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80% => The Nevillew General Discussion Forum => Topic started by: 4D on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 12:40:12



Title: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: 4D on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 12:40:12
Thinking about booking a summer break but not sure what the current thinking is regarding holidays this summer. Happy to go back to Spain or take a lodge break in the UK. Anyone looked into it yet?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 12:44:33
I've started to think about it today funnily enough. We'll probably try and get to Turkey in September and I've started to look into going for a weekend/week in the Peak District as that's really easy for us to get to now we've moved to Northants.

My wife really wants to get to Ireland to see her family and we also want to get across to Luxembourg to visit her sister and some of my friends so this year its mainly going to be driven by seeing loved ones I reckon. We also have a garden now so I'm quite looking forward to dabbling into it with my green fingers and settling down to enjoy the sun with a cold drink.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Chunkyhair on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 13:04:32
I am increasingly thinking that Summer Holidays abroad aren't gonna happen this year.

I am due to go to Greece in July, a rebooking from last years cancelled holiday.  2 weeks ago I was 60/40 it was gonna happen.  Now I am 70/30 it's not.

One piece of obvious advice I would give is be careful who you book with if you do go ahead.  I have had three holidays (and probably soon to be 4) cancelled due to COVID, all were booked with Jet2 and they have been outsatanding in terms of custoer service/prompt refunds etc etc


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Panda Paws on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 13:09:24
UK only this summer - a week in Southwold.  Just can't deal with another cancelled holiday or visiting a half-normal foreign destination.

Then a risk-free booking for a second attempt at NYC and Cancun over New Year.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: RedRag on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 13:18:20
Sharing a cottage with friends in Rock, Cornwall.  Eat, drink, dog walk, swim, relax etc.

Would recommend booking a UK break soonest as likely to be popular.

Bit too cautious to go abroad this year.  

Would probably suggest Kefalonia on the basis that if quarantined could always stay with Audrey.  ;)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Maidenhead Red on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 13:23:20
Haven't booked anything yet, but the wife is keen to get something sorted. We've been to Madeira a few times in recent years and it's always nice around September time. Might look into that

 


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Cowley38 on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 13:31:18
For me a UK Holiday is the only option for 2021..

Anyone going abroad is to put it bluntly a complete knobend.....


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Samdy Gray on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 13:35:16
Looking to get away to Devon or Cornwall at the end of May but availability looks scarce. Won't be going away over the summer because #3 is due. We had a big family holiday cancelled in February which we'll trying and re-book for October.

I've seen some cracking deals for Turkey for May 2022 so might get that booked up.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Berniman on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 13:40:00
Have Mexico booked for September, which is basically a rebooking of my holiday from last year, but not expecting it to go ahead.  Once we have more clarity we might look at moving the booking again to very early 2022 Jan/Feb.

One thing i do know is that I am in serious need of a holiday having not really stopped working completely since Oct 2019

Will probably look at booking a short UK break for Sept ahould the inevitable happen


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 13:44:31
For me a UK Holiday is the only option for 2021..

Anyone going abroad is to put it bluntly a complete knobend.....

Why would someone going abroad be a complete knobend? That's a slight overreaction Cowley. Surely if they have taken every step to protect themselves and are likely visiting a country with less cases than the UK then why is that being a knobend?

Could quite easily go with the masses to Cornwall or Skegness and be mixing with a load of folk, virally shedding on each other (yum).

Surely the "knobend" comes from a person who goes about not giving a fuck. You know, like Laurance Fox. Now he is a complete knobend but someone staying in an apartment in Turkey, Spain or Greece (and so on) just chilling out, minding their own business... to me is not :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 13:45:34
Have Mexico booked for September, which is basically a rebooking of my holiday from last year, but not expecting it to go ahead.  Once we have more clarity we might look at moving the booking again to very early 2022 Jan/Feb.

One thing i do know is that I am in serious need of a holiday having not really stopped working completely since Oct 2019

Will probably look at booking a short UK break for Sept ahould the inevitable happen

I hope you get a break Berni. Everyone needs some respite  for sure.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 13:52:16
I am increasingly thinking that Summer Holidays abroad aren't gonna happen this year.

I am due to go to Greece in July, a rebooking from last years cancelled holiday.  2 weeks ago I was 60/40 it was gonna happen.  Now I am 70/30 it's not.

One piece of obvious advice I would give is be careful who you book with if you do go ahead.  I have had three holidays (and probably soon to be 4) cancelled due to COVID, all were booked with Jet2 and they have been outsatanding in terms of custoer service/prompt refunds etc etc
Greece is opening up for tourists next month. It does seem a bit rushed as cases - on the mainland - are rising. We’ve been pretty clear throughout the pandemic here although still hamstrung with all the lockdown/curfew measures.

After reading the UK was vaccinating at 27 jabs per second the other day, here we managed 17 in total for the day!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: JBZ on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 13:54:23
I won't be chilling out abroad this year even if it is legally possible to do so. 


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 13:56:13
For me a UK Holiday is the only option for 2021..

Anyone going abroad is to put it bluntly a complete knobend.....

A well measured post. Very well done.

Not really, the post of an owl's vagina.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 14:00:29
I am taking a big amount of holiday enquiries abroad now. It looks likely that we will be operating a traffic light system from June onwards.

There is going to be a roadmap released around the 6th April. I think there will be a lot of red countries on it from a May 17th  but these will start to go into the green and amber allowing us to travel from june onwards based on vaccines and testing.

Also looking likely that we will see a travel corridor with the USA from July. Happy to try and answer any questions regarding travel for you


Title: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 14:10:24
I've got accommodation in Tenerife booked at the end of July that was carried over from last year

I'm not convinced we'll be able to go. I hope I'm very wrong


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Nemo on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 14:12:56
A well measured post. Very well done.

Not really, the post of an owl's vagina.

On a point of order, owls have no such thing. Birds have a cloaca, which is one exciting mega-hole that does all ins and outs.

On the topic, I'm not going to try and go abroad this year but understand the desire to do so. Moving house so will at least get a significant change of scenery. UK holidays probably advisable for the summer at least though.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 14:16:22
On a point of order, owls have no such thing. Birds have a cloaca, which is one exciting mega-hole that does all ins and outs.

On the topic, I'm not going to try and go abroad this year but understand the desire to do so. Moving house so will at least get a significant change of scenery. UK holidays probably advisable for the summer at least though.

I literally picked the most random thing I could, and have ended up picking something that doesn't exist! Woe is me. Had I chosen to go with 'Owl's Cloaca' that might have ended up being less insult and more badge of honour by the sounds of it!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Tails on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 14:19:23
We sunk a whole load of money into wedding & honeymoon in the US last year which all got rescheduled to this year so fingers crossed it all goes ahead or else I stand to lose a shit load of money. A lot of the stuff we booked are not so hot on the refunds despite the ongoing situation. Bit difficult with the other half being a teacher, means the only time we can do anything really substantial is August. She's all jabbed up and I'm hopeful I can get mine before the summer.

We fully intend to go if we can though, especially if we're both jabbed. Honestly couldn't give a monkeys how much of a knobend it makes me! Thankfully Florida is vaccinating all adults over 18 from next week so looks like it could be a goer.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: RedRag on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 14:22:06
Very good luck with that, mate.

Love Florida.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Panda Paws on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 14:24:21
Very good luck with that, mate.

Love Florida.

Same. St Pete's is my favorite spot. Amazing beer town.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 14:27:49
There is going to be a roadmap released around the 6th April. I

It won't be a bloody road map, it will be a schedule!

(sorry bug bear of mine, same with sodding staycation!)

Oh and we are off to Northumberland for a fortnight in the summer as per usual, also got a long weekend booked in Manchester for the Christmas markets (with a no fuss cancellation up to the day before!).

Also trying to get a few weekend tips with mates organised, generally just trying to get a few things into the diary to look forward to.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: DiV on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 14:30:37
Would love to get away for a family holiday but unsure who easy travel will be, so don’t want to book anything.
Was supposed to be going to Turkey last April with Jet2holidays but obviously it got cancelled and had a full refund very quickly.


If a family holiday is unlikely I will probably escape somewhere in the UK for a weekend where at least three people will be murdered and the hotel will become a crime scene, which is always good fun.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Broadbents Tackle on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 14:31:32
Decided to make a trip to the Scottish Highlands, having been to Scotland quite a few times but never the Highlands. Haven't looked into much yet, does anyone have any recommendations?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 14:32:16
Decided to make a trip to the Scottish Highlands, having been to Scotland quite a few times but never the Highlands. Haven't looked into much yet, does anyone have any recommendations?

Take waterproofs.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 14:35:23
Take waterproofs.

and insect repellent!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 14:35:36
Take waterproofs.
And suncream! in equal measure! don't like the weather....wait a minute....


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Chunkyhair on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 14:56:06
We had a trip booked (and cancelled) to Scotland in October last year (yes, I know crap time but we just wanted to get away).

We were going to go to Fort William (Glencoe etc etc - stunning place), then drive over to Skye - an amazing drive up to Skye.

From there get a ferry to Lewis.  From Lewis (Stornaway), ferry over to Ullapool and then drive to Inverness.  From there we were gonna head home via Edinburgh as I have never been there.

We had a mix of Premier Inn type places and local hotels booked - all around £60 per night for the two of us.  Ferry was about £120 for all the crossings (that was car + passengers).

You might wanna break up the journey staying somehwere Oop North - I stayed in Preston on my way up (for old times sake, I went to College there and hadn't been back in 30 years), and Carlisle on way back (total shit hole but OK for visiting Hadrians Wall).  York might be an option.

I did half this trip, up to Fort William/Skye, on my own last January before we had heard of COVID cos I just needed to get away on my own for a bit - was fucking amazing, hence me and Mrs Chunkyhair planning to go in October.

Basically - once north of Loch Lomond/on West coast you aint gonna go wrong

*Edit - and other posts are correct.  If you are going between January and December take insect repellent, waterproofs and suncream  ;D


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Saxondale on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 15:12:29
Week in Cornwall end of may for my 50th Birthday.  Let's face it the huge joint rave I was going to have with my eldest for her 18th is probably not going to happen so a week eating pasties, ice cream and fudge will have to do.

 


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Arriba on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 15:18:04
3 UK holidays for us. I've no desire to go abroad this year at all. Planning to go to Ibiza May 2022 when this shit's calmed down hopefully.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: RobertT on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 16:11:07
We sunk a whole load of money into wedding & honeymoon in the US last year which all got rescheduled to this year so fingers crossed it all goes ahead or else I stand to lose a shit load of money. A lot of the stuff we booked are not so hot on the refunds despite the ongoing situation. Bit difficult with the other half being a teacher, means the only time we can do anything really substantial is August. She's all jabbed up and I'm hopeful I can get mine before the summer.

We fully intend to go if we can though, especially if we're both jabbed. Honestly couldn't give a monkeys how much of a knobend it makes me! Thankfully Florida is vaccinating all adults over 18 from next week so looks like it could be a goer.

Your issue is going to be the USA letting you in at the moment.

Florida itself is pretty open, very few restrictions remain in place by law, but most establishments of repute have kept good practices in place, especially those that rely on the tourist $.

Whereabouts in Florida?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: RobertT on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 16:12:34
On Florida, I'm popping down in late August for a week - was originally planned for a family Holiday in May last year, then rescheduled for this May and now cancelled again.  Hopefully we can get my parents over for Christmas to Georgia though.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: swindonmaniac on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 16:33:46
UK For me this year, already booked family holiday near Scarborough for August and five days on the Isle of Wight for September. Both with covid money back guarantee s.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 16:49:32
UK For me this year, already booked family holiday near Scarborough for August and five days on the Isle of Wight for September. Both with covid money back guarantee s.

Feel free to share a pint with you if I'm about up that way. Or curve me if you like as well  :D  Still trying to figure out if it's you I bought the programme off  :pint:


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Hunk on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 17:25:01
Not a holiday as such, but I’m hopeful about being able to go back to the states in August for a few weeks to see my kids. Provided the UK and the US keep up their vaccination drives at roughly the current pace I’m confident I’ll be able to.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: donkey on Thursday, March 25, 2021, 19:17:07
Decided to make a trip to the Scottish Highlands, having been to Scotland quite a few times but never the Highlands. Haven't looked into much yet, does anyone have any recommendations?

For sure. I've done two driving holidays.  Inverness up the east coast, along the north coast and down the west coast.  Where are you thinking of? I'll help if I can.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Broadbents Tackle on Friday, March 26, 2021, 06:11:16
For sure. I've done two driving holidays.  Inverness up the east coast, along the north coast and down the west coast.  Where are you thinking of? I'll help if I can.

I was thinking of driving up the west coast and across to Inverness, then maybe coming back through the Cairngorms. I can only really take a week off in summer though, which I realise isn't a great deal of time. My main questions would be where I try and see in that time, and where it is worth stopping along the way for a night or two? Cheers.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: donkey on Friday, March 26, 2021, 06:58:45
I was thinking of driving up the west coast and across to Inverness, then maybe coming back through the Cairngorms. I can only really take a week off in summer though, which I realise isn't a great deal of time. My main questions would be where I try and see in that time, and where it is worth stopping along the way for a night or two? Cheers.

I'll have a think over the weekend.  If I forget, feel free to remind me!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Friday, March 26, 2021, 09:43:00
Your issue is going to be the USA letting you in at the moment.

Florida itself is pretty open, very few restrictions remain in place by law, but most establishments of repute have kept good practices in place, especially those that rely on the tourist $.

Whereabouts in Florida?
They are talking of starting travel corridors from UK to USA from july. Fingers crossed


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Tails on Friday, March 26, 2021, 10:33:40
Your issue is going to be the USA letting you in at the moment.

Florida itself is pretty open, very few restrictions remain in place by law, but most establishments of repute have kept good practices in place, especially those that rely on the tourist $.

Whereabouts in Florida?

Roaming around the whole state to be honest!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Friday, March 26, 2021, 10:36:01
Roaming around the whole state to be honest!

We went to Florida a couple of years ago for a wedding and hired a mustang convertible for the week. (cliche I know) Regardless of the fact you can't really drive particularly fast in the states I'd recommend it, purely for how cheap car hire is over there compared to rip of Britain/Ireland where I reckon it was cheaper for us to hire the mustang than it was to hire a polo/fiesta in this country!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Friday, March 26, 2021, 10:41:11
if I win the lottery and retire I'd love to drive across the USA off the beaten track a bit and see some smaller places on the way to bigger ones.

I'll give you a call when the numbers come in Dean :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: donkey on Saturday, March 27, 2021, 16:32:19
I was thinking of driving up the west coast and across to Inverness, then maybe coming back through the Cairngorms. I can only really take a week off in summer though, which I realise isn't a great deal of time. My main questions would be where I try and see in that time, and where it is worth stopping along the way for a night or two? Cheers.

Most of the two trips we did were right up north, but we did a few things on the west coast.

I would recommend a trip to Arran - they've got a distillery and a brewery, and Arran is like Scotland in miniture -rolling hills in the south, craggy peaks in the north.  Further north is Oban - obvious whisky town.  If you have time the Fort William to Mallaig train is great (it goes over the bridge in Harry Potter I understand).  Just outside Inverness is the Culloden Battlefield site, which is pretty cool.

Can't help much with the Cairngorns as I've not been, but hopefully that's of some use.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: RobertT on Saturday, March 27, 2021, 17:55:30
Roaming around the whole state to be honest!

I'd probably give the North aspect of the Panhandle a miss, but a trip along the Gulf Cost line from their down to Miami would be good - some lovely beaches and small Cities on the Gulf side.  Miami is good fun, especially Miami Beach.  I've not been to the Keys, but my wife and daughter did a road trip including them and said they were lovely as well.  You could probably research breweries and do a road trip just for them!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Tails on Saturday, March 27, 2021, 19:37:17
I'd probably give the North aspect of the Panhandle a miss, but a trip along the Gulf Cost line from their down to Miami would be good - some lovely beaches and small Cities on the Gulf side.  Miami is good fun, especially Miami Beach.  I've not been to the Keys, but my wife and daughter did a road trip including them and said they were lovely as well.  You could probably research breweries and do a road trip just for them!

I've got family in Fort Myers (hour north of Naples) and by a fun coincidence my future in laws own a house there also so we go there quite often! So we'll most likely head to Orlando then go down that way via Tampa. Gonna spend a few days in the Keys too as I've never been before.

Well this is all dependent on being let in of course...


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: The Grim Reaper on Saturday, March 27, 2021, 21:02:08
Usually go to Tenerife every September. Went last year, quite confident I’ll go this year too.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Broadbents Tackle on Sunday, March 28, 2021, 12:35:02
Most of the two trips we did were right up north, but we did a few things on the west coast.

I would recommend a trip to Arran - they've got a distillery and a brewery, and Arran is like Scotland in miniture -rolling hills in the south, craggy peaks in the north.  Further north is Oban - obvious whisky town.  If you have time the Fort William to Mallaig train is great (it goes over the bridge in Harry Potter I understand).  Just outside Inverness is the Culloden Battlefield site, which is pretty cool.

Can't help much with the Cairngorns as I've not been, but hopefully that's of some use.

Top man(mule), thanks. Arran sounds good and will definitely look to see if we can fit the train journey in.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: donkey on Sunday, March 28, 2021, 15:58:42
Top man(mule), thanks. Arran sounds good and will definitely look to see if we can fit the train journey in.

 :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Chunkyhair on Sunday, March 28, 2021, 16:52:14
I was thinking of driving up the west coast and across to Inverness, then maybe coming back through the Cairngorms. I can only really take a week off in summer though, which I realise isn't a great deal of time. My main questions would be where I try and see in that time, and where it is worth stopping along the way for a night or two? Cheers.

The break we planned last October was just under a week and that included stopping over in Glasgow for night to break the journey and pick up my son who was flying up to Glasgow to join us and 2 nights in Edinburgh that we could easily have trimmed to one.

Calmac ferries are very customer centric but I would recommend booking specific ferries as lot of the shorter routes do have a lot of "rock ups".

My suggestion given the timings you are talking about could be head to Oban (as already mentioned above - beautiful town and great for food and drink  :)). Then go over to Mull for a couple of days on the Craignure ferry.  Tobermory is delightful and it is a great drive around the island, including popping over to Iona which is well worth a visit.  The Abbey is quite a treat and also ex-Labour Party Leader John Smith is buried there if that is your thing (it is mine).  You are guaranteed so see seals and the like and if lucky Golden Eagles. Also Calgary beach is probably the best beach in Britain!

From there you can head back to Mainland and up to Fort William (via the Fishnish/Lochaline ferry) for Glencoe, Loch Ness, Ben Nevis, Spean Bridge and more.

After that depends upon how much time you have left/how you want to use it.  It's an easy drive to Inverness from Fort William along the banks of Loch Ness for instance, or as I said previously the drive to Skye from Fort William is amazing and the bridge means no ferries to worry about.

Honestly, you cant go wrong up there - plan your route, book accommodation/ferrries as needed and you are laughing.

I did this route (without Inverness) last January in 5 days and it was amazing, even in depths of Winter.

HTH as young people say. Happy to add anything if you need more advice/help  :)

EDIT*** Channeling my Inner Bamboo with the length this post (no offence intended Bamboo  :) - last time I wrote this much was for my thesis!!!!!!)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Sunday, March 28, 2021, 17:13:41
No offence taken, some great advice for BBT and I only wish a few more would write some detailed posts. Then they'd be channeling their own "inner whatever" rather than mine  :)

Good read - I'll add Foyers Falls near Dores (top end of Loch Ness) is a treat, especially if there has been snow.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Broadbents Tackle on Monday, March 29, 2021, 06:24:56
Thanks, Chunky. I'll be spending Easter weekend researching and you chaps have given me plenty of ideas. The vastness of it all seemed a bit daunting at first glance.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Monday, March 29, 2021, 06:45:20
I’ve given up the notion of having a foreign holiday this side of the summer holidays and will consider non European destinations from September onwards. Now the offspring are of an age we can avoid the wallet crushing excesses of Skool holiday price hikes.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Monday, March 29, 2021, 07:47:50
I’ve given up the notion of having a foreign holiday this side of the summer holidays and will consider non European destinations from September onwards. Now the offspring are of an age we can avoid the wallet crushing excesses of Skool holiday price hikes.
Wise choice. It seems a lot more people are taking this route


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Costanza on Monday, March 29, 2021, 16:04:17
Just the usual long weekend down in Devon in September for the Costanza's. Hopefully we can arrange another break during the summer too.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Wednesday, April 21, 2021, 08:45:14
Are STFC doing a pre season tour this summer? Could help sway my decision :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Panda Paws on Wednesday, April 21, 2021, 09:23:48
Are STFC existing this summer? Could help sway my decision :)

Fixed for you.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Berniman on Wednesday, April 21, 2021, 09:59:37
You will be lucky if there is a tour of Chippenham, Melsksham and South Cerney at the rate we are going..


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: scillyred on Wednesday, April 21, 2021, 13:38:23
Operation rip-off this year.
I have been charged £137 for a single night in a double room in a Travelodge near Penzance in early July.
A friend was quote £280 for a disabled persons room in a Premier Inn in the same place in June, because it was G7 week.
Suffice to say we won't be using them next year when everyone has returned to the Costas  8)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Wednesday, April 21, 2021, 15:31:27
Operation rip-off this year.
I have been charged £137 for a single night in a double room in a Travelodge near Penzance in early July.
A friend was quote £280 for a disabled persons room in a Premier Inn in the same place in June, because it was G7 week.
Suffice to say we won't be using them next year when everyone has returned to the Costas  8)

Let's not start with Tresco's already over inflated prices pre pandemic. I daren't look at at the prices for this Summer and in others parts of the Islands too.

Some people say "it will return to normal after a while" but the truth is it probably won't for a very long time. Once businesses know they can still capitalise and corner a market, they will continue to do so. I'm not blaming them per se, as across the board businesses have lost a year and a bit of trade - it's more the fact the price will likely stick and in somewhere like Scilly, once a price is set, most follow suit there.

My only realistic option for the foreseeable would be to camp on Aggy and even then it's not cheap. Very much catering to the more wealthy. Whilst the local workers, Islander's and Scillonians still have their struggles that I'm very aware of - not least freight costs. Government allowing freight subsidy would be a start seeing as they can make beneficial deals for their mates, why not for the Islands?!

We won't talk about the Duchy either...


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, May 10, 2021, 09:40:10
Now we have an idea of the green list, I just remembered I had booked a long weekend in Porto last year for the wife's birthday and have a BA voucher that I can utilise. Not sure how relevant it is but we have both had 1 of the AZ vaccines. Does anyone know what the current rules are for travelling, do you have to have a negative test etc? I could probably use google to find this out but there is usually a couple of helpful TEF people that know this stuff off the top of their heads :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Monday, May 10, 2021, 09:51:16
Will be in the UK somewhere this year. Anyone know a good holiday where we can take the new pooch?  :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, May 10, 2021, 09:52:04
Will be in the UK somewhere this year. Anyone know a good holiday where we can take the new pooch?  :)

Wootton Basset? The Isle of Dogs?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Monday, May 10, 2021, 09:53:01
 :D

Somewhere in Berkshire probably


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, May 10, 2021, 09:55:14
:D

Somewhere in Berkshire probably

Wahay!! Haha.

I know Bamboo is probably much more likely to be able to provide information but i've been looking at the Peak District recently for a bit of a break as I have never been but it looks really lovely around there, lots of good walks, countryside pubs etc.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Monday, May 10, 2021, 10:01:45
Wahay!! Haha.

I know Bamboo is probably much more likely to be able to provide information but i've been looking at the Peak District recently for a bit of a break as I have never been but it looks really lovely around there, lots of good walks, countryside pubs etc.

It'll also be crammed full of people, its bloody standing room only round here already!  ;) :D


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, May 10, 2021, 10:03:59
It'll also be crammed full of people, its bloody standing room only round here already!  ;) :D

Shit my apologies Horlock, I forgot you were the token norverner in this place!!

Now I've moved to Northants, it's somewhere that is dead easy for us to get to but I'm guessing a lot of people have probably booked up this year and so I might wait a bit until things are a bit more 'normal' before popping up to say hello!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Monday, May 10, 2021, 10:10:46
Shit my apologies Horlock, I forgot you were the token norverner in this place!!

Now I've moved to Northants, it's somewhere that is dead easy for us to get to but I'm guessing a lot of people have probably booked up this year and so I might wait a bit until things are a bit more 'normal' before popping up to say hello!

I'm Lakes rather than Peak (which is lovely), but its got absolutely heaving round here in the last week or so! Although as we are off to Northumberland in the summer I cannot really complain!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Nomoreheroes on Monday, May 10, 2021, 15:35:56
Just cancelled my Cyprus holiday in June - Third time its been cancelled! Cancer, broken neck and now Covid!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: donkey on Monday, May 10, 2021, 16:50:35
Will be in the UK somewhere this year. Anyone know a good holiday where we can take the new pooch?  :)

We've found a few places.  Depending on where you are, the North Norfolk coast is brilliant for dogs.  Let me know if you want any info in that area.  North Devon was cool over the winter and will be going again in the summer. We've done Wirkswirth in Derbyshire (the Feather Star is a great little pub), Warwickshire, a gate house near Cheltenham (at the castle where Catherine Parr is buried), a lovely place out Owsestry way.



Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Chunkyhair on Monday, May 10, 2021, 18:01:48
Will be in the UK somewhere this year. Anyone know a good holiday where we can take the new pooch?  :)

We stayed a few times now, including last week, at a pretty amazing cottage in Langport in Somerset - big garden for the dog and countryside walks at bottom of said garden along the River Parret.  They have a couple of cottages better for couples/smaller families and a fuck off house that sleeps 6 (or eight in sofa bed).  Great old quirky pub pub opposite, again with huge garden.  Happy to give you details (am not on commission  :D)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Monday, May 10, 2021, 18:33:12
Just cancelled my Cyprus holiday in June - Third time its been cancelled! Cancer, broken neck and now Covid!
Oh wow... Hope all is ok


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: chalkies shorts on Monday, May 10, 2021, 18:49:40
Going late this year, late Oct but 2 days in Kendal , a nice drive to Alnwick for another 2 days then off to Berwick for a week and 2 days near Thirsk on the way home. Northumberland is an area I've always wanted to visit. Might pop into Scotland to see the third world.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Monday, May 10, 2021, 18:59:27
Just cancelled my Cyprus holiday in June - Third time its been cancelled! Cancer, broken neck and now Covid!

Bloody hell mate. You’ve been in a war zone. Hope it all comes together pretty sharpish.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: pauld on Tuesday, May 11, 2021, 13:46:32
Just cancelled my Cyprus holiday in June - Third time its been cancelled! Cancer, broken neck and now Covid!
Christ that's really shit. If anyone ever needed or deserved a holiday, it's you by the sounds of it


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Chubbs on Tuesday, May 11, 2021, 13:57:53
Have a random week off next week with nothing to do. Might take a trip somewhere just to reset and clear my head for a couple days.

Any suggestions welcome. Thanks


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Panda Paws on Tuesday, May 11, 2021, 19:43:41
Have a random week off next week with nothing to do. Might take a trip somewhere just to reset and clear my head for a couple days.

Any suggestions welcome. Thanks

Southwold. Great spot, Great beer, Great seafood.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Nomoreheroes on Tuesday, May 11, 2021, 21:05:13
Christ that's really shit. If anyone ever needed or deserved a holiday, it's you by the sounds of it
Sorry, I think I worded that badly.

Wife had to undergo chemotherapy, which was successful. We deferred the holiday but had to postpone again because I fell off my bike and broke my neck. Once we were both well enough to travel, our plans have been thwarted again by the current travel rules. So, its now slipped again to 2022.

We are the luckiest people alive as we are both still here!  ;)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: jayohaitchenn on Wednesday, May 12, 2021, 10:06:19
Southwold. Great spot, Great beer, Great seafood.

And only 200 miles from where he lives


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: pauld on Wednesday, May 12, 2021, 10:20:42
Sorry, I think I worded that badly.

Wife had to undergo chemotherapy, which was successful. We deferred the holiday but had to postpone again because I fell off my bike and broke my neck. Once we were both well enough to travel, our plans have been thwarted again by the current travel rules. So, its now slipped again to 2022.

We are the luckiest people alive as we are both still here!  ;)
That's a great way of looking at it but I don't think you worded it badly at all, if anything you underplayed it. Still think you both definitely deserve a holiday!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Panda Paws on Wednesday, May 12, 2021, 11:17:48
And only 200 miles from where he lives

Isn't that the point of a holiday? To go away? Not going to do 3 nights in Marlborough.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Berniman on Wednesday, May 12, 2021, 11:28:16
Isn't that the point of a holiday? To go away? Not going to do 3 nights in Marlborough.

I think he was agreeing with you and saying that he only has to go 200 miles to sample it.

Are you ok Panda?  I know things are shit and everyone is a bit techy but you seem uncharacteristically aggy recently..  I guess we are all suffering on here in different ways..


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, May 12, 2021, 11:43:04
To be fair, the poster asked for recommendations for a trip somewhere for a few days. There wasn't any stipulations given re travelling etc so to suggest somewhere in Suffolk doesn't seem unreasonable.

I actually thought Jayo's comment was both sarcastic with elements of tongue in cheek, typical of the man.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Chubbs on Wednesday, May 12, 2021, 11:54:42
You are right, i did not stipulate any distance and Panda is not to know or assume i live in Swindon.

Having looked at where it is, it probably is a bit too far for me, but appreciate the suggestion.

Will probably head south or west if anything


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Panda Paws on Wednesday, May 12, 2021, 12:28:52
I think he was agreeing with you and saying that he only has to go 200 miles to sample it.

Are you ok Panda?  I know things are shit and everyone is a bit techy but you seem uncharacteristically aggy recently..  I guess we are all suffering on here in different ways..

I'm fine, just increasingly irritable but nothing new there. If I've been whooshed and it was a comment in agreement, so be it. Didn't read that way to me.

Certainly not the end of the world, unlike Suffolk.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: jayohaitchenn on Wednesday, May 12, 2021, 12:29:31
You read it just fine :D


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Berniman on Wednesday, May 12, 2021, 13:13:19
I'm fine, just increasingly irritable but nothing new there. If I've been whooshed and it was a comment in agreement, so be it. Didn't read that way to me.

Certainly not the end of the world, unlike Suffolk.

You need to get laid..  I am sure somebody on here can help out with that :D


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Sunday, May 16, 2021, 12:28:59
Booked a few days in Porto end of June start of July. Really hoping this Indian strain isn't going to put a dampener on things again.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, 09:27:09
Just looking at this again. Seen a 4 night break in the summer in Devon, staying in a static caravan.  £2,009.  :Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick:

£500 a night self catering?
I'd rather buy a cheap transit and stick a mattress in the back.  :doh:


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, 09:31:26
Booked a few days in Porto end of June start of July. Really hoping this Indian strain isn't going to put a dampener on things again.

Is anyone in the know about travelling abroad and the Covid tests required on here at all? Is the free PCR test ok or is it the lateral flow one that is needed?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Panda Paws on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, 09:33:48
Just looking at this again. Seen a 4 night break in the summer in Devon, staying in a static caravan.  £2,009.  :Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick:

£500 a night self catering?
I'd rather buy a cheap transit and stick a mattress in the back.  :doh:

Presumably, there's someone out there willing to pay it and fair play to the company if they find that someone.



Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Broadbents Tackle on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, 09:42:19
Is anyone in the know about travelling abroad and the Covid tests required on here at all? Is the free PCR test ok or is it the lateral flow one that is needed?

The lateral flow tests are the free ones, it's a pcr test that you'll need for foreign travel.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, 09:44:49
The lateral flow tests are the free ones, it's a pcr test that you'll need for foreign travel.

Ah ok thanks BT.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, 14:06:07
Is anyone in the know about travelling abroad and the Covid tests required on here at all? Is the free PCR test ok or is it the lateral flow one that is needed?
Stay away from a company called prenetics. If you need any guidance with what tests you need let me know i can pop you over a flow chart


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, 14:29:23
come on canaries, get on the green list you sods

(left overs from last year, booked pre-covid)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, 14:43:24
come on canaries, get on the green list you sods

(left overs from last year, booked pre-covid)
Hopefully on the 7th Batch


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, 14:45:19
Stay away from a company called prenetics. If you need any guidance with what tests you need let me know i can pop you over a flow chart

Thanks SR, that's very kind of you. That might be really useful actually as there appears to be a load of them out there. We are going with BA and they have a discount with Randox, but obviously not got a notion how useful they are! I'll give you a DM shortly sir.


Title: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, 15:01:27
Quote
Hopefully on the 7th Batch
fingers crossed

any advice on insurers. Do any cover going back onto amber/being barred from every by host country?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, 15:04:32
fingers crossed

any advice on insurers. Do any cover going back onto amber/being barred from every by host country?
There are a couple who do cover this and they offer annual policies as well which is great in the circumstances. Battleface & Rock insurance are 2 providers i would speak to

Not a problem at all Bob


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, 15:41:47
come on canaries, get on the green list you sods

(left overs from last year, booked pre-covid)

Maybe you'll get a tweet.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, June 1, 2021, 16:14:18
thanks Shrivvy.

next time i book a holiday I'll be in touch


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 08:37:39
Rumour that Portugal is going onto the amber list. Hopefully BA let me cancel/rebook to later in the year.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Panda Paws on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 08:54:28
Rumour that Portugal is going onto the amber list. Hopefully BA let me cancel/rebook to later in the year.


Most companies are still flying to amber destinations so would be surprised if they do, unless they cancel the flight. Fingers crossed for you that it doesn't come to that.

Would you not just go anyway and do the 5 days when you get home?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 09:02:11
Most companies are still flying to amber destinations so would be surprised if they do, unless they cancel the flight. Fingers crossed for you that it doesn't come to that.

Would you not just go anyway and do the 5 days when you get home?

I'm not really sure what the options are to be honest. I do know that the govt advice is that people should be 'responsible' when travelling to Amber countries and we will adhere to that of course. Doing 5 days at home is not a problem either to be honest.

I'll wait and see if it happens and give BA a buzz to see what our options are. It is a bit frustrating but completely understand with the numbers that the list can change at any time. The wife will get her Birthday trip at some stage!! (This was last year's present!)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 09:09:02
I'm not really sure what the options are to be honest. I do know that the govt advice is that people should be 'responsible' when travelling to Amber countries and we will adhere to that of course. Doing 5 days at home is not a problem either to be honest.

I'll wait and see if it happens and give BA a buzz to see what our options are. It is a bit frustrating but completely understand with the numbers that the list can change at any time. The wife will get her Birthday trip at some stage!! (This was last year's present!)
BA are quite good and if you have insurance also speak to them to see if they cover for this eventuality


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 09:12:26
BA are quite good and if you have insurance also speak to them to see if they cover for this eventuality

Cheers Shrivvy.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Panda Paws on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 09:21:48
I'm not really sure what the options are to be honest. I do know that the govt advice is that people should be 'responsible' when travelling to Amber countries and we will adhere to that of course. Doing 5 days at home is not a problem either to be honest.

I'll wait and see if it happens and give BA a buzz to see what our options are. It is a bit frustrating but completely understand with the numbers that the list can change at any time. The wife will get her Birthday trip at some stage!! (This was last year's present!)

The government advice doesn't know its arse from its elbow.

If you can get your a cash back or delay then great, but if not there's literally no reason to not go, so long as the 5 days at home after isn't a problem.

EDIT: I am in no way an expert and do not know what I'm talking about. Shrivvy defo does.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 09:23:03
The government advice doesn't know its arse from its elbow.

If you can get your a cash back or delay then great, but if not there's literally no reason to not go, so long as the 5 days at home after isn't a problem.

Yeah I'm inclined to agree with you to be honest PP.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 11:55:23
looks like no be countries being added to green list today :(


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 12:56:58
looks like no be countries being added to green list today :(

And Portugal removed! tits.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 13:19:16
PP - you mentioned 5 days but isn't it 10 days? Thinking about it, that might cause an issue as we have plans the weekend after we get back.



Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 13:23:03
PP - you mentioned 5 days but isn't it 10 days? Thinking about it, that might cause an issue as we have plans the weekend after we get back.


You can expedite it by taking an additional day 5 test and getting a negative result. That still means 3 tests in total though on days 2, 5, and 8....



Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 13:26:20
I really don’t understand the criteria they are using. We’ve always had a very low Covid rate on the island. Anyone coming in has to have been fully vaccinated.

So what’s the point in being vaccinated - apart from the obvious - if you’re still subject to restrictions.

Yet flights from red countries still fly into UK every day. These are the ones that should be banned entirely.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 13:31:36
I really don’t understand the criteria they are using.

"The infection rate, the vaccination rate, the prevalence of variants of concern, and access to sufficient medical facilities, including the ability to do genomic sequencing"

They presumably make up the threshold values based on whether Stanley Johnson can get to his holiday home or not.

Quote
So what’s the point in being vaccinated - apart from the obvious - if you’re still subject to restrictions.

Quite. At some point you have to draw the line and say we've done what we can. But I guess we aren't quite there either home or moreso abroad on vaccination %

I think we would be OK if the variants were proven to be no worse in terms of serious illness. I think its a bit early..

That said, more likely to get it here than some foreign destinations.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 13:36:22
You can expedite it by taking an additional day 5 test and getting a negative result. That still means 3 tests in total though on days 2, 5, and 8....



Cheers. We're only going for 3 days! Such a hassle, I might just put it back when all this is back to some kind of 'normality'


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 13:43:40
There’s a point where those that don’t want to get vaccinated are left to get on with any consequences and let the rest get on with their lives.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 13:45:57
I work with men in their 40's who say they will never have it


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 13:49:03
I work with men in their 40's who say they will never have it

Bravado and bullshit. I know people who say the same. Be the first to bleat when they catch it and end up in hospital or their family when they end up in a morgue.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: THE FLASH on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 14:05:23
Bravado and bullshit. I know people who say the same. Be the first to bleat when they catch it and end up in hospital or their family when they end up in a morgue.

Always ask:

'So if you get Covid and need hospital treatment, you will pay to go private then?'


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Panda Paws on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 14:27:03
There’s a point where those that don’t want to get vaccinated are left to get on with any consequences and let the rest get on with their lives.

And that point is imminent - as soon as it's available to all adults.

How you can restrict people's lives when there is a solid preventative measure is beyond me.



Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, June 3, 2021, 16:23:24
BA are quite good and if you have insurance also speak to them to see if they cover for this eventuality

BA have been very good (they do tend to respond to tweets very quickly) and have offered a voucher or a reschedule of our break so I'll try and work out when that's likely to happen.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, July 29, 2021, 09:29:00
Not really a holiday as such as the trip is more for Mrs Bob to see her parents who have been suffering from health problems in lockdown but we are driving to Achill Island in County Mayo tomorrow for our first trip to the Republic of Ireland since last year. Ireland is a little behind England and still has table service in pubs but I am really looking forward to a pint of creamy guinness or 8 for the next 2 weeks. It's a bank holiday in Ireland on Monday so i've taken the Friday and Monday off of work and then working remotely at the in-laws.

Finally it looks like we are returning to something approaching reality!


Title: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Thursday, July 29, 2021, 09:42:28
hehe

Tenerife a week today

next UK traffic light update: a week today

place your bets

https://youtu.be/-bkcPS3GHQY


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Thursday, July 29, 2021, 10:10:32
hehe

Tenerife a week today

next UK traffic light update: a week today

place your bets

https://youtu.be/-bkcPS3GHQY
I am confident


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Sippo on Thursday, July 29, 2021, 10:13:27
Not really a holiday as such as the trip is more for Mrs Bob to see her parents who have been suffering from health problems in lockdown but we are driving to Achill Island in County Mayo tomorrow for our first trip to the Republic of Ireland since last year. Ireland is a little behind England and still has table service in pubs but I am really looking forward to a pint of creamy guinness or 8 for the next 2 weeks. It's a bank holiday in Ireland on Monday so i've taken the Friday and Monday off of work and then working remotely at the in-laws.

Finally it looks like we are returning to something approaching reality!

Small world. My father in law also lives in Mayo. Get on the Ballinrobe races if you can. Super day out!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, July 29, 2021, 10:15:50
Small world. My father in law also lives in Mayo. Get on the Ballinrobe races if you can. Super day out!

Small world indeed. Funnily enough last year when we visited we had to quarantine for 14 days and we managed to find a little air bnb place in Ballinrobe. I loved the peace and tranquility of it. Needless to say there was no racing on at that time. The Irish do love their racing though!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Thursday, July 29, 2021, 10:16:33
Batch, a week in Crawley will be fine  :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Thursday, July 29, 2021, 11:11:04
Quote from: 4D
Batch, a week in Crawley will be fine  :)

haha

we'll be there when the announcement is made, nothing we can do


the canaries have low beta variant prevelance

 they shouldn't go on amber+. but the UK government make it up as they go along


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Dr Pierre Chang on Thursday, July 29, 2021, 11:47:34
Fingers crossed for you Batch, I’m supposed to be going there in September so will be watching on with interest!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: jayohaitchenn on Thursday, July 29, 2021, 12:43:20
Fingers crossed for you Batch, I’m supposed to be going there in September so will be watching on with interest!

Any official Chang prediction?


Title: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Friday, August 6, 2021, 10:04:51
currently at the pancake cafe at gulf del Sur in Tenerife in my t-shirt and shorts. lucky locals.

thought I'd give my experiences of traveling abroad in the new world

anyway the most stressful bit of traveling so far  was waiting for the PCR test results my sons needed before flying. it's all a bit just in time. arrived 4:30 (24 hours after) the day before our 8am flight. we used a pod up at windmill hill that courrier tests to the lab.not risking RM (no offense legget)

printed out all our docs. NHS vaccine pdf/PCR test results and Spanish health forms as a backup

Bristol airport at 5:30 Thursday was very quiet . 10 mins max to get through security

Spanish side was even quicker. took much longer to get the hire car keys!

our flight was super quiet, quietest for a while apparently. about 40 people on it! maybe people rescheduled to see where the red list status changes were going.

taking of which, the government is 'urging' people to take a PCR test (rather than lat flow) before flying back. but it's around 50 EUR more and as far as I can tell non mandatory. what are they on?

last doc check was at hotel check-in. they also took out temperature at the door.

worth it? so far, you bet.

to do
  - latv flow test 2 days before return. seem to be readily available/easy
  - day 2 PCR test when home. needed to book this before travel as you need the ref codes for.. got this from Randox via post
  - UK passenger locator form, 48 hours before travel (presume need lat flow test result somewhere)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: swindonmaniac on Friday, August 6, 2021, 10:16:44
Too much hassle for me, i 'll stay at home and watch the Town !!.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 09:13:01
Planning a big kids day out at Alton Towers next Friday. Just looking at the prices and fasttrack for the big 6 is £50 per person which seems very pricy. I'm thinking that given Covid restrictions, crowds are likely to be less than normal so imagine these fasttrack tickets are probably not necessary.

Long shot, but has anyone been recently and able to advise crowds etc?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 09:18:33
Too much hassle for me, i 'll stay at home and watch the Town !!.

Agreed.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 09:18:43
Was reported on the radio up here that Hotels are seeing a raft of cancellations as people deciding to go abroad last minute as things ease instead!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: china red on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 09:52:24
Just spent a few days in York, with a day out in whitby, a lot quieter than I was expecting it to be tbh


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 09:57:34
Was reported on the radio up here that Hotels are seeing a raft of cancellations as people deciding to go abroad last minute as things ease instead!

Fantastic. Might take advantage of that and discover some more of England that I haven't been to yet.

Plenty of time to go back abroad once it's up and running and back to some kind of normality in the future.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 09:59:25
Was reported on the radio up here that Hotels are seeing a raft of cancellations as people deciding to go abroad last minute as things ease instead!
Good, we come up on Monday for a week in Keswick, might be less people about! :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 10:29:33
Good, we come up on Monday for a week in Keswick, might be less people about! :)

I think its been downgraded from Absolutely Fucking Heaving to just plain chocablock!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 10:31:51
Last time (2 years ago) we came up it was full of Chinese tourists, we went on the Lakeside Train/Boat and I would say 3/4 of the passengers were Chinese, I doubt that will be the case this time round.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 10:39:07
Lakeside and Haverthwaite is only about 20 mins from us and I used to take the little one on it a fair bit as we got free travel and parking under some residents thingy.

Last time we went we shared a table with a young Japanese lass, watching her trying to communicate in very limited English (but much better and more extensive than my Japanese) with my 5 year old was very sweet and amusing.



Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: THE FLASH on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 10:44:57
Canaries in early September....any TEFers been and give me a real time heads up on what the procedure is??


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 10:48:27
Canaries in early September....any TEFers been and give me a real time heads up on what the procedure is??


Batch was in Tenerife last week I think - he should be able to give you a good idea.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 10:53:55
Batch was in Tenerife last week I think - he should be able to give you a good idea.
Pretty sure he is still out there.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: THE FLASH on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 11:20:39
Batch was in Tenerife last week I think - he should be able to give you a good idea.

that would be excellent! Thanks.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 11:45:32
that would be excellent! Thanks.


He actually put a little bit on page 9 of this thread actually which may be helpful to ya.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 11:46:04
Batchs post

currently at the pancake cafe at gulf del Sur in Tenerife in my t-shirt and shorts. lucky locals.

thought I'd give my experiences of traveling abroad in the new world

anyway the most stressful bit of traveling so far  was waiting for the PCR test results my sons needed before flying. it's all a bit just in time. arrived 4:30 (24 hours after) the day before our 8am flight. we used a pod up at windmill hill that courrier tests to the lab.not risking RM (no offense legget)

printed out all our docs. NHS vaccine pdf/PCR test results and Spanish health forms as a backup

Bristol airport at 5:30 Thursday was very quiet . 10 mins max to get through security

Spanish side was even quicker. took much longer to get the hire car keys!

our flight was super quiet, quietest for a while apparently. about 40 people on it! maybe people rescheduled to see where the red list status changes were going.

taking of which, the government is 'urging' people to take a PCR test (rather than lat flow) before flying back. but it's around 50 EUR more and as far as I can tell non mandatory. what are they on?

last doc check was at hotel check-in. they also took out temperature at the door.

worth it? so far, you bet.

to do
  - latv flow test 2 days before return. seem to be readily available/easy
  - day 2 PCR test when home. needed to book this before travel as you need the ref codes for.. got this from Randox via post
  - UK passenger locator form, 48 hours before travel (presume need lat flow test result somewhere)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Tails on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 12:41:56
Due to go on a cruise on Saturday and getting a bit nervous about being tested now. Except for Saturday at Scunny I've done my best to avoid people and we're lat flow testing every single day.

Bit annoying as it's taking all the pre-holiday excitement out of it.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: THE FLASH on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 13:04:02
Many thanks all.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Samdy Gray on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 16:00:53
Planning a big kids day out at Alton Towers next Friday. Just looking at the prices and fasttrack for the big 6 is £50 per person which seems very pricy. I'm thinking that given Covid restrictions, crowds are likely to be less than normal so imagine these fasttrack tickets are probably not necessary.

Long shot, but has anyone been recently and able to advise crowds etc?

Haven't been recently (last went Sept 2020), but have been to Alton Towers plenty in recent years. In my opinion fast track isn't worth the cost, I've never needed it. Get there early enough and you'll be able to do 3 or 4 of the big 6 (7 if you include Wicker Man as well) within the first hour or so. Likewise rides are very quiet toward the end of the day.

I don't think they're doing early ride time at the moment, so all rides should open at the same time. Most people will head straight for Wicker Man or The Smiler, so I'd head to Dark Forest and get Rita & Thirteen done then to Forbidden Valley for Nemesis and Galactica.

Biggest tip is don't go during school holidays! I tend to do Sunday/Monday in April and/or September and it's a straight walk on to most rides. When they do have early ride time, you can get in an hour earlier by staying in one of the on-site hotels.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Samdy Gray on Wednesday, August 11, 2021, 16:06:10
Oh yeah, you can download the Alton Towers app to check queue times too. Worth checking in the days before you go to see what queue times are like at certain times of the day.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, August 12, 2021, 11:14:28
Haven't been recently (last went Sept 2020), but have been to Alton Towers plenty in recent years. In my opinion fast track isn't worth the cost, I've never needed it. Get there early enough and you'll be able to do 3 or 4 of the big 6 (7 if you include Wicker Man as well) within the first hour or so. Likewise rides are very quiet toward the end of the day.

I don't think they're doing early ride time at the moment, so all rides should open at the same time. Most people will head straight for Wicker Man or The Smiler, so I'd head to Dark Forest and get Rita & Thirteen done then to Forbidden Valley for Nemesis and Galactica.

Biggest tip is don't go during school holidays! I tend to do Sunday/Monday in April and/or September and it's a straight walk on to most rides. When they do have early ride time, you can get in an hour earlier by staying in one of the on-site hotels.

Oh yeah, you can download the Alton Towers app to check queue times too. Worth checking in the days before you go to see what queue times are like at certain times of the day.

Thanks for the info Samdy, that's really helpful and is appreciated. Unfortunately we only have our visitors over next weekend so fairly inflexible on when we go and will be during school holidays (I think) so will aim to get there as early as possible and get as many of the big rides done asap.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Thursday, August 12, 2021, 16:10:39
Back from Tenerife. Definitely worth it. Absolutely no queues at Bristol and only a queue at Spanish passport control to get home (nothing when we got there).

the testing and forms were minor inconveniences really


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: penhillbilly on Thursday, August 12, 2021, 18:07:12
Back from Tenerife. Definitely worth it. Absolutely no queues at Bristol and only a queue at Spanish passport control to get home (nothing when we got there).

the testing and forms were minor inconveniences really

did you have to do a test over there mate,how easy was it and how much?
thinking of going to Canaries later in the year but the faff with testing puting me off


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Samdy Gray on Thursday, August 12, 2021, 18:44:43
I'm booked to go to Turkey next April, currently that will come with an additional £3k quarantine hotel stay so I'm hoping things change in the meantime.


Title: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Thursday, August 12, 2021, 18:47:13
yes you do

so as things stand if you are double jabbed for canaries/spain (an Amber country) you need to

- fill out spanish health/locator form 48 hours before travel

-take proof of vaccination with you (NHS app or printout)

- get an antigen test within 48 hours of coming home. you can either order an approved one here before you go (cost £30) or book at an approved centre out there (35 EUR) .

near where we were there was a doctor's doing the test. we booked in and it was  very easy, get called through, get a ticket stick up the nose, get a stamped bit of paper within 20 minutes. in the bigger places there were walk in appointments (but with queues)

obviously no idea what it'll be like where you are, or how the 'buy before and take it with you' approach works

- fill in a UK locator form 48 hours before your return. needs pcr test ref (see below)

- take a day 2 PCR test on return (approx £75) you need to book this before you go. you will get a ref via email needed for the above UK form.

all forms can be done online. we printed most of ours out of paranoia + it's easier than faffing with phone.

obviously the situation can change from either UK or spanish side.

if you have kids, or aren't double jabbed then things get a bit more complicated/expensive


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Thursday, August 12, 2021, 18:53:20
Quote from: Samdy Gray
I'm booked to go to Turkey next April, currently that will come with an additional £3k quarantine hotel stay so I'm hoping things change in the meantime.

eek 🤞


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: RobertT on Thursday, August 12, 2021, 18:58:58
I didn't think travel to a Red List Country was permitted?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: The Grim Reaper on Thursday, August 12, 2021, 19:33:07
Canaries in early September....any TEFers been and give me a real time heads up on what the procedure is??


I’ll be in Tenerife for 2 weeks from September 18th.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Thursday, August 12, 2021, 19:44:06
Quote from: The Grim Reaper
I’ll be in Tenerife for 2 weeks from September 18th.[/quote]

Even in 'level 4' it was fine for us. Things shut at midnight, but if I went out all night nowadays I'd need 3 days to recover anyway :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: The Grim Reaper on Friday, August 13, 2021, 06:37:51
I’ll be in Tenerife for 2 weeks from September 18th.

Even in 'level 4' it was fine for us. Things shut at midnight, but if I went out all night nowadays I'd need 3 days to recover anyway :)

Same, went for 2 weeks same time last year. Although quiet most things were open and bars until midnight. I’m usually back on the apartment balcony with a beer way before that.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Friday, August 13, 2021, 07:58:02
I'm booked to go to Turkey next April, currently that will come with an additional £3k quarantine hotel stay so I'm hoping things change in the meantime.

I'm hoping to get to Turkey before then as we haven't been out to our apartment since this time last year. There were earthquakes in Izmir so I don't even know if there has been any damage to it. I suspect not as we are quite high up on land but it would still be nice to know.

We're probably going to flog the place anyway so will have to get out at sometime to see how on earth we go about that!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: THE FLASH on Friday, August 13, 2021, 09:07:15
yes you do

so as things stand if you are double jabbed for canaries/spain (an Amber country) you need to

- fill out spanish health/locator form 48 hours before travel

-take proof of vaccination with you (NHS app or printout)

- get an antigen test within 48 hours of coming home. you can either order an approved one here before you go (cost £30) or book at an approved centre out there (35 EUR) .

near where we were there was a doctor's doing the test. we booked in and it was  very easy, get called through, get a ticket stick up the nose, get a stamped bit of paper within 20 minutes. in the bigger places there were walk in appointments (but with queues)

obviously no idea what it'll be like where you are, or how the 'buy before and take it with you' approach works

- fill in a UK locator form 48 hours before your return. needs pcr test ref (see below)

- take a day 2 PCR test on return (approx £75) you need to book this before you go. you will get a ref via email needed for the above UK form.

all forms can be done online. we printed most of ours out of paranoia + it's easier than faffing with phone.

obviously the situation can change from either UK or spanish side.

if you have kids, or aren't double jabbed then things get a bit more complicated/expensive

Top Man!!

This is superb info.

Three of  us, all double jabbed and no kids.


Title: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Friday, August 13, 2021, 10:07:40
just keep an eye on it as they (govt) are 'advising' the test to be taken before coming home is PCR.

but as that's advice, and PCR is 2x the cost nobody is doing it.

maybe they'll make it mandatory


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Samdy Gray on Friday, August 13, 2021, 11:04:40
I didn't think travel to a Red List Country was permitted?

It's still possible. I know people who've travelled to Turkey (to stay with family) in the past few weeks.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Sippo on Monday, August 16, 2021, 14:43:50
Looking at booking a holiday in October. Do we think Turkey will be 'open'? Prices are super cheap at the moment.


Title: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Monday, August 16, 2021, 15:50:39
Will it be removed from the red list? in all honesty who knows.

it's all  a big gamble.

even looking at data isn't any guarantee that the government won't do something silly in contradiction.

not helpful I know. if you can book something that you can cancel fine.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Monday, August 16, 2021, 15:59:50
Find some acomms on Booking.com (or similar) and either secure the dates you want or contact the owner directly.

That will give you peace of mind that you can cancel right upto a day before.

Then just book flights when you feel you have the most clarity on the situation. That'll be a personal choice/judgement. They'll likely still be fairly cheap as many won't even want to take an informed/educated risk.

There are also other (legal might I add) ways of going to locations without having to do the extortionately priced hotel quarantine on return.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Sippo on Tuesday, August 17, 2021, 14:54:04
Booked kos for October with jet2…


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Tuesday, August 17, 2021, 15:10:05
Booked kos for October with jet2…

Bloody hell Sippo, I might see you out there! :pint:

*Sippo quickly cancels reservation*

I guess you'll have to keep your head down for a bit ;)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Crackity Jones on Tuesday, August 17, 2021, 15:45:46
Gave up on the idea of a holiday abroad this year. Off to Norfolk for a week in the camper van to make a change from the usual Cornwall/Devon/Dorset. Never been before but some of the beaches look lovely.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Tuesday, August 17, 2021, 16:15:24
Booked kos for October with jet2…
Thanks for waiting mate


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Sippo on Tuesday, August 17, 2021, 16:16:08
I did look in this country, but for three nights in a caravan was £700. I paid £1100 all inclusive for 7 nights for 4 people.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Tuesday, August 17, 2021, 18:39:51
Tbh Sippo, you've probably made the more sensible choice between either Kos or Turkey at present. Although like Mr Orangensaft, I'm trying to get out to Turkey again this year. If I can't/it's too expensive for me to do a workaround then I'll settle for Kos (which I'm more than happy about).

You should be fine with Kos really (cue UK Gov do something stupid) and Jet2 are pretty good. Last year I booked my flight with them (accoms separate), they were really good with regards to Covid. All I will say is like most airlines, probs take your own snacks but I've found them fairly comfortable to travel with and decent leg room too (I'm 6'1). Staff are also quite sensitive too if you happen to be a bit anxious about flying.

Enjoy mate, will soon come round :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Arriba on Saturday, August 21, 2021, 11:18:26
Looking to go somewhere in May. Spain/Greece probably. Is it best to book now or worth waiting until the new year or late this year maybe?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Saturday, August 21, 2021, 12:25:56
mate, no idea.

it's still volatile in price and covid status

just booked flights in October on a risk (to go to last year's holiday accommodation).   prices fluctuate daily.

Dean?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Arriba on Saturday, August 21, 2021, 12:49:39
I like to be well prepared. That's just me. Mrs saying to wait.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Saturday, August 21, 2021, 13:03:59
I blinked on the flights. chances are they'll half in price close to the time, but they are affordable now and I'd rather deal in the known than 'probably'


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Tails on Friday, August 27, 2021, 09:35:07
Got back on Saturday from a week long cruise around the Greek Islands & Cyprus. It's a bit of a ballache getting in and out of places with all the COVID stuff but other than that, had a great time. Was nervy as fuck waiting for the test result to get back in order to get on the boat but thankfully all was well. Passenger locator form was a pain on getting back in, we saw a lot of people doing it at the airport and getting flustered so if you do go away, do it in good time. If anyone is going abroad, I'd recommend creating a folder in your phone with all the screenshots / files you need and make sure your phone is fully charged. It was a lot quicker than printing out millions of sheets of paper.

Also would highly recommend our very own Dean McMackin to anyone who wants to go anywhere. Sorted us out a treat when we had absolutely no idea what we wanted to do. Gave us a load of advice which was super useful too.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Friday, August 27, 2021, 09:38:42
Going to Blackpool in October as a birthday treat for my nephew and niece. Booking hotels is fun in Blackpool, one of them had 'toilet paper' as a feature!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Friday, August 27, 2021, 09:40:39
Going to Blackpool in October as a birthday treat for my nephew and niece. Booking hotels is fun in Blackpool, one of them had 'toilet paper' as a feature!
You fucking snob, you are looking at luxury hotels then? spendthrift.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Friday, August 27, 2021, 09:44:41
You fucking snob, you are looking at luxury hotels then? spendthrift.

 :Ride On Fatbury's Lovestick:

Indeed JJ!



Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Friday, August 27, 2021, 09:56:19
TBH I like Blackpool but thats a bit severe to say the least, probably electric via a 50p meter too!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Friday, August 27, 2021, 09:59:13
TBH I like Blackpool but thats a bit severe to say the least, probably electric via a 50p meter too!

yeah i've stayed in a B&B there where the electric shower was run by a meter controlled by a 10p piece. The only thing was the meter was outside the bathroom door which was in the middle landing. My mate who went first had a load of shampoo in his hair when it ran out meaning he had to run the gauntlet to get the 10p back in for more water!!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Friday, August 27, 2021, 10:15:16
I just cannot abide Blackpool, albeit a fair few round here seem to go most years and enjoy it.

Last time I went (which wasn't for work) was about 20 years back when I watched Town lose. We parked at the top end of the town centre and walked to Broomfield Rd through town, which was bad enough... walking back through at about 5.15 it was like a fucking warzone!

Actually that's a lie, last time I went was to watch Town v Fleetwood a few years back, we trained to to Blackpool the bussed it to Fleetwood, when we got on the bus there was a bloke spitting on the ground threatening to beat the shit out of everyone, including various young lasses, think that was about 10.30am.

Missus is off to watch Michael Bolton there in the autumn, we did ponder getting a nice hotel for a night for a night away, I have decided to stay home and look after the small person.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Friday, August 27, 2021, 10:22:48
I have decided to stay home and look after the small person.
Its good that you guys have a pet name for each other :D


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Friday, August 27, 2021, 10:34:45
Who names their todge?  :no:


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: JBZ on Friday, August 27, 2021, 10:41:32
Spent a day in Blackpool earlier this month.  There seemed to be a high proportion of people with little or no teeth.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Friday, August 27, 2021, 10:47:59
You touring the countries bus stations?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Friday, August 27, 2021, 10:55:08
You touring the countries bus stations?
Bus spotters often do.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: JBZ on Friday, August 27, 2021, 11:29:42
You touring the countries bus stations?

No. Occasional visits to Swindon's bus station is enough.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Friday, August 27, 2021, 11:41:55
No. Occasional visits to Swindon's bus station is enough.

If you are touring the bus stations of the North West, Preston is the place to be apparently...

(https://www.insidermedia.com/uploads/news/images/Preston_Bus_Station_32234.jpg)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Saxondale on Friday, August 27, 2021, 12:09:27
Ive spent rainy days off in Preston in the holiday inn just adjacent to this thing of um, beauty.

I watched inception in the hotel on one of the days and started to doubt my own existence.

Shithole.



Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Posh Red on Friday, August 27, 2021, 13:15:18
We’re off to Cornwall for a week, once the stinkies have gone back to school


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Friday, August 27, 2021, 15:29:06
We’re off to Cornwall for a week, once the stinkies have gone back to school

Grockles and Emmets out in force today on the M5.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Friday, August 27, 2021, 15:33:09
Grockles and Emmets out in force today on the M5.
Standard for any time on every Friday/Saturday/Sunday down in Somerset southbound during the Summer months.

Grockle central.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: reeves4england on Friday, August 27, 2021, 15:43:35
If you are touring the bus stations of the North West, Preston is the place to be apparently...

(https://www.insidermedia.com/uploads/news/images/Preston_Bus_Station_32234.jpg)
If you've ever been, you'll know the outside's the best bit.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: JBZ on Friday, August 27, 2021, 16:44:13
Grockles and Emmets out in force today on the M5.

The holiday traffic will add at least an extra hour to our journey to north Wiltshire tomorrow


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Friday, August 27, 2021, 17:01:25
It took an hour to get across Swindon yesterday


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: @mwooly63 on Friday, August 27, 2021, 17:22:13
It took an hour to get across Swindon yesterday

Took me half an hour from Post Office, Dorcan to the Messenger  :crash:
1.5 miles


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Friday, August 27, 2021, 17:26:55
I done exactly the same route at 2pm  and managed to cut through Nythe and come out at the Messenger entrance which saved some time then gridlock all the way up to Greenbridge.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: DiV on Friday, August 27, 2021, 19:36:30
Luckily I was going the other way. Coming out of Covingham and going up Dorcan Way to Coate Water and then left to Badbury Park.

Traffic was backed up all the way to the hospital on the other side


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Friday, August 27, 2021, 19:39:03
I'm aaauming they were still letting traffic come off the M4 forcing them through the centre of Swindon


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, October 6, 2021, 09:06:17
Got some holidays to use up before the end of the year - (I was saving them for when I had to be physically in the office but that's not happened and so I have 2 weeks to use)

We have a voucher for a 2 day break and will probably use this up around Yorkshire/Lake District area. (a small town called Clapham looks nice) Going to try and tag on some time exploring this area, someone suggested Whitby which is a bit of a distance from Clapham but I don't really mind if it's a nice drive through the countryside.

Any suggestions? Looking for nice walks, friendly pubs, places to visit etc. Will be just the wife and I. Thanks in advance.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Wednesday, October 6, 2021, 10:13:31
Keswick is a good base. Been there loads.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, October 6, 2021, 11:17:09
Got some holidays to use up before the end of the year - (I was saving them for when I had to be physically in the office but that's not happened and so I have 2 weeks to use)

We have a voucher for a 2 day break and will probably use this up around Yorkshire/Lake District area. (a small town called Clapham looks nice) Going to try and tag on some time exploring this area, someone suggested Whitby which is a bit of a distance from Clapham but I don't really mind if it's a nice drive through the countryside.

Any suggestions? Looking for nice walks, friendly pubs, places to visit etc. Will be just the wife and I. Thanks in advance.

Clapham as in Clapham N. Yorks?

Depends whether you want lakes or dales, to combine both (and pretty handy off the M6) is Sedbergh (albeit to go just about anywhere you will be driving)?

In terms of the Lakes depends what you want, the normal tourist hotspots (Windermere/Bowness, Ambleside, Keswick) will be heaving whenever you go, if you want quieter the further west you go the better, we like Buttermere albeit its a bit remote (although Keswick and Knob in Gob reasonable drives away), likewise Coniston is a nice small town with a few pubs.

We tend to have a week in the Dales most years, normally staying in Hawes (great if you like Cheese) its also handy for Garsdale and the S&C Railway so you can have a trip down to Settle or Skipton without having to take the car (if that's your sort of thang), likewise Horton in Ribblesdale is nice albeit small and again is on the S&C?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, October 6, 2021, 11:33:59
Keswick is a good base. Been there loads.

Thanks 4D. I really don't think you can go wrong up there, it's such a lovely part of the country.

Clapham as in Clapham N. Yorks?

Depends whether you want lakes or dales, to combine both (and pretty handy off the M6) is Sedbergh (albeit to go just about anywhere you will be driving)?

In terms of the Lakes depends what you want, the normal tourist hotspots (Windermere/Bowness, Ambleside, Keswick) will be heaving whenever you go, if you want quieter the further west you go the better, we like Buttermere albeit its a bit remote (although Keswick and Knob in Gob reasonable drives away), likewise Coniston is a nice small town with a few pubs.

We tend to have a week in the Dales most years, normally staying in Hawes (great if you like Cheese) its also handy for Garsdale and the S&C Railway so you can have a trip down to Settle or Skipton without having to take the car (if that's your sort of thang), likewise Horton in Ribblesdale is nice albeit small and again is on the S&C?

Yeah Clapham in North Yorkshire. Bit different from the Clapham we used to live down the road in London (did I mention it before? ;))

M6 is really handy as where we live now is really easy to jump onto both the M1 and the M6.

I'd say a combination of Lakes and Dales is ideal. I know going anywhere in this country in November is likely to be hazardous weather wise, but that's all part of the charm isn't it? We went to the Lake District for my dad's 70th a few years back and it's such an amazing place, near Windermere we hired a large house with my sister and her kids. This time we only need a small place/B&B etc.

The wife is from Achill Island in the West coast of Ireland so I love remote so will have a look at the places that you suggested. Hawes sounds great, you had me at Cheese, funnily enough doing a cheese and red wine tasting in Rugby on Saturday night!

Lots to research there Horlock, thanks for that.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, October 6, 2021, 11:42:57
Yeah Clapham in North Yorkshire. Bit different from the Clapham we used to live down the road in London (did I mention it before? ;))

M6 is really handy as where we live now is really easy to jump onto both the M1 and the M6.

I'd say a combination of Lakes and Dales is ideal. I know going anywhere in this country in November is likely to be hazardous weather wise, but that's all part of the charm isn't it? We went to the Lake District for my dad's 70th a few years back and it's such an amazing place, near Windermere we hired a large house with my sister and her kids. This time we only need a small place/B&B etc.

The wife is from Achill Island in the West coast of Ireland so I love remote so will have a look at the places that you suggested. Hawes sounds great, you had me at Cheese, funnily enough doing a cheese and red wine tasting in Rugby on Saturday night!

Lots to research there Horlock, thanks for that.

I queried Clapham as it really isn't remotely a town, its pretty and small with 1 pub I think (not been there for ages drive past on the A65 regularly but not been into the village since I stopped MTB'ing).

Other option if you wanted a bit livelier is Lancaster which is a pretty easy drive to both but you get the benefits of it being a pretty lively town (actually a  City but its really only town scale) so plenty of places to eat out, downside is accommodation might be a bit shite, its crap for hotels I know.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, October 6, 2021, 12:43:35
I queried Clapham as it really isn't remotely a town, its pretty and small with 1 pub I think (not been there for ages drive past on the A65 regularly but not been into the village since I stopped MTB'ing).

Other option if you wanted a bit livelier is Lancaster which is a pretty easy drive to both but you get the benefits of it being a pretty lively town (actually a  City but its really only town scale) so plenty of places to eat out, downside is accommodation might be a bit shite, its crap for hotels I know.

The voucher we have does actually have Lancaster in it but I think was for a stay in a Holiday Inn or something similar rather than a bespoke B&B in Clapham which is more what we are looking for. Nothing against Holiday Inn specifically of course.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, October 6, 2021, 12:47:06
The voucher we have does actually have Lancaster in it but I think was for a stay in a Holiday Inn or something similar rather than a bespoke B&B in Clapham which is more what we are looking for. Nothing against Holiday Inn specifically of course.

The Holiday Inn in Lancaster is way out of town next to the M6 so pretty crap for the town TBH, if its Premier Inn its across the road so the same.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, October 6, 2021, 13:01:16
The Holiday Inn in Lancaster is way out of town next to the M6 so pretty crap for the town TBH, if its Premier Inn its across the road so the same.

to be honest it was probably neither but I don't have the full details to hand!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Wednesday, October 6, 2021, 16:13:18
If you head towards Whitby, the Falling Foss area is nice as is the Howardian Hills (Reg & I spoke about these unique hills often) but they are a little more inland.

As others have said, can't really go too wrong in North Yorks, just stay off the moors  :girlgiggle:

In other news, when are you heading to Turkey? Much easier now with the changes that took place other day :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, October 7, 2021, 16:18:57
If you head towards Whitby, the Falling Foss area is nice as is the Howardian Hills (Reg & I spoke about these unique hills often) but they are a little more inland.

As others have said, can't really go too wrong in North Yorks, just stay off the moors  :girlgiggle:

In other news, when are you heading to Turkey? Much easier now with the changes that took place other day :)

Cheers Kev.

Not in 2021 more's the pity. We might try and go for New Year but not sure just yet.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Thursday, October 7, 2021, 16:34:11
2 weeks yesterday until Tenerife part 2


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Friday, October 8, 2021, 07:02:55
I am meeting up with customers face to face to discuss any holidays needs you may have abroad. If you fancy a coffee or walk then pop me a message

All free of charge of course (not holiday)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Sippo on Friday, October 8, 2021, 07:33:38
What's the deal with PCR tests Deano?

If you are double jabbed do you have to still have a PCR test on day 2 back in the UK?

Do you know the rules for entering EU countries?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Nomoreheroes on Friday, October 8, 2021, 08:13:30
2 weeks yesterday until Tenerife part 2
You can pass me the relay baton - I go after you have check it out first!


Title: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Friday, October 8, 2021, 08:14:14
sippo.

double jabbed currently need to take a day 2 PCR test when returning from a non red list country

this will be changed imminently to s cheaper lateral flow test. This change should be in place by half term but no firm date has been committed to
---------
Entering EU countries  - requirements are county specific and subject to change

e.g Spain - double jabbed need proof of vaccine (NHS app fine), unjabbed over 12 need PCR test 48 hours before flying in

you'd need to check based on county


Title: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Friday, October 8, 2021, 08:15:06
Quote
You can pass me the relay baton - I go after you have check it out first!
I can do better than that. we went in August as it was cheaper last minute than Cornwall!

this October one is last year's postponed holiday

In your face Thunberg


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Nomoreheroes on Friday, October 8, 2021, 08:23:58
I can do better than that. we went in August as it was cheaper last minute than Cornwall!

this October one is last year's postponed holiday

In your face Thunberg
Well, if you want to be like that, I did Pembrokeshire in Sept for 1/2 price most were paying and have Tenerife in Nov and Feb plus Cyprus and Turkey to rebook all due to Covid, cancer and broken neck problems!

Do I win? 😂


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Friday, October 8, 2021, 08:26:26
er, yes.

I only mentioned I went because I thought you were leading to asking questions. honest.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Nomoreheroes on Friday, October 8, 2021, 15:56:00
er, yes.

I only mentioned I went because I thought you were leading to asking questions. honest.
:girlgiggle: Sorry!  :D

I'm really looking forward to it. November holidays in the sunshine and warmth are awesome!

Not sure whether to rent a bike and ride up Mt Teide again - Loved it last time.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Friday, October 8, 2021, 21:35:19
Cheers Kev.

Not in 2021 more's the pity. We might try and go for New Year but not sure just yet.

No problem mate.

That is a shame, I might try and get out there before the year is out and if I head up coast towards your part I will let you know (especially regards photography).

I am strangely torn though, got some much needed training to do over there as you know but also a wanderlust/intrepid style trip to Nerja in Spain is seemingly calling me. Lots of hiking and revisiting a limestone gorge that I only managed to explore a short part of last time I visited (it's been 4 years). Those kinds of trips really are my bag; maybe I can somehow fit a visit to both (Turkey & Spain) if finances and time allow!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Zurich Red on Sunday, October 10, 2021, 15:16:01
I'm coming over with the family for a few days next week and will be staying in Fairford. Any suggestions for things to in the area that would be fun for two six year old boys? Preferably not more than an hour away by car.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Nomoreheroes on Sunday, October 10, 2021, 15:21:38
I'm coming over with the family for a few days next week and will be staying in Fairford. Any suggestions for things to in the area that would be fun for two six year old boys? Preferably not more than an hour away by car.
Take them to where you grew up - Get them running round the pleasure ground!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Zurich Red on Sunday, October 10, 2021, 15:51:34

Take them to where you grew up - Get them running round the pleasure ground!

😄

I used to think that place was so huge when I was their age.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Friday, October 15, 2021, 08:48:55
Lateral flow replaces PCR day 2 test after coming into UK from 24th, bookable 22nd. This applies to fully vaccinated and to U18s   returning from non-red list countries.

Should make it a bit cheaper, even if you can't use the NHS ones (of which we have a stockpile!).


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Friday, October 15, 2021, 09:12:26
Why can't the NHS ones be used, doesn't this rather suggest that they are a bit cheap and pointless?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Friday, October 15, 2021, 09:38:34
Quote from: horlock07
Why can't the NHS ones be used, doesn't this rather suggest that they are a bit cheap and pointless?

my opinion is it's a question of perception.

should NHS money be used in foreign holiday testing.

I mean, it probably shouldn't morally. But that said, it would be trying to stimulate travel so maybe that's not valid.

with PCR tests you need a reference code for your landing card. if that is a requirement still then again that burden shouldn't be put on NHS/public sector to implement

I'm my opinion, obviously


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Friday, October 15, 2021, 09:52:20
Why can't the NHS ones be used, doesn't this rather suggest that they are a bit cheap and pointless?
Or if you live in the South West somewhat unreliable....

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-54923641


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Friday, October 15, 2021, 09:52:55
that's worse, that's PCR 😲


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: JBZ on Friday, October 15, 2021, 12:20:23
Or if you live in the South West somewhat unreliable....

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-54923641

I had a negative PCR test on Monday  :hmmm:


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Sippo on Monday, October 18, 2021, 20:54:11
Any recommendations on where to pre book lateral flow test? We fly on 21st.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Boy About Town on Monday, October 18, 2021, 20:57:38
Awaiting a PCR result. Been dreadful over the last 24hrs.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Monday, October 18, 2021, 21:09:37
Quote from: Sippo
Any recommendations on where to pre book lateral flow test? We fly on 21st.

for coming back day 2 ? not available to book until 22nd

we used randox before for day 2 PCR


https://covid.randox.com/day-2-test-at-home/

we are also flying 21st so will order while away


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Sippo on Monday, October 18, 2021, 21:12:38
Thanks Batchster

The government website does not help one bit. So many companies.

So you do not need to order before departure for the locator form?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Monday, October 18, 2021, 22:25:38
I don't know how it's going to work

For the PCR tests you had to order it before coming back. You got an email confirmation with the reference numbers of the test kits in. These reference numbers are used in the UK locator form filled in before coming back.

I assume it's going to be the same


last time we ordered our tests before we went. But this time because we are flying before the lateral flow kits are available will order them while in holiday.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Tuesday, October 19, 2021, 06:43:28
You can still order now so you got your reference number you need on your return


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, October 19, 2021, 08:50:31
Quote from: Shrivvy Road
You can still order now so you got your reference number you need on your return

have you got a link to anyone selling lateral flow for day 2 testing please?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: chalkies shorts on Monday, October 25, 2021, 16:02:29
On a road trip with Mrs cs. First stop the Shakespeare Inn in Kendall. On the menu, wobbly Bob pie. They've only gone and named a pie after a tefer.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, October 25, 2021, 16:05:07
Wasn't sure where to put this and couldn't be bothered starting a new thread but I was on holidays last week to Blackpool and had visitors last weekend and part of that was to take the kids to some Lego place and Cadbury World in Birmingham. Whilst the kids were doing their lego thing the wife and I had a wander around the place.

We went from the canal to New Street and whilst they are doing a lot of modernisation along Broad Street as part of the Commonwealth Games next year and I have to say I was impressed with what I saw. I had never really had any desire to visit the place, but as we are now closer to Brum than London it looks like somewhere I'd like to go back and spend some time there, there looks like some decent bars and of course a stack of Indian restaurants. Anyone been that could provide any of the usual recommendations of places to eat and drink and things to see and do?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: mexico red on Monday, October 25, 2021, 16:14:50
Wasn't sure where to put this and couldn't be bothered starting a new thread but I was on holidays last week to Blackpool and had visitors last weekend and part of that was to take the kids to some Lego place and Cadbury World in Birmingham. Whilst the kids were doing their lego thing the wife and I had a wander around the place.

We went from the canal to New Street and whilst they are doing a lot of modernisation along Broad Street as part of the Commonwealth Games next year and I have to say I was impressed with what I saw. I had never really had any desire to visit the place, but as we are now closer to Brum than London it looks like somewhere I'd like to go back and spend some time there, there looks like some decent bars and of course a stack of Indian restaurants. Anyone been that could provide any of the usual recommendations of places to eat and drink and things to see and do?

Ridiculous amount of great places to eat and drink, try Moseley and kings heath for alternatives to the city centre


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Monday, October 25, 2021, 16:24:42
The bit off Broad Street by the canals has loads of bars and eating places.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Monday, October 25, 2021, 16:29:55
1 of my best mates lives in Shirley, Solihull so we go to Brum 3 or 4 times a year, its better than it used to be by far even though some parts of the city centre resemble a bombsite with the work going on, also don't forget the pollution charges that now apply when driving.

If you like curry and ethnic foods then its difficult to beat with pretty much everything available there withing a mile of the centre, if you go by train then Snow Hill and New Street are as central as you can get.

The Bull Ring is an amazing place to visit if you or the wife enjoy shopping, which isnt my scene tbh but some like it.

If you like them Birmingham museum is excellent as is the motorcyle museum there too.

We got from the 1st weekend in December and take in the Christmas Market which covers a large area at the front of the Museum 100 yards or so from the railway stations, well worth a visit in December time.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: RobertT on Monday, October 25, 2021, 17:20:16
Always enjoyed Brum as a place to spend a weekend.  Brindley Place by the Canal is what 4D was talking about I think, leads-up to the NIA (or whoever is sponsoring it these days) & Symphony Hall.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Monday, October 25, 2021, 17:40:06
That's the place


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Boy About Town on Monday, October 25, 2021, 21:13:35
Hunk? You know the City almost as well as you know this Town?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, October 26, 2021, 07:44:59
Ridiculous amount of great places to eat and drink, try Moseley and kings heath for alternatives to the city centre

Cheers Mex.

Always enjoyed Brum as a place to spend a weekend.  Brindley Place by the Canal is what 4D was talking about I think, leads-up to the NIA (or whoever is sponsoring it these days) & Symphony Hall.

Yeah the NIA was where the lego place. That's the bit we sauntered around, really nice part by the canal, a hen party canal boat went past which you'll be surprised to hear wasn't a quiet boat!

1 of my best mates lives in Shirley, Solihull so we go to Brum 3 or 4 times a year, its better than it used to be by far even though some parts of the city centre resemble a bombsite with the work going on, also don't forget the pollution charges that now apply when driving.

If you like curry and ethnic foods then its difficult to beat with pretty much everything available there withing a mile of the centre, if you go by train then Snow Hill and New Street are as central as you can get.

The Bull Ring is an amazing place to visit if you or the wife enjoy shopping, which isnt my scene tbh but some like it.

If you like them Birmingham museum is excellent as is the motorcyle museum there too.

We got from the 1st weekend in December and take in the Christmas Market which covers a large area at the front of the Museum 100 yards or so from the railway stations, well worth a visit in December time.

Cheers Venks, that's some great info.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Abrahammer on Monday, November 1, 2021, 09:08:03
Back from a little 5 day cruise up to Liverpool & Belfast, didn’t really know if it was my going to be my sort of thing……..it was, I’m now a cruise person. Nothing beats sitting out on the balcony early morning watching the sun come up over a calm sea


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Monday, November 1, 2021, 09:19:13
Back from a little 5 day cruise up to Liverpool & Belfast, didn’t really know if it was my going to be my sort of thing……..it was, I’m now a cruise person. Nothing beats sitting out on the balcony early morning watching the sun come up over a calm sea
Was that the Royal Caribean sailing?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Abrahammer on Monday, November 1, 2021, 09:51:08
Yeah

I’ll definitely be cruising again at some point, I assume it would be worth hitting you up when we think about arranging the next one?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Monday, November 1, 2021, 10:13:41
Back from a little 5 day cruise up to Liverpool & Belfast, didn’t really know if it was my going to be my sort of thing……..it was, I’m now a cruise person. Nothing beats sitting out on the balcony early morning watching the sun come up over a calm sea
An old mate of mine did that about a month ago and loved it, they went on another last week to Bruges and le harve and loved that even more, far more exotic!

Me and the wife will be doing one possibly next year if Dean can find us a good deal :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Abrahammer on Monday, November 1, 2021, 10:54:34
An old mate of mine did that about a month ago and loved it, they went on another last week to Bruges and le harve and loved that even more, far more exotic!

Me and the wife will be doing one possibly next year if Dean can find us a good deal :)

Yeah that does sound like more exotic locations although I really enjoyed Liverpool, spent a cracking 3 hours in the cavern club.

The ship was operating at a 75% capacity which was perfect really, not too busy, not too quiet. Shame we had to go on half term but the lady is a teacher so no choice. In saying that there weren’t tonnes of kids onboard anyway.

Entertainment, food, cocktails were all top class


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, November 15, 2021, 09:48:10
Week off work this week, heading to the Norfolk Broads today for a 2 day break, then off to Belfast this weekend for a boozy catch up with the wife's siblings. Can't wait for a pint or 10 of the black stuff!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Monday, November 15, 2021, 11:21:45
Yeah

I’ll definitely be cruising again at some point, I assume it would be worth hitting you up when we think about arranging the next one?
Yeah for sure. I'd be happy to help


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Monday, November 15, 2021, 11:25:47
Week off work this week, heading to the Norfolk Broads today for a 2 day break, then off to Belfast this weekend for a boozy catch up with the wife's siblings. Can't wait for a pint or 10 of the black stuff!

Been 4 years since we went to Belfast, must go again. Got family in NI too.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Sippo on Monday, February 7, 2022, 19:19:31
Anyone been on a road trip to Italy? Thinking of the Amalfi Coast or any other suggestions?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, February 7, 2022, 19:28:05
Anyone been on a road trip to Italy? Thinking of the Amalfi Coast or any other suggestions?

Wasn't a road trip as such (although the journey from Naples Airport to Amalfi was interesting as the taxi got a flat tyre) but we went to a wedding in Amalfi and its stunning around there.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Monday, February 7, 2022, 20:18:46
sounds bloody marvelous


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bogus Dave on Monday, February 7, 2022, 21:16:55
Anyone been on a road trip to Italy? Thinking of the Amalfi Coast or any other suggestions?

We stayed just outside of sorrento a couple of years ago. Beautiful part of the world, not sure I’d be brave enough to drive in it though


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 00:59:16
I've been to Milan and Rome over the years, fancy trying the Amalfi coast. Yes, I would not consider driving over there. :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Sippo on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 07:58:54
Why not drive?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 08:29:39
.
https://youtu.be/K2aD2EL-0XA

My taxi ride in Rome was like GTA5  :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bogus Dave on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 08:47:26
Why not drive?

Narrow winding roads and aggressive local motorists mainly


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 08:48:05
Anyone been on a road trip to Italy? Thinking of the Amalfi Coast or any other suggestions?
Best time to best time for driving the Amalfi Coast is April and very early May or late October into November. Most people will do  alerno to Sorrento  so that you are closer to the cliff rather than the edge.

Apopular option is Sorrento – Positano – Amalfi – Ravello – Vietri sul Mare



Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 09:01:40
Not done the Amalfi but did our honeymoon in Tuscany and drove a fair bit, albeit for the longer distances to the hotspots (Lucca/Florence/Viareggio) we tended to use the trains (which are fine but ignore the urban myth that they al run on time!).

As noted by everyone else the driving over there is absolutely mental not helped as a tourist by the road signage which is equally insane. In Tuscany at least they seem to work on the principle that if you follow any road you can get to anywhere so for  instance on leaving Pisa airport in the hire car the people who we rented the accommodation from said just initially follow signs to Lucca, but the first junction we came to had Lucca literally signposted in every direction. Once you get that sorted you are in with a chance, plus these days Google maps is much better!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: chalkies shorts on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 09:59:27
Anyone done a Scottish road trip. Thinking of going up west coast then fort William to Inverness across to Peterhead then down the east coast. Looking at 2 to 3 weeks. Inverness is probably furthest north but if anyone has any good ideas I'm open to suggestions. Probably looking sept this year.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 10:09:53
Anyone done a Scottish road trip. Thinking of going up west coast then fort William to Inverness across to Peterhead then down the east coast. Looking at 2 to 3 weeks. Inverness is probably furthest north but if anyone has any good ideas I'm open to suggestions. Probably looking sept this year.

Watch out for the midges!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 10:11:40
Watch out for the midges!
Harsh mate, harsh, hes a lovely bloke.

(https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/608b8b7a632c9.png)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 10:13:40
Harsh mate, harsh, hes a lovely bloke.

(https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/608b8b7a632c9.png)

He certainly is!! :)

 You are more likely to see him in Austria though I would have thought?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 10:16:06
Anyone done a Scottish road trip. Thinking of going up west coast then fort William to Inverness across to Peterhead then down the east coast. Looking at 2 to 3 weeks. Inverness is probably furthest north but if anyone has any good ideas I'm open to suggestions. Probably looking sept this year.

We've been toying with the idea of doing the north coast 500 (on push bikes) albeit not sure I would want to do it in a vehicle as its apparently awash with slow moving camper vans!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Nick Bamosomi on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 10:18:56
Anyone done a Scottish road trip. Thinking of going up west coast then fort William to Inverness across to Peterhead then down the east coast. Looking at 2 to 3 weeks. Inverness is probably furthest north but if anyone has any good ideas I'm open to suggestions. Probably looking sept this year.

We’ve done a fair few road trips to Scotland over the years. I really would recommend going higher up on the West coast as it has the most stunning scenery, Ullapool, Torridon, Pass of the Cattle, Lochinver to name a few.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 10:21:07
Anyone done a Scottish road trip. Thinking of going up west coast then fort William to Inverness across to Peterhead then down the east coast. Looking at 2 to 3 weeks. Inverness is probably furthest north but if anyone has any good ideas I'm open to suggestions. Probably looking sept this year.
Been there many many time as BO says depending on the time of year midges really are an absolute nuisance.

Fort William is a great little town, the distillery there is great and go up "The Nevis" on the cable car some absolutely amazing views such as this when we went 2 years ago.

(https://i.postimg.cc/ncjmJ9xm/DSC00505.jpg)

(https://i.postimg.cc/MZ4cdZBp/DSC00500.jpg)

Drive down the side of Loch Lomond and Loch Ness they are stunning as is the drive along from Fort William to Mallaig (The road to the isles) and The Kyle of Lochalsh and onto Skye over the road bridge and explore the small but stunning Isle of Skye.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Sippo on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 10:22:36
I'd love to hire a nice car and do the north coast 500.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 10:25:44
We’ve done a fair few road trips to Scotland over the years. I really would recommend going higher up on the West coast as it has the most stunning scenery, Ullapool, Torridon, Pass of the Cattle, Lochinver to name a few.

I'd echo this. We stayed up in Sutherland and there is some beautiful scenery up there also.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 10:28:18
Having stayed on East and West several times I would suggest that don't bother too much with the East side of the country until you get further north than Inverness.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 11:23:55
Fort William is a great little town,

Suspect its changed a fair bit since I was last there 20 years back on a stag do, at that stage it was a bit of a one horse shit hole!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 11:25:50
Suspect its changed a fair bit since I was last there 20 years back on a stag do, at that stage it was a bit of a one horse shit hole!
There has been huge amounts of regeneration and updating in the last 10 years or so, massively since I first went there in 1980 when it was dirty and smelled of fish :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: chalkies shorts on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 13:28:06
Thanks all. Might well carry on to Skye and above and do the east another time. Went to fort William about 40 years ago and thought it was quite nice. Nice drive from there to Inverness.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Nomoreheroes on Tuesday, February 8, 2022, 22:51:07
I did a Camper van NC500 trip this year. Happy to share the itinerary (camp sites etc) if anyone thinks of doing it in the future.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Wednesday, February 9, 2022, 01:09:54
I did a Camper van NC500 trip this year. Happy to share the itinerary (camp sites etc) if anyone thinks of doing it in the future.

Did you hire one? Fancy doing that


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: chalkies shorts on Thursday, February 10, 2022, 09:50:42
I did a Camper van NC500 trip this year. Happy to share the itinerary (camp sites etc) if anyone thinks of doing it in the future.
I'd never heard of the NC500 until you mentioned it. Now I'm thinking this is the way to go with a week in the Orkneys to chill a bit. A week up to Orkneys, a week there and a week back.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Nomoreheroes on Thursday, February 10, 2022, 12:08:43
Did you hire one? Fancy doing that
Yes, I rented from 'SwiftGo'. They were brilliant.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Nomoreheroes on Thursday, February 10, 2022, 12:21:07
I'd never heard of the NC500 until you mentioned it. Now I'm thinking this is the way to go with a week in the Orkneys to chill a bit. A week up to Orkneys, a week there and a week back.

I picked up the van inbetween Edinburgh and Glasgow and headed NW. I drove all up the west coast and all around Skye. The west coast is the most spectacularly beautiful part of the trip. The NW coast had some of the bluest sea and golden sand beaches. Could have been in the Caribbean if it was 10-15 degs warmer! The top was windswept and coming down the East I found the scenary 'softer'. I did it in 14 nights which was full on. But I wanted to get an overview of everything rather than spend time in one particular place.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: donkey on Thursday, February 10, 2022, 22:26:58
Anyone done a Scottish road trip. Thinking of going up west coast then fort William to Inverness across to Peterhead then down the east coast. Looking at 2 to 3 weeks. Inverness is probably furthest north but if anyone has any good ideas I'm open to suggestions. Probably looking sept this year.

A few years ago, went up the east coast,  hopped across top Orkney, then Durness, Duncansby Head, Cape Wrath, down to Arran, drove the road to Applecross (you gotta do that). Then back via a few other places.  I'll try to have a proper think next week, if you're interested.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Posh Red on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 11:13:44
We are due to be going to Barcelona in April, anyone been to Spain recently?

Just wondered whet the current rules & restrictions are.

Aware that it'a a month away so could change dramatically by then.

Cheers in Advance


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 11:18:32
do you mean travel or restrictions when you are there?

assume the latter..


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Arriba on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 11:24:37
I went to Mallorca in October when rules were quite tight. Their rules are the same as Spain's. As long as you're prepared it goes pretty easily though and things are less strict now. If you're on Facebook go to this group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1227195621045626/?ref=share
I got all info I needed there.

I will add that having everything in paper form (proof of vaccinations etc) is best as those held up in the airport were people faffing about with their phones trying to get up the relevant documents.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Sippo on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 11:31:44
In the end I booked Bologna instead of Naples. Cheap as chips. Business class with BA, apartment for 4 nights. End of September. £250 each.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Posh Red on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 11:47:07
do you mean travel or restrictions when you are there?

assume the latter..

Both really


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Posh Red on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 11:47:56
I went to Mallorca in October when rules were quite tight. Their rules are the same as Spain's. As long as you're prepared it goes pretty easily though and things are less strict now. If you're on Facebook go to this group. https://www.facebook.com/groups/1227195621045626/?ref=share
I got all info I needed there.

I will add that having everything in paper form (proof of vaccinations etc) is best as those held up in the airport were people faffing about with their phones trying to get up the relevant documents.

Cheers


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 11:51:17
Just been trying to sort out LFT's for our trip to Alkmaar at the end of the month, the Boots website is fucking awful!


Title: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 12:16:09
you have to fill out the spanish health form with 48b hours of going to get a qr code.

and obviously do any tests, which I've not looked up yet.  fully vax didn't need any when we went and NHS app (or pdf) accepted. But not looked at current situation

find it easier to print it all out before going, but that's just me.

edit: looks like you *must* be fully vaccinated or have had covid within 6 months and they no test is required; (12-17 can do PCR, u12 exempt)

it's not as big a ball ache as it sounds

edit edit: I assume but may be wrong you need to do an online passenger locator  form before returning


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Crispy on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 13:04:18
Off to Dusseldorf in September for a wedding - Truthfully can't be fucked to do any research. I'm fully Vaccinated, both jabs & Booster. T'other half hasn't had any at all, do I/her/us need to do any tests or whatever before we go?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: RobertT on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 13:44:08
Off to Dusseldorf in September for a wedding - Truthfully can't be fucked to do any research. I'm fully Vaccinated, both jabs & Booster. T'other half hasn't had any at all, do I/her/us need to do any tests or whatever before we go?

Yes, for the bad AIDS.

You type can't be fucked to do any research and promptly ask if people can do it for you.  If the TEF remains a bastion of stupidity, my reply should be tame.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 13:55:36
Off to Dusseldorf in September for a wedding - Truthfully can't be fucked to do any research. I'm fully Vaccinated, both jabs & Booster. T'other half hasn't had any at all, do I/her/us need to do any tests or whatever before we go?

As I still had the gov website open from looking at the Netherlands earlier.... https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/germany/entry-requirements


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: AMayesIng on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 14:03:28
Both really
3 docs I'd say (if fully vaxxed):
#1 Spanish Health Control Form
#2 British PLF
#3 NHS Vaccine Cert (valid for a month or so?, so get a new one for each trip)
You need to fill a #1 Spanish Health control from within 48 hours of leaving. (You can start it before then, but only fill in the last part within 48 hours) If fully vaxxed then you'll need your #3 NHS Vaccine Cert in order to fill in the Spanish Form. The Spanish form will be checked at the airport in Spain, as Batch said paper is easier!
You need to fill in a #2 British PLF form within 48 hours of coming back (again, if vaxxed then your #3 Vaccine cert is part of that).


The only other thing is that your airline might also ask you to upload some of these docs before you can check in online.
This can be a bit of a pain, BAs IT (unsurprisingly) was shite, this was their system:

1 Spanish Govt requires you to fill Spanish Health Control Form before travel; successful completion of this form generates a QR code. ‘Seat Number’ on plane is a mandatory field on this form.
2 BA require you to upload a completed Spanish form & QR code onto their website prior to flight, you cannot check in online for the flight until you have done so.
3 You don’t get a Seat Number until you check in.

Great system… Got round it by putting a dummy seat number in (99L) which I found in the FAQs. Other airlines are (probably) better.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Crispy on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 14:08:53
Yes, for the bad AIDS.

You type can't be fucked to do any research and promptly ask if people can do it for you.  If the TEF remains a bastion of stupidity, my reply should be tame.

Fuck off, mate.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Crispy on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 14:09:13
As I still had the gov website open from looking at the Netherlands earlier.... https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/germany/entry-requirements

Thank you, mate.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Arriba on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 14:50:44
You really do need to do your own research and be prepared if you want to go abroad. It's continually changing and being up with what's happening where you want to go is a must.  I didn't offer what people need to do in detail for Spain as it could change tomorrow. Goal posts keep moving but at the moment they are making it easier.


Title: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 14:53:04
"Travellers from the UK to Germany who are not fully vaccinated may not currently enter Germany unless they are a German citizen"

ut oh crispy

September is a very long time away, as Arriba says things change frequently.

you can sign up for updates from the government site


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: AMayesIng on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 15:09:12
You really do need to do your own research and be prepared if you want to go abroad. It's continually changing and being up with what's happening where you want to go is a must.  I didn't offer what people need to do in detail for Spain as it could change tomorrow. Goal posts keep moving but at the moment they are making it easier.
Fair point. I was just relating my recent experience; but you're dead right; always check for yourself just before leaving.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Arriba on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 15:45:01
Fair point. I was just relating my recent experience; but you're dead right; always check for yourself just before leaving.


My post wasn't in response to you or anyone else's advice. Your advice was all good. I made it for the benefit of those asking for info really.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: RobertT on Tuesday, March 1, 2022, 17:18:19
Fuck off, mate.

You are most welcome.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Crispy on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 06:54:15
The gaffers finally getting vaccinated, Altbier and Mini Pizza await  :beers:


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 08:40:29
make sure the final dose is done in time


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 09:41:38
make sure the final dose is done in time

Can you do 2 doses and a booster in 6 months?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 09:42:51
Can you do 2 doses and a booster in 6 months?
He will soon find out  ;)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 10:00:33
He will soon find out  ;)

That sounds like a no!!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 10:11:03
But in the EU is "fully vaccinated" now requiring a booster too,  or is it still 2 doses.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Crispy on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 10:18:26
She's booked in 10th March & 5th May (8 weeks). Any when after 28th July she'll be able to get the booster, 12 weeks.

Fear not, I actually looked this up, although very quickly at work and I've more than likely fucked a date up somewhere along the line.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 10:19:46
Can you do 2 doses and a booster in 6 months?

I am sure he can arrange a dose for her.

But in the EU is "fully vaccinated" now requiring a booster too,  or is it still 2 doses.

God only knows, we are off to the Netherlands in 3 weeks, as it stands we need to be fully vaxxed (which we all are), but also do a certified LFT the day before, which is dependent on Boots system working and as the ordering process was completely shite I have limited confidence in the system working, which is a bit worrying!  


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 10:20:30
She's booked in 10th March & 5th May (8 weeks). Any when after 28th July she'll be able to get the booster, 12 weeks.

Fear not, I actually looked this up, although very quickly at work and I've more than likely fucked a date up somewhere along the line.
Nah you are all good mate. Drop me a message closer to the time if you have any concerns


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 10:25:26
She's booked in 10th March & 5th May (8 weeks). Any when after 28th July she'll be able to get the booster, 12 weeks.

Fear not, I actually looked this up, although very quickly at work and I've more than likely fucked a date up somewhere along the line.

Good work!!  :clap:


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 10:29:29
I am sure he can arrange a dose for her.

God only knows, we are off to the Netherlands in 3 weeks, as it stands we need to be fully vaxxed (which we all are), but also do a certified LFT the day before, which is dependent on Boots system working and as the ordering process was completely shite I have limited confidence in the system working, which is a bit worrying! 

Do LFT's have an expiry on them out of interest? We have a couple of boxes that I'm hoping to keep in 'reserve' for going abroad this year and it just occurred to me they might go out of date.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: DiV on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 10:33:53
Do LFT's have an expiry on them out of interest? We have a couple of boxes that I'm hoping to keep in 'reserve' for going abroad this year and it just occurred to me they might go out of date.

They do have a date of them but it’s at least a year + I think.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: DiV on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 10:36:06
Having checked all the boxes we have at home they’re all 2 years (minus one day)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 10:38:47
Do LFT's have an expiry on them out of interest? We have a couple of boxes that I'm hoping to keep in 'reserve' for going abroad this year and it just occurred to me they might go out of date.

The freebie ones from the govt won't suffice for us as we need a certificated negative to get into the Netherlands, albeit that seem to relate to testing myself at home with their test costing 14.99, sending a photo of the negative test to boots and them emailing me a certificate.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: DiV on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 10:42:06
The freebie ones from the govt won't suffice for us as we need a certificated negative to get into the Netherlands, albeit that seem to relate to testing myself at home with their test costing 14.99, sending a photo of the negative test to boots and them emailing me a certificate.

…and the test will probably be exactly the same as the govt one


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 10:42:52
…and the test will probably be exactly the same as the govt one

I wouldn't doubt it. Interestingly the CEO of Boots was at Eton and then Oxford with the PM.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 10:50:09
The good thing about LFT (fit to fly) is that its available from quite a few places and is fairly instant.

So worse case you can get one done last(ish) minute if Boots doesn't come, even at some airports (e.g.).

https://www.haloverify.com/heathrow-t5/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIq_HI4aOn9gIVCurtCh2pjQLDEAAYASAAEgJ8kfD_BwE


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 11:05:45
The good thing about LFT (fit to fly) is that its available from quite a few places and is fairly instant.

So worse case you can get one done last(ish) minute if Boots doesn't come, even at some airports (e.g.).

https://www.haloverify.com/heathrow-t5/?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIq_HI4aOn9gIVCurtCh2pjQLDEAAYASAAEgJ8kfD_BwE

Yeah, problem is that a) I am in the sticks and b) we are getting a ferry!  :D


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 11:11:16
fair point, but if you are going from (e.g.) Newcastle then I'm sure you can find a chemists

https://lloydspharmacy.com/pages/covid-test-for-travel

but I am also sure the boots kit will be absolutely fine


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 11:11:25
Having checked all the boxes we have at home they’re all 2 years (minus one day)

Thanks DV. Ours are only downstairs and I could have checked myself but sometimes the lazy option of asking people on the TEF is strangely more satisfying.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: DiV on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 11:16:49
Thanks DV. Ours are only downstairs and I could have checked myself but sometimes the lazy option of asking people on the TEF is strangely more satisfying.

Deal with 1000s of the test kits at work every night…
Definitely a question I’ve been asked before and looked on the box.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: horlock07 on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 11:50:53
fair point, but if you are going from (e.g.) Newcastle then I'm sure you can find a chemists

https://lloydspharmacy.com/pages/covid-test-for-travel

but I am also sure the boots kit will be absolutely fine

We'll see, sure we will have a emergency fall back in place if needed. One of the party is a pharmacist in the NHS so he will have a plan!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Crispy on Wednesday, March 2, 2022, 12:02:53
Nah you are all good mate. Drop me a message closer to the time if you have any concerns

Appreciate it!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: chalkies shorts on Sunday, March 6, 2022, 16:56:21
Has anyone here been to dingwall? What's it like?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Sunday, March 6, 2022, 17:38:30
Has anyone here been to dingwall? What's it like?
Small, quiet and a long drive!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: chalkies shorts on Sunday, March 6, 2022, 18:03:44
Small, quiet and a long drive!
Worth using as a base for a few days to get around the north of scotland. Small and quiet is good.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Sunday, March 6, 2022, 18:26:13
Worth using as a base for a few days to get around the north of scotland. Small and quiet is good.
Yes it is a decent enough base, not too many hotels but a few, nice area but be aware, everywhere is hours and hours drive in every direction (bar Inverness!).


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: chalkies shorts on Sunday, March 6, 2022, 18:55:13
Yes it is a decent enough base, not too many hotels but a few, nice area but be aware, everywhere is hours and hours drive in every direction (bar Inverness!).
Thanks JJ. I've found a decent place in the centre so should be ok for pub etc. Aware of distances. Its over 600 miles to get there. Next decision is whether to head up to Orkneys for a few days and buy Nemo a pint or whether to head the car down south.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Peter Venkman on Sunday, March 6, 2022, 19:13:49
Thanks JJ. I've found a decent place in the centre so should be ok for pub etc. Aware of distances. Its over 600 miles to get there. Next decision is whether to head up to Orkneys for a few days and buy Nemo a pint or whether to head the car down south.
No worries, I think you will find a trip to the Orkneys will be a lot further than it appears on the map from Dingwall!

Nemo can advise you on that I am sure!


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, March 7, 2022, 12:29:33
Now that it appears we are safe to travel again, got a few things in the calendar to look forward to. Hoping to be going to Turkey for 2 weeks taking advantage of the Good Friday/Easter Monday/May Holiday Bank holidays but haven't booked anything yet.

We got as a present a 2 day break so going to Lincoln in April. Don't know anything about the City but from pictures it has a 'York' vibe about it and my sister went last year and liked it so nothing ventured etc.

And finally going to Porto for the Jubilee Bank Holiday weekend. This is third time lucky as it was a birthday present for the wife which kept getting cancelled because of Covid. Hopefully BA won't dick around too much with my 'refund voucher'.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Monday, March 7, 2022, 12:33:50
Unless someone has a time travel holiday booked, it might be worth changing the thread title.


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, March 7, 2022, 12:38:58
Unless someone has a time travel holiday booked, it might be worth changing the thread title.

You started the thread so go on then?


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Monday, March 7, 2022, 12:44:30
He's got a point there 4D. Sort it out


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: 4D on Monday, March 7, 2022, 12:50:20
So I did  :D
I can't  :( there's no modify option.


Title: The Holidays are coming
Post by: 4D on Monday, March 7, 2022, 12:52:55
Balls, that hasn't worked  :)


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Batch on Monday, March 7, 2022, 13:16:29
edit your first post and change the title there

edit: Wait, what - its changed since I last changed a thread title


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, March 7, 2022, 13:36:18
So I did  :D
I can't  :( there's no modify option.


We are waiting patiently 4D  :hmmm: ::) ;)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: jayohaitchenn on Monday, March 7, 2022, 16:27:22
There you go Fucktards


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: 4D on Monday, March 7, 2022, 16:39:40
Ta.  8)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Arriba on Monday, March 7, 2022, 16:49:48
So now it's a Coca Cola, Christmas TV advert thread  ;)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Samdy Gray on Monday, March 7, 2022, 16:58:26
Now that it appears we are safe to travel again, got a few things in the calendar to look forward to. Hoping to be going to Turkey for 2 weeks taking advantage of the Good Friday/Easter Monday/May Holiday Bank holidays but haven't booked anything yet.

I'm off to Turkey over Easter too. Will be interesting to see if it's a busy with Russians as normal.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: DiV on Monday, March 7, 2022, 18:36:58
Was looking to (re)book Turkey for May.

Wife has vetoed that suggestion because of the war…


Title: Re: Holidays 2021
Post by: Nick Bamosomi on Monday, March 7, 2022, 19:29:40
Now that it appears we are safe to travel again, got a few things in the calendar to look forward to. Hoping to be going to Turkey for 2 weeks taking advantage of the Good Friday/Easter Monday/May Holiday Bank holidays but haven't booked anything yet.

We got as a present a 2 day break so going to Lincoln in April. Don't know anything about the City but from pictures it has a 'York' vibe about it and my sister went last year and liked it so nothing ventured etc.

And finally going to Porto for the Jubilee Bank Holiday weekend. This is third time lucky as it was a birthday present for the wife which kept getting cancelled because of Covid. Hopefully BA won't dick around too much with my 'refund voucher'.

If you have any questions about Lincoln feel free to ask BO,  as I live there.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, March 7, 2022, 20:03:25
If you have any questions about Lincoln feel free to ask BO,  as I live there.

Ah legend Nick!! We're staying very close to the cathedral I believe. I guess just some pubs/bars and restaurant suggestions (open to anything, we're not fussy) as well as places to see would be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance sir.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Grim Reaper on Monday, March 7, 2022, 20:30:27
Going to Tenerife for 2 weeks in September, as I did last year and also 2020.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Nick Bamosomi on Monday, March 7, 2022, 21:07:40
Ah legend Nick!! We're staying very close to the cathedral I believe. I guess just some pubs/bars and restaurant suggestions (open to anything, we're not fussy) as well as places to see would be much appreciated.

Thanks in advance sir.

Will have a think and let you know.


Title: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Monday, March 7, 2022, 21:39:10
cheese society, obviously...


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: lincolnred on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, 06:46:52
Will have a think and let you know.

Likewise Bob if you need any tips 😎


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, 09:10:37
cheese society, obviously...

ooooh we are huge cheese fans, tell me more :)

Will have a think and let you know.

Cheers NB, appreciated.

Likewise Bob if you need any tips 😎

thanks Lincolred, this beats Tripadvisor all hands down :)

I guess all we really need are a couple of decent restaurants and a list of characterful bars and we should be good to go. I see from the fixture list that Lincoln are at home to Wigan on the Saturday so the town centre might be quite 'lively' on the Saturday.


Title: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, 09:56:00
Quote
ooooh we are huge cheese fans, tell me more :)


https://www.thecheesesociety.co.uk/?utm_source=gmb (https://www.thecheesesociety.co.uk/?utm_source=gmb)

it's just a small shop that sells cheese, and has a very small cafe too.

but hey, I like a cheese scone and a cuppa


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: lincolnred on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, 18:21:49
ooooh we are huge cheese fans, tell me more :)

Cheers NB, appreciated.

thanks Lincolred, this beats Tripadvisor all hands down :)

Sure NB can no doubt add to the list -

Uphill/Bail Area/Cathedral Area -

 Decent Pubs - The Vic (other side of the Castle near The Lawns), The Duke (on the bail by Newport Arch) , The Prince (also on the Bail), Morning Star and Adam & Eve (oldest pub in Lincoln)also not bad in same area.
Restaurant's- The Old Bakery (would need to book) , Browns Pie Shop on Steep Hill (prob good idea to book), Olivares Tapas Castle Square (prob good idea to book).

Down town/ Brayford area you have the standard main stream pubs and eateries
The Treaty of Commerce (near the train station) is a decent pub (but don't go on the Saturday!)
The Cornhill which is in the middle of town near Barclays Bank has been recently redeveloped and has places such as the Cosy Club and The Botanist.

Hope that helps   :)



Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: chalkies shorts on Tuesday, March 8, 2022, 18:58:46
I like Lincoln. Been a few times. Don't forget to try steep hill - it is well named. Did a little boat cruise last time which was fun.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Nick Bamosomi on Wednesday, March 9, 2022, 11:46:57
I see that Lincoln Red has already listed some of the suggestions I have, but I guess two recommendations must be  even better.

Things to see - Lincoln Cathedral, Lincoln Castle - the grounds are free to walk around but timed tickets allow you to see the old prison, the medieval wall walk which has great views on a clear day and the Magna Carta.
If you like museums the Collection or the Museum of Lincolnshire Life.
Just out of town is the Bomber Command memorial and visitor centre.
It's worth walking down Steep Hill and going to the Marina (if the weather is good Royal William IV is a good pub for sitting outside and relaxing by the Brayford. Also as CS said, you can take a boat trip here.

Uphill Pubs - Duke William, The Strugglers - where people used to congregate to watch the hangings at the Castle. Down the bottom of Steep Hill are two bars - the Cardinal's Hat and the Strait and Narrow which are pretty popular.

Uphill Eateries -

Mexican - Tequilas (Bailgate) - reasonably priced
Indian - Castle View
Thai - Thailand No 1
Spanish - Ole Ole Tapas
Slightly pricier option is the Old Bakery, but you'd need to book.
Actually you'd probably need to book at any of these.

If you venture downhill to eat, there are most of the usual chains down there, many of them right next to the Brayford, but you'll know what to expect there anyway.

If I think of anything else later, I'll post again. Any questions, I'm happy to answer if I can.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Wednesday, March 9, 2022, 20:59:45
I'm potentially in Lincoln the same time as y... a couple of weeks before. Will let you know if there is anything of note that sticks out.

From our conversations in the past we take interest in some similar stuff, more than happy to recommend!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, March 10, 2022, 09:11:02
Thanks to all that took the time to post information about Lincoln, it's greatly appreciated.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Thursday, March 10, 2022, 15:40:59


Nobody has mentioned biscuits!

Love these with a cup of tea😀


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, March 10, 2022, 16:29:49

Nobody has mentioned biscuits!

Love these with a cup of tea😀

I have literally never heard of Lincoln biscuits!! Every day is a school day. 


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: 4D on Thursday, March 10, 2022, 16:32:26
Have you heard of lemon puffs?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Thursday, March 10, 2022, 16:43:40
I have literally never heard of Lincoln biscuits!! Every day is a school day. 

They've been around since the 80's to my knowledge😀


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Thursday, March 10, 2022, 16:44:47
Have you heard of lemon puffs?

Mmmm yes used to love them years ago and not sure where we used to buy them. M&S maybe


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, March 10, 2022, 16:53:12
Have you heard of lemon puffs?

Nope!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Berniman on Thursday, March 10, 2022, 17:04:45
Buiscuits that taste of lemon are just wrong, make all of the other biscuits in the barrel taste of lemon


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Thursday, March 10, 2022, 17:53:20
Don't put them in a barrel😀


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Nomoreheroes on Thursday, March 10, 2022, 19:51:41
Don't put them in a barrel😀
Just in ma belly!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Thursday, March 10, 2022, 19:59:23
Just in ma belly!

Exactly :pint:


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Thursday, March 10, 2022, 22:03:58
They've been around since the 80's to my knowledge😀

Before that.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, April 4, 2022, 10:48:19
I see that Lincoln Red has already listed some of the suggestions I have, but I guess two recommendations must be  even better.

Things to see - Lincoln Cathedral, Lincoln Castle - the grounds are free to walk around but timed tickets allow you to see the old prison, the medieval wall walk which has great views on a clear day and the Magna Carta.
If you like museums the Collection or the Museum of Lincolnshire Life.
Just out of town is the Bomber Command memorial and visitor centre.
It's worth walking down Steep Hill and going to the Marina (if the weather is good Royal William IV is a good pub for sitting outside and relaxing by the Brayford. Also as CS said, you can take a boat trip here.

Uphill Pubs - Duke William, The Strugglers - where people used to congregate to watch the hangings at the Castle. Down the bottom of Steep Hill are two bars - the Cardinal's Hat and the Strait and Narrow which are pretty popular.

Uphill Eateries -

Mexican - Tequilas (Bailgate) - reasonably priced
Indian - Castle View
Thai - Thailand No 1
Spanish - Ole Ole Tapas
Slightly pricier option is the Old Bakery, but you'd need to book.
Actually you'd probably need to book at any of these.

If you venture downhill to eat, there are most of the usual chains down there, many of them right next to the Brayford, but you'll know what to expect there anyway.

If I think of anything else later, I'll post again. Any questions, I'm happy to answer if I can.


Booked the Castle View for the Friday night and Ole Ole for Saturday night. I'd love to try and sneak a pie in at Brown's Pie Shop, that might have to be on the Sunday before the drive home!!

Booked our flights to Turkey, 2 weeks in the sun from Easter weekend, can't wait!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Tuesday, April 5, 2022, 17:04:54
I suspect a number of you have been to Cuba. On a potential list of destinations for early ‘23 with some friends. Recommendations and places to avoid?


Title: Re: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Samdy Gray on Tuesday, April 5, 2022, 17:33:37
Booked our flights to Turkey, 2 weeks in the sun from Easter weekend, can't wait!

You've got a place out there haven't you? We're flying out to Antalya on Friday, so long as a) eldest sprog gets a negative LFT on Thursday and b) easyJet don't cancel the flight.


Title: Re: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Samdy Gray on Tuesday, April 5, 2022, 17:35:37
I suspect a number of you have been to Cuba. On a potential list of destinations for early ‘23 with some friends. Recommendations and places to avoid?
14 years since I went so no recent knowledge, but we stayed at a place called Playa Pesquero in Holguin which was pretty good. We didn't manage a trip to Havana whilst we were there which we kind of regret now, I'd love to go back someday.


Title: Re: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Tuesday, April 5, 2022, 18:02:15
14 years since I went so no recent knowledge, but we stayed at a place called Playa Pesquero in Holguin which was pretty good. We didn't manage a trip to Havana whilst we were there which we kind of regret now, I'd love to go back someday.

Yeah think I can understand that sentiment. My TA suggested a two centre holiday of which part would be in or around Havana. We are open to other destinations except Thailand or that part of the world on this occasion due in part the flight time. So we’ll see what she comes up though I am rather keen on Cuba as it’s been on my radar for a number of years.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, April 5, 2022, 18:15:07
You've got a place out there haven't you? We're flying out to Antalya on Friday, so long as a) eldest sprog gets a negative LFT on Thursday and b) easyJet don't cancel the flight.

Yeah in Kusadasi. Probably going to try and flog it sooner rather than later. Maintenance and other bills have gone through the roof.

What's the Covid rules for Turkey now? Do you still require to prove negative tests etc? I was under the impression from a Turkish friend who flew out there last week that Covid tests etc were no longer required.


Title: Re: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Tuesday, April 5, 2022, 18:51:43
Yeah think I can understand that sentiment. My TA suggested a two centre holiday of which part would be in or around Havana. We are open to other destinations except Thailand or that part of the world on this occasion due in part the flight time. So we’ll see what she comes up though I am rather keen on Cuba as it’s been on my radar for a number of years.
I recently booked a twin centre for Cuba & Jamaica. The Cuba element was a packed itinerary , just quoted Andy T from here a cuba trip too.

  Itinerary

Day 1: Havana
Day 2: Soroa / Vinales
Day 3: Vinales
Day 4: Bay of Pigs / Cienfuegos
Day 5: Trinidad
Day 6: Trinidad
Day 7: Santa Clara / Havana
Day 8: Havana


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Nick Bamosomi on Tuesday, April 5, 2022, 20:44:13
Booked the Castle View for the Friday night and Ole Ole for Saturday night. I'd love to try and sneak a pie in at Brown's Pie Shop, that might have to be on the Sunday before the drive home!!

Booked our flights to Turkey, 2 weeks in the sun from Easter weekend, can't wait!

Well done, hope you have a good weekend.


Title: Re: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Wednesday, April 6, 2022, 05:11:38
I recently booked a twin centre for Cuba & Jamaica. The Cuba element was a packed itinerary , just quoted Andy T from here a cuba trip too.

  Itinerary

Day 1: Havana
Day 2: Soroa / Vinales
Day 3: Vinales
Day 4: Bay of Pigs / Cienfuegos
Day 5: Trinidad
Day 6: Trinidad
Day 7: Santa Clara / Havana
Day 8: Havana


Was this recently? If so who did you use as a TA? We’re looking at two weeks. The other destination that seems to be gaining traction is Mexico.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Wednesday, April 6, 2022, 05:57:58
Fucked if I’d step foot in Mexico.


Title: Re: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Wednesday, April 6, 2022, 06:52:36
Was this recently? If so who did you use as a TA? We’re looking at two weeks. The other destination that seems to be gaining traction is Mexico.
Mexico too is a great option, i am a travel agent myself so put it together myself. Drop me a message if you want me to look at something for You


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, April 6, 2022, 08:22:58
Well done, hope you have a good weekend.

Cheers NB.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, April 6, 2022, 08:24:47
Was this recently? If so who did you use as a TA? We’re looking at two weeks. The other destination that seems to be gaining traction is Mexico.

I've been to Puerta Vallarta and Mexico City. Puerta Vallarta was more of a 'party' place so probably not necessarily what you are looking for. Mexico City was worth a visit if you like City breaks. I guess Cancun is the popular place to go in Mexico. 


Title: Re: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Samdy Gray on Wednesday, April 6, 2022, 11:58:45
What's the Covid rules for Turkey now? Do you still require to prove negative tests etc? I was under the impression from a Turkish friend who flew out there last week that Covid tests etc were no longer required.

If you're double jabbed there are no entry requirements, and nothing for kids under 12. However, my 12 year old has only had the first dose so we have to get an LFT done.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, April 6, 2022, 12:51:30
If you're double jabbed there are no entry requirements, and nothing for kids under 12. However, my 12 year old has only had the first dose so we have to get an LFT done.

Ah fair enough. Thanks for the info. Also handy now that Turkey have done away with the VISA entry which was a (very) minor inconvenience.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Wednesday, April 6, 2022, 15:09:43
I've been to Puerta Vallarta and Mexico City. Puerta Vallarta was more of a 'party' place so probably not necessarily what you are looking for. Mexico City was worth a visit if you like City breaks. I guess Cancun is the popular place to go in Mexico. 

Seems to be. Not sure if it is my age and something that happens but my days of lying in the sun and basting myself from sun up until sun down seem to be long gone. Need to do something meaningful with my time. Hence why the all inclusive does not appeal to me. I know the AI places in the Caribbean area more upmarket that most in the med but even so my interpretation of them is not much more above a pig pen for alcoholic lard arses with unruly kids.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, April 6, 2022, 16:43:23
Seems to be. Not sure if it is my age and something that happens but my days of lying in the sun and basting myself from sun up until sun down seem to be long gone. Need to do something meaningful with my time. Hence why the all inclusive does not appeal to me. I know the AI places in the Caribbean area more upmarket that most in the med but even so my interpretation of them is not much more above a pig pen for alcoholic lard arses with unruly kids.

Yeah I am the same as you. I think for parents with kids AI is absolutely perfect (my sister always goes AI with her 3) but for me I couldn't think of much worse. We did St Lucia AI for our honeymoon but that was the only time and after the stress of the wedding wanted to do as little as possible then!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Wednesday, April 6, 2022, 18:06:36
Yeah I am the same as you. I think for parents with kids AI is absolutely perfect (my sister always goes AI with her 3) but for me I couldn't think of much worse. We did St Lucia AI for our honeymoon but that was the only time and after the stress of the wedding wanted to do as little as possible then!

I’m slightly worried that you may have been a bit too relaxed with Mrs Orange…


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, April 11, 2022, 09:33:02
Well done, hope you have a good weekend.

Both myself and Mrs Orange loved Lincoln, what a great city. Both of the restaurants were class. Ole Ole was a bit shambolic, we got there at 8 for our booking and had to wait until 8:30 to be seated but the food was good. The Indian on Friday night was rammed but the food was bloody good. We also stumbled across the Cheese Society on the Saturday which was tremendous, I think it was Batch that recommended and it definitely didn't disappoint. Later in the evening we stumbled into the Victoria that had Traditional Irish music so the wife was happy!

The place reminded me of York with the old cobbled streets, buildings and Cathedral. We bought this detective thing which we did yesterday which was good craic, and pretty challenging! We definitely want to go back, we never explored much of the Castle which I think was a mistake. I'd highly recommend for those looking for somewhere friendly to go for a City break.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: mexico red on Monday, April 11, 2022, 22:32:58
Fucked if I’d step foot in Mexico.

Mexico weeps at your loss


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: swindonmaniac on Tuesday, April 12, 2022, 07:52:31
Mexico weeps at your loss
Why would you ?.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Nick Bamosomi on Tuesday, April 12, 2022, 09:40:25
Both myself and Mrs Orange loved Lincoln, what a great city. Both of the restaurants were class. Ole Ole was a bit shambolic, we got there at 8 for our booking and had to wait until 8:30 to be seated but the food was good. The Indian on Friday night was rammed but the food was bloody good. We also stumbled across the Cheese Society on the Saturday which was tremendous, I think it was Batch that recommended and it definitely didn't disappoint. Later in the evening we stumbled into the Victoria that had Traditional Irish music so the wife was happy!

The place reminded me of York with the old cobbled streets, buildings and Cathedral. We bought this detective thing which we did yesterday which was good craic, and pretty challenging! We definitely want to go back, we never explored much of the Castle which I think was a mistake. I'd highly recommend for those looking for somewhere friendly to go for a City break.

Glad you had a good time, Was it a Treasure Trail you did? There are some tricky ones on there definitely. We usually buy a Treasure Trail when visiting a new area as it takes you to parts of a city or town that you might not otherwise see.
Sounds as if you fitted a lot in on your visit.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, April 21, 2022, 09:55:36
For those travelling abroad, just my two-penneth on my recent flight to Turkey. We flew from Luton and didn't encounter a single problem, check in was a breeze (had to show our Covid vaccination papers) security was easy etc. We had to wear masks on the flight, which for 3.5 hours meant my ear hurt but a minor inconvenience. Mask wearing in Turkey itself isn't mandatory, more people wear them than don't. The temperature is starting to heat up a bit, was 18 for a couple of days but is getting up to 26 by the weekend so might have to get my legs out and into the sea.

For anyone travelling to Turkey soon, it's the holiday 'Bay ram' which is an 8 day public holiday starting from May 2nd and all the Turks flock to the holiday destinations, some places don't serve alcohol (I think, not completely sure how accurate that is) etc. So just be wary the beaches may be much busier than usual and full of chain smoking hairy beasts!!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, April 21, 2022, 09:56:54
Glad you had a good time, Was it a Treasure Trail you did? There are some tricky ones on there definitely. We usually buy a Treasure Trail when visiting a new area as it takes you to parts of a city or town that you might not otherwise see.
Sounds as if you fitted a lot in on your visit.

Oops missed this, yeah it was something we downloaded, cost £10 and was excellent value for money. As you say it gives a great chance to see historic parts of the city we wouldn't have ordinarily.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Posh Red on Friday, April 22, 2022, 06:44:40
We’re in Barcelona at the moment, the flight process was really easy, had to get a Spanish travel form before flying, but just scanned at the airport & all good.

The rules on masks have just changed, only mandatory on the transportation system & in hospitals, albeit quite a lot of people still wearing them out of choice.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Friday, April 22, 2022, 07:25:20
lovely place Barcelona


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Friday, April 22, 2022, 11:40:44
Just had a quote for a two centre stop in Cuba for next Feb. Not two bad but the hotel star rating needs upgrading from 3* to 5*, can’t be that much more hopefully.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Friday, April 22, 2022, 14:52:17
Feel free to send over the quote, i can also have a look for you, unless it's from a travel agent friend of course then sorry


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Posh Red on Friday, April 22, 2022, 15:58:43
lovely place Barcelona

It is indeed.

Found a lovely little back street bar/restaurant that does very strong & properly lush sangria 😄


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Saxondale on Friday, April 22, 2022, 16:24:40
Got robbed twice in Barcelona for that reason I hate the place.


Title: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Friday, April 22, 2022, 16:36:14
Quote
Found a lovely little back street bar/restaurant that does very strong & properly lush sangria 😄
a jug of sangria outside in the sun watching the world pass you by... perfect

Quote from: Saxondale
Got robbed twice in Barcelona for that reason I hate the place.

yeah, I can see that might put you off. Basquerds


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Friday, April 22, 2022, 17:33:09
Feel free to send over the quote, i can also have a look for you, unless it's from a travel agent friend of course then sorry

Well it is from a travel agent. Friend, no.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Friday, April 22, 2022, 17:34:18
Feel free to send over the quote, i can also have a look for you, unless it's from a travel agent friend of course then sorry

Sent you a pm.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Sunday, April 24, 2022, 16:35:17
Sent you a pm.

While I’m at it. Anyone into fencing (not swords) wooden, maybe with concrete posts or know someone who is and would work Labour only?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: jayohaitchenn on Sunday, April 24, 2022, 17:54:13
While I’m at it. Anyone into fencing (not swords) wooden, maybe with concrete posts or know someone who is and would work Labour only?

T Marshall Services - 07572 378049


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, 09:57:44
Going to Porto next month, for those that have been, is the Douro Valley worth making the effort? Both the wife and I love wine and port so definitely something we would like to do if possible but as we're only there 4 nights just trying to ascertain if it's worth doing.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Posh Red on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, 14:19:29
Going to Porto next month, for those that have been, is the Douro Valley worth making the effort? Both the wife and I love wine and port so definitely something we would like to do if possible but as we're only there 4 nights just trying to ascertain if it's worth doing.

Hope your passports are OK, (not more than 10 years old)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, 14:28:55
Hope your passports are OK, (not more than 10 years old)

Why do you say that?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, 14:32:30
Why do you say that?

Probably because there's a 11 week renewal lead time😀


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: horlock07 on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, 14:35:18
Why do you say that?

All sort of covered here https://twitter.com/schonevill4/status/1521106887093235712


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, 14:35:21
Probably because there's a 11 week renewal lead time😀

Nah both passports well within date, think mine expires in 2026 and the wife's even later.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Berniman on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, 14:58:29
I got caught out with this passport rule change in October, I reckon I was one of the first..  bizzare that it is all over the news now, maybe I should have gone to the press..

It cost me the loss of flights, pay through the nose to get my passport renewed fast tracked, and £90 parking at the airport when my car was parked there for 3hrs - plus a complete waste of my time.

Can you tell I am still triggered? :D


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Posh Red on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, 16:51:55
Why do you say that?

Because a family got turned away from Portugal because the wives passport (whilst still having over 3 months until expiry) had been issued over 10 years ago


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, May 4, 2022, 09:19:20
Because a family got turned away from Portugal because the wives passport (whilst still having over 3 months until expiry) had been issued over 10 years ago

Cheers, just had a little read of the new rules. Pretty sure my passport was issued less than 10 years ago so I should be ok. Wife has an Irish passport so doesn't have to be concerned with such matters!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Posh Red on Wednesday, May 4, 2022, 10:45:56
 :thumb:
Cheers, just had a little read of the new rules. Pretty sure my passport was issued less than 10 years ago so I should be ok. Wife has an Irish passport so doesn't have to be concerned with such matters!

:thumb:


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, May 30, 2022, 17:14:17
Off to Porto on Wednesday from Heathrow. Has anyone travelled recently and can advise on whether airports are shambolic or is it kind of normal now?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Monday, May 30, 2022, 17:22:22
Off to Porto on Wednesday from Heathrow. Has anyone travelled recently and can advise on whether airports are shambolic or is it kind of normal now?
Heathrow seems to avoided the most of the issues


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Posh Red on Monday, May 30, 2022, 17:22:58
Off to Porto on Wednesday from Heathrow. Has anyone travelled recently and can advise on whether airports are shambolic or is it kind of normal now?

It seems like pot luck to be honest.

We flew from Stanstead to Barcelona and was absolutely fine. (Ryanair)

Son flew to Canada from Gatwick, check in & security were easy but flight was delayed a few hours. (Westjet)

An ex colleague was flying from Birmingham to Menorca last week, holiday was cancelled after a 14 hour delay (TUI)

Fingers crossed that you have a smooth journey


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Monday, May 30, 2022, 17:23:53
what did he think of WestJet? got a flight coming to in a couple of months to Toronto.

budget for a reason is my guess


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Posh Red on Monday, May 30, 2022, 17:26:48
what did he think of WestJet? got a flight coming to in a couple of months to Toronto.

budget for a reason is my guess

He’s not back yet, but from messages said it was decent.
Said the food was alright & a good sized TV

He flew to Vancouver, but us off to Toronto today & is flying back here next weekend


Title: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Monday, May 30, 2022, 17:28:37
nice.

not sure we get food with our ticket. soapy tit wank. keeping costs down due to work situation

Mrs B seeing family near Winnipeg for first time in 14 years. then back to Toronto area


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, May 30, 2022, 17:35:14
Thanks guys for the responses.

Shrivvy, we're half thinking of trying to go to Japan next year depending on cost. (think we have an Amex reward flight we may try and use) if I drop you a note is this a part of the world you'd be able to give me some advise on?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Monday, May 30, 2022, 17:40:58
Of course, be happy to help. I work closely with Inside Japan so feel free to drop me a message Bob


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, May 30, 2022, 18:49:10
Of course, be happy to help. I work closely with Inside Japan so feel free to drop me a message Bob

Much appreciated mate.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Berniman on Monday, May 30, 2022, 18:50:20
Off to Porto on Wednesday from Heathrow. Has anyone travelled recently and can advise on whether airports are shambolic or is it kind of normal now?

I travelled to/from Term 5 last week and was in and through in 30 mins - piece of piss


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, May 30, 2022, 18:59:56
I travelled to/from Term 5 last week and was in and through in 30 mins - piece of piss

Nice one Berni, danke.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: cheltred69 on Monday, May 30, 2022, 19:40:27
Flew from Gatwick on Friday. Through security without stopping. Flight delayed a little due to air traffic control being busy, supposedly a knock on from long haul flights from East not being able to fly over Russian airspace. Heard later of long delays at South terminal but zero hassle at north terminal.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, June 6, 2022, 08:06:34
Just some further feedback post my trip to Portugal last week. We flew from Terminal 3 and found check in and security slightly busier than usual, but nothing treacherous. We were due to leave at 19.30 and they got everyone to the gate but then announced that the plane had to be cleaned and they couldn't find the staff to do it, so there was a further delay. We ended up leaving about 21.15 (Having lounge access numbed the nuisance factor somewhat) and weirdly despite Portugal still having quite strong mask protocol, BA didn't request masks to be worn, however they did on the way back to England. (apparently Portugal had 'forced' them to do this) Getting through passport control was an absolute doddle and our bag for once was first onto the 'travellator' which was an added bonus! Overall found the airport experience relatively trouble free but sadly I saw others weren't so lucky with flights cancelled.

For those looking for a city break I'd highly recommend Porto. It's a beautiful cobbled street of a place with rich history, friendly locals and vibrancy, with live music all over the place. Added to that Portuguese wine (especially Port which I love) is highly underrated and is exceptional value. We had a litre of house red for 12.50 in a restaurant, and that was in a really touristy place overlooking the Douro river. Our hotel was a little off the beaten track but Uber or the local taxis are extremely cheap and the Portuguese don't tip so they are genuinely grateful when you add on a couple of extra euro. Masks had to be worn in taxis and on our tour bus but outsides and in bars and restaurants there was no need.

On the final night we had an added bonus, I think the Rally of Portugal had just finished and as we were eating dinner about 50 rally cars from down the years parked up along the river, from old Escorts to Lancia Deltas and apparently a Citroen rally car previously owned by Villas Boas as well as a world championship winning Audi Quattro. They then did a small stage around the streets of Gaia (the town opposite Porto) and it sounded fantastic.

Needless to say I miss the sunshine today!!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Monday, June 6, 2022, 08:09:55
Absolutely loved Porto. We walked into the centre until we realised they had a metro! Did you do the cable car bit over river? How about that railway station.

Lovely place. Got me into white port, too.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, June 6, 2022, 08:14:05
Absolutely loved Porto. We walked into the centre until we realised they had a metro! Did you do the cable car bit over river? How about that railway station.

Lovely place. Got me into white port, too.

White Port is cracking huh? We actually brought home a 10 year White Port which turns a lovely caramel colour, it tastes amazing!!

Yeah we did the cable car, cracking views over the river Douro. We could also learn a thing or 2 about pricing, after not bothering to go around Lincoln Cathedral earlier this year as it was £15 (I think) you could wander around Porto Cathedral (which was absolutely stunning inside) for 3 Euro each.

They are doing quite a lot of work extending the metro so some parts of the city are a bit hectic at the moment where they are building.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Shrivvy Road on Monday, June 6, 2022, 09:22:49
The last week has been fucking horrific business-wise for me I will not lie. Not slept longer than 2 hours a night for over a week  now. Travel in this country needs a huge overhaul it's a joke


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Thursday, June 16, 2022, 15:27:56
Pisspot turned up today, o ly two weeks for my renewal.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Sunday, June 19, 2022, 14:13:59
Zante here we come.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Sunday, June 19, 2022, 14:15:01
I’m looking at Zante right now - off the back of our terrace!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Sunday, June 19, 2022, 15:32:35
No one likes a bragger😀
We had our summers day on Friday 30 degrees followed by rain yesterday and a cool grey 17 degrees today!

Not been away for five years, last time out was Florida, for the fourth and last time. Son is off to Uni in Sept. next year the shit won’t want to know us, unless I’m waving a fist full of £‘S. 


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Sunday, June 19, 2022, 15:36:29
Not been away for five years, last time out was Florida, for the fourth and last time. Son is off to Uni in Sept. next year the shit won’t want to know us, unless I’m waving a fist full of £‘S. 

Any of the Greek Islands are nice just hope the Airlines don't play up


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Sunday, June 19, 2022, 15:37:50
I’m looking at Zante right now - off the back of our terrace!


No one likes a bragger😀
We had our summers day on Friday 30 degrees followed by rain yesterday and a cool grey 17 degrees today!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Sunday, June 19, 2022, 15:55:58
Any of the Greek Islands are nice just hope the Airlines don't play up

Only ever been to Skiathos and that was in 1988.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Sunday, June 19, 2022, 16:06:02
Only ever been to Skiathos and that was in 1988.

I've been to Kos & Crete a few times and yet to see any clouds sunshine from dawn to dusk😀


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: swindonmaniac on Sunday, June 19, 2022, 17:59:27
Only ever been to Skiathos and that was in 1988.
Club 18-30 ?.   :surf: :surf:


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Sunday, June 19, 2022, 19:09:21
Club 18-30 ?.   :surf: :surf:

Hardly, my Honeymoon….


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Boy About Town on Monday, August 29, 2022, 17:09:45
Off to Lake Garda for a week, taking the better half to Venice, any other recommendations?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: fuzzy on Tuesday, August 30, 2022, 15:13:54
Firenze/ Florence is a really nice city for culture.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Tuesday, August 30, 2022, 17:13:11
Off to Lake Garda for a week, taking the better half to Venice, any other recommendations?

Yeah, take someone else’s better half 😉


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Grim Reaper on Tuesday, August 30, 2022, 18:38:07
Off to Tenerife for 2 weeks on Sunday, my 13th consecutive September holiday to The Canary Island.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Sippo on Tuesday, September 20, 2022, 08:19:30
Off to Bologna for 4 nights on thursday, with one day in florence.

Cannot wait.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Tuesday, November 8, 2022, 18:59:26
Anyone been to Morocco recently?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Friday, December 16, 2022, 11:18:01
Travelling over to the Emerald Isle for an 11 day Christmas break tomorrow, looking forward to the usual festive over feeding washed down with the best Guinness on the planet. I have to say (and it's probably because of the World Cup) that I'm not feeling the Christmas cheer just yet, i've only eaten 3 mince pies so far (that could be the reason!!) and been to a couple of Christmas parties which were good craic but hasn't really triggered anything festive in my bones!

If anyone has seen the film 'The banshees of Inisherin' where I am spending Christmas is where some of it was filmed. Stunning rugged Atlantic coastline with a bracing wind.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: 4D on Friday, December 16, 2022, 12:29:29
Craggy Island?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Friday, December 16, 2022, 12:35:04
Craggy Island?

It basically is to be fair. It's called Achill Island but I could definitely see similarities with how Craggy Island was portrayed on Father Ted!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Nemo on Friday, December 16, 2022, 14:11:27
If anyone has seen the film 'The banshees of Inisherin' where I am spending Christmas is where some of it was filmed. Stunning rugged Atlantic coastline with a bracing wind.

Don't go chopping your fingers off.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Friday, December 16, 2022, 14:21:23
Don't go chopping your fingers off.

Funnily enough there is a weird IRA type bloke that lives there that has 2 fingers missing. Allegedly he shot them off but he's such a brain-dead dolt that he could have lost them in all manner of imaginable ways.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: 4D on Friday, December 16, 2022, 14:33:26
.
https://youtu.be/AzYmDaTSHsw


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Posh Red on Friday, December 16, 2022, 15:21:08
I went to Father Ted’s house in 2018.

It’s in Co. Clare close to where we have family living.

Apparently you can book in for Afternoon Tea, we didn’t so no idea what it’s like.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 11:45:37
This isn't really a holiday but I have to go to Swindon for a funeral and have booked the Village Hotel at Shaw Ridge as Mrs Bob has an outlet centre voucher she wants to spend and so going to spend the Sunday prior to it in Swindon. Apart from the County Ground I don't know the town very well and have a couple of questions.

How close are the Outlet Centre and Lydiard Park? Walkable?

Without driving how easy is it to get into Old Town? (Happy to get public transport or walk) We had a really good Tapas there before, Los Gatos I think it was, any food recommendations


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: ChalkyWhiteIsGod on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 11:51:06
Lydiard Park is a little more walkable than Outlet which would be a longer walk.

Taxi best bet for Old Town. I haven't got a bus in a while but I'd imagine you'd go right round the houses to get to old town. Probably have to go town first and change.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 12:10:04
Lydiard Park is a little more walkable than Outlet which would be a longer walk.

Taxi best bet for Old Town. I haven't got a bus in a while but I'd imagine you'd go right round the houses to get to old town. Probably have to go town first and change.

Thank you.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Saxondale on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 12:11:59
On holidays, Ive a few days away in Seville at the end of Feb / start of March.  Anyone been?  Any recommendations?



Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: RobertT on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 12:52:13
This isn't really a holiday but I have to go to Swindon for a funeral and have booked the Village Hotel at Shaw Ridge as Mrs Bob has an outlet centre voucher she wants to spend and so going to spend the Sunday prior to it in Swindon. Apart from the County Ground I don't know the town very well and have a couple of questions.

How close are the Outlet Centre and Lydiard Park? Walkable?

Without driving how easy is it to get into Old Town? (Happy to get public transport or walk) We had a really good Tapas there before, Los Gatos I think it was, any food recommendations

I stayed there Xmas before last - the rooms are a bit dark, but a decent enough place for the money you pay.

Outlet is walkable - if you are into walking.  it would likely be a good 30-45 mins.

Lydiard the other way would be a nicer walk, or you can walk up past Peatmoor to Mouldon Hill, maybe take in the Swindon and Cricklade Railway.

The curry place in Shaw Village was pretty decent, and empty when I went.  10 minute taxi ride to Old Town.  From memory, the Caribbean place in Old Town is quite good, if looking a bit basic.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: jayohaitchenn on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 12:57:32
Not really a holiday but work are sending me to Cisco Live (Amsterdam) for 5 days in Feb :D


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: RobertT on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 13:06:53
Not really a holiday but work are sending me to Cisco Live (Amsterdam) for 5 days in Feb :D

I imagine Day 5 will be a proper mess


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: horlock07 on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 13:13:28
Not really a holiday but work are sending me to Cisco Live (Amsterdam) for 5 days in Feb :D

5 days of the Thong Song!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: DMC on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 13:13:39
Not met John have you, Day 1 will be


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: mexico red on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 14:17:03
On holidays, Ive a few days away in Seville at the end of Feb / start of March.  Anyone been?  Any recommendations?



Take a coat and umbrella it will be bloody cold and probably raining
Its a beautiful city, take in a betis game if you can, the stadium in amazing


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: jayohaitchenn on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 14:19:30
Not met John have you, Day 1 will be

I'm old and boring now


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: 4D on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 14:20:46
Not really a holiday but work are sending me to Cisco Live (Amsterdam) for 5 days in Feb :D

 :banana: :naughty:


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 14:41:08
I've paid for Vegas in April.

I may be jobless by then. But I have a cunning plan to cover the cost.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Wobbly Bob on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 14:49:57
I've paid for Vegas in August.

I may be jobless by then. But I have a cunning plan to cover the cost.

Elvis impersonating?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 14:53:10
Elvis impersonating?

I've got two cunning plans.

I can certainly impersonate the burger Elvis. uh-huh-huh

The other is Wesley Snipes from Passenger 57. "Always bet on black"


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Wobbly Bob on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 15:02:49
I've got two cunning plans.

I can certainly impersonate the burger Elvis. uh-huh-huh

The other is Wesley Snipes from Passenger 57. "Always bet on black"

 :)
I love Vegas. Have a good one.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bogus Dave on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 16:07:57
4 nights at a butlins toddler retreat feat. Justin Fletcher


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Thursday, January 12, 2023, 17:50:31
Cape Town for two weeks. Next month.

Robbin Island.
Garden Route
Table Mountain
Ballon Flight (maybe in Namibia)
Nature Reserve (Think Longleat in a natural habit)
Whale Watching
Vineyard Tour (3 within ten minutes of our accommodation)
Cape Town of course
Lounging by the pool
Probably need holiday to get over it.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Friday, January 13, 2023, 10:33:48
I went to Cape Town for my 30th birthday with family and went to one of the British Lions warm up games. I decided to do the highest bridge bungee jump in the world (don't think it holds that record anymore) at Bloukrans. To this day the best experience of my life and would thoroughly recommend. It wasn't helped by the first person that they put forward having a mini panic attack and taking ages to decide if they were going or not. My tactic was not to look down and just go, that way you can't really look back!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Friday, January 13, 2023, 11:01:43
I went to Cape Town for my 30th birthday with family and went to one of the British Lions warm up games. I decided to do the highest bridge bungee jump in the world (don't think it holds that record anymore) at Bloukrans. To this day the best experience of my life and would thoroughly recommend. It wasn't helped by the first person that they put forward having a mini panic attack and taking ages to decide if they were going or not. My tactic was not to look down and just go, that way you can't really look back!

Not for me. Flying is for the birds. The exception is getting there 😁


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: mystical_goat on Friday, January 13, 2023, 18:45:16
I went to Cape Town for my 30th birthday with family and went to one of the British Lions warm up games. I decided to do the highest bridge bungee jump in the world (don't think it holds that record anymore) at Bloukrans. To this day the best experience of my life and would thoroughly recommend. It wasn't helped by the first person that they put forward having a mini panic attack and taking ages to decide if they were going or not. My tactic was not to look down and just go, that way you can't really look back!

Nice! I've done a skydive but would love a big bungee. Good tactic, too.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Friday, January 13, 2023, 19:39:58
I went to Cape Town for my 30th birthday with family and went to one of the British Lions warm up games. I decided to do the highest bridge bungee jump in the world (don't think it holds that record anymore) at Bloukrans. To this day the best experience of my life and would thoroughly recommend. It wasn't helped by the first person that they put forward having a mini panic attack and taking ages to decide if they were going or not. My tactic was not to look down and just go, that way you can't really look back!

Interestingly there is one match left in Englands winter tour of SA. I think it is a ODI but it’s in Joburgh. Our friends have vetoed  me going or them accompanying me. Pity as an England winter cricket match is on my bucket list of things to do.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, January 16, 2023, 12:36:31
I stayed there Xmas before last - the rooms are a bit dark, but a decent enough place for the money you pay.

Outlet is walkable - if you are into walking.  it would likely be a good 30-45 mins.

Lydiard the other way would be a nicer walk, or you can walk up past Peatmoor to Mouldon Hill, maybe take in the Swindon and Cricklade Railway.

The curry place in Shaw Village was pretty decent, and empty when I went.  10 minute taxi ride to Old Town.  From memory, the Caribbean place in Old Town is quite good, if looking a bit basic.

Sorry Rob, I completely missed this. Thanks for the post fella :)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, January 16, 2023, 12:37:56
Nice! I've done a skydive but would love a big bungee. Good tactic, too.

snap, I'd love to do a skydive also! I can to this day remember the peace and tranquility as I 'fell' towards the ravine, the wind whistling in my ears. It was such a tremendous buzz!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, 09:03:42
I stayed there Xmas before last - the rooms are a bit dark, but a decent enough place for the money you pay.

Outlet is walkable - if you are into walking.  it would likely be a good 30-45 mins.

Lydiard the other way would be a nicer walk, or you can walk up past Peatmoor to Mouldon Hill, maybe take in the Swindon and Cricklade Railway.

The curry place in Shaw Village was pretty decent, and empty when I went.  10 minute taxi ride to Old Town.  From memory, the Caribbean place in Old Town is quite good, if looking a bit basic.

FYI - we went to the RAJ as you suggested and we were both impressed. Cheers for the heads up, I don't think we would have gone without some positive feedback but glad we did.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, 18:58:27
Anyone been to Plitvice Lakes, Croatia?  :hmmm:

I've got wanderlust/itchy feet (no it's not athlete's foot) and fancying a bit of an explore!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, 19:22:52
Anyone got a reliable contact for an airport collection?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: DMC on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, 20:47:23
My customers use Swindon Airport cars


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Tuesday, January 24, 2023, 21:43:20
My customers use Swindon Airport cars

Thanks for that.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, January 25, 2023, 08:10:42
Anyone been to Plitvice Lakes, Croatia?  :hmmm:

I've got wanderlust/itchy feet (no it's not athlete's foot) and fancying a bit of an explore!

Yeah we went to Croatia, ooh about 6 or 7 years ago now and Plitvice Lakes was one of our stops as we ventured from the north to the south. Stunning place, the water is so crystal clear. Very Picturesque.

We then got a bus south to Split but I cocked up and rather than get the express, got one that stopped in every one horse town you could imagine, and no toilet which wasn't ideal as we'd had a couple of beers prior to getting on said bus.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: 4D on Wednesday, January 25, 2023, 10:14:48
Anyone been to Plitvice Lakes, Croatia?  :hmmm:

I've got wanderlust/itchy feet (no it's not athlete's foot) and fancying a bit of an explore!

The Utroba cave in Bulgaria would suit you Bambi 😉


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Thursday, January 26, 2023, 01:25:14
The Utroba cave in Bulgaria would suit you Bambi 😉

What an absolutely massive cunt*  :D






*I googled the Utroba Cave


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: mystical_goat on Sunday, January 29, 2023, 20:39:19
I'm going on a 7 day Caribbean cruise in a couple of weeks. Never been on a cruise before, any tips?

My Dad got it for me as a (very unusually large) Christmas present. It's an inside cabin, no windows, and they want £700 to upgrade to one with a window. I love a view, and natural light, but I'm thinking I can just find different parts of the ship to hang out in when I'm not sleeping.

It's a P&O cruise on their new ship, Arvia. I've booked a couple of P&O excursions for the stops.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Nomoreheroes on Sunday, January 29, 2023, 21:25:05
I'm going on a 7 day Caribbean cruise in a couple of weeks. Never been on a cruise before, any tips?

My Dad got it for me as a (very unusually large) Christmas present. It's an inside cabin, no windows, and they want £700 to upgrade to one with a window. I love a view, and natural light, but I'm thinking I can just find different parts of the ship to hang out in when I'm not sleeping.

It's a P&O cruise on their new ship, Arvia. I've booked a couple of P&O excursions for the stops.
You will spend little time in the room. Other than sleeping. So no need for windows when your eyes are closed!

Take seasick pills just in case. Pace yourself on the food. Do some exercise in the gym or on the deck.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: 4D on Sunday, January 29, 2023, 21:54:38
I'm going on a 7 day Caribbean cruise in a couple of weeks. Never been on a cruise before, any tips?

My Dad got it for me as a (very unusually large) Christmas present. It's an inside cabin, no windows, and they want £700 to upgrade to one with a window. I love a view, and natural light, but I'm thinking I can just find different parts of the ship to hang out in when I'm not sleeping.

It's a P&O cruise on their new ship, Arvia. I've booked a couple of P&O excursions for the stops.

Let us know what it's like. Tempted to do one.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Sunday, January 29, 2023, 23:08:13
With a name like goat and going on a Caribbean cruise you might end up on the Specials board of an evening ;)

Curry Goat anyone?!

Here's hoping your full name isn't Mystical Saltfish Plantain Goat! Although what a meal that'd be!  :D


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Sunday, January 29, 2023, 23:20:32
Let us know what it's like. Tempted to do one.

Mrs wants to go on a cruise, sadly they are no longer at Greenham Common.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Sunday, January 29, 2023, 23:35:51
Mrs wants to go on a cruise, sadly they are no longer at Greenham Common.

Head eastwards a bit and you'll find some parts of decommissioned ones


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, January 30, 2023, 11:22:39
What are the best websites to search for hiring cottages in the UK? I get a 6% discount with AirBnB so I've started there but if anyone has any other useful tips, that would be appreciated. Looking to head to the Northumberland area around Easter.

Thanks


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: horlock07 on Monday, January 30, 2023, 11:31:06
What are the best websites to search for hiring cottages in the UK? I get a 6% discount with AirBnB so I've started there but if anyone has any other useful tips, that would be appreciated. Looking to head to the Northumberland area around Easter.

Thanks

We go up for a fortnight every year (I suspect in 10 years or so we will be living up there), used Sykes Cottages, Northumberland Coast and Country and various others, all much of a muchness and often find that places are advertised on all of them.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, January 30, 2023, 11:51:50
We go up for a fortnight every year (I suspect in 10 years or so we will be living up there), used Sykes Cottages, Northumberland Coast and Country and various others, all much of a muchness and often find that places are advertised on all of them.

Thanks Horlock, will have a look at those.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: DMC on Monday, January 30, 2023, 12:02:58
Sykes & Hoseasons are a good starting point


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, January 30, 2023, 12:06:29
Sykes & Hoseasons are a good starting point

Thanks Dean, appreciate that.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: mystical_goat on Monday, January 30, 2023, 20:02:59
You will spend little time in the room. Other than sleeping. So no need for windows when your eyes are closed!

Take seasick pills just in case. Pace yourself on the food. Do some exercise in the gym or on the deck.

Great tips, thanks! Will get some sea sickness pills. All inclusive dining and the choice of restaurants does sound brilliant and dangerous. Am planning to do at least 5k on the gym runner every day, and walk around a lot. My excursions are trekking, snorkelling and kayaking so will be active off the ship too.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: DMC on Monday, January 30, 2023, 20:08:35
I feel now is a good time to remind and plug my business

https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/dean.mcmackin/



Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: RobertT on Monday, January 30, 2023, 20:33:59
Great tips, thanks! Will get some sea sickness pills. All inclusive dining and the choice of restaurants does sound brilliant and dangerous. Am planning to do at least 5k on the gym runner every day, and walk around a lot. My excursions are trekking, snorkelling and kayaking so will be active off the ship too.

I'd suggest Antihistamines as well - my wife got no joy from the seasickness stuff but a few of them and she was back with the living.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: kaufman on Monday, January 30, 2023, 20:38:57
We’re thinking of taking the young kids to sicily in May. Has anyone been or have a favourite area that might suit?

Cefalu looks a decent little town and not too far away from Palmero.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: DMC on Monday, January 30, 2023, 20:45:33
We’re thinking of taking the young kids to sicily in May. Has anyone been or have a favourite area that might suit?

Cefalu looks a decent little town and not too far away from Palmero.
Cefalu is a great option only about 40 miles from Palmero, nice sandy beach and has a little train etc


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: mystical_goat on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, 20:34:15
I stayed in Cefalu the last time I went abroad, probably about 5 years ago. Lovely town. Watch out for the cowboys that rent self-drive boats out. Ours caught fire (I was doing a doughnut at the time but not sure that made a difference.)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: kaufman on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, 20:54:16
I stayed in Cefalu the last time I went abroad, probably about 5 years ago. Lovely town. Watch out for the cowboys that rent self-drive boats out. Ours caught fire (I was doing a doughnut at the time but not sure that made a difference.)
I stayed in Cefalu the last time I went abroad, probably about 5 years ago. Lovely town. Watch out for the cowboys that rent self-drive boats out. Ours caught fire (I was doing a doughnut at the time but not sure that made a difference.)

Cheers.
We’ve booked for a week in the old town. This means STFC now have to finish in the top 3 as I’ve booked it when the play off finals are taking place.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, 22:14:04
I know everyone is different but I struggle to find how someone can get seasick on a great honking cruise ship. The round bottomed buoyancy on them is so much that even in/on groundy/rough/lumpy/swell seas like the Bay of Biscay, they hardly move about^

I just feel that if these people get bad on a cruise ship, I would dread to think how bad they might be if they sailed or were on a proper boat.





^As much as I know about boats, cruise ships don't tend to be flat/V bottomed, something that tends to make a boat pitch and roll more. Most cruise ships are usually round bottomed and are incredibly stable. I've also been on about three flat/V bottomed boats and I can vouch for the fact that they definitely move a lot when there is a bit of swell or even not much more than flat calm.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: RobertT on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, 22:20:00
Having just done my first, I can well imagine people getting seasick - waves were probably 20 ft for one day.  It's an odd feeling - fine if you stand facing one way, very disorientating if you stand facing another.  I was fine as it happened, but wife and daughter both rotten for that day.  Think it may actually be worse because it's so big, it happens quite slowly but consistently.  I went into a bar right at the front and did start to feel queasy after about 45 mins, so moved and was fine.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Abrahammer on Tuesday, January 31, 2023, 22:31:01
Try playing pool on a cruise ship, great fun

Went on first cruise last year, was sceptical that I’d really like it but ended up loving it. You have got to get a cabin with a balcony though, lovely spot to watch the sun go down/up over the ocean


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: mystical_goat on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, 07:09:03
Having just done my first, I can well imagine people getting seasick - waves were probably 20 ft for one day.  It's an odd feeling - fine if you stand facing one way, very disorientating if you stand facing another.  I was fine as it happened, but wife and daughter both rotten for that day.  Think it may actually be worse because it's so big, it happens quite slowly but consistently.  I went into a bar right at the front and did start to feel queasy after about 45 mins, so moved and was fine.

Did you/they try and seasick pills? I've seen ginger ones, but thought I'd just have some ginger in my food or tea.

Try playing pool on a cruise ship, great fun

Went on first cruise last year, was sceptical that I’d really like it but ended up loving it. You have got to get a cabin with a balcony though, lovely spot to watch the sun go down/up over the ocean

Haha, will try pool on a wobbly deck! Balcony would be even more than £700 - that was the price for an 'ocean view window' (larger window). Couldn't I just go up on one of the top decks to see the sunset/rise? I guess sunrise is quite early in the Caribeean.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: RobertT on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, 12:16:28
The Ginger pills made them worse, so some allergy tablets worked in the end - they seem to block some messages going to the brain related to allergies that also manage to block the nausea, don't ask me how.

Sunsets and rises can be seen from above deck.  i had an internal room and it was fine.  Only used it for sleeping, but can imagine it would be a problem for anyone who suffers from claustrophobia.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, 15:26:22
Couldn't I just go up on one of the top decks to see the sunset/rise? I guess sunrise is quite early in the Caribbean.

Off the top of my head and with it being fewer degrees North of the equator than the UK, the extremes in Sunrise/Sunset tend to be fairly equal there.

Don't hold a stick of sunblock to my head but anywhere with a latitude around the Caribbean area means Sunrises and Sunsets should be between about;

Sunrise - 6am - 6.30am
Sunset -  5pm - 7.30pm

Whereas the UK, as we know has much bigger differences in Sunset/Sunrise depending on the time of year and of course thanks to our latitude


Title: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Wednesday, February 1, 2023, 16:27:09
my favourite little known fact about sunset: the shortest day isn't the earliest sunset time.

(only by 1 minute or so)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Thursday, February 9, 2023, 19:47:32
Yeah we went to Croatia, ooh about 6 or 7 years ago now and Plitvice Lakes was one of our stops as we ventured from the north to the south. Stunning place, the water is so crystal clear. Very Picturesque.

We then got a bus south to Split but I cocked up and rather than get the express, got one that stopped in every one horse town you could imagine, and no toilet which wasn't ideal as we'd had a couple of beers prior to getting on said bus.

Sorry Gaz, only just seen this!

Nice one. I'm thinking of spending anything from 3 to 5 days in the area camping and having a good old explore. I've noted a quieter campsite a bit further away (if I'm putting in X miles per day, a base 5 miles away in another picturesque location will be no issue). Thanks for confirming they are incredibly picturesque!

Something about getting the more localised bus route does seem to attract a certain charm and probably something I'd enjoy (maybe if stopping in said Towns for the odd night). Although if on it for awhile, a nice heads up that an emergency bucket/lemonade bottle might come in handy! Either that or piss yourself...think I'd either opt for the express or spread the time out.

Thanks for the info though :)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Ardiles on Thursday, February 9, 2023, 20:31:57
my favourite little known fact about sunset: the shortest day isn't the earliest sunset time.

(only by 1 minute or so)

I love stuff like this.  Look up Solar Noon - and how it varies through the year - to find out why.  I think the earliest sunset in this part of the world falls around Dec 12th - so at least a week before the shortest day.  And the latest sunrise is generally around New Year's Eve.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Thursday, February 9, 2023, 21:23:03
I love stuff like this.  Look up Solar Noon - and how it varies through the year - to find out why.  I think the earliest sunset in this part of the world falls around Dec 12th - so at least a week before the shortest day.  And the latest sunrise is generally around New Year's Eve.

Same. I think this is also likely to do with Earth not being a perfect sphere too.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Sunday, February 26, 2023, 12:31:02
Just got back to our friends house after a morning up Table Mountain. Stunning.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Thursday, March 2, 2023, 18:05:26
I have two cartons of Marlborough lites. How much do they go for? Or is anyone interested in them?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Quagmire on Thursday, March 2, 2023, 18:35:34
I have two cartons of Marlborough lites. How much do they go for? Or is anyone interested in them?

Used to be 50p a fag when I was at George Ward School, I’m sure inflation has pushed them up now though.
I expect the kids are vaping now anyway.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Thursday, March 2, 2023, 18:39:21
If they're not vaping they're probably smoking something a little more pungent!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Thursday, March 2, 2023, 19:15:12
If they're not vaping they're probably smoking something a little more pungent!

Legal in SA


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Thursday, March 2, 2023, 19:21:16
Legal in SA
[/quote

Everywhere you go you can smell it so may as well be legal here.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Friday, March 17, 2023, 13:18:04
Not really a holiday per se but today's Irish Bank holiday reminded me we are off to Kilkenny next Thursday for a wedding. Anyone been to this part of Ireland? I'm really looking forward to the pints of creamy Guinness.  :pint: :pint: :pint: :pint: :pint: :pint:


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Peter Venkman on Friday, March 17, 2023, 13:32:27
Not really a holiday per se but today's Irish Bank holiday reminded me we are off to Kilkenny next Thursday for a wedding. Anyone been to this part of Ireland? I'm really looking forward to the pints of creamy Guinness.  :pint: :pint: :pint: :pint: :pint: :pint:
The closest I have been to Kilkenny is.

(https://media2.giphy.com/media/UvQ45y53fxTA3YGo7C/giphy.gif)

Enjoy your pint(s) of Irish crude oil, yummy.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Friday, March 17, 2023, 13:35:29
The closest I have been to Kilkenny is.

(https://media2.giphy.com/media/UvQ45y53fxTA3YGo7C/giphy.gif)

Enjoy your pint(s) of Irish crude oil, yummy.

haha, I was actually thinking of South Park as I was typing Kilenny! :)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, March 27, 2023, 08:52:21
For those looking for a city/town break I'd thoroughly recommend Kilkenny over the pond. Smallish town which has a cathedral and a castle and no fewer than 60 pubs. Also had a cracking dinner at a Thai restaurant called Lemongrass. For those beer drinkers you can do the Smithwicks experience. (we didn't do it sadly)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Friday, April 14, 2023, 10:34:03
Not really a holiday as such but heading up to Manchester tonight for 2 nights. Any recommendations on kid friendly bars or restaurants and any areas to avoid? Last time I went to Manchester was when we played City in the cup at Maine Road in 96 (I think).

We're going to Man City v Leicester tomorrow and they have a legends lounge type thing. Hoping the legend will have a Swindon link, maybe one of the Summerbees, Shay Given or Kevin Horlock? (He'll be working more than likely)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: tans on Friday, April 14, 2023, 10:56:48
Not really a holiday as such but heading up to Manchester tonight for 2 nights. Any recommendations on kid friendly bars or restaurants and any areas to avoid? Last time I went to Manchester was when we played City in the cup at Maine Road in 96 (I think).

We're going to Man City v Leicester tomorrow and they have a legends lounge type thing. Hoping the legend will have a Swindon link, maybe one of the Summerbees, Shay Given or Kevin Horlock? (He'll be working more than likely)

Moss Side and Cheetham Hill are good for a night out.

Seriously though, i think Deansgate is supposed to be ok for food and drink


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Friday, April 14, 2023, 11:23:29
Gay Village area is absolutely great for decent grub and you can maybe grab a cheeky snoop around the MAG - Art Gallery. Some decent and interesting installations in there at present. Would recommend The Molly House which does tapas style dishes and has a great bar. Peru Perdu is another that I think you would enjoy, Mr Orange

Gay Village is handily located as it's wedged right between Piccadilly and Oxford Rd Stations. As Tans mentioned, Deansgate area is decent too and basically the next stop along from Pox Rd.

If you want to keep it purely footy based then head towards Victoria Station where you'll find plenty of eateries but also the National Footy Museum.

All worth a look and if concerned about getting about, there's a free and very regular bus that you can get from Piccadilly to Victoria and back, which is handy when the weather is a smidge damp but forecast in these northern climbs is improving from tomorrow and Manchester is quite enjoyable to walk around as always plenty to do/see.

Been spending a lot of time filming in Manchester recently and I'm sure you'll have a great time. Enjoy  :pint:

Kind regards,

Gareth Bamboo

NB; If you have time spare, the Crystal Maze Experience is a lot of fun, if only for some selfish nostalgia - pack your swimming cap if so  :D


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Processed Beats on Friday, April 14, 2023, 13:14:03
Northern Quarter is best for food and drink.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Friday, April 14, 2023, 13:54:18
Northern Quarter is best for food and drink.

Northern Quarter, Gay Village, Piccadilly Gardens are all pretty much within the same area and overlap one another. Decent grub and drink in most places around there.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Mooneyraker on Friday, April 14, 2023, 14:01:58
Not really a holiday as such but heading up to Manchester tonight for 2 nights. Any recommendations on kid friendly bars or restaurants and any areas to avoid? Last time I went to Manchester was when we played City in the cup at Maine Road in 96 (I think).

We're going to Man City v Leicester tomorrow and they have a legends lounge type thing. Hoping the legend will have a Swindon link, maybe one of the Summerbees, Shay Given or Kevin Horlock? (He'll be working more than likely)

If that is the same hospitality lounge at City that I am thinking of it is spectacular. Been lucky enough to be invited a few times and always see Mike Summerbee. Enjoy!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Friday, April 14, 2023, 14:48:31
Thanks guys for all the feedback, much appreciated.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: horlock07 on Friday, April 14, 2023, 16:13:40
Thanks guys for all the feedback, much appreciated.

Probably not much help as rarely go to that Manchester these days, but looking at the suggestions above I would avoid Piccadilly Gardens like the plague unless its changed radically since I went there to buy lunch every day!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Friday, April 14, 2023, 16:24:03
Probably not much help as rarely go to that Manchester these days, but looking at the suggestions above I would avoid Piccadilly Gardens like the plague unless its changed radically since I went there to buy lunch every day!

Everywhere in Manchester and on a match day is going to be pretty busy.

Piccadilly Gardens is kind of wedged between Northern Qtr and Gay Village as you'll know, so is somewhat seen as purely a go between and a tram stop. However it's decent around the Town Hall if there's a market on which is only a stone's throw from Deansgate, Gay Village and Piccadilly Gardens at what they like to call Spinningfields but it's effectively Deansgate really; I think they've finished the restoration of the hall now as well, cracking building with no doubt many issues but a c325 million restoration spend seems to have rectified that  :eek:


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, April 17, 2023, 09:50:51
If that is the same hospitality lounge at City that I am thinking of it is spectacular. Been lucky enough to be invited a few times and always see Mike Summerbee. Enjoy!

It was the 'legends' area and didn't disappoint. I got it as a gift and dread to think how much it would have cost!! As you would imagine the whole think is slick as fuck and the staff to a man/woman were absolutely top class. Best food I've had in a long time. Sadly didn't see Mike Summerbee, the 'legends' floating about were Joe Corrigan, Paul Lake, Richard Edghill and Ian Brightwell.

I've obviously seen City close up before from the CG but first half against Lesta they were so good. They play so high up the pitch and their possession game is unreal. The ball is moved so fast and they have the quality players that can take the ball in tight positions and never give it away. De Bruyne, Grealish and Haaland were almost unplayable. Watching football as a neutral is never the same as watching Swindon at the CG of course, but it was lovely to see the awe on my nephew's face. Next time I'll try and get him to a Swindon game.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Posh Red on Monday, April 17, 2023, 13:09:24
We’re off to Amsterdam for a few days, ironically I’ve never been so should be an interesting time


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Monday, April 17, 2023, 13:22:21
Vegas was great.

Slept fine the first 3 nights back. Now jetlag kicks in. Weird.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, May 8, 2023, 19:55:46
Has anyone had any experience of compensation for flights delayed over 3 hours?


Title: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Monday, May 8, 2023, 20:02:36
Quote
Has anyone had any experience of compensation for flights delayed over 3 hours?
not a good one. Currently got a complaint in at the IAA disputing an Aer Lingus "exceptional circumstances" excuse. 3 months and counting

what's the question. there is also a good forum on money saving expert

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/categories/flight-delay-compensation


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: SuggWillSugg MBE on Monday, May 8, 2023, 20:04:11
Has anyone had any experience of compensation for flights delayed over 3 hours?

I got £300 from BA a few years back after a 6 hour delay and another £200 about a month ago after they cancelled a flight completely, maybe a sign that I should stop flying with them…

For the recent one there’s just a form to fill out on their website. Took 5 mins, money was in my account within about 3 weeks.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Trashbat? on Monday, May 8, 2023, 20:05:49
Has anyone had any experience of compensation for flights delayed over 3 hours?

Yes, I had two flights last year with Jet2. The first one got rejected as it was covid related, the 2nd one we got about £700 back.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, May 8, 2023, 20:13:39
Thanks all. We had storms over Dublin Airport earlier and jts caused a knock on effect and our flight back to Birmingham (with Ryanair) will be at least 3 hours late. Just wondered if we should bother going down the compo route. We have an 8 euro voucher to spend in one of the many closed shops!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Monday, May 8, 2023, 20:38:24
suspect natural phenomenon is deemed outside the control of the airline, and so will be rejected

it doesn't take long to fill in the form though. At least it makes the Ryanair crooks do some work


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Mooneyraker on Monday, May 8, 2023, 21:14:21
Worth a punt if you can be bothered. I recently got shafted by the computer system failing at Toronto Airport which meant I missed my connection to the UK.

Put in the complaint and got the following:

“In this instance, the compensation you are requesting does not apply because the disruption was caused by an event outside of our control.   

This flight is delayed due to an unforeseen technology issue impacting one of our suppliers, which is impacting our operations. An example of a technology issue could include an internet outage impacting airport terminal computers.

We understand that you may be disappointed and are sorry that we have not been able to get you to your destination at the arrival time originally planned.”

They then went on to offer me a $100CAD voucher as a gesture of goodwill so better than a poke in the eye.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: RobertT on Monday, May 8, 2023, 21:51:39
North American airlines have far less regulation around Compensation vs the EU (assume the UK is still signed up to that after Brexit, but maybe not).


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Monday, May 8, 2023, 22:20:19
I’ve applied for compo after a data breach by EasyJet. One of these group action thingies.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, 07:19:33
Quote from: RobertT
North American airlines have far less regulation around Compensation vs the EU (assume the UK is still signed up to that after Brexit, but maybe not).

the UK has essentially adopted the same laws as EU but given it it's own UK number.

Fell foul of Canadian compensation after they manoeuvred their plane into a ladder and broke it. cancel on safety ground = no compo.

 Didn't cover the whole of the first night of hotel (claim back) but did cover second night (voucher) and food so we were only slightly out of pocket.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: RobertT on Tuesday, May 9, 2023, 12:04:53
Good timing, this conversation:

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-65528789


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: mystical_goat on Thursday, May 11, 2023, 11:49:02
Any tips for a day in Milan please? I'm going there at the end of the month. Been to Rome and Sicily, but not Milan.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: 4D on Thursday, May 11, 2023, 12:00:37
Any tips for a day in Milan please? I'm going there at the end of the month. Been to Rome and Sicily, but not Milan.

Been to Rome and Milan, albeit Milan in 2000.
San Siro, obviously. The metro system is pretty good. Pop to the Duomo Cathedral stop, worth a visit. Plenty of shops and eateries around it too.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: mystical_goat on Thursday, May 11, 2023, 12:03:10
No matches on when I'm there, but is there a stadium tour that's good? It was rocking in their last night - great first half, not so much the 2nd.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: 4D on Thursday, May 11, 2023, 12:07:36
No matches on when I'm there, but is there a stadium tour that's good? It was rocking in their last night - great first half, not so much the 2nd.

No idea. Went to the game below, it cost us 6 quid each....

https://youtu.be/4IVExFRrR4Q


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 09:37:18
has anybody done a last minute 'don't care where' holiday recently? (i.e.) 1-3 days before?

can you still get a bargain this way? If so where, travel agents, online


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: THE FLASH on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 10:03:48
Any tips for a day in Milan please? I'm going there at the end of the month. Been to Rome and Sicily, but not Milan.

If you want to see the Last Supper painting....pre book online.

Unlike me....who rocked up and was shown the door....


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: DMC on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 10:23:00
has anybody done a last minute 'don't care where' holiday recently? (i.e.) 1-3 days before?

can you still get a bargain this way? If so where, travel agents, online
Depends where and budget really


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 10:32:56
Depends where and budget really

I guess where doesn't so much matter, Europe and sunny.
4 of us (3 adults, 1 14yo) were hoping to get a bargain ~2k total.

But the problem is the "job situation" persists, so can't commit to anything just yet.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 10:41:36
I guess where doesn't so much matter, Europe and sunny.
4 of us (3 adults, 1 14yo) were hoping to get a bargain ~2k total.

But the problem is the "job situation" persists, so can't commit to anything just yet.

Feel for you with the job situation as that's lingered for many months.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 11:22:34
I think we are in the end game now...


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Peter Venkman on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 11:24:26
I think we are in the end game now...
You thought that before Christmas, and then again at Easter..... seems to be a pattern forming!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 11:25:05
yeah I know. I know :)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, May 30, 2023, 17:12:11
Lucked out going to the west of Ireland this weekend. 20-24 degrees and didn't see a cloud in the sky the whole weekend. Still shit out going in the sea though, regret that a bit now. Very rare the weather is better over there than at home.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: stfcjack on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 09:51:56
Lucked out going to the west of Ireland this weekend. 20-24 degrees and didn't see a cloud in the sky the whole weekend. Still shit out going in the sea though, regret that a bit now. Very rare the weather is better over there than at home.

Went to County Mayo a couple of months ago. Incredible place! But yes that is unusual, the locals told us there are two types of weather. Raining or about to rain.  :D


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, 10:21:13
Went to County Mayo a couple of months ago. Incredible place! But yes that is unusual, the locals told us there are two types of weather. Raining or about to rain.  :D

Mayo is where we go to, Achill Island - next stop the States!

We did this walk on Monday morning in the baking sunshine. There wasn't a soul about and the views are amazing.

https://achilltourism.com/achill-island-tourism-hillwalking-on-achill-co-mayo-ireland/granuaile-loop-walk/

I'll have to remember that one about the weather for my next visit, when it almost certainly will be one of those 2!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, August 1, 2023, 14:19:41
Has anyone here been to Biarritz before?

We're heading for a week the end of this month and I've just noticed it's a lot closer to Spain than I thought. I was wondering if a day trip to San Sebastian would be recommended? Ideally would like to do some kind of wine tour, but Bordeaux looks a bit far away.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, 00:28:32
Has anyone here been to Biarritz before?

We're heading for a week the end of this month and I've just noticed it's a lot closer to Spain than I thought. I was wondering if a day trip to San Sebastian would be recommended? Ideally would like to do some kind of wine tour, but Bordeaux looks a bit far away.

Not been to Biarritz mate but I've been to San Seb and Bilbao {both pretty close to one another}. Pamplona not far and definitely worth a mooch if you want to look at the history of the ''Bull Run'' too. Oh and whilst your around the lower slopes of the Pyrénées you might as well take in the Cirque Gavarnie hiking trail for a day {might be a smidge far but plenty of trails near Pau}. There you go, San Seb for Beach and cocktails {Take the Funicular up Monte Igueldo overlooking the bay is worth it for the view and also ride some bumper cars whilst you're up there :D}, Lower Pyrénées to get the heart pumping and yet more gorgeous views; soak up some culture and maybe some wine in Pamplona; it's a very old city but incredibly quaint - regardless of opinion on Spain's most famous form of entertainment. Enjoy fella.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, 07:49:06
Not been to Biarritz mate but I've been to San Seb and Bilbao {both pretty close to one another}. Pamplona not far and definitely worth a mooch if you want to look at the history of the ''Bull Run'' too. Oh and whilst your around the lower slopes of the Pyrénées you might as well take in the Cirque Gavarnie hiking trail for a day {might be a smidge far but plenty of trails near Pau}. There you go, San Seb for Beach and cocktails {Take the Funicular up Monte Igueldo overlooking the bay is worth it for the view and also ride some bumper cars whilst you're up there :D}, Lower Pyrénées to get the heart pumping and yet more gorgeous views; soak up some culture and maybe some wine in Pamplona; it's a very old city but incredibly quaint - regardless of opinion on Spain's most famous form of entertainment. Enjoy fella.

Thanks Kev. I'm not sure how much local investigation we'll actually do but I hadn't appreciated how close to Spain we were, and the bus to Sen Seb is only 50 minutes, so figured it might be worth a day trip. Pretty sure a day's hiking isn't going to be on the agenda this time, but cheers for the suggestion :)

Talking of bulls, when we went to Valencia a few years back they had bull fighting on the TV - I think it may have been from the stadium in the city, not sure - it was absolutely brutal to watch. (I turned over pretty quickly)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: RobertT on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, 12:18:47
Isn't San Sebastian some sort of Foodie Heaven?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: mexico red on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, 12:28:01
San Sebastian is definitely worth the trip, also check out real Sociedad's stadium, its proper lush


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, 14:21:30
San Sebastian is definitely worth the trip, also check out real Sociedad's stadium, its proper lush

They are at home to Granada when we are there.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: mexico red on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, 15:05:32
Take your swindon scarf and go in the away end and cheer on the Andalus - Granada play in red and white.

Seriously worth going to it


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Monday, August 7, 2023, 14:19:09
Anyone been to Seville recently? What is there to do for two 19 year old lads and how expensive is it to eat out as they’re Looking at B&B accommodation. TIA.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Monday, August 7, 2023, 18:55:18
Anyone been to Seville recently? What is there to do for two 19 year old lads and how expensive is it to eat out as they’re Looking at B&B accommodation. TIA.

Got a friend who lives out there. It's a relatively 'young' yet cultured place. Plenty of cafe culture, bars and nightlife etc. If they're pretty sensible and somewhat respectable then they'll be fine and probably would enjoy Santa Cruz. If they want to mix with students/young adults then Alameda is likely for them. If they want 'Brits abroad' then they might as well go to Ibiza {the clubbing part} or any cheap resort on the Costa del Sol.

More than anything, it'll be bloody warm. Sevilla is always toasty {well, most of the time}. Like anything, it can be as expensive or budget as you make it - but it's a pretty popular city and the middle of summer, so there will always be some form of premium.

Without knowing what they are like or what they like to do, it'll always be tricky to recommend exactly but hopefully some of the above helps with a bit of research  :pint:


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Saxondale on Monday, August 7, 2023, 19:42:40
Was out there in February.  Loved it.  Im not a 19 year old boy though.  Lots of good tapas at good prices.  Bars are great.  There a strip over one of the bridges in the ceramic quarter which I'm informed is the lively area. Ive not doubt they'll find themselves plenty to do there. 

We had great 'posh' tapas at La Brunilda http://www.labrunildatapas.com/ and fantastic more casual tapas at bar tipico. https://tipico-barra-de-tapas.negocio.site/ Tipico is at the end of the lively street. 

Great place.  Enjoy it.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Monday, August 7, 2023, 20:27:04
Was out there in February.  Loved it.  Im not a 19 year old boy though.  Lots of good tapas at good prices.  Bars are great.  There a strip over one of the bridges in the ceramic quarter which I'm informed is the lively area. Ive not doubt they'll find themselves plenty to do there. 

We had great 'posh' tapas at La Brunilda http://www.labrunildatapas.com/ and fantastic more casual tapas at bar tipico. https://tipico-barra-de-tapas.negocio.site/ Tipico is at the end of the lively street. 

Great place.  Enjoy it.

Cheers Sax, much appreciated.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Monday, August 7, 2023, 20:37:06
Got a friend who lives out there. It's a relatively 'young' yet cultured place. Plenty of cafe culture, bars and nightlife etc. If they're pretty sensible and somewhat respectable then they'll be fine and probably would enjoy Santa Cruz. If they want to mix with students/young adults then Alameda is likely for them. If they want 'Brits abroad' then they might as well go to Ibiza {the clubbing part} or any cheap resort on the Costa del Sol.

More than anything, it'll be bloody warm. Sevilla is always toasty {well, most of the time}. Like anything, it can be as expensive or budget as you make it - but it's a pretty popular city and the middle of summer, so there will always be some form of premium.

Without knowing what they are like or what they like to do, it'll always be tricky to recommend exactly but hopefully some of the above helps with a bit of research  :pint:

They both don’t drink, smoke, do drugs or anything outrageous. They just wanted a bit of sun before they go back to Uni in Sept.

Cheers Bamboo.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Monday, August 7, 2023, 20:48:05
Quote from: Legends-Lounge
They both don’t drink, smoke,

What do they do?
Subtle innuendos follow
There must be something inside…


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Monday, August 7, 2023, 20:48:48
What do they do?
Subtle innuendos follow
There must be something inside…

Good clean living lads with their heads screwed on.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Monday, August 7, 2023, 20:49:58
The temptation to quote Adam and the Ants was too hard to resist ;)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: ChalkyWhiteIsGod on Monday, August 7, 2023, 20:59:15
The temptation to quote Adam and the Ants was too hard to resist ;)
Don't you ever!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Monday, August 7, 2023, 21:08:51
The temptation to quote Adam and the Ants was too hard to resist ;)

Back in the day I thought Adam Ant was a cunt. Today, it’s not changed.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Monday, August 7, 2023, 21:12:17
They both don’t drink, smoke, do drugs or anything outrageous. They just wanted a bit of sun before they go back to Uni in Sept.

Cheers Bamboo.

No probs. Well it'll definitely be warm. Plus, Cadiz is quite nice and a day trip to Tangiers {MOR} is worth it if they fancy a bit of exploring {and more culture - esp. Morocco}


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Monday, August 7, 2023, 21:21:03
No probs. Well it'll definitely be warm. Plus, Cadiz is quite nice and a day trip to Tangiers {MOR} is worth it if they fancy a bit of exploring {and more culture - esp. Morocco}

OMG, I think staying in Sevilla will be enough. I did Algeciras to Ceuta back in the 80’s. And Agadir last November/December for a mini break, yes plenty to see and do there for sure.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: BambooToTheFuture on Monday, August 7, 2023, 21:27:31
OMG, I think staying in Sevilla will be enough. I did Algeciras to Ceuta back in the 80’s. And Agadir last November/December for a mini break, yes plenty to see and do there for sure.

Maybe something they can do another time. Bit of a nomad me. Even when I visit a place, I still like to get about.

Anyway, hopefully they will enjoy  :)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Abrahammer on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, 10:27:57
Just back from 10 days in Sa Coma, Majorca.

We have now discovered that a swim up pool room in an Adults only resort is the way forward and will never get any other kind of room for a holiday in the sun, never had such a peaceful relaxing holiday in my life


Title: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, 10:51:33
I went to SA coma about 35 years ago! Good holiday, met someone else from Cirencester in the same apartment complex. Small world.

 Definitely did the holiday you'd hate mind, I was a teenager on a family holiday.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Berniman on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, 11:43:47
The temptation to quote Adam and the Ants was too hard to resist ;)

Straight where my head went as well :D


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: mexico red on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, 12:46:00
Anyone been to Seville recently? What is there to do for two 19 year old lads and how expensive is it to eat out as they’re Looking at B&B accommodation. TIA.

The oven of Spain as it's known, I believe it will hit 45 on Thursday in Sevilla, tell them to check out a little town just outside called santiponce, has the second biggest Roman amphitheatre after Rome, also was where game of thrones was filmed if they like their dragons


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: UTR on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, 12:54:55
The oven of Spain as it's known, I believe it will hit 45 on Thursday in Sevilla, tell them to check out a little town just outside called santiponce, has the second biggest Roman amphitheatre after Rome, also was where game of thrones was filmed if they like their dragons

Lovely place, I went last September. Hotel with some sort of pool was a good idea as well, can’t imagine doing that heat without it


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Wobbly Bob on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, 12:58:55
Sevilla is a lovely city. Been a couple of times.
Very hot, but it's a dry heat so still ok for walking around etc.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Posh Red on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, 13:17:25
Off to Lisbon in a few weeks, anyone been and gave any recommendations?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, 13:26:12
Off to Lisbon in a few weeks, anyone been and gave any recommendations?

We've done a weekend in Lisbon. I can't remember specifics, but the Port tasting in the Time out market is recommended. It's a great city to wander around in. Get the Santa Justa lift and potter around, before wandering back down the old cobbled streets

https://www.lisbon.net/santa-justa-lift#:~:text=The%20Santa%20Justa%20Lift%20as%20a%20tourist%20attraction&text=Since%20it%20was%20opened%20to,only%20take%2015%20people%20down.

It goes without saying the food and drink/wine will be excellent and as it's Portugal, very good value. Don't forget a trip on the Tram!

Enjoy.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: UTR on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, 13:40:51
Off to Lisbon in a few weeks, anyone been and gave any recommendations?

Went there a couple weeks ago coincidentally. Beer and sangria very cheap, cocktails a bit more on the spenny side. Most of it is walkable, if you have the time then definitely do a day trip over to Sintra, we did a guided one which handled the transport between each area to save having to sort that yourself (it’s walkable if you don’t mind some hiking) or you can get a train over.

Ubers were very cheap.

If you do the stadium tours then keep in mind they’re guided so only go at certain times.

Great place though, do a couple rooftop bars/restaurants around sunset time as well. The Sky Bar by Seen was good.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: tans on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, 18:13:59
Anyone been to Cebu in the Phillipines?

Brother is getting married there next year.

Whats the climate like, cheap to eat and drink?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, 08:28:14
Not been to Biarritz mate but I've been to San Seb and Bilbao {both pretty close to one another}. Pamplona not far and definitely worth a mooch if you want to look at the history of the ''Bull Run'' too. Oh and whilst your around the lower slopes of the Pyrénées you might as well take in the Cirque Gavarnie hiking trail for a day {might be a smidge far but plenty of trails near Pau}. There you go, San Seb for Beach and cocktails {Take the Funicular up Monte Igueldo overlooking the bay is worth it for the view and also ride some bumper cars whilst you're up there :D}, Lower Pyrénées to get the heart pumping and yet more gorgeous views; soak up some culture and maybe some wine in Pamplona; it's a very old city but incredibly quaint - regardless of opinion on Spain's most famous form of entertainment. Enjoy fella.

Not long back from Biarritz including a day trip to San Sebastien.  Have you say your tip about getting the Funiculur up to Monte Igueldo was top notch. Breathtaking views up there. We didn't go on the bumper cars but did do the little boat thing that goes a tiny bit along the side. Very quaint.

We lucked out timing wise, we picked the 31st August for the day trip which just happened to be the anniversary of the siege of San Sebastian when the English and Portuguese troops 'liberated' the city from the French. For some reason after beating the French they burnt a lot of the city down, not totally sure why, apparently a mixture of drunkenness and anger from losing so many of their own troops. Anyway, on the 31st August every year the city is awash with Basque culture, traditional sport is played, boat races and a re-enactment of that battle on 31st August 1813 - the seige of San Sebastien. At 21.30 all the city lights are turned off and people light candles in a silent reflection of that grim day when fire ravaged the city. We managed to find a superb table at a popular bar where we could watch everything. Absolutely superb.

What I didn't expect was to find the weather quite as hot in England as it was over there! A bonus however!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Grim Reaper on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, 10:06:51
Off to Tenerife on Saturday for 2 weeks, my 14th consecutive annual trip to the sun blessed island. No I don’t like change!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: RobertT on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, 11:42:46
Anyone been to Cebu in the Phillipines?

Brother is getting married there next year.

Whats the climate like, cheap to eat and drink?

Humid and hot.  If you go the right places it can be very cheap - I used to have to approve expenses for people who traveled there and it was silly.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Posh Red on Sunday, September 10, 2023, 16:16:43
First night in Lisbon and the Sangria & Tapas have already been sampled (and very nice they are too), however we’ve left a heatwave & arrived to drizzle.

The saving grace is I’ve had a message from Son who has said they’ve got torrential rain & near hurricane force winds at home


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Sunday, September 10, 2023, 16:24:15
there was a massive band of heavy rain that only grazed Swindon. it's sunny and 25.

just getting that in before the reset next week where we switch from moaning about the heat to moaning about the rain/getting colder/dark early


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Posh Red on Friday, September 22, 2023, 08:04:21
Lisbon was really good, would definitely recommend, probably not good if you have little ones in tow as it’s very hilly.

Americans always get a bad rap being tourists (usually deserved to be fair) but their twatishness pales when compared to fucking cockneys.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Friday, September 22, 2023, 08:13:26
Lisbon was really good, would definitely recommend, probably not good if you have little ones in tow as it’s very hilly.

Americans always get a bad rap being tourists (usually deserved to be fair) but their twatishness pales when compared to fucking cockneys.

If you enjoyed Lisbon, you should also give Porto a try. We've done both and thought Porto edged it. I think for quality of food, wine, value for money, weather etc it's tough to beat Portugal for a European break in my opinion. The Douro valley was simply stunning too.

Glad you had a good time PR.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: UTR on Friday, September 22, 2023, 08:17:46
If you enjoyed Lisbon, you should also give Porto a try. We've done both and thought Porto edged it. I think for quality of food, wine, value for money, weather etc it's tough to beat Portugal for a European break in my opinion. The Douro valley was simply stunning too.

Glad you had a good time PR.

Definitely need to do more of Portugal. We’ve done mostly Spain (Seville and Barca are top 2 all timers for me) and Lisbon this year was our first time in Portugal. Haven’t done any of Italy yet either.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Friday, September 22, 2023, 08:31:46
Definitely need to do more of Portugal. We’ve done mostly Spain (Seville and Barca are top 2 all timers for me) and Lisbon this year was our first time in Portugal. Haven’t done any of Italy yet either.

Can't really go wrong with Spain either to be fair, i've done Valencia, Barcelona, Madrid and San Sebastian in mainland Spain and would recommend each of them. I love the 'Tapas' food sharing culture, and the weather is usually great.

I've not done a lot of Italy either, only a wedding in the Amalfi region, which was stunning but sat in a suit in 35 degree sun with no shade followed by a walk up a load of steps to the reception was a memory that lives long. Cracking food and scenery though. Went to Milan as a kid but remember nothing about it.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Friday, September 22, 2023, 08:34:03
Back to Greece next Wednesday for 3 weeks. Miss a few games but nice mid to high 20s and less tourists. Cadged a free Villa and car!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Sunday, September 24, 2023, 08:33:36
Happiest travel destinations in the world:

1. 🇵🇹 Lisbon
2.🇪🇸 Barcelona
3. 🇬🇷 Athens
4. 🇮🇹 Rome
5. 🇦🇺 Sydney
6. 🇪🇸 Madrid
7.🇨🇦 Toronto
8. 🇨🇷 San Jose
9. 🇹🇷 Istanbul
10. 🇹🇭 Bangkok
11. 🇮🇳 Kanpur
12.🇺🇸 Las Vegas
13. 🇬🇧 Brighton
14. 🇯🇵 Tokyo
15. 🇦🇹 Vienna
16. 🇫🇷 Paris
17. 🇸🇪 Stockholm
18. 🇩🇪 Frankfurt
19. 🇬🇧 Cardiff
20. 🇫🇮 Helsinki
21. 🇮🇪 Dublin
22. 🇺🇸 Memphis
23. 🇧🇪 Brussels
24.🇳🇱 Amsterdam
25. 🇬🇧 Oxford
29. 🇳🇴 Oslo
33. 🇬🇧 London
35. 🇰🇷 Seoul
36.🇺🇸 San Francisco
40.🇺🇸 New York

*life expectancy, sunshine (hours), weekly working hours, friendliest people, cost of living.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Wobbly Bob on Sunday, September 24, 2023, 08:49:36
Happiest travel destinations in the world:

Morecambe
1. 🇵🇹 Lisbon
2.🇪🇸 Barcelona
3. 🇬🇷 Athens
4. 🇮🇹 Rome
5. 🇦🇺 Sydney
6. 🇪🇸 Madrid
7.🇨🇦 Toronto
8. 🇨🇷 San Jose
9. 🇹🇷 Istanbul
10. 🇹🇭 Bangkok
11. 🇮🇳 Kanpur
12.🇺🇸 Las Vegas
13. 🇬🇧 Brighton
14. 🇯🇵 Tokyo
15. 🇦🇹 Vienna
16. 🇫🇷 Paris
17. 🇸🇪 Stockholm
18. 🇩🇪 Frankfurt
19. 🇬🇧 Cardiff
20. 🇫🇮 Helsinki
21. 🇮🇪 Dublin
22. 🇺🇸 Memphis
23. 🇧🇪 Brussels
24.🇳🇱 Amsterdam
25. 🇬🇧 Oxford
29. 🇳🇴 Oslo
33. 🇬🇧 London
35. 🇰🇷 Seoul
36.🇺🇸 San Francisco
40.🇺🇸 New York

*life expectancy, sunshine (hours), weekly working hours, friendliest people, cost of living.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Thursday, November 30, 2023, 10:06:02
Getting away from this current spell of freezing weather by flying off to............The Republic of Ireland.   :hmmm:

It should be good though, a surprise 50th birthday party for distant in-laws from Dublin. Hired a large house in County Limerick - called Foynes. I actually assumed there was bugger all there but having just looked, it's the second largest seaport in Ireland and was the birthplace of the Irish Coffee. (one of my favourite tipples) There is also a 'World Class' flying boat museum and 2 pubs so perhaps there is more to do there than I had originally anticipated.  :pint: :pint: :pint: :pint: :pint: :pint:

No Town game to have to worry about either.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Thursday, November 30, 2023, 10:19:21
I’m off to Athens in a couple of weeks. Hopefully the weather picks up.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: mystical_goat on Friday, December 1, 2023, 17:09:25
I went to Porto with a couple of mates for the weekend two weeks ago. Apparently Lisbon is a lot more smart and clean but we had a great time in Porto - everything was cheap, good food, great tour of the Taylor's distillery. I like cities that are a bit grubby and have an edge to them.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, December 11, 2023, 10:09:04
I went to Porto with a couple of mates for the weekend two weeks ago. Apparently Lisbon is a lot more smart and clean but we had a great time in Porto - everything was cheap, good food, great tour of the Taylor's distillery. I like cities that are a bit grubby and have an edge to them.

We loved Porto - preferred it to Lisbon, but both were tremendous cities.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Monday, December 11, 2023, 10:10:48
Went to Norwich at the weekend to see some friends who have moved from London out East.

Have to say I was really impressed with it as a place to visit. Some real old fashioned pubs, friendly City centre with a stunning cathedral and loads of other quaint churches and old cobbled areas. Would recommend for a city break, although it's a real pain in the ass to get to.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: tans on Monday, December 11, 2023, 18:44:51
Went to Norwich at the weekend to see some friends who have moved from London out East.

Have to say I was really impressed with it as a place to visit. Some real old fashioned pubs, friendly City centre with a stunning cathedral and loads of other quaint churches and old cobbled areas. Would recommend for a city break, although it's a real pain in the ass to get to.

My friend has recently moved from Hitchin to Norwich recently, and he loves it there


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Monday, December 11, 2023, 19:01:49
I’m off to Athens Wednesday. Megadeth are performing Friday evening. Worth going?

Hold that. Got me dates wrong.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Mooneyraker on Monday, December 11, 2023, 19:10:14
I’m off to Athens Wednesday. Megadeth are performing Friday evening. Worth going?

It’s just Dave now…
I’d say they are good for a 50 mins afternoon festival slot or support set but thats about it these days, unless Marty is making an appearance!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: UTR on Monday, December 11, 2023, 19:20:05
Thinking of doing Italy next year, the missus is keen on Rome as am I but the prices look astronomical for the value, is it worth the cost or better off checking somewhere else out in Italy?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Monday, December 11, 2023, 21:55:27
Thinking of doing Italy next year, the missus is keen on Rome as am I but the prices look astronomical for the value, is it worth the cost or better off checking somewhere else out in Italy?

Rome is lovely, really lovely. Just depends on how deep your pockets are. Prepare to mortgage your house and kids.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bennett on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, 10:35:31
Yeah Rome is expensive  - Be prepared to either pay for a central place or travel in for an hour from the 'burbs which aren't particularly cheap either!
This year we flew into Rome for 3 nights, then got the train to Florence for 3 nights and flew back from Florence.
I think seeing Rome is worth it, there's plenty to go and see, but you need to book tickets or tours way in advance.
Florence has a completely different feel and loads of history to enjoy.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Batch on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, 11:54:55
but you need to book tickets or tours way in advance.

Seconded, especially cheapest official ticket. e.g. coliseum was months in advance...

When we were there it was easy enough to get a company (e.g. "getyourguide") version of the tour. It was a bit pricey doing it that way. No idea if this is still the case.


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Post by: 4D on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, 12:06:45
We stayed on a camp style site with lodges, pools, a decent bar etc, about 8 miles out of the city. Train ride into the city was easy enough. I got into an argument with a guy trying to sell bottled water, that he'd filled up from one of the many drinks fountains  :)

Edit. Place we stayed was Camping Village Roma Capitol. We were not to far from the beach at Ostia too. Reckon you could get 7 nights in the summer for around £350.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends Lounge Lovechild on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, 15:29:50
bari people
genoa history an food
palemo arcitecture an markets
and
siena food an medieval
all are queiter than rome and have better to offer there i said it


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bennett on Tuesday, December 12, 2023, 19:22:21
I second Siena. Absolutely amazing place to just wander around and take in


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Sippo on Thursday, December 14, 2023, 10:03:33
We did Bologna last year. Loved it. Stayed here. https://www.l8boutique.it/en/index.html

Easy access via a dedicated train from the airport. Easy train ride away for a day out in Florence. Bologna is not very touristy but I prefer that type of thing. Not cheap though, like anywhere in Europe the euro is shocking against the pound.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Thursday, December 14, 2023, 13:36:36
Very pleasant 20C in Athens. The place is still rammed. Had a few of these last night. Cue schoolboy sniggering



Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: 4D on Thursday, December 14, 2023, 13:49:01
Bet that hit the spot  :)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Thursday, December 14, 2023, 13:51:59
It had a strange, yet not unfamiliar taste!


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: THE FLASH on Thursday, December 14, 2023, 16:41:22
Off to Rome in March.

Would love some Hotel recommendations please!

Fairly central.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: 4D on Thursday, December 14, 2023, 19:53:17
Off to Rome in March.

Would love some Hotel recommendations please!

Fairly central.

That's where the beer funds gone  ::)

We stayed about 8 miles out at a camping chalet place, pool and bar, restaurant. Quick train ride into Rome. Only a mile from the beach too.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: 4D on Friday, December 29, 2023, 13:20:53
Trying to decide on a UK summer break, considering a centreparcs, possibly Sherwood. Anyone done one? How much are the activities? Is there an alternative that's similar? Ta


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Friday, December 29, 2023, 13:23:47
Tim?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Friday, December 29, 2023, 13:40:37
Trying to decide on a UK summer break, considering a centreparcs, possibly Sherwood. Anyone done one? How much are the activities? Is there an alternative that's similar? Ta

Win the lottery did you?


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Posh Red on Friday, December 29, 2023, 13:41:12
Trying to decide on a UK summer break, considering a centreparcs, possibly Sherwood. Anyone done one? How much are the activities? Is there an alternative that's similar? Ta

We’re going there in April, can’t book the activities yet so can’t talk about the costs but appears to be plenty to do.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Sippo on Monday, January 29, 2024, 09:40:50
I did something totally out of my comfort zone.

Booked a two night break to Albania. First time solo travel. Fuck. Flights and accommodation under £80.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Sunday, February 4, 2024, 08:58:00
Going for a city break in Cardiff in a couple of weeks meeting up with some family who are going to egg chasing.

Any recommendations for the best area to get a bite to eat and a few beers? Ideally with a little bit of touristy stuff thrown in, but not too much as we're only there 24 hours.

Thanks.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Sunday, February 4, 2024, 09:20:44
Trying to decide on a UK summer break, considering a centreparcs, possibly Sherwood. Anyone done one? How much are the activities? Is there an alternative that's similar? Ta
Got the grandson coming over from Greece this month and I’ve booked 4 nights at Centre Parcs at Longleat. Prebooked a couple of activities - all the add ons are quite pricey.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Bob's Orange on Sunday, February 4, 2024, 09:47:13
John Barnes was at Centre parcs when I went as a kid. He ran past me one day and also his locker was next to mine at the pool. That's kind of my shit claim to fame.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Jimmy HaveHave on Sunday, February 4, 2024, 09:52:26
My parents used to live next door to Martin Ling……nice guy.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: flammableBen on Sunday, February 4, 2024, 09:56:53
Keith Scott did a shit on my friends hamster. (allegedly)


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Sunday, February 4, 2024, 10:09:16
I sat next to Arthur Mullard on the tube once


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Sunday, February 4, 2024, 10:10:47
Got the grandson coming over from Greece this month and I’ve booked 4 nights at Centre Parcs at Longleat. Prebooked a couple of activities - all the add ons are quite pricey.

It’s a standing joke. If you want to know when the kids are on holiday check the centre parcs price list. We were lucky in that the wife of our friends worked in house keeping at longleat and we free loaded on the back of her discounts for day passes and and a long weekend at Elveden Forest with them. Very pricy. You must be a rich a Tory bastard then 🤣


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Sunday, February 4, 2024, 10:12:42
Just the bastard bit.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Broadbents Tackle on Sunday, February 4, 2024, 10:22:10
I did something totally out of my comfort zone.

Booked a two night break to Albania. First time solo travel. Fuck. Flights and accommodation under £80.

That's the way to do it! Let us know what it's like, I can't do stuff like that any more but I still like to know. I'd guess Tirana is a bit of a weird shit hole, with horrible communist architecture apart from in the old part of town. The people you meet will make the trip anyway. While that can seem a bit daunting, going on your own really helps in that respect. Have fun.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Sunday, February 4, 2024, 11:25:51
Just the bastard bit.

Welcome to my world. Have a great time.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Friday, March 1, 2024, 21:30:12
Cruises. We are virgins in that respect and TBH, i‘ve conceded to the current Mrs. LL as we’re going back to SA early next year again, probably for the last time.

Back to cruises. Although as mentioned I’ve agreed, there are conditions. Not Mediterranean, likely Caribbean, maybe further afield. I just don’t want to be on a floating cesspit with five thousand Wayne and Waynetta’s and their chavvy little shits.

No apologies my money, I spend it where I want.

Likely to be 18 months away I accept that but planning is everything when you’re spending circa £6k

Suggestions would be helpful.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: The Artist Formerly Known as Audrey on Friday, March 1, 2024, 21:35:10
I did the Caribbean donkeys years ago - 1 week Barbados, 1 week cruising. Wish I spent the 2 weeks in Barbados. I detested the cruise bit- getting dressed for dinner and all that shite. It’s all probably less formal now but it’s not for me.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Legends-Lounge on Friday, March 1, 2024, 21:43:10
I did the Caribbean donkeys years ago - 1 week Barbados, 1 week cruising. Wish I spent the 2 weeks in Barbados. I detested the cruise bit- getting dressed for dinner and all that shite. It’s all probably less formal now but it’s not for me.

Barbados is fucking lush, 100% agree. One of the more expensive islands nowadays. As for dress code, yes, things are apparently a lot different, though I suspect you can get from relaxed and informal to formal if you want.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: mystical_goat on Saturday, March 2, 2024, 11:46:20
I did a 1-week Caribbean cruise with P&O in February 2023 and only the first night had a dress code of tuxedos/suits. Barbados was probably the best stop. It was my first cruise and I wouldn't do one again; I'm 38 and 95% of the other guests were over 60). It was a 3* room in a floating 5* hotel. I did enjoy the variety of restaurants onboard, and exploring (briefly) all the islands we stopped at. I booked excursions via P&O for almost every stop and they were really good - kayaking mangroves, climbing a mountain, snorkelling with turtles.


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: TailBetweenLegs on Saturday, March 2, 2024, 11:58:55
Cruises. We are virgins in that respect and TBH, i‘ve conceded to the current Mrs. LL as we’re going back to SA early next year again, probably for the last time.

Back to cruises. Although as mentioned I’ve agreed, there are conditions. Not Mediterranean, likely Caribbean, maybe further afield. I just don’t want to be on a floating cesspit with five thousand Wayne and Waynetta’s and their chavvy little shits.

No apologies my money, I spend it where I want.

Likely to be 18 months away I accept that but planning is everything when you’re spending circa £6k

Suggestions would be helpful.
You may struggle on the smaller ships but think you would likely be able to get a Celebrity cruise depending on the time of travel. If it's something you are keen on i would always look to get it booked early, of course prices sometimes go down but you find that is usually on the larger ships where as the smaller ones fill up


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Steak supper on Saturday, March 2, 2024, 12:08:55
 I go on a cruise every year or so.  A suite is a must .


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: TailBetweenLegs on Saturday, March 2, 2024, 12:35:03
I go on a cruise every year or so.  A suite is a must .
Agree with this it makes a huge difference. Who do you cruise with usually


Title: Re: The Holidays are Coming - Sponsored by 4D
Post by: Steak supper on Saturday, March 2, 2024, 13:51:48
Agree with this it makes a huge difference. Who do you cruise with usually

Usually P& O and Royal Carribbean