely with smiles on our faces.
My favorite tour was the one we did on our own.
We figured out how to take the people’s transportation, the bus, to Tunis. Walking out of the bus station we were hijacked by a friendly cab driver who took us to the “Champs Elysee” of Tunis near the great Medina. This main street is very European with coffee shops and restaurants on both sides. But the real adventure was the Medina. It is an oval-shaped walled city originally built in the eighth century. We crossed the boundary from Europe into Arabia and entered an area of 270 hectares where more than 100,000 people live- an alien world. The Medina houses one-tenth of Tunis’s population in a maze of narrow streets, pathways sometimes only five feet wide, much of it covered. Shops- selling clothes, bolts of cloth, jewelery, hookahs, food, pastries, art, absolutely everything you could ever imagine- crowd into the narrow space. It felt like entering an ant hill or beehive. Thousands of Tunisians, not tourists, were shopping, selling, eating and chatting. We got lost more than once, but people always pointed us in the right direction. It was a great experience. We made it back to the hotel safely with smiles on our faces.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Spanish Costa Del Sol
Here we are on the road again. Actually much of it so far has been in the air. Winnipeg to Toronto: we spent a couple of days hosted by brother Georges. The highlights included visiting friends, eating, drinking, listening to opera and a fresh (cool damp zero Celsius, with a big wind off the lake, not the dry cold of Winnipeg) walk along the “Beaches” boardwalk with a great view of the Toronto skyline.
Toronto to Paris, Paris to Malaga, Spain: I am starting to like being searched and prodded. The personal attention makes me feel important. Both of us had our carry on swabbed for potentially explosive materials- nice to know we don’t look like innocent seniors. The seven hours swaddled in an Air France economy seat was the closest thing to tightness of the womb I’ve felt for a long time. To be fair, the flights were uneventful. Perhaps I should lose a few pounds before I succumb to economy travel again.
Toronto to Paris, Paris to Malaga, Spain: I am starting to like being searched and prodded. The personal attention makes me feel important. Both of us had our carry on swabbed for potentially explosive materials- nice to know we don’t look like innocent seniors. The seven hours swaddled in an Air France economy seat was the closest thing to tightness of the womb I’ve felt for a long time. To be fair, the flights were uneventful. Perhaps I should lose a few pounds before I succumb to economy travel again.
Paris airport is huge. The ½ hour walk between terminals to make our Spain connection was refreshing after the long flight. Compared to getting into the US, passport control was easy. Good thing we walked there fast so we could wait two hours. A pleasant and short flight over beautiful mountains and brilliant costal views brought us to Malaga. Easy disembarking with no customs (!), a twenty minute shuttle ride and we were at our hotel, the beautiful Sunset Beach Club in the town of Benalmadena. We were bagged, could hardly talk sense (that was Roland ), and happy to be here (that was both of us).
We stayed awake until 7 local time by walking and exploring then slept for fifteen hours. I haven’t done that since I was a teenager. (Since I never sleep more than 6 hours on a good night- it was a miracle- E) What a difference a good night sleep makes. We love our suite (even Elenore’s mother would like the high class marble floors and cleanliness) A full hot breakfast is included here. Half the fun of exploring a new place when you don’t speak the language is finding food. Mission accomplished, we found several supermercados . Supper for the next couple of days is handled. Did I mention that the local Spanish wines are delicious and inexpensive? Some bottles for under a Euro. I am a snob; I prefer one that costs 3.50. We have been here just over a day so who knows what delights are waiting for us.
Our first impression is that this place is like Mexico except cleaner and the buildings built to higher standards. Still Spanish- what a surprise.
We have been in Spain for a week and (as cautious as we are about jumping to conclusions) we love it. The weather has been cool with occasional sunny breaks. Although no blizzard, we experienced quite a rain storm. The waves on the Mediterranean were crashing on shore and it was a magnificent sight to see. The Costa del Sol of Spain has had more rain in the last month than anyone can remember. The tide has turned. Yesterday was clear and today is promising to be as sunny and warmer (18 to 20 degrees C).
If travelling is learning, that’s what we’ve been doing: how to shop for food, choose a good wine, get around safely, take the local bus, take the train, get to the nearby markets, find a bathroom, make new friends, get back to our hotel, build up your stamina walking, what are the nearby quality entertainment opportunities, what are the important Spanish phrases. Our first outing was a self managed guide around the old part of Malaga. It involved taking a bus, visiting the third largest cathedral in Spain, a Picasso museum, and an ancient Moor fort.
We have been following a philosophy of explore one day, rest the next. “Rest” often means lots of walking along the shore and exploring locally. Our next excursion was to Mijas, a beautiful white village on the side of a nearby mountain with a side trip to the popular Fuengirola market. After one and a half hours waiting at a bus stop watching everybody in Benalmandinas drive by in full busses, a British couple took us under their wing. We followed them by local bus to the train station, enjoyed a train ride to Fuengirola, and a long walk to the market. This is where the first disaster of our trip struck. It happened at a small churros cafe. Churros are fried bread fingers that you dip into a cup of melted chocolate. They had no more chocolate!!! In our usual intrepid way, we used sugar for dipping- yum! After touring the market our new British friends, David and Sue led us to the bus station to catch a ride to Mijas.
Well, it was cold and rainy. We had fun exploring for a couple of hours. Found a bus on our own, and made it back to our hotel before dark.
The next few days, we explored more the local area, some of it in the rain. Our planned trip to Morocco fell through, so we had to have fun here. More shopping, making friends, sea food restaurants, and a fantastic Spanish Ballet concert at a nearby casino. The Spanish dance troop dazzled us with sights, sounds and precision. The second half of the show included a Spanish trio with guitar, singer and percussion to accompany the dancing. We walked home after midnight, “high” from the event.
The next few days, we explored more the local area, some of it in the rain. Our planned trip to Morocco fell through, so we had to have fun here. More shopping, making friends, sea food restaurants, and a fantastic Spanish Ballet concert at a nearby casino. The Spanish dance troop dazzled us with sights, sounds and precision. The second half of the show included a Spanish trio with guitar, singer and percussion to accompany the dancing. We walked home after midnight, “high” from the event.
Saturday, Jan 30th, 2010
A sunny and cool day was perfect for the guided tour of ‘The Rock’ known as Gibraltar. Our multilingual guide chattered in English, French and Spanish, enough bad jokes for the whole hour and a half drive along spectacular coastline. As we approached our destination, I was amazed. Gibraltar looks just like the pictures!
The Spanish border police did a quick walk through the bus. We weren’t sure what he was looking for, but not to be outdone, the British police walked through as well, just to verify we all had passports. We’d been told many times to bring them and they did eject one passenger from the bus for trying to get across with only a driver’s license.
A sunny and cool day was perfect for the guided tour of ‘The Rock’ known as Gibraltar. Our multilingual guide chattered in English, French and Spanish, enough bad jokes for the whole hour and a half drive along spectacular coastline. As we approached our destination, I was amazed. Gibraltar looks just like the pictures!
The Spanish border police did a quick walk through the bus. We weren’t sure what he was looking for, but not to be outdone, the British police walked through as well, just to verify we all had passports. We’d been told many times to bring them and they did eject one passenger from the bus for trying to get across with only a driver’s license.
After the border crossing, we had a green light, so proceeded to drive across the airport runway. Yes, you read that correctly. Gibraltar is 300% bigger than before WWII because Canadian military engineers made tunnels throughout the rock for defence purposes. The runway was built with reclaimed rock. A traffic light controls vehicle and pedestrian traffic. As we crossed we could only hope that the airplane side had a red light.
We transferred to a smaller tour bus and an even funnier driver/guide. He would switch between a fluent made-up French, Spanish and a hilarious British accent as part of his impeccable English. The small bus was just the right size to squeeze through the extremely narrow roads. I am sure there was at least a centimetre on each side when we went through some of the tunnels. The tour was quick and informative. I tried to take some pictures on the move but was disappointed in their quality.
The tour’s highlights included:
Europa Point, view of Atlantic Ocean on the right, the Mediterranean Sea on the left with amazing views of the Spanish and Moroccan coastlines. Wow.
St Michael’s Cave, a damp cavern with colored lights shining on ancient stalagmites and stalactites.
Barbary Apes (tailless rock monkeys) who entertained us near the cave entrance. When they weren’t sunning themselves, they’d leap on cars or busses and even onto one poor frightened young tourist’s head.
Sunday Jan 31st, 2010.
A warm and sunny Sunday, our day of rest. Perfect for a bus ride up to nearby Benalmadena Pueblo for easy exploration, coffee in a picturesque square on the side of a mountain overlooking the Costa Del Sol. Well! We thought we had figured out the bus schedule. After waiting 45 minutes, we decided to walk. After all, how far could it be? It was visible in the distance however, street names in this town are hidden quite well and the map we had was useless. We asked directions twice and both times were told to take the bus. Up and up we walked. After two hours, we had our picnic lunch on a bench about three quarters of the way up. We were done, “let’s take a bus back”. Of course there were none, so we walked back down. Not bad, it only took us an hour, and very few blisters.
A warm and sunny Sunday, our day of rest. Perfect for a bus ride up to nearby Benalmadena Pueblo for easy exploration, coffee in a picturesque square on the side of a mountain overlooking the Costa Del Sol. Well! We thought we had figured out the bus schedule. After waiting 45 minutes, we decided to walk. After all, how far could it be? It was visible in the distance however, street names in this town are hidden quite well and the map we had was useless. We asked directions twice and both times were told to take the bus. Up and up we walked. After two hours, we had our picnic lunch on a bench about three quarters of the way up. We were done, “let’s take a bus back”. Of course there were none, so we walked back down. Not bad, it only took us an hour, and very few blisters.
Monday, a new day of rest. This time we had a better understanding of the bus schedules, and there were actual busses. We had a great ride up, an easy exploration in a quaint pueblo, coffee in a picturesque square, and when we decide to return, the bus was right there. Sometimes the angels travel with you and sometime they don’t. When they don’t, stay home.
Tour of Granada
An early rise for a tour to Granada. Sometimes you are at the beginning of the pickup schedule, sometimes you are the last. This time we got the first choice of seats, however also got to enjoy going to other hotels for an hour and a half picking up customers. As the Bible says “those who are first shall be last” so we had a repeat of this tour on the ride home. The twelve hour tour breaks down into 6 hours driving and 6 hours in Granada. OK, no more complaining. When the sun came up we were driving through the beautiful Malaga mountain range. After about forty minutes the bus stopped for a quick coffee break. The countryside was even more beautiful once coffee cravings were sated. As we approached Granada, the snow covered peaks of the Sierra Madre Mountains shimmered in the distance.
Our first stop was Alhambra, a walled city built and occupied by the conquering Muslims from 700 to the late 1400’s. It was the seat of power. The Sultans and Spanish Royalty lived there so the grounds reflect a combined beauty and style of two cultures. It was exciting to stand in the room where Christopher Columbus was given his charter to sail to America by King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella in 1492.
The place is so full of history and stories I won’t re-write them here.
Next stop was downtown Granada. How do you spend one hour in a city that is so beautiful and steeped in history? Well...you do it fast! We walked quickly through quaint narrow streets, found an ancient church and cathedral that were closed. Most of Spain shuts down for siesta between 2:00 and 5:00 pm, a fact which always has to figure into touring plans.
In our rush, we got a little lost and had to ask for directions a few times. We made it back to the meeting place just in time to catch our bus back. The day reminded us that as much as tours have their place and make traveling and exploring easy, they are also very limiting. Elenore and I prefer our exploration to be less structured which usually results in more adventure. Most places like Grenada deserve more time to savour the culture and atmosphere. The good news is that we have another place we would love to return to.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Tunisia Travels
Tunisia! We had an easy flight from Barcelona and a safe transfer from Tunis to Yasmine Hammamet. We are staying in the classy El Mouradi hotel with a view of the pool and mountains in the distance. The beach across the street is lovely.
Yasmine Hammamet is a ‘built for tourists’ resort town about thirty minutes by local bus from Hammamet. Kind of like Nuevo Vallarta is to Puerto Vallarta. Near our hotel there is even a “new” ancient looking medina (maze-like shopping area with narrow streets). It is clean and artificial, however it has real vendors that are almost desperate for business. It is winter, the weather has been cool and rainy, and the economic crisis here is huge with over eleven percent unemployment. In spite of the challenges, the people have been warm and friendly.
The culture here is different from any other we have experienced. The people are strong and passionate. Our challenge has been getting a feel for the many unwritten rules. The country is ninety eight percent Islamic, one percent Christian and one percent Jewish. My French and Elenore’s German are coming in handy. English works only as a last resort mostly with younger people. As polite Canadians, we are easy prey for aggressive sales people luring us into their shops by any means necessary. Our first week was an education.
Yasmine Hammamet is a ‘built for tourists’ resort town about thirty minutes by local bus from Hammamet. Kind of like Nuevo Vallarta is to Puerto Vallarta. Near our hotel there is even a “new” ancient looking medina (maze-like shopping area with narrow streets). It is clean and artificial, however it has real vendors that are almost desperate for business. It is winter, the weather has been cool and rainy, and the economic crisis here is huge with over eleven percent unemployment. In spite of the challenges, the people have been warm and friendly.
The culture here is different from any other we have experienced. The people are strong and passionate. Our challenge has been getting a feel for the many unwritten rules. The country is ninety eight percent Islamic, one percent Christian and one percent Jewish. My French and Elenore’s German are coming in handy. English works only as a last resort mostly with younger people. As polite Canadians, we are easy prey for aggressive sales people luring us into their shops by any means necessary. Our first week was an education.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Wedding in Paradise
Hi Paula! Nice to hear from you! Everything was awesome and we are sad that we had to come home! Thanks for ALL your help and quick responses to our emails and for assisting with my group booking. Everyone was happy with everything and had a fantastic time! The weather was perfect the whole time we were there-just rained on the day that we left!After communicating back and forth with the wonderful wedding co-ordinator at the hotel, she had advised us on the Saturday- the day before leaving-via email, about the construction of the beach. She sent us actual pictures of the beach being closed and the huge Cat trucks beginning the re-building of the beach and explained to us what was happening and what to expect. Word traveled around very quickly to most of my group and after reading many news articles on the net about the re-construction of the beach along Playa, we knew that it was real and that we werent going to have a beach for the first few days. The wedding co-ordinator was so good with providing other options for us that in the end...turned out beautifully.
We arrived at the Wpg airport exactly 3 hours prior to flight time and surprisingly, there was a long long line up-which moved pretty swiftly. We were not able to sit together as a group on the plane going to Cancun- we were in fact all spread thru-out. No big deal though as I think most of us wanted a little shut-eye on the plane. The Signature signs were very easy to see at the airport in Cancun and as busy as that airport was, we all managed to get on the bus quite quickly. The rep on the bus to the hotel was very funny and informative.
Upon arrival to the Hotel, we did receive our welcome cocktail as outlined, as well as welcome gift in rooms. Some of us, including myself, didnt receive bathrobes in the room-not a huge deal as they were quick to bring some in for us a couple days later when we needed them. My husband and I received our fruit basket in the room, but no bottle of wine as indicated- but really we didnt mind as there was plenty of excitement around the hotel to be worried about that. Our friends all put money together and upgraded us to the presidential suite on our last night. It was a huge beautiful, fully loaded room that overlooked the amazing ocean! Something I wish I would have had on the day of our wedding, as myself and bridesmaids could have gotten ready there together. I had some friends that upgraded to the Junior Ocean View suites and they loved it! for $50 a night more, it would be nice for a romantic get-away! Our Signature room was just great for us, as we like to keep it simple and of course hardly spent time in the room.
The hotel and staff was wonderful. Because the beach was under construction, the hotel had a sign posted in the lobby that welcomed you to visit the other Iberostar resort(s), with free shuttle and use of their facilities and of course access to the beach! Our very nice and informative Signature rep at the hotel also mentioned that if anyone was not happy at the Iberostar Tucan (because of beach) then they were willing to move you to the Iberostar Paraiso/Playa...... at no charge. No one in our group left but it was nice to have that option. The Signature rep at the Hotel, Elaine was so accomodating to all of us and very personable too! It was nice to hear about the excursions and all the exclusive perks by booking with Signature-(getting your money back for cancelations)
The hotel was amazing and would recommend it to anyone of all ages and lifestyles. Our group was very diverse in age, lifestyles and personalties that I found it very satisfying that Everyone had a good time. The Tucan was not too big of a hotel nor not too small-just perfect. We visited the other Iberostar grand hotel(s) and got to experience the larger hotels on a much bigger scale, and we all liked that the Tucan was just the right size- as we always saw people in our group and it didnt take long to walk to the beach or pool or lobby etc. The night shows were amazing and the Star Friends entertainment group, just fantastic. The Staff at the hotel seemed very humble and appreciative of the guests and always remembered you, which was nice. The beach did open up on the last day that we were there, so we did get to swim one last time in the gorgeous turqoise water and new, bigger beach! The seven days that we were there, were so action packed, we wish we could have stayed longer. Even though the beach was not accessible at our resort, we still had plenty to do- like go to the other resort, excursions, shopping in Playa Del Carmen! It was awesome!
We are back now in Winnipeg, married and planning for the next event. We have another couple who came with us on the trip and ironically both caught the garter/bouquet, and are now wanting to plan their wedding in Mexico, and at the same resort! We can' t wait to go back and enjoy the new beach and of course explore more of the area. Thank you so so much for your help in planning our safe and successful trip.
Live from Whistler
Hope all is well at home.
We are at Day 7 of the Olympic Games and I have been really enjoying my time here. I have heard bits and pieces of negative press, but really for most of us here (volunteers, workers, spectators) it has been pretty great. There are challenging moments, but the people here are very enthusiastic and excited and we are all enjoying our Olympic experience. The crowds have been great and our athletes are doing really well. We should be proud, no matter what the finish or the colour of the medal!
Things here is Whistler are really wonderful. After a few days of rain which made things very interesting for events and volunteers and spectators, we are now having sunny days and this has not only allowed the alpine sports to finally run, but it has also brought out a whole bunch of people which is awesome. There are many beautiful people here so it has been great to sit back, when there are moments to do that, and watch what is going on. There is a huge representation of Australian citizens here in Whistler. They work here, and live here....as one of them put it they are "living the dream". Every once in a while you will spot a group of athletes strolling about and they are kind and willing to take pictures and sign autographs. There are tonnes of boarders and skiiers out here and they take up a lot of space on the bus. And, ski equipment does smell as bad as hockey equipment. It's terrible!
Aside from the people watching and sightseeing and shopping, I have had the opportunity to take in a few of the free shows...don't ask me who the bands were as I don't know but they were good. I also saw the fire and ice show (boarders jumping through flaming rings) which was pretty good until the crowd starting lobbing snowballs as the band, only temporarily stopping the show. The place is definately busy with the hip and happening beautful people.
I have been busy the last few days with work at the Sliding Centre - Luge - crazy, just crazy. These women go at incredible speeds - and olympic dreams are had and lost on tenths of seconds. It is just crazy. I have been very fortunate to be in the company of these great athletes and I tell ya....these people are amazing. They have these perfect fit bodies and most of them are actually just very, very nice people!
It has all been a very "sick" experience. The word "sick" is one you hear often around here....along with gnarly....yes...they say gnarly out here. Sick actually means something good or awesome, so if I come home and start saying this is sick or that show was really sick....you will have to understand and help me to overcome this trend!
I am back at the Sliding centre again today and tomorrow, for the Skeleton event. That should also be crazy. I can't wait. The days have been a little long, we spend lots of time waiting for the athletes to do their thing whatever that might be, but it is just so incredible to be here. I will also get a chance to go to Biathlon....that will be cool.
I had a day off yesterday so I decided to do the Peak to Peak Gondola. It is a gondola ride that goes between the Whistler and Blackcomb mountain peaks. It is very high and apparently the world's longest, highest, continuous and unsupported (free) span of a lift of it's kind. For those who like stats....it is 4.4 km long. The highest point is 436 metres or 1427 feet and the length of unsupported span is 3 km or 1.88 miles. It was incredible. The day was sunny and clear so I got to see forever. The views were spectacular and apparently those in Pemberton can see this gondola. I am not certain how far away Pemberton is from Whistler so I can't tell you more than that.
I have been trying to walk around where ever I can. I need to get rid of my "winter coat" and get ready for a half marathon that I carelessly decided I should do in May...what was I thinking? The hills around here have provided a great workout for me and in all honesty, this along with the fresh mountain air has been really great. Whistler is the place that you want to be to hike, cycle, ski, snow board, or just sit back and relax!
That is pretty much it for now. I am hoping to get into Vancouver in the next few days as I would like to experience that culture before my time winds down here. It will depend on the schedule. So, until whenever, take care and cheer really loud for Canada. We have lots of athletes here that are doing their best and relying on our support!
We are at Day 7 of the Olympic Games and I have been really enjoying my time here. I have heard bits and pieces of negative press, but really for most of us here (volunteers, workers, spectators) it has been pretty great. There are challenging moments, but the people here are very enthusiastic and excited and we are all enjoying our Olympic experience. The crowds have been great and our athletes are doing really well. We should be proud, no matter what the finish or the colour of the medal!
Things here is Whistler are really wonderful. After a few days of rain which made things very interesting for events and volunteers and spectators, we are now having sunny days and this has not only allowed the alpine sports to finally run, but it has also brought out a whole bunch of people which is awesome. There are many beautiful people here so it has been great to sit back, when there are moments to do that, and watch what is going on. There is a huge representation of Australian citizens here in Whistler. They work here, and live here....as one of them put it they are "living the dream". Every once in a while you will spot a group of athletes strolling about and they are kind and willing to take pictures and sign autographs. There are tonnes of boarders and skiiers out here and they take up a lot of space on the bus. And, ski equipment does smell as bad as hockey equipment. It's terrible!
Aside from the people watching and sightseeing and shopping, I have had the opportunity to take in a few of the free shows...don't ask me who the bands were as I don't know but they were good. I also saw the fire and ice show (boarders jumping through flaming rings) which was pretty good until the crowd starting lobbing snowballs as the band, only temporarily stopping the show. The place is definately busy with the hip and happening beautful people.
I have been busy the last few days with work at the Sliding Centre - Luge - crazy, just crazy. These women go at incredible speeds - and olympic dreams are had and lost on tenths of seconds. It is just crazy. I have been very fortunate to be in the company of these great athletes and I tell ya....these people are amazing. They have these perfect fit bodies and most of them are actually just very, very nice people!
It has all been a very "sick" experience. The word "sick" is one you hear often around here....along with gnarly....yes...they say gnarly out here. Sick actually means something good or awesome, so if I come home and start saying this is sick or that show was really sick....you will have to understand and help me to overcome this trend!
I am back at the Sliding centre again today and tomorrow, for the Skeleton event. That should also be crazy. I can't wait. The days have been a little long, we spend lots of time waiting for the athletes to do their thing whatever that might be, but it is just so incredible to be here. I will also get a chance to go to Biathlon....that will be cool.
I had a day off yesterday so I decided to do the Peak to Peak Gondola. It is a gondola ride that goes between the Whistler and Blackcomb mountain peaks. It is very high and apparently the world's longest, highest, continuous and unsupported (free) span of a lift of it's kind. For those who like stats....it is 4.4 km long. The highest point is 436 metres or 1427 feet and the length of unsupported span is 3 km or 1.88 miles. It was incredible. The day was sunny and clear so I got to see forever. The views were spectacular and apparently those in Pemberton can see this gondola. I am not certain how far away Pemberton is from Whistler so I can't tell you more than that.
I have been trying to walk around where ever I can. I need to get rid of my "winter coat" and get ready for a half marathon that I carelessly decided I should do in May...what was I thinking? The hills around here have provided a great workout for me and in all honesty, this along with the fresh mountain air has been really great. Whistler is the place that you want to be to hike, cycle, ski, snow board, or just sit back and relax!
That is pretty much it for now. I am hoping to get into Vancouver in the next few days as I would like to experience that culture before my time winds down here. It will depend on the schedule. So, until whenever, take care and cheer really loud for Canada. We have lots of athletes here that are doing their best and relying on our support!
Monday, February 15, 2010
Spanish Travels
One of our clients has been sharing their daily adventures via email from their tour around Spain. Below is an excerpt of their time in Barcelona. Check back often as their tours continue....
What beats a rainy day in Barcelona? A warm sunny day in Barcelona. We venture out early. First stop a coffee shop with a too many pastry choices- and too many pounds if we choose them all. Early in our exploration we come across the Palau De La Musica Catalana. It is the most ornately decorated theatre I have ever seen.
We tried to get in for a quick view; however our options were pay for a tour or buy a ticket for a concert. We chose to see Tomatito, a Spanish flamenco guitarist. Tickets in our pockets, we navigated the narrow streets and shops in search of anything interesting. Who am I kidding? It was all interesting. Of the many ancient buildings and gothic churches, one of my favourites was the Santa Maria Del Mar, built in the 1400s by residents as a place to pray for the safe return of ships and sailors. The shores of the Mediterranean were then a few meters from its door and are now over a kilometre away. Times change.
What beats a rainy day in Barcelona? A warm sunny day in Barcelona. We venture out early. First stop a coffee shop with a too many pastry choices- and too many pounds if we choose them all. Early in our exploration we come across the Palau De La Musica Catalana. It is the most ornately decorated theatre I have ever seen.
We tried to get in for a quick view; however our options were pay for a tour or buy a ticket for a concert. We chose to see Tomatito, a Spanish flamenco guitarist. Tickets in our pockets, we navigated the narrow streets and shops in search of anything interesting. Who am I kidding? It was all interesting. Of the many ancient buildings and gothic churches, one of my favourites was the Santa Maria Del Mar, built in the 1400s by residents as a place to pray for the safe return of ships and sailors. The shores of the Mediterranean were then a few meters from its door and are now over a kilometre away. Times change.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Laura in Vancouver and Whistler for the 2010 Olympics
Well, after much planning, and with the support of my family and friends and great employers I am finally in British Columbia to volunteer at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games!
I got to Vancouver on Feb 9, 2010 thanks to the excellent and timely service of Air Canada and after collecting my luggage - all of which was accounted for - I headed off to downtown Vancouver via the new Canada Line. This is an incredible way to get from the airport to the downtown area, easy, fast, and affordable.
I had a brief stay in Vancouver, with enough time to visit with friends and my sister who is also volunteering here. I am now one of the "blue jackets" according to Olympic organizers or the "smurfs" according to my fellow volunteers. We are all very excited to be a part of this experience and I will look foward to sharing more with you once I things get started.
While in Vancouver I was lucky to do a bit of walking about and even though the Games were still days away at that time, you could just feel the excitement and energy. Lots of preparation still occuring, with building construction being hastily completed and streets being cleaned up and closed off. With that being said, when you speak with people here there is mixed emotion about the Games, the cost, the benefits, the inconvenience. Hopefully, we can come together, to celebrate what is about to occur and and commit to working towards what needs to occur to make things better.
I have now made my way to Whistler where I will be volunteering. Whistler is absolutely beautiful and I have enjoyed walking about and taking in the sights and breathing this mountain air. Whistler is the home for the alpine and sliding and nordic events. There is a lot of excitement here and the crowd of people is ecclectic with locals and athletes and visitors. There is a lot to do and a lot to see.
So until I blog again, I hope that everyone will take the time to cheer on our athletes. Watch the opening cermonies on February 12, 2010. I was lucky to attend the dress rehearsal and I can tell you it will be amazing.
Laura
I got to Vancouver on Feb 9, 2010 thanks to the excellent and timely service of Air Canada and after collecting my luggage - all of which was accounted for - I headed off to downtown Vancouver via the new Canada Line. This is an incredible way to get from the airport to the downtown area, easy, fast, and affordable.
I had a brief stay in Vancouver, with enough time to visit with friends and my sister who is also volunteering here. I am now one of the "blue jackets" according to Olympic organizers or the "smurfs" according to my fellow volunteers. We are all very excited to be a part of this experience and I will look foward to sharing more with you once I things get started.
While in Vancouver I was lucky to do a bit of walking about and even though the Games were still days away at that time, you could just feel the excitement and energy. Lots of preparation still occuring, with building construction being hastily completed and streets being cleaned up and closed off. With that being said, when you speak with people here there is mixed emotion about the Games, the cost, the benefits, the inconvenience. Hopefully, we can come together, to celebrate what is about to occur and and commit to working towards what needs to occur to make things better.
I have now made my way to Whistler where I will be volunteering. Whistler is absolutely beautiful and I have enjoyed walking about and taking in the sights and breathing this mountain air. Whistler is the home for the alpine and sliding and nordic events. There is a lot of excitement here and the crowd of people is ecclectic with locals and athletes and visitors. There is a lot to do and a lot to see.
So until I blog again, I hope that everyone will take the time to cheer on our athletes. Watch the opening cermonies on February 12, 2010. I was lucky to attend the dress rehearsal and I can tell you it will be amazing.
Laura
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Denise's Mexican Riviera Cruise
Last Post - final 3 days
Cabo day was short, but enjoyable. It was very hot in the morning - VERY - but the clouds rolled in just as we were getting ready to set sail - great timing!
First thing in the morning we took a short boat ride to see Los Arcos - The Arches - and it turned into a whale watching trip. As we moved around the rocks from the Bay to the Ocean a few whales started showing up, in the distance and close by! Never got any great shots, and we never saw more than tails, but it was still pretty amazing. We also passed a few sea lions relaxing on a rock just off a little beach. It's across from the ship and I had heard them talking when we got up in the morning but I couldn't figure out exactly where they were until our tour boat passed close by.
Ate lunch at one of the places along the pier (where hubby tried a new beer and some local Tequila) and then dropped into Del Sol for some souvenirs. If you've never heard of Del Sol, it's a pretty neat place. Everything in there changes colour when exposed to UV light. They've got t-shirts and shorts, hair accessories, sunglasses, frisbees, nailpolish, and lots of stuff! Every port we stop in that has a Del Sol we zip over there to pick up at least a t-shirt and a reusable shopping bag.
Here's an interesting fact (or not): Cabo has a Costco. Yes, THAT Costco. And no, I have no idea if your card works there. :)
After leaving Cabo we needed to "gun it" the whole way home to make the tight itinerary. Unfortunately the storms in SoCal were turning strong winds out into the ocean and we had rough seas the rest of the ride. Having a cabin at the front of the ship, I sadly spent the last two days of the cruise in my room. My weak tummy just couldn't handle it. For a brief while one night the Gravol worked and we went down a few decks to see how things were going. They were hopping!! The place was packed and everyone was happy and having a great time. I felt like I was the only one on the ship who could feel the movement. Unfortunately it caused me to miss the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the engine room and the bridge. But what can you do?!
Pushing the waves the whole way slowed us down and we were late getting into Long Beach. Carnival guaranteed we would reach the airport in time but unfortunately that didn't happen for everyone. We missed our flight, and got bounced around a bit, but finally got out in time to catch our connector in Denver. Although, that flight was originally supposed to be diverted to Fargo because of weather here in Winnipeg but we finally got approval to land at home, safe and sound.
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