ScotlandEdinburghEdinburgh Waverley Railway Station55°57’12” N 3°11’18” W November 23, 2015 in Scotland ⋅ ⛅ 6 °C
This year I've been lucky to see some amazing plays. I worked with a couple of girls at work who loved theatre as much as I did and we would often book plays together or update each other on what we had seen or were planning on seeing.
The Ruling Class
12 February
Trafalgar Studios
James McAvoy
Loved it! So good
Marian
http://www.timeout.com/london/theatre/the-rulin…
Kill Me Now
20 February
Park Theatre
The story was quite intense for a Friday night theatre session, but good to see. This theatre was in my very first neighbourhood
https://www.parktheatre.co.uk/whats-on/kill-me-now
A View from the Bridge
2 March
Wyndham's Theatre - sat on the stage!
Mark Strong
Loved it. Weird story though. Final scene was epic
http://www.youngvic.org/whats-on/a-view-from-th…
Jersey Boys
25 March
Piccadilly Theatre
Saw this with Britt in conjunction with a TimeOut offer. Probably the worst I saw. The theatre was run down with holes in the chairs. We were in the nose bleed section which sucked, there was a drunk couple in front of us that sucked on a bottle of wine the whole time. The story was quite good, but the whole experience was not pleasant. My only mainstream one this year (for me), definitely sticking to the off beat plays.
Clarence Darrow
29 March
Old Vic Theatre
Kevin Spacey
This was amazing! First up I only paid 12 pounds for a seat in the front row, at one point I was 30 cm away from the actor. Secondly it was the Old Vic and thirdly it was Kevin Spacey in his one man show and final performance as artist director of the Old Vic. A great play!
http://www.oldvictheatre.com/whats-on/2015/clar…
American Buffalo
16 April
Wyndham's Theatre - nose bleed section, it was terrible!
Damien Lewis John goodman
Not a fan. Probably a combination of crappy seats, but it just didn't spark my excitement. The stage was beautiful though.
http://www.theguardian.com/stage/2015/apr/27/am…
Everyman
25 April
Olivier Theatre, National Theatre
Chiwetel Ejiofor
Written by the national poet. It was all writtne in poetry. Really well constructed, great dance sequences but I left feeling gloomy about the world at the end
http://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/shows/everyman
Man and Superman
2 May
National theatre
Ralph Finenes
Amazing! It was the longest play I saw, 3.5 hours.
http://www.nationaltheatre.org.uk/shows/man-and…
Impromptu Pay
The Winters Tale
21 October
Garrick theatre
Dame Judi Dench, Kenneth Brahman
My final play and I got to the great Judi Dench & Wallander! It wasn't the best I've seen, a big too long and not enough Dench, but still what a way to end it all
http://www.branaghtheatre.com/the-winters-tale/
Hamlet
23 November
Edinburgh Festival Hall - NT live screening
Benedict Cumberbatch
Really good. I'm sure it would've been great live. As the American woman beside me said what a great first Hamlet to see. It will always be your bench mark now. What a wonderful way to think that these plays and experiences won't end just there and then, but live on forever, influencing my cultural experiences.
http://ntlive.nationaltheatre.org.uk/production…Read more
ScotlandEdinburghEdinburgh Waverley Railway Station55°57’12” N 3°11’18” W November 23, 2015 in Scotland ⋅ ⛅ 6 °C
After an epic week travelling the highlands I am back in Edinburgh, feeling a bit sad to be on my own again, but looking forward to a weekend here.
On Saturday morning I met up ____ and we head up to see a few iconic Edinburgh things before she flew back to London. We began by climbing up to the Edinburgh Castle and taking in the view, from the outside of course. It was a beautiful blue-sky day and freezing cold with the wind whipping all around us.
From here we headed to the farmers mark Rich told us about, where I bought some short bread and tablet and debated on buying all of the yummy foods, many of which were proudly vegan. Our final stop of our quick tour of Edinburgh was visiting the famous cemetery where Thomas riddle aka Lord Voldermort resides, and of course the inspiration for Professor Mcgonagall's name.
We said our goodbyes and Shaunna headed for the airport, while I headed to the meeting spot of the local Sandeman’s walking tour, a solid 2.5 hours in the cold! Things we saw: Edinburgh Castle, St Giles’ Cathedral, The Royal Mile, New & Old Towns, Mercat Cross, Greyfrairs Kirkyard (cemetery), Scott Monument, Princes Street Gardens, Grassmarket, Site of witch burnings, the original Hogwarts, William Wallace and the Stone of Destiny, National Museum, the mound, Tron Kirk, The real Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde and the Scottish Enlightenment.
Walking around you can truly see how much inspiration J.K Rowling got from living here. It’s awesome.
In the afternoon I took some time out in my hostel and watched the semi finals of the ATP World Tour in London, BBC iPlayer I will miss you very much. As night fell, at 4pm, I went out for a walk about town and see if I could purchase tickets for the Hamlet screening on Monday. I walked up to Festival Hall and saw this recommended Indian restaurant. It was buffet style, cheap and delicious. In the end I spent the evening sitting by the fire in my hostel drinking wine.
Sunday was a slow start but I began by walking up and down Victoria Street, it was the inspiration for Diagon Alley. It has some fantastic little boutique shops, including a beautiful cheese monger, leather goods, several whiskey outlets. Rich recommended Oink hog roast sandwiches for lunch. It’s takeaway only and a massive turning pig sits in the front window, the line was out the door every day.
I settled on a lovely looking French restaurant with a good lunch menu instead. After lunch I made my way to the west end in search of a gin bar I had discovered, it didn’t open until 5pm, but I was satisfied that I’d found it, as this was the second time over the weekend I’d been in search.
I then took a walk along varies different roads taking me down petit side streets, past huge houses and into main thoroughfares and Christmas parties. As the sun started to set the sky light up so I raced back towards the Royal Mile and up to the castle to take pictures of it setting over the town. It was truly beautiful, great pinks and oranges and yellows all mixing as the inky blue sky descended upon the town.
On Monday it was raining so I visited the Writer’s museum learning about three famous authors including the guy who wrote Dr Jekell and Mr Hyde and Treasure Island. It was very interesting. But these days when I look back at history and these places I wonder what would’ve been of the women authors had they been given a place in history.
When I finished here I walked into new town to find a shop called Social Bite, it was a bit like a Pret but 1 in 4 of the staff members there used to be homeless, 100% of the profits (it says) are donated to charities to help homeless people and the menu was created by a Michelin starred chef. The shelves were almost empty, clearly its popular and one needs to visit much earlier then 12:30.
As my much desired pie was not available I left promising to return tomorrow before I left. Instead I looked up famous pie shops in Edinburgh and headed towards one recommended on TripAdvisor. It looked fairly dodgy, but as there were lots of people in the shop I ventured in and thoroughly enjoyed myself a local Scottish pie.
To end my day I visited the National Gallery and joined their daily 3pm tour, which looks at a different section of the museum every day. It was great and I’d definitely recommend it for you if want a different take on history.
This evening I am going to see the NT live screening of Benedict Cumberbatch’s Hamlet. I um’ed and ah’ed about seeing this for a while now, but decided as I had the time in Edinburgh and I’d missed out on the Edinburgh Festivals and there didn’t seem to be anything else on stage wise to see that this was my moment. And it was cheaper here then in London haha.
It was really good and well worth it. I’m sure seeing it live and the beautiful stage would’ve been great! I had a chat with a wonderful lady who spoke about all the Hamlets she had seen. It made me excited to see more Hamlets and to be able to start comparing performances and different directors interpretations of the play.
On Tuesday morning I packed up and headed straight to the Social Bite café to get my pie, peas and mash. It was good to give back to the community. I’d be interested to know how their finances work behind the scenes, but alas a thought for another day. My next destination was calling and a flight to catch. Goodbye Scotland, Hello Norway!
Edinburgh Walking Tour
http://www.newedinburghtours.com/daily-tours/ne…
Social Bite
http://social-bite.co.uk/
Where I stayed
Castle Rock Hostel - 15 Johnston Terrace, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
This place feels like your classic backpackers, where the staff lives there and it just feels a bit like someone's home. The place is massive! It's well located and has everything on hand to hire or borrow. They have things happening every night, so book in early and enjoy! PS. This is part of the MacBackpackers group, they have hotels all around Scotland where you stay if you're on the tour, or you can stop in stay any other time. Bed - comfortable, beside lamp, rooms are massive Lockers - little ones that come with keys to use Bathroom - unisex bathrooms and showers, plenty about to use Breakfast - 3-4 pounds I think, there was cereal, toast, fruit, juices, I had my own so can't comment Kitchen - really well equipped, huge!! There are technically 2 kitchens side by side, loads of fridges, boxes to keep food in if you're staying for a while, big tables to sit at and loads of cooking equipment Lounge - This was probably the best part of the hostel, there are 5 lounge areas divided as follows: the movie room (they play movies back to back from 6pm, there are big lounge chairs in here), the main area (this is a double storey section with a mini kitchen hot drinks and a sink, a big table to sit at, a pool table, a lounge area, lots of seats up stairs too, and lots of flyers on this to do. I'd see it a bit like a common room at uni), the posh room (has a piano and real fire in it, it's quieter then outside), techno room (had 2 computers in there to use, plus epic chairs), finally the chill out room ( you couldn't take tech gadgets or shoes in here haha, but there were musical instruments) Computer - yes 2 plus printing Reception - 24 hours, had everything you could need to hire, plus you could leave any tech gadgets with them and they'd charge them up Heaters - worked well Wifi - pretty god Staff - really friendly Location - right in the centre of old town, looks up at the Edinburgh Castle, its perfect! Alcohol - you can bring on site Washing - it's a couple of pounds and you get it back dry & folded the next day Tea / Coffee / hot chocolate - free, available all the timeRead more
ScotlandEdinburghEdinburgh Waverley Railway Station55°57’12” N 3°11’18” W November 20, 2015 in Scotland ⋅ ⛅ 5 °C
Sadly, today is the final day of our tour and it was the most touristy of our days this week. I am very sad that the tour is over. It's been a wonderful, relaxed week, just watching the amazing scenery, learning about Scotland and hanging out with some great people.
But, before we get too sad, we've still got a whole day of adventures ahead! We pack up and leave Fort William heading towards the Harry Potter bridge!!
It's official name is the Glenfinnan viaduct and it is on one side, while the other is occupied by the Bonnie Prince Charlie monument. In the summer you can actually ride the train aka the Hogwarts Express, but it's closed in the winter.
Our day is spent mostly driving, so from here we head towards this old pub for lunch. It's known for all of the stuffed animals inside.
On our way we stop by an old castle, Inverlochy Castle. And then drive past where they filmed Hagrid's Hut and stop off at a popular car park which looks down into Glencoe. The view was spectacular!!
Old story - people dying
From here we drive through ... It's where they filmed the Scottish scenes in Skyfall. As per the movies the landscape was stunning. I felt like we were this little ant cruising our way across this wide open mountainous landscape.
You only really took in how huge the mountains were when you realised that the small white spec is actually a fully grown sheep! Haha
After lunch we head towards .... It's the castle where they filmed one of the Monty Python movies, plus it's used in filing Outlander or something like that.
Then it was on to the Deanston distillery. I've never really has whiskey and to be fair I probably won't drink it again this trip. It was a cool distillery that used to be a wool mill way back.
They are on off the grid distillery and recycle / reuse everything. It was really interesting and the tasting not too bad.
We were then Edinburgh bound, with the sun almost set Rich set about telling us the great Scottish fight for independence and who William Wallace really was.
Most of us were staying at the Castle Rock hostel Friday night. So after settling in we met up again and headed off with the conveniently arranged hostel group going to the Christmas markets, which just opened.
It was cold, but pretty awesome. They had German food for sale, drink bars, Christmas crafts on show, an ice skating rink and a Santa land. All the usually suspects.
It was a great way to end a fantastic week.
http://www.visitscotland.com/about/arts-culture…
Tour
http://macbackpackers.com/tour/5_day_skye_and_h…Read more
ScotlandInverness-shireFort WilliamFort William Railway Station56°49’11” N 5°6’19” W November 19, 2015 in Scotland ⋅ 7 °C
So we waved goodbye to beautiful Isle of Skye and head down the West Coast of Scotland. Our first stop of the day was at the Eeliean Donan Castle, this castle was famously used in the movie Made of Honor with Patrick Dempsey. Apparently, it's someones actual home and its all modern on the inside. We took lots of pictures and visited the tourist centre for a cuppa.
Afterwards, we took a big drive up to the 5 Sister of Kintail and to take in a magnificent view down into the valley. The story goes that there were seven sisters who the local farmer needed to have married. Visiting brothers from Ireland met the sisters and fell in love with the youngest ones. The father was not happy to have his youngest married before the oldest.
The brothers promised that they had more brothers in Ireland and would send them straight over if they could leave together with the girls. The father agreed and off the younger sisters went, while the others waited. And waited they did, until weeks turned into months and months into years.
Eventually the father turned to the local wizard or witch and asked how he could preserve his daughters' beauty until they could marry, the wizard turned them into stone to wait their husbands. They're still waiting.
We climbed (drove) down the other side of the mountain to reach the village of Glenelg where we could see the old brochs. These are suggested to have been built 2000 years ago and they used to be houses. There was a half complete one that we could walk through and a picture showed what ever level would've been like.
It was nice. We then went back over the mountain and headed towards Spean bridge wool mill for lunch. It's odd being the only tour group around. We haven't seen anyone else on tour all week. Its fab! I definitely feel like we're on our own private tour.
At this point we had a choice either see the Harry Potter bridge (the one Harry and Ron fly over in book 2 when looking for the train to Hogwarts) or go on a hike in full knowledge that it will rain and we will get wet.
After some convincing we decided to go on the hike in Glen Nevis to see the Steele Falls and it was the best decision ever! We got as far as we could in the bus, and then got out and walked. Once we got off the road we were on a proper hike. Jumping over waterfalls, climbing over rocks, sloshing in muddy paths and getting drench. It was awesome!
The water was forcefully coming down off the mountain, the river was swollen and the streams, now in full flow, were gushing everywhere. It was amazing. We were making our way towards Steele Falls where we could walk across a tight rope bridge.
As we came around the corner we were greeted with a most beautiful view, making our hike 100% worth it. Apparently they filmed the village for Braveheart here. After having ever Scottish guide tells us how incorrect Braveheart is, I don't think could see it now.
But anyways, we got closer to the falls and in the summer they all climb over this ropey bridge and swim around in the falls. Today, its too bloody cold and we are fast running out of sunlight. So we all quickly walk across the bridge, or some of us go as far as to take a good scary picture and then head back to the safety of the side haha.
And then scramble back abroad the bus, soaking wet once again. It was a brilliant way to spend our final day really. In the summer, I realize that they would spend more time hiking, which would be a whole lot of fun. But thats always something for next time.
Tonight we're staying in the town of Fort William as the usual town the tour stay in is closed for the winter. The whole town! crazy!
Our hostel is lovely, the host is just wonderful, nothing is a problem. We warm up and head into town for dinner. The main street is a cute little village with hiking shops everywhere! We have dinner in a nice pub and I try out a few of the local gins. We try to get some drinks from the bottle shop to take back to the hostel, but everywhere shuts at 9pm and for the first time all week we are finished with dinner later then 9!
We eventually find a RSL type thing for one more drink before heading home to bed and to download the new Adele album at 12:01am.
Tour
http://macbackpackers.com/tour/5_day_skye_and_h…
Where I stayed
Fort William Backpackers - Alma Road, Fort William, United Kingdom
We stayed here for 1 night as part of the MacBackpackers tour. The rooms were big with big comfy beds, there was a fully equipped kitchen, dining around, big lounge room with fire and guitar, several bathrooms and an outdoor area where they put on big fires if it hasn't been raining. We were located in the center of town really, just up on a hill and a 10 min walk down int the main street. Our host was so lovely, she had everything we asked for and nothing was a problem! Breakfast in the morning for 2 pounds.Read more
ScotlandHighlandPortree57°24’45” N 6°11’46” W November 18, 2015 in Scotland ⋅ 🌧 9 °C
Today we spent the whole day on the Isle of Skye, our weather conditions were predicted to be cyclonic! Whoop. And it didn't lie, as we headed out from the hostel the wind and rain lashed our little bus - lovely.
The aim of today is to see as much of the island as possible. I think Rich said that the sea was only 60 miles maximum from any point on the island. So we headed towards on area of mountains called Glen Sligachan, the red mountain and the black mountain, also known as Cuillin.
Rich tells us is a folklore story about a Scottish giant (the black mountain) who was the scariest giant around until people started talking about this Irish giant that people were really afraid of. So he headed over to Ireland to fight this giant.
When he got there he learnt that she (the red mountain giant) was a woman, but that didn't stop them from commencing battle and fighting for 3 days. On day 3 the Irish giant's daughter wanted them to stop, so after seeking advice from sonnet, made them a tasty dish that thad wonderful smells and made the giants realise that they had been fighting for days with no food. So they took a break.
It was at this point at they realize that they really liked each other and decided to become lovers and marry. But the end of the story, just as the bus pulled up near a bridge, I couldn't remember what the point of the story was haha. Anyway, it had stopped raining temporarily so we all jumped out to take some quick snaps of the red and black mountains as we could see the rain cloud coming towards it.
We then travelled to the west coast to Dunvegan where we looked at on old castle and went down to Loch Dunvegan to try and spot some seals. The seals were too far way on a small island for us to really see, but we had a most beautiful landscape around us and we took lots of pictures here. It was just stunning!
From here we drove down the road a little bit and decided to take a walk out to a beach called 'Coral Beach'. It was a take us an hour to get out there, view and get back and the rain was beginning again. But our adventurous spirit won out and off we all headed with laughter and excitement.
As the rain lashed at us, coming in on diagonal force we marched on through the countryside, crossing small streams that had started to form and not slip on the muddy trail that were now becoming.
Over the horizon we saw it this beautiful coral beach. The 'sand' looked as white as anything we could've had at home and the water on the coast line was a beautiful color. Our photos of ourselves on the beach suggest something entirely different.
We then went further and headed up a small hill, trying not to be blown over it and stood on the top to watch all the world around us. It was just magical. We hid down on side of the hill for a reprieve before commending our journey back to the other side! By the time we reached the bus, the rain and wind had all but died down leaving us soaking wet, but feeling like epic adventurers.
After changing into our spare clothes we drove down the road and went into a little husband and wife bakery for pies, sausage rolls and cake. It was so cheap!! P1.80 for a sausage roll with sauce and a giant slice of cake - amazing!
We then drove down into the town of Portree, where we later hoped to have the best fish and chips around, apparently, before heading up to see the Old Man of Starr rock, down to the Kilt rock waterfall and finishing on top at Quirang.
These sites were all beautiful, I cannot get over the stunning landscape. Apparently they filmed a few movies here as well, but use a bit of CGI to enhance the magic.
After stopping for multiple photo opportunities we piled back into the bus and headed down to Pontree only to find out that our fish and chip shop didn't open for another 30 mins. Not content to wait we headed back to ...... picked up wine and chocolate on the way before stopping in at a fish and chip shop near our hostel.
It was pouring down rain and we had to protect the hot goods with our coats before climbing on board the bus. Back at the hostel we settled in for an evening around the fire, fish and chips, wine, whiskey and whiskey liquoior tasting. This has been one of the best days so fast and an absolutely wonderful evening.
Things we missed:
we were going to see the famous fairy pools today, but Rich said that we'd have to climb over proper rivers to get there, we'd get soaked and the fairy pools would be a brown color because of all of the rain they've had to far. Something for next time I guess.
Where I stayed
Skye Backpackers Hostel - Village Green, Kyleakin, United Kingdom
Fantastic place! We stayed here for 2 nights as part of the MacBackpackers 5 day highland fling tour. We were in a separate house from the main hostel, apparently only the MacBackpackers tours stay here. It was an old victorian house right on the water and only ourselves and the other staff stayed in it. The highlight was the lounge room with a fire in the middle. We spent most nights in there enjoying the warmth, a few drinks and some stories. There is a full equipped kitchen, breakfast is included, there's a dining room and a few showers and bathrooms. It feels like someones home.Read more
ScotlandHighlandKyleakinKyle Akin57°16’21” N 5°43’44” W November 17, 2015 in Scotland ⋅ 7 °C
Today we have been driving, stopping, walking, photographing and repeating. Relaxed is how I feel. It feels like the 8 of us are a group of friends who've hired a personal guide. Our tour is incredibly chilled out. We run to our own timetable and stay as long or as short as we like in each spot. Rich gives us ideas and sometimes we give him some.
This morning started with a trip to the grocery store to buy lunch and food for dinner as everything would be shut when we arrived at the Isle of Skye this is evening.
Our first stop of the day, after we'd loaded up was to the Culloden visitor and site of the Culloden Battle. We spent an hour here walking through the self-guided information centre, which gave insight to both the English and Scottish stories. We then got to walk out on the battlefield with audio guides guiding us through the day and site. It was very interesting. Slowly all the people and all the years are starting to filter in about the Scottish history.
From here we drove to Rogie Falls and walked through the forest to the falls to try and see salmon. It was a beautiful spot. I liked walking through the forest area. We came out onto a wooden bridge that crossed to the other side. Standing on the bridge we all intensely looked on to see the salmon, two people apparently saw some jump, but the rest of us were not so lucky.
The water was a dark brown frothy mess, it flowed strongly after all of the rain the highlands had recently had. Although Rich assured us the water was fine to drink and swim in, it looked the colour of Guinness and frothed like it too haha.
While eating lunch on the road we passed a heard of deer and stopped to take pictures. It was awesome! These great big animals just standing on the side of the road, but it wasn't long before they packed up and moved on. As did we, we were making our way towards Beinn Eighe for a hike and a sit by the lake.
It was beautiful. The hike highlighted how unfit most of us appeared to be haha, and how fit Richard was getting. The view down into the Loch was beautiful and we took some fantastic group shots up and down the mountain. I’ve started noticing that we aren’t running into any other guides or tourists in general, which is awesome! And is probably what is making this not feel like a tour.
The daylight was slipping away so we boarded back on the bus heading towards the Isle of Skye and we would be driving through, which Rich described as, the most scenery in Scotland. So I grabbed the bottle of red from my bag, poured myself a glass and sat back to enjoy the view.
He wasn’t kidding; it was spectacular what we saw! We drove across vast lands, around deep lochs and through valleys where once huge glaciers tore through during the ice age. We would’ve looked like this tiny ant cruising along. It was beautiful.
We stopped many places to take pictures along the way including Loch Maree, and Loch Torridon and the ruins of Strome Castle. Loch Torridon took my breath away (how clichéd) it was just stunning! Words can’t describe. We looked down into this valley, this loch and it stretched as far as the eye could see. With the sun setting in the background, it was everything you could want on a tour.
The ruins of Strome Castle are where we watched the sun disappear over day 2 of our adventure. It was perched on this little hillside and we looked down into the loch and out to the Isle of Skye. We took some great group shots in the archway as the sun slipped away, a perfect ending to a wonderful day.
To complete our trio of animals for the day we also spotted some Hairy Coo the local highland cows. They were very cute and all wolly. We stopped by for a few quick pics with the big guys before heading on once more.
For the next two evenings we are staying in the village of Kyleakin in our own house away from the main hostel. As we’re the only group on tour this week, it’s only us in the house. It’s awesome! It has it’s own lounge room and fireplace where we spend the evening relaxing. We are located right on the harbour and watch the boats sail in and out in the daytime.
This evening a couple of us head over to the local pub for dinner. It was a bit of a disappointment with a lack of atmosphere and pretty much no one in there. But the fish and chips were fantastic! And I would return there for that dish alone.
I am thoroughly enjoying this trip!
Where I stayed
Skye Backpackers Hostel - Village Green, Kyleakin, United Kingdom
Fantastic place! We stayed here for 2 nights as part of the MacBackpackers 5 day highland fling tour. We were in a separate house from the main hostel, apparently only the MacBackpackers tours stay here. It was an old victorian house right on the water and only ourselves and the other staff stayed in it. The highlight was the lounge room with a fire in the middle. We spent most nights in there enjoying the warmth, a few drinks and some stories. There is a full equipped kitchen, breakfast is included, there's a dining room and a few showers and bathrooms. It feels like someones home.Read more
ScotlandHighlandInvernessInverness Railway Station57°28’40” N 4°13’29” W November 16, 2015 in Scotland ⋅ 🌧 5 °C
So, I'm spending the next 5 days on tour with Mac backpackers exploring the Scottish highlands and Isle of Skye. I'm not sure what to expect, but am really looking forward to it.
I arrived in Edinburgh last night with an hour left of sunlight and rain, so I headed to my hostel and chilled. But headed out later in search of food and drink.
What I learn as the week goes on is that MacBackpackers own all of the hostels we stay in, including this one. On reflection I suspect our hostel was some kind of castle back in the day. It's massive and each room is oddly shaped with no consistency.
There are 5 function rooms here, the groovey lounge were guitars lay around and all techno gadgets are banned. The posh room, which is semi quiet with a piano in the corner and fancy lounge chairs - lots of people are watching movies on their laptops here. There is the small literary room, which hosts 2 share computers and high backed wooden chairs that look regal.
Next is the giant living space with a pool table, lounge chairs and a second storey. It also has a giant table in the middle, like Royal times. Then there is the movie room where films are played continually from 6pm and finally the double kitchen.
I kicked around here until it was a reasonable time for bed.
We left Edinburgh at around 8am on Monday morning. There are 9 of us in total, 7Aussies, 1 Thai / American, 1 Canadian, and our Scottish bus driver Richard. We leave Edinburgh with Rich giving us an interesting history of the town, plus some misleading directions to J.K. Rowling's house.
Apparently it takes 3.5 hours drive to our destination, but it will take us 7, an insight to all the places we stop at.
Our first port of call is at Pitlochry, a small village where we roam around getting some lunch, while some have a need to buy waterproof gear. We were due for rain and snow! I bought a lovely chicken pie from a local butchers - Ł1.42!!!
We drive along towards an old battle ground which is now a bridge / hike area. But first off we stop to take some pictures as we've sighted the first snow and its agri at dime glorious mountains.
Once the pics are snapped we head along to Pass of killiekranine where we take a 30 min walk through the forest.
Afterwards we drive along further into the national park, Rich is taking us to Loch morlich, which looks like the beach. It is super cold out side and I feel like it's sleeting or snowing on us in patchs. However, there is sand and a lone duck to keep us company. After using 5 of our allocated 10 minutes were all back in the bus, aside from the Canadian who is loving it.
We the head towards Balnuran clava kernes and learn about "Clava Cairns or the Prehistoric Burial Cairns of Bulnuaran of Clava are a group of three Bronze Age cairns located near Inverness. A hugely significant and exceptionally well preserved prehistoric site, Clava Cairns is a fantastic example of the distant history of Highland Scotland, dating back about 4,000 years.
The cemetery was used in two periods. At around 2000 BC a row of large cairns was built, three of which can still be seen today. A thousand years later the cemetery was reused and new burials were placed in some of the existing cairns and three smaller monuments were built including a 'kerb cairn'.
Traces of a smaller cemetery can also be seen at Milton of Clava, a short distance up the valley to the west. The cairns at Balnuaran of Clava extended along a gravel terrace raised above the River Nairn. Our guide also spoke about how the sun shadows line up to each of the stones and there is this intricate design .. but I can't remember it all haha."
After this prehistoric adventure we headed off to see Nessy!
Tonight we are staying in a town called Inverness. Our hostel over looks the town. We take a walk before dinner and spot a pub on fire, which turns out to get the place we were going to see music at later on.
For dinner we visit the local pub and we all try a bit of haggis. While pretending not to know what was in it, I thought it tasted pretty good.
I bale on the new live music venue in favour of acetal along the river. Important grudges and monuments are lit up in the French colours. Friday's events are never far from mind.
I return to the hostel for sleep.
Tour
http://macbackpackers.com/tour/5_day_skye_and_h…
Uu
https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/clava…
Where I stayed
Inverness Student Hotel - 8 Culduthel Road, Inverness, United Kingdom
Hostel feels like the classic backpackers style one, where the staff live there. There is a lovely lounge room with a fire, a smaller lounge room no fire, a dining area and a fully equipped kitchen. The rooms are a bit small, but comfortable and the showers and toilets are shared by both sexes. The staff were really friendly. We were in the center of town and easily walked to the local pubs and stuff. The village is quite big and there is a lovely walk along the river.Read more
EnglandLondonNelson's Column51°30’26” N 0°7’40” W November 9, 2015 in England ⋅ ⛅ 14 °C
Today is the start of my final working week in London. As long as I can remember my plan was always to finish school, go to uni, work a bit for experience and money and then head overseas; dreaming of jobs of a lifetime and experiences you could only achieve in a big city.
When this decision was coming to fruition two years ago and I was faced with the reality of giving up a job I had only just started, that I insanely loved in order to pursue a dream I spent a great deal of time wondering if was doing the right thing, and have spent many more hours considering the same thing once I arrived.
But, in the end it was the right decision, except when I think of how I could've been at the Cowboys first grand final, then it will always be the wrong one! haha
I see the last 2 years as an assignment; to come, learn, experience, push boundaries, try new 'hats of life' on and see what works for me. I feel like the past 2 years has been 10 years worth of learning squashed into 24 months. It has trigged renewed passion in chasing a career, not just a job, it has shown me what I really want to do, what I excel in and given me the permission to accept what I don't like or what I'm not the best at and that, that is ok.
In fact, it's more then ok. As a quote I once read said, something like, once you know your limits you can push past them. I know what I'm really good at, what I'm not good at and what I don't like and not be sorry for it. I can work on them, find someone else to do those jobs, or find an alternative path.
And I definitely feel like I've come full circle. When I got my first temp role in London I was just about in tears on the phone to mum walking up to this building. I was so scared, I had no confidence, I was so taken aback by myself. When I left home I could've conquered the moon. Where had that person gone?
I remember writing in my journal that I felt like I had this giant black hole in my chest and everything disappeared into it. It was like I got on the plane here and everything I knew about myself disappeared. Nothing could fix it. I would wake up most mornings not being able to eat breakfast awaiting the dreaded phone call from the temp agency. Knowing full well I needed them to ring to give me work to live here, but oh the fears I had!
In the end I was only there for 6 weeks. I worked for some really cool companies, got to meet some lovely people, and found that temping was a great way to get a feel for the place as an employee without having to actually get a role there. I look back on those jobs with rose coloured glasses and 'fond' memories.
Now I waltz into work like I own the place. I feel like me before I left home, but now I have all of these experiences and 'war stories' under my belt to backup my confidence.
I think taking 5 months off to travel gave me the space to reflect on what I've achieved in these last 2 years. I got to stand back and see that I was at the top of the mountain. Somehow in all the nerves, excitement, downs and ups I had climbed that beast and didn't even realise it.
Working in London has been great. I have got to do a lot of things that can only be done in a big city. Because a big city has the people power to do things on a large scale, to attract big clients and big ideas.
But now I'm ready to go home. Back to a support system, to a culture I know and love, to explore a new city in my own country with a renewed energy to strive for the big goals in my life. My assignment has come to a close. It's been fantastic and I'm pencilling in the next phase now - Canada before I'm 30!Read more
EnglandLondonNelson's Column51°30’26” N 0°7’40” W November 2, 2015 in England ⋅ ⛅ 13 °C
London is currently in the fog, it's really spooky and cool. Yesterday I woke up and looking out my window I couldn't see a thing, just the tall tree with yellow leaves that were slowly falling to the ground. It was like this for most of the day.
In the evening, 4pm, I met Claire near London Bridge for a coffee at a new cafe that caused controversy this week as it had to fix it's sign, it was called Fuckoffee haha. They did an alright hot chocolate and custard tart, although it could've been heated up.
After leaving Claire I decided to take a walk along the Thames as I was still looking for somewhere to have a drink for my farewell drinks with my friends. And it was the best thing I did. The whole of the Thames was covered in this fog You could barely see London Bridge and the (Borris office) was all covered.
All along the Thames there were just sparks of bright lights peaking out behind the fog. It felt like Old Victorian London or Sweeney Todd London, only because the movies always have it in such fog. I was half expecting to see a horse and carriage bundle on down Liverpool Street.
It was definitely the talk of the town for the next few days.Read more
EnglandLondonNelson's Column51°30’26” N 0°7’40” W October 31, 2015 in England ⋅ ☀️ 16 °C
Of the many reasons I wanted to return to London one last time, a major one was the Rugby World Cup. Although, unsuccessful in securing a job, I really wanted to be here, support Australia and soak up the atmosphere.
And I wasn't wrong, it's been awesome!
I've thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere around London, at work and the matches themselves.
Australia has blown everyone away and have played some terrific games. For the big one, England vs Australia, Chloe and I headed down to the Fan Zone at the Olympic Park.
Located right beside the orbit, you look back to see the sun setting over the Olympic stadium. It's a huge grassy area set up with a massive screen. There are hot food vans, bars, show rides and picnic tables all about.
The game was epic and the win so good. Half way through the 2nd half a fight broke out in the crowd. It seemed never ending and security seemed to have better things to do. It was silent & funny and behind them was the match.
At half time all of Australia's points, including penalties, tries and conversions had been all from one player, Bernard foley. It was unreal! The Bernard foley show the Brits called it.
For the semi final I was joined by Enoka at the Clapham grand. It's usually a night club I think, but today they had chairs laid out on the dance floor, a massive screen showing the game. For Ł10 we got 2 drinks, a pie and a seat each - great value!
It was a good atmosphere surrounded by all the Aussies, even if it felt like most of them were there for the booze and chats.
For the final, Chloe and I met with Yolanda and her friends at the calf in Clapham. It was a cool little pub that brewed its own beer.
I think I was the only Aussie in the pub, everyone else was supporting the all blacks including a couple of very annoying kiwis. But it was good when we were closing the gap, some cloistered Aussie supporters appeared!!
It was such a good World Cup. I actually know how rugby dirks now and will be very keen to follow the Reds and wallabies at home.
Might even start planning to attend in Japan for 2019!Read more
