Christmas time in Canada was great. It was so nice to experience the comforts of home- you learn to really appreciate a home cooked meal and comfortable bed when you're on the road. Seeing my friends was also a treat (there you go Kim!) and I was glad to see that everyone is doing well. I also want to thank everyone that has been keeping up with this blog! I'm sorry for not updating it as often as I should, I will try my hardest this time around to keep up with it.
Now...BACK ON THE ROAD!
I arrived in Munich in the early a.m. yesturday, and quickly found my hostel (Jaeger, named after the tasty drink Jaegermeister of course!) and my friend Val who was there waiting for me! Not wasting any time at all, we hooked up with a free guided tour of the city, which was a great way to see the sights and learn the history of each of the buildings. Strolling down the streets that Hitler himself had marched on, and seeing some of the buildings that had been re-built after the bombings during the war was incredible. This city is stunning, and is just dripping with history... I love it!
For dinner we decided to check out the famous Hofbrauhaus, a beer hall that Hitler frequented during his hayday. I don't think it can get more German than this place. You walk in to a huge hall filled with long tables and benches, covered with huge glass beer mugs and plates heaped with weiner schnitzel, all surrounded by a mix of loud and boisterous locals and tourists. A German band is playing in the center, filling the room with music that we eventually were dancing to (I couldn't help myself, a nice old German man offered to teach me how to dance to the music, of course I accepted!) We ended up meeting a huge group of people our age who were on a Contiki tour, and spent the night drinking copious amounts of beer, and breaking in to random German sing a longs with them...it was a late one.
Today, we woke up and had planned to take a trip to Dachau, the German concentration camp that is located outside of the city. However we decided to delay that trip for when Skip was with us. So instead we wandered around the city some more, and found our way to the Deutches Museum. We spent a couple of hours in there soaking up some more of the history of Munchen. I was expecting to struggle a bit more with the language here, but luckily most Germans speak English pretty well so we haven't run in to any problems yet!
Tonight we reunited with Skip, who will be my travel buddy from now on!! We wanted to show her the crazy beer hall from last night, but unfortunately it was way too busy and we couldn't find a seat, so instead we went to another famous pub that has been turned into an Oktoberfest museum. It was built in 1327, and is absolutely jammed during Oktoberfest, of course. We shared stories and caught up over some food and a pint. Tonight we're hitting the hay early, with it being New Years tomorrow!!
We have an 11 am train to catch to Austria to meet up with more friends from home. I can't wait to see those mountains!
I hope that everyone has a very Happy New Year's!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Let me hear your soul sista...Only in Paris...
We met up with some of Rich's exchange friends on the Sunday night. We had coffee along the Champs d'Elysees, watching all of the Christmas shoppers and tourists partaking in late night shopping.
We then continued on to a more familiar place... a Canadian bar called The Moose. Rich spotted an advertisement for it, so we decided to check it out. (We had been craving poutine for months now, this was our chance.)
We walked in to the place, and it was packed with fellow Canadians, the warm glow of Sunday night football lighting up the many television screens, we were home.
Rounds of Canadian beer and poutine were ordered, the Frenchies had to try our Canadian dish.
After our drinks and food, it was there turn to take us somewhere. We ended up at this place called the Guillotine, it had been built in 1427, and was literally a dungeon...complete with a guillotine and various other weapons for decoration, no joke.
We walked down the narrow staircase to the dungeon/basement where a live jazz band was playing. The music was fantastic, the venue even better. We just don't get places like this in Canada...shame.
We then continued on to a more familiar place... a Canadian bar called The Moose. Rich spotted an advertisement for it, so we decided to check it out. (We had been craving poutine for months now, this was our chance.)
We walked in to the place, and it was packed with fellow Canadians, the warm glow of Sunday night football lighting up the many television screens, we were home.
Rounds of Canadian beer and poutine were ordered, the Frenchies had to try our Canadian dish.
After our drinks and food, it was there turn to take us somewhere. We ended up at this place called the Guillotine, it had been built in 1427, and was literally a dungeon...complete with a guillotine and various other weapons for decoration, no joke.
We walked down the narrow staircase to the dungeon/basement where a live jazz band was playing. The music was fantastic, the venue even better. We just don't get places like this in Canada...shame.
Do the Moulin Rouge
Paris has been one of the most exciting cities that I have ever been in. No wonder people love it so much.
I had the absolute privilege of going to see a Moulin Rouge burlesque show on the Friday night with Val and some of her Red Bull comrades. It was superb. When visiting Paris, you MUST try and go to one of there burlesque shows...it is quite an experience. Although I have not been to Vegas before to see one of their late night showgirl routines, I imagine that the French do it differently- they do it right.
Beautiful men and women flock the stage with impressive and glamorous costumes. (Or sometimes nothing at all...) We were a group of 18, sipping on champagne all night to this very wonderful and very French form of entertainment.
The great thing about Paris is how walkable it is. It is truly the only proper way to see and experience the city. Rich and I walked everywhere! During the day Saturday we wandered around Rue Lafayette, around the shopping and Opera areas once more, then continued on to Place de la Concord, soaking up the infamous sites. Rich brought me to a famous tea room, Angelina's, along Rue de Rivoli which looks out on to the Louvre. It is famous for it's incredible chocolat chaud and pastries. Did it ever live up to its reputation! Most delicious hot chocolate and pastry I have ever had, and worth every euro (6,50) This stop is a must when visiting Paris, or any cafe for that matter. Make sure you have a view though! We had the incredible view of the Eiffel Tower at one cafe stop on Sunday afternoon. Spectacular.
Christmas markets of course were everywhere. Along the Champs d'Elysees there was a big one. Crowds of course followed, but it was a great place to go and grab a German sausage or crepe. (Yum!)
At the right moment, the famous road becomes alight with thousands of Christmas lights on all of the trees. Twinkling lights lining the runway, leading up to the star-- l'Arc de Triomphe.
The size of the Arc shocked me...incredible when it is lit up at night. I found that most major sites were well worth the visit at night, to see the lights. Notre Dame was another place we went, on the Saturday night, and it was all lit up as well. Stunning.
The Latin Quarter is right there, and was a really hoppin' place. Rich and I decided to go very traditional, and had fondue for dinner! (This was his first time having fondue, EVER)
Strolling along the cobble stones with music of all kinds pumping out onto the streets, this is for sure a place I would come back to.
I had the absolute privilege of going to see a Moulin Rouge burlesque show on the Friday night with Val and some of her Red Bull comrades. It was superb. When visiting Paris, you MUST try and go to one of there burlesque shows...it is quite an experience. Although I have not been to Vegas before to see one of their late night showgirl routines, I imagine that the French do it differently- they do it right.
Beautiful men and women flock the stage with impressive and glamorous costumes. (Or sometimes nothing at all...) We were a group of 18, sipping on champagne all night to this very wonderful and very French form of entertainment.
The great thing about Paris is how walkable it is. It is truly the only proper way to see and experience the city. Rich and I walked everywhere! During the day Saturday we wandered around Rue Lafayette, around the shopping and Opera areas once more, then continued on to Place de la Concord, soaking up the infamous sites. Rich brought me to a famous tea room, Angelina's, along Rue de Rivoli which looks out on to the Louvre. It is famous for it's incredible chocolat chaud and pastries. Did it ever live up to its reputation! Most delicious hot chocolate and pastry I have ever had, and worth every euro (6,50) This stop is a must when visiting Paris, or any cafe for that matter. Make sure you have a view though! We had the incredible view of the Eiffel Tower at one cafe stop on Sunday afternoon. Spectacular.
Christmas markets of course were everywhere. Along the Champs d'Elysees there was a big one. Crowds of course followed, but it was a great place to go and grab a German sausage or crepe. (Yum!)
At the right moment, the famous road becomes alight with thousands of Christmas lights on all of the trees. Twinkling lights lining the runway, leading up to the star-- l'Arc de Triomphe.
The size of the Arc shocked me...incredible when it is lit up at night. I found that most major sites were well worth the visit at night, to see the lights. Notre Dame was another place we went, on the Saturday night, and it was all lit up as well. Stunning.
The Latin Quarter is right there, and was a really hoppin' place. Rich and I decided to go very traditional, and had fondue for dinner! (This was his first time having fondue, EVER)
Strolling along the cobble stones with music of all kinds pumping out onto the streets, this is for sure a place I would come back to.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Bienvenue à Paris!!
I have finally arrived in Paris!!!
It has certainly been a mission, with all of the snow they have been getting...
Our plane last night landed early, however it took us two and a half hours to get on the shuttle that would take us in to Paris. It was madness... MADNESS I SAY!
Val and I walked out of the airport to the bus area only to be greeted by a mob of angry French travellers all attempting to do the same thing we were. There was no order, no control, just crowds of people rushing to every bus that would pull in the parking lot. People were getting squished, angry French curses were being shouted--it was mayhem. All because of the weather...a mere three inches of snow on the ground.
Finally we managed to elbow our way up to the front, and we made it to our hostels.
This morning I woke up with a mission-- I had to find my way to the department store, FNAC, to pick up ,y ticket for tonights event, Red Bull 3style Finals Competition that is being held here in Paris.
I started out with some measly directions, all in French of course, and just decided to go with it. The city was bustling! After all the horrible weather, the sun was shining today, melting away the slushy snow.
I ended up spilling onto the main shopping area of Gallerie Lafayette... it was incredible. These Christmas decorations in the windows put the Bay to SHAME. Absolutely stunning.
I finally managed to pick up my ticket, god knows how I made it...
Heading to the event tonight, and Moulin Rouge tomorrow! Rich also arrives tomorrow night!
Good times ahead...
The man behind me is listening to French rap...lovely.
It has certainly been a mission, with all of the snow they have been getting...
Our plane last night landed early, however it took us two and a half hours to get on the shuttle that would take us in to Paris. It was madness... MADNESS I SAY!
Val and I walked out of the airport to the bus area only to be greeted by a mob of angry French travellers all attempting to do the same thing we were. There was no order, no control, just crowds of people rushing to every bus that would pull in the parking lot. People were getting squished, angry French curses were being shouted--it was mayhem. All because of the weather...a mere three inches of snow on the ground.
Finally we managed to elbow our way up to the front, and we made it to our hostels.
This morning I woke up with a mission-- I had to find my way to the department store, FNAC, to pick up ,y ticket for tonights event, Red Bull 3style Finals Competition that is being held here in Paris.
I started out with some measly directions, all in French of course, and just decided to go with it. The city was bustling! After all the horrible weather, the sun was shining today, melting away the slushy snow.
I ended up spilling onto the main shopping area of Gallerie Lafayette... it was incredible. These Christmas decorations in the windows put the Bay to SHAME. Absolutely stunning.
I finally managed to pick up my ticket, god knows how I made it...
Heading to the event tonight, and Moulin Rouge tomorrow! Rich also arrives tomorrow night!
Good times ahead...
The man behind me is listening to French rap...lovely.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Espana
Here in Valencia, Spain, where the weather is at least 20 degrees and there is not a flake of snow to be found. (Sorry London!) I have forgotten how beautiful Spain is.
Since it is the winter time, the streets are not as busy as they were the last time I visited the country. Monday was a holiday here though, so the beach and boardwalk was packed with the locals (dressed in full winter gear of course), enjoying some of the hot sunshine.
Val took me on her own walking tour of the city, starting with the beach. We seriously worked up a sweat walking around in the heat, which was a nice change for this time of year!
Visiting the main square in the city center of Valencia at night, the Christmas lights were draping the trees and century old buildings, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Of course we dined on tapas and sangria, a tradition that I was very happy to experience again.
Shopping was an order Tuesday- the weather was not the nicest, so we spent our time weaving through crowds in the shopping district, visiting at LEAST three or four Zara's throughout the day.
Tonight we fly to Paris!!!! I could not be more excited... although the sunshine outside now is causing me to want to stay here just a bit longer, and avoid the winter weather for as long as I can.
xx
Since it is the winter time, the streets are not as busy as they were the last time I visited the country. Monday was a holiday here though, so the beach and boardwalk was packed with the locals (dressed in full winter gear of course), enjoying some of the hot sunshine.
Val took me on her own walking tour of the city, starting with the beach. We seriously worked up a sweat walking around in the heat, which was a nice change for this time of year!
Visiting the main square in the city center of Valencia at night, the Christmas lights were draping the trees and century old buildings, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Of course we dined on tapas and sangria, a tradition that I was very happy to experience again.
Shopping was an order Tuesday- the weather was not the nicest, so we spent our time weaving through crowds in the shopping district, visiting at LEAST three or four Zara's throughout the day.
Tonight we fly to Paris!!!! I could not be more excited... although the sunshine outside now is causing me to want to stay here just a bit longer, and avoid the winter weather for as long as I can.
xx
Sunday, December 5, 2010
On the Road Again...
Next stop... VALENCIA, SPAIN!
I am luckily able to fly out tonight to Spain! I say luckily because due to the weather, and a spontaneous strike by Spanish airport controllers, planes have been cancelled left, right and center!
I am flying in to Valencia to meet up with my friend, Valerie, who is studying there for the year. It will be good to be in some nice weather before the cold Canadian winter hits me.
Hola Espana! Here I come!
I am luckily able to fly out tonight to Spain! I say luckily because due to the weather, and a spontaneous strike by Spanish airport controllers, planes have been cancelled left, right and center!
I am flying in to Valencia to meet up with my friend, Valerie, who is studying there for the year. It will be good to be in some nice weather before the cold Canadian winter hits me.
Hola Espana! Here I come!
Friday, December 3, 2010
It's a Marshmellow World in England!
The title says it all... Snow has covered every part of this country, which essentially means the entire country shuts down. Haha! They are not prepared for this kind of weather AT ALL! We have been watching the news every night, and every time they report something like 2,000+ cars have either slid off the road or shut down in a ditch somewhere. Airports have closed, trains stopped moving mid-way through there trip... it's chaos!!
Where I am though, there is probably only about an inch or two on the ground, but it's enough to warrant many complaints and preventing the worriers from taking on the roadways. The issue in England too is the small, narrow roads that are all throughout the countryside. People are just abandoning their cars in huge drifts, unable to move.
It is truly a Canadian winter over here! (Which I love, of course!)
I have continued working for David this week, making some extra pocket money for my next little adventure, which is SPAIN!!!!
I am flying to Valencia this coming Sunday to go and stay with my friend from Canada, Valerie. She is studying there, and is going to show me around the city for a few days!
The two of us are then hopping on a plane and flying to PARIS!!!!!!!!!!!! Now, this is a city that I have never been to for some odd reason, and I am absolutely ECSTATIC to finally be visiting!
I'm spending five full days there, staying at a hostel called ''Peace and Love'' near the Notre Dame area. I have been given a list by Paris experts (David and Kim), so I now have a full five days in Paris ahead of me.
Fingers crossed that the weather holds out-- I plan on walking EVERYWHERE!
xx
Where I am though, there is probably only about an inch or two on the ground, but it's enough to warrant many complaints and preventing the worriers from taking on the roadways. The issue in England too is the small, narrow roads that are all throughout the countryside. People are just abandoning their cars in huge drifts, unable to move.
It is truly a Canadian winter over here! (Which I love, of course!)
I have continued working for David this week, making some extra pocket money for my next little adventure, which is SPAIN!!!!
I am flying to Valencia this coming Sunday to go and stay with my friend from Canada, Valerie. She is studying there, and is going to show me around the city for a few days!
The two of us are then hopping on a plane and flying to PARIS!!!!!!!!!!!! Now, this is a city that I have never been to for some odd reason, and I am absolutely ECSTATIC to finally be visiting!
I'm spending five full days there, staying at a hostel called ''Peace and Love'' near the Notre Dame area. I have been given a list by Paris experts (David and Kim), so I now have a full five days in Paris ahead of me.
Fingers crossed that the weather holds out-- I plan on walking EVERYWHERE!
xx
Monday, November 29, 2010
It has been awhile since I last wrote on here, and I apologize. I have been keeping busy...
First off, I'm still in England. The rest of my time spent at Cambridge consisted of meeting more scholars and gentlemen, a few ''sirs'' and some more lawyers were thrown in the mix. Renad took me to dinner at a pub called the Eagle, which has become famous because that's where DNA was discovered. The scholars responsible for coming up with the equations for DNA apparently frequented the pub and would meet there to not only drink, but to brainstorm. Finally, one night they famously announced, ''we have discovered the secret of life!'' The pub is nothing special, your typical English pub- but the sign on the wall above one table in the corner that these world famous geniuses had sat at is what makes it so special.
Cambridge was beautiful. It's an awkward city to get to, which is annoying, but if you ever get the chance to go, definitely check it out!
This past week I have been doing some more work for David at his office, making some easy pocket money. On Wednesday though, their family friend Suzanne, who is actually from Toronto, came to stay with them. We decided to go and check out Blenheim Palace on Thursday. It was absolutely stunning. Not only has it been home to countless Dukes and Duchesses over the years, but Sir Winston Churchill was born here, and spent much of his childhood visiting. The new film, Gulliver's Travels was just filmed there as well, (with Jack Black) so there was a huge exhibit all set up showcasing the new movie. We did a lovely tour around the palace, then finished off the day with afternoon tea!
Friday we drove in to Henley, a favourite of mine from the last time I was in England. Henley-on-the-Thames is where they hold the annual world famous Henley regatta. A beautiful little village, obviously with the Thames River running through it. We had lunch and did some window shopping, the weather has become really cold here now, so we didn't spend too long outside.
On the weekend, Harry came home from boarding school, so we all hung out, drank quite a bit of wine, had a thanksgiving-type meal on Sunday (in honour of both Canadian and American thanksgivings) and watched football and the Ashes.
The Ashes is a 5-day series of cricket matches, and is a long running tournament that is played between England and Australia. David tried to get me in to it more than once, I just couldn't do it...one of the most boring sports I have ever watched. (No offense if you enjoy it!)
I went in to work again today for David, I'm trying to decide where I want to go next! I will keep everyone posted!
xxo
First off, I'm still in England. The rest of my time spent at Cambridge consisted of meeting more scholars and gentlemen, a few ''sirs'' and some more lawyers were thrown in the mix. Renad took me to dinner at a pub called the Eagle, which has become famous because that's where DNA was discovered. The scholars responsible for coming up with the equations for DNA apparently frequented the pub and would meet there to not only drink, but to brainstorm. Finally, one night they famously announced, ''we have discovered the secret of life!'' The pub is nothing special, your typical English pub- but the sign on the wall above one table in the corner that these world famous geniuses had sat at is what makes it so special.
Cambridge was beautiful. It's an awkward city to get to, which is annoying, but if you ever get the chance to go, definitely check it out!
This past week I have been doing some more work for David at his office, making some easy pocket money. On Wednesday though, their family friend Suzanne, who is actually from Toronto, came to stay with them. We decided to go and check out Blenheim Palace on Thursday. It was absolutely stunning. Not only has it been home to countless Dukes and Duchesses over the years, but Sir Winston Churchill was born here, and spent much of his childhood visiting. The new film, Gulliver's Travels was just filmed there as well, (with Jack Black) so there was a huge exhibit all set up showcasing the new movie. We did a lovely tour around the palace, then finished off the day with afternoon tea!
Friday we drove in to Henley, a favourite of mine from the last time I was in England. Henley-on-the-Thames is where they hold the annual world famous Henley regatta. A beautiful little village, obviously with the Thames River running through it. We had lunch and did some window shopping, the weather has become really cold here now, so we didn't spend too long outside.
On the weekend, Harry came home from boarding school, so we all hung out, drank quite a bit of wine, had a thanksgiving-type meal on Sunday (in honour of both Canadian and American thanksgivings) and watched football and the Ashes.
The Ashes is a 5-day series of cricket matches, and is a long running tournament that is played between England and Australia. David tried to get me in to it more than once, I just couldn't do it...one of the most boring sports I have ever watched. (No offense if you enjoy it!)
I went in to work again today for David, I'm trying to decide where I want to go next! I will keep everyone posted!
xxo
Friday, November 19, 2010
Amongst Gentlemen and Scholars...
Cambridge University, where do I begin?
First off I need to explain how this school works. Oxford and Cambridge are both made up of 20-30 colleges, each having their own faculties within them. Renad belongs to Darwin College, and therefore lives in the Darwin building, donated of course by the kind Mr. Darwin himself. Ha.
Renad then informs me that we are attending a formal dinner that evening. Apparently, twice a week each College has their own formals. Imagine a Harry Potter dining room, filled with students sitting at long tables, wearing robes-yes, robes. I of course did not have a robe, so I stuck out like a sore thumb, lovely.
We walk in to the hall and Renad hands me a glass of port, ick. We then walk in to the dining room area and find our tables (we each have name cards, myself included) and then we are made to stand until the Head of the College allows us to sit.
(Renad and I both find this all extremely amusing, he apparently hates these things and never goes.)
Across from me are two of Renad's friends. One of them, Phillippe, used to work for the United Nations in New York and now is taking time off to come back to school... amazing.
We had a fabulous three course meal, then took our leave once the Head of the College permitted us to do so. Haha
The social after dinner was in the basement of Darwin College. I met Supreme Court lawyers from Canada who were really great (from Windsor, of all places!) and spent the night just in awe of everyone who I had the privilege of meeting.
More to come...
xx
First off I need to explain how this school works. Oxford and Cambridge are both made up of 20-30 colleges, each having their own faculties within them. Renad belongs to Darwin College, and therefore lives in the Darwin building, donated of course by the kind Mr. Darwin himself. Ha.
Renad then informs me that we are attending a formal dinner that evening. Apparently, twice a week each College has their own formals. Imagine a Harry Potter dining room, filled with students sitting at long tables, wearing robes-yes, robes. I of course did not have a robe, so I stuck out like a sore thumb, lovely.
We walk in to the hall and Renad hands me a glass of port, ick. We then walk in to the dining room area and find our tables (we each have name cards, myself included) and then we are made to stand until the Head of the College allows us to sit.
(Renad and I both find this all extremely amusing, he apparently hates these things and never goes.)
Across from me are two of Renad's friends. One of them, Phillippe, used to work for the United Nations in New York and now is taking time off to come back to school... amazing.
We had a fabulous three course meal, then took our leave once the Head of the College permitted us to do so. Haha
The social after dinner was in the basement of Darwin College. I met Supreme Court lawyers from Canada who were really great (from Windsor, of all places!) and spent the night just in awe of everyone who I had the privilege of meeting.
More to come...
xx
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Lovin' Leeds
I know I've fallen behind with my posts, my apologies, I was keeping busy in Leeds this week!
I arrived on campus Friday afternoon, backpack on, looking like the lost little tourist that I was. I ventured in to a nearby coffee shop to sit and wait for Lauren to finish class, having a tea of course.
Finally my favourite Brit arrived, energetic and bubbly as ever, I had missed that lovely accent of hers!
Leeds Uni is beautiful, it has a nice sized campus, with student housing surrounding it- a lot like Queen's! We spent the afternoon chatting, sharing stories and catching up on lost time.
That night we went for some Moroccan food and a little vino at a nearby restaurant, continuing our gossip fest.
The next two days were filled with shopping, touring around the city and meeting up with some of Lauren's exchange friends from Edinburgh. We had a great meal on Saturday to celebrate one of the girl's birthdays, and of course ate it whilst watching X Factor! The rest of the night was filled with disco music and dancing!
The weather in Leeds was much like Canadian weather at this time of year, cold and windy. Unfortunately, the heating in Lauren's house does not always reach up to her attic room, so we had to cuddle with a hot water bottle all night to stay warm.
Monday I spent a few hours wandering around the city, soaking up the beautiful Christmas decorations that were beginning to appear. Two of Lauren's Leeds Uni friends were coming to visit that night, Chloe and Naomi. We went out for a lovely dinner, followed by cocktails at a nearby bar. The final club we went to, Jake's Bar was absolutely dead, save for a few members of the band the Pigeon Detectives. (Apparently they are sort of a big deal in England, Lauren was pretty excited, I had never heard of them. They were great guys nonetheless.) We left the bar that night belting out Prince's 'Purple Rain'...great night.
Around this time of year, there are German Christmas Markets that are set up all over Europe. There happened to be a small one in Leeds, so we went there the next night to check it out. It seriously got me in to the Christmas spirit, as well as made me want to go to Germany for the beer gardens. They had one set up there and it looked like loads of fun. Soon...
Seeing Lauren was so great, and meeting her friends and seeing her part of the world was so exciting. We reminisced about Queen's, and made future plans to meet up, (hopefully I'm going to her family home before Christmas to meet her family, and possibly meeting up with Chloe in London for a night!)
I am now back in Thame, re-packing for my next adventure, CAMBRIDGE! Spending a few nights there visiting Renad and friends, cannot wait!
P.S As I'm sure you all know, Prince William has FINALLY proposed to Kate... It's EVERYWHERE. Poor Harry Potter...being outshone by Kate Middleton, not cool.
xx
I arrived on campus Friday afternoon, backpack on, looking like the lost little tourist that I was. I ventured in to a nearby coffee shop to sit and wait for Lauren to finish class, having a tea of course.
Finally my favourite Brit arrived, energetic and bubbly as ever, I had missed that lovely accent of hers!
Leeds Uni is beautiful, it has a nice sized campus, with student housing surrounding it- a lot like Queen's! We spent the afternoon chatting, sharing stories and catching up on lost time.
That night we went for some Moroccan food and a little vino at a nearby restaurant, continuing our gossip fest.
The next two days were filled with shopping, touring around the city and meeting up with some of Lauren's exchange friends from Edinburgh. We had a great meal on Saturday to celebrate one of the girl's birthdays, and of course ate it whilst watching X Factor! The rest of the night was filled with disco music and dancing!
The weather in Leeds was much like Canadian weather at this time of year, cold and windy. Unfortunately, the heating in Lauren's house does not always reach up to her attic room, so we had to cuddle with a hot water bottle all night to stay warm.
Monday I spent a few hours wandering around the city, soaking up the beautiful Christmas decorations that were beginning to appear. Two of Lauren's Leeds Uni friends were coming to visit that night, Chloe and Naomi. We went out for a lovely dinner, followed by cocktails at a nearby bar. The final club we went to, Jake's Bar was absolutely dead, save for a few members of the band the Pigeon Detectives. (Apparently they are sort of a big deal in England, Lauren was pretty excited, I had never heard of them. They were great guys nonetheless.) We left the bar that night belting out Prince's 'Purple Rain'...great night.
Around this time of year, there are German Christmas Markets that are set up all over Europe. There happened to be a small one in Leeds, so we went there the next night to check it out. It seriously got me in to the Christmas spirit, as well as made me want to go to Germany for the beer gardens. They had one set up there and it looked like loads of fun. Soon...
Seeing Lauren was so great, and meeting her friends and seeing her part of the world was so exciting. We reminisced about Queen's, and made future plans to meet up, (hopefully I'm going to her family home before Christmas to meet her family, and possibly meeting up with Chloe in London for a night!)
I am now back in Thame, re-packing for my next adventure, CAMBRIDGE! Spending a few nights there visiting Renad and friends, cannot wait!
P.S As I'm sure you all know, Prince William has FINALLY proposed to Kate... It's EVERYWHERE. Poor Harry Potter...being outshone by Kate Middleton, not cool.
xx
Friday, November 12, 2010
LEEDS
I am sitting in Lauren's bed at the moment, sipping tea and watching Love Actually.
'Tis the season!
'Tis the season!
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Jolly Ol' England
Still in England, in the wee town of Thame. I'm currently working illegally during the day at David's warehouse, packing boxes and making up kits and whatnot. Could be more exciting, but hey, money is money, and this is a huuuuge favour from David. (For those of you who don't know, I'm staying with the family I Au Paired for two summers ago, David is the dad.)
So I don't really have any exciting photos to put up, or stories to report. Besides the fact that we break twice a day for 'tea time', so I've literally been drinking about four cups of tea a day here... And the man who runs the warehouse, Vernon, has a toy model bus collection, (I think he owns around 300+ buses...) and also collects Christmas decorations, which I find really exciting. (He orders them all from Costco, apparently they have really stellar Christmas stuff.)
While I spend my time mindlessly packing boxes full of Nokia mobile phone leaflets, I got to thinking...
I had mentioned earlier on in the blog that my mom had wanted me to have a purpose for travelling, sort of like an informal research project while I visit each place. Originally I was going to take a look at cultural events, or festivals that each city/country hold throughout the year. But now, after thinking more about it and having already experienced some of it, I have decided to really take a look at the sporting industry over here, and attempt to compare it to ours in North America.
Already I have been to a Gaelic Football match, (match, not game) when I was visiting Laura in Dalkey. Her friends brought me to the match, and we watched their team lose, unfortunately. This sport is only played in Ireland, which is really interesting. It has a cult following however, because it is so Irish and unique. The fans are extremely dedicated, and like football, (European football) each Irishman or woman has their club (or team.)The match was attended by all ages. Kids had their faces painted, covered head to toe in their team colours. Cuala was the team we were rooting for, some of Laura's friends played on it, I guess they've played better games...
I also had the great privilege of not only experiencing the game during the afteroon, but also celebrating (yes, celebrating) their loss at the clubhouse in Dalkey later that evening. North American athletes take note-- even though the team had lost, quite badly actually, they still managed to have their spirits up and
celebrating at the pub with all of their friends and family. This would never happen in Canada....
Men of all ages, fathers, sons, and friends were all gathered in this small, warm, and pub-like atmosphere, drinking to good health and good times, and hoping that next time they'll have better luck.
It was a really neat experience, one that was very Irish and one that I hope to have again soon.
There was such a strong sense of camaraderie among everyone, anyone was welcome.
We didn't leave the GAA (Gaelic Football Association) clubhouse until 5am...leaving behind a good number of people still continuing on the celebrations...
So I don't really have any exciting photos to put up, or stories to report. Besides the fact that we break twice a day for 'tea time', so I've literally been drinking about four cups of tea a day here... And the man who runs the warehouse, Vernon, has a toy model bus collection, (I think he owns around 300+ buses...) and also collects Christmas decorations, which I find really exciting. (He orders them all from Costco, apparently they have really stellar Christmas stuff.)
While I spend my time mindlessly packing boxes full of Nokia mobile phone leaflets, I got to thinking...
I had mentioned earlier on in the blog that my mom had wanted me to have a purpose for travelling, sort of like an informal research project while I visit each place. Originally I was going to take a look at cultural events, or festivals that each city/country hold throughout the year. But now, after thinking more about it and having already experienced some of it, I have decided to really take a look at the sporting industry over here, and attempt to compare it to ours in North America.
Already I have been to a Gaelic Football match, (match, not game) when I was visiting Laura in Dalkey. Her friends brought me to the match, and we watched their team lose, unfortunately. This sport is only played in Ireland, which is really interesting. It has a cult following however, because it is so Irish and unique. The fans are extremely dedicated, and like football, (European football) each Irishman or woman has their club (or team.)The match was attended by all ages. Kids had their faces painted, covered head to toe in their team colours. Cuala was the team we were rooting for, some of Laura's friends played on it, I guess they've played better games...
I also had the great privilege of not only experiencing the game during the afteroon, but also celebrating (yes, celebrating) their loss at the clubhouse in Dalkey later that evening. North American athletes take note-- even though the team had lost, quite badly actually, they still managed to have their spirits up and
celebrating at the pub with all of their friends and family. This would never happen in Canada....
Men of all ages, fathers, sons, and friends were all gathered in this small, warm, and pub-like atmosphere, drinking to good health and good times, and hoping that next time they'll have better luck.
It was a really neat experience, one that was very Irish and one that I hope to have again soon.
There was such a strong sense of camaraderie among everyone, anyone was welcome.
We didn't leave the GAA (Gaelic Football Association) clubhouse until 5am...leaving behind a good number of people still continuing on the celebrations...
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Saturday, November 6, 2010
'Quiet desperation is the English way...'
In gorgeous, sunny (surprisingly) England I've managed to do three very English things this week.
1) Go to their new, shiney and gigantic shopping mall in London called Westfields. It's massive, think three times the size of the Eaton's Center. It is also very Euro, which makes it fun to visit. With outdoor cafe's along the perimeter, and a genius architectural design to the building- it has everything you could ever want/need/imagine. Go there if you're looking to shop whilst in London.
2) I had the opportunity to drive on the other side of the road. Now I know that I did this many times during the summer I Au Paired here, however I was not planning on doing it this time, so it came as a bit of a shock. Managed to navigate around roundabouts and hairpin tight turns just fine, stay tuned though...more driving today.
3) Last night we all went to London to see English comedian Bill Bailey's live stand-up show. It was amazing. If you don't know who he is, Youtube him. He's hilarious, and I fell in love with his comedy last time I was over here. My cheeks were literally aching from laughing so hard. Although some of the jokes were revolving around British politics, of which I only know a bit about from listening in to both the criticisms and praises that carry on around me, I nevertheless found his deliverance of each joke enjoyable. He's a funny looking guy to begin with, having big googly eyes, (you'll understand this if you youtube him) so you cannot help but laugh.
Before the show began last night, we had the chance to walk around Leicester Square, which is just off of Charing Cross, right around the corner from Trafalgar Square. Although I have been to London a handful of times, this was my first visit to these popular, and beautiful tourist destinations. Jampacked with people on every street corner, the storefronts and sidewalk cafes were all lit up, with theaters and their twinkling lights shining on every street as well. It was a really nice area, one that I will visit again soon.
What I love about staying with locals when you're in a beautiful country such as England, is how accustomed they become to their incredible historical monuments that fill the city. We were driving home from the show, and passing by Buckingham Palace was like driving past their corner store, no big deal.
I think I have to live in London for a bit...
The sky was also lit up last night, all around the city and surrounding area with fireworks, it was Bonfire Night. It was raining, apparently the British have managed to create waterproof fireworks.
xo
1) Go to their new, shiney and gigantic shopping mall in London called Westfields. It's massive, think three times the size of the Eaton's Center. It is also very Euro, which makes it fun to visit. With outdoor cafe's along the perimeter, and a genius architectural design to the building- it has everything you could ever want/need/imagine. Go there if you're looking to shop whilst in London.
2) I had the opportunity to drive on the other side of the road. Now I know that I did this many times during the summer I Au Paired here, however I was not planning on doing it this time, so it came as a bit of a shock. Managed to navigate around roundabouts and hairpin tight turns just fine, stay tuned though...more driving today.
3) Last night we all went to London to see English comedian Bill Bailey's live stand-up show. It was amazing. If you don't know who he is, Youtube him. He's hilarious, and I fell in love with his comedy last time I was over here. My cheeks were literally aching from laughing so hard. Although some of the jokes were revolving around British politics, of which I only know a bit about from listening in to both the criticisms and praises that carry on around me, I nevertheless found his deliverance of each joke enjoyable. He's a funny looking guy to begin with, having big googly eyes, (you'll understand this if you youtube him) so you cannot help but laugh.
Before the show began last night, we had the chance to walk around Leicester Square, which is just off of Charing Cross, right around the corner from Trafalgar Square. Although I have been to London a handful of times, this was my first visit to these popular, and beautiful tourist destinations. Jampacked with people on every street corner, the storefronts and sidewalk cafes were all lit up, with theaters and their twinkling lights shining on every street as well. It was a really nice area, one that I will visit again soon.
What I love about staying with locals when you're in a beautiful country such as England, is how accustomed they become to their incredible historical monuments that fill the city. We were driving home from the show, and passing by Buckingham Palace was like driving past their corner store, no big deal.
I think I have to live in London for a bit...
The sky was also lit up last night, all around the city and surrounding area with fireworks, it was Bonfire Night. It was raining, apparently the British have managed to create waterproof fireworks.
xo
Thursday, November 4, 2010
More from Scotland
Running on haybails...
Quick Travel Tips
These mainly apply to those travelling on their own...take note:
1. Choose your seat wisely on a train/plane/bus. Scope out the people, the location, and compare it to the amount of baggage you yourself have. AVOID BATHROOM AREAS. My train ride to Edinburgh was less than pleasant because of that mistake...never again.
2. When possible, watch local television shows that are popular with your age group. It's a great way to start up a conversation/debate when you're meeting people for the first time. (My shows now are the Inbetweeners and X Factor)
3. Travel as LIGHT as possible. Ryanair may seem all amazing and magical because it's so damn cheap. But obviously the airline needs to make money, so they find little tiny ways to charge you...a.k.a overweight luggage.
xo
1. Choose your seat wisely on a train/plane/bus. Scope out the people, the location, and compare it to the amount of baggage you yourself have. AVOID BATHROOM AREAS. My train ride to Edinburgh was less than pleasant because of that mistake...never again.
2. When possible, watch local television shows that are popular with your age group. It's a great way to start up a conversation/debate when you're meeting people for the first time. (My shows now are the Inbetweeners and X Factor)
3. Travel as LIGHT as possible. Ryanair may seem all amazing and magical because it's so damn cheap. But obviously the airline needs to make money, so they find little tiny ways to charge you...a.k.a overweight luggage.
xo
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Haunted Castles
Beautiful, beautiful Scotland. We spent our Halloween evening exploring a haunted castle!!!! ...spooky
St. Andrews is definitely a town to visit if you're nearby, it's small, but worth it. You can walk down the cobble stone streets, pop into a cafe for a smoothie or hot chocolate with oreos, (yum!) or grab some of the worlds best fish and chips. -- Rich and I did a day trip to a small seaside village called Anstruther, which has a restaurant there that claims to have the best fish and chips in Europe. (A hotspot for Prince William, when he studied at St. Andrews, and apparently Tom Hanks has made appearances.)
The food was EXCELLENT!
We managed to find an 'American' restaurant one night, and watched American football on the big screen, while eating hamburgers and chips...a nice change.
Going to an international school like St. Andrews, you meet a lot of interesting people...Rich is lucky.
More pictures to come...
xx
St. Andrews is definitely a town to visit if you're nearby, it's small, but worth it. You can walk down the cobble stone streets, pop into a cafe for a smoothie or hot chocolate with oreos, (yum!) or grab some of the worlds best fish and chips. -- Rich and I did a day trip to a small seaside village called Anstruther, which has a restaurant there that claims to have the best fish and chips in Europe. (A hotspot for Prince William, when he studied at St. Andrews, and apparently Tom Hanks has made appearances.)
The food was EXCELLENT!
We managed to find an 'American' restaurant one night, and watched American football on the big screen, while eating hamburgers and chips...a nice change.
Going to an international school like St. Andrews, you meet a lot of interesting people...Rich is lucky.
More pictures to come...
xx
Monday, November 1, 2010
Friday, October 29, 2010
So Rich goes to school in the most beautiful seaside town....it's not fair. This puts Queens to shame. His residence faces out to the sea, and before that a graveyard and the ruins of St. Andrews Cathedral, it's stunning. On the train ride here I passed by two castles...I love this country.
Exploring today- St. Andrews golf course, the church ruins, and the town.
Exploring today- St. Andrews golf course, the church ruins, and the town.
Thursday, October 28, 2010
SCOT LAAAAND
Here in Glasgow now. Staying with Siobhan, a friend from high school who is at teacher's college here. Glasgow, despite its flaws (very high crime rate, rundown buildings nearby) has absolutely the most beautiful architecture! The buildings around town are incredible. Siobhan took me on one of the Hop On Hop Off city bus tours which was a great way to get the whole city in in one afternoon.
One of her flatmates made us a traditional Scottish dinner--steak pie and mash. So tasty.
Then we hit up some pubs/bars. Love the Scottish accents...maybe more than Irish.
Off to meet Richie today!
x
One of her flatmates made us a traditional Scottish dinner--steak pie and mash. So tasty.
Then we hit up some pubs/bars. Love the Scottish accents...maybe more than Irish.
Off to meet Richie today!
x
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Haunted cottage
Photos
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Good Craic
If any of you eventually make it over to Ireland in your lifetime, you absolutely cannot leave the island without visiting Clifden and Galway. The West of Ireland is truly where postcards are made.
I kid you not, it is one of the most beautiful and majestic places on earth. With rolling hills, green as can be, and wild sheep, cows and horses peppering the landscape, you can't go wrong.
We started out in the city center of Galway. Now, Galway is very similar to Kingston and London in that it is a University town. And it was graduation week.... Haha
Rachel and I stayed with one of her friends that is going to school there, in a very, very tiny apartment. It was a night full of riding in rickshaws and jampacked bars, kids spilling into the streets, and late night chipper...good craic. (Irish word basically meaning good times)
The next morning we got up bright and early to catch our bus to Clifden, a small seaside town near Rachel's granny's house where we were going to stay for the next two nights. As much as I had wanted to nap on the bus, I absolutely could not. Not with the unbelievable scenery that was passing by outside of my window. The town of Clifden was small and very Irish, and apparently it has a very large summer crowd. There was an abundance of shops and pubs, with a few cafes here and there as well.
We hired a taxi to take us the fifteen minute drive out to Rachel's cottage. The small house had incredible views, looking over the sea, surrounded by more beautiful scenery, and more wild cows and horses haha...they were everywhere. The gates at the front of the cottages are shut tight in order to keep the cows from wandering in for a snack and leaving behind some not so friendly gifts.
We relaxed, ate delicious food (Rach cooked us a roast, and I finally had some yummy Irish lamb stew, so good!) and went for walks. In order to get back into the village of Clifden, we had to hitch hike. Mom before you freak out, this was the most friendly and quiet place ever. Balleyconnelly, the name of the small town where her cottage is, has one store, a post office, and of course a pub. But that's it.
So we had to hitch rides in to town and back from a couple of different people, all extremely friendly, and very Irish. I had to strain to hear and understand them...Rachel barely could haha.
So on one of our walks, we were just chatting along when all of a sudden I look up and a CASTLE is just chilling there on one of the hills. A CASTLE!!! It was spectacular. I took loads of pictures, and we began to imagine the story behind the abandoned building. Finding out that the owner of the castle is crazy, and strongly dislikes visitors (he's been known to chase them out with a gun) we only admired from afar. Next castle I find, I'm going in.
To get back from Galway to Dublin, we didn't feel like taking the bus...so we had Rachel's dad FLY HIS PLANE TO PICK US UP. NO.BIG.DEAL. It was unreal, the best way to see the country. He flew in his small four seater plane to the airport, and collected us. It was the best way to end the trip. We saw rainbows and rainstorms from the sky...incredible.
Now I'm with Laura Boyd again. I go back and forth between the girls as if they're my divorced parents haha. I love it. Today I'm going to see Bono's house and hope that he decides to go for a walk or something so I can catch a glimpse of the small Irish rockstar. I'll let you know how it goes.
xx
I kid you not, it is one of the most beautiful and majestic places on earth. With rolling hills, green as can be, and wild sheep, cows and horses peppering the landscape, you can't go wrong.
We started out in the city center of Galway. Now, Galway is very similar to Kingston and London in that it is a University town. And it was graduation week.... Haha
Rachel and I stayed with one of her friends that is going to school there, in a very, very tiny apartment. It was a night full of riding in rickshaws and jampacked bars, kids spilling into the streets, and late night chipper...good craic. (Irish word basically meaning good times)
The next morning we got up bright and early to catch our bus to Clifden, a small seaside town near Rachel's granny's house where we were going to stay for the next two nights. As much as I had wanted to nap on the bus, I absolutely could not. Not with the unbelievable scenery that was passing by outside of my window. The town of Clifden was small and very Irish, and apparently it has a very large summer crowd. There was an abundance of shops and pubs, with a few cafes here and there as well.
We hired a taxi to take us the fifteen minute drive out to Rachel's cottage. The small house had incredible views, looking over the sea, surrounded by more beautiful scenery, and more wild cows and horses haha...they were everywhere. The gates at the front of the cottages are shut tight in order to keep the cows from wandering in for a snack and leaving behind some not so friendly gifts.
We relaxed, ate delicious food (Rach cooked us a roast, and I finally had some yummy Irish lamb stew, so good!) and went for walks. In order to get back into the village of Clifden, we had to hitch hike. Mom before you freak out, this was the most friendly and quiet place ever. Balleyconnelly, the name of the small town where her cottage is, has one store, a post office, and of course a pub. But that's it.
So we had to hitch rides in to town and back from a couple of different people, all extremely friendly, and very Irish. I had to strain to hear and understand them...Rachel barely could haha.
So on one of our walks, we were just chatting along when all of a sudden I look up and a CASTLE is just chilling there on one of the hills. A CASTLE!!! It was spectacular. I took loads of pictures, and we began to imagine the story behind the abandoned building. Finding out that the owner of the castle is crazy, and strongly dislikes visitors (he's been known to chase them out with a gun) we only admired from afar. Next castle I find, I'm going in.
To get back from Galway to Dublin, we didn't feel like taking the bus...so we had Rachel's dad FLY HIS PLANE TO PICK US UP. NO.BIG.DEAL. It was unreal, the best way to see the country. He flew in his small four seater plane to the airport, and collected us. It was the best way to end the trip. We saw rainbows and rainstorms from the sky...incredible.
Now I'm with Laura Boyd again. I go back and forth between the girls as if they're my divorced parents haha. I love it. Today I'm going to see Bono's house and hope that he decides to go for a walk or something so I can catch a glimpse of the small Irish rockstar. I'll let you know how it goes.
xx
Friday, October 22, 2010
Galway Girls
Here we are sitting all bundled up by a fire in Rachel's cottage by the sea. This is the most beautiful place in Ireland. Every a window I look out of is a postcard. This could be the backdrop for a scene from PS I Love You ladies. (I can't let Rach see that, Irish people hate when we reference that movie haha)We are going for a walk soon to frolic with wild cows and sheep. Photos to come!!!
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Here we go...
"Well, your adventure begins..." said Bonnie as we landed. She was the lovely lady I sat next to on my six hour plane ride from Toronto to Dublin. I think this was the moment when I fully realized that I was beginning this crazy adventure. Bonnie and her husband Jeff were celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary with a trip to Ireland and Scotland....adorable.
Exiting through customs (I had been really nervous going up to the window, not knowing Rachel's home address of where I was staying...the man asked me two questions, and then sent me on my way. That's Ireland for ya.)
Rachel Rock was waiting to collect me, in her pyjamas. Typical.
We then met up with the lovely Laura Boyd for lunch, and reminisced over paninis and salads, not very Irish, but satisfying. It was great to be with the Irish lasses again!
Refusing to let me get over my jetlag, Rachel had her girls over to the apartment that night. We partied in true Irish fashion into the wee hours of the night...Welcome to Ireland.
Sunday I joined up with Laura's friends (she had to work) and went to my first Irish football match. (Only played in Ireland--think rugby, soccer, and volleyball all mixed together.) It was such a cool experience, very Irish! Laura introduced me that night to chipper (also very Irish, take-out food) which was a tasty treat. After watching X Factor (the whole country is obsessed) we went to Cuala, which is basically the clubhouse/pub for the football team that we had watched earlier that day. It was located in a town called Dalkey. Bono and Van Morrison's homes are also both located in Dalkey...let the stalking begin.
The pub was probably my favorite experience yet. I shared pints with the most Irish men you could ever meet. All in the best of moods (despite their loss) singing and dancing all night long. (Again into the wee hours.) They all made fun of my accent, since I was of course the only foreigner there, and proceeded to make me say things like "out" and "about" repeatedly throughout the night.
I also had the absolute pleasure of meeting the Irish version of The Situation. I kid you not, this is NOT A JOKE. It was fantastic. The most entertaining guy I have ever met. It was grand.
At one point too the bartender, Rob, challenged me to a pint pouring contest. I gladly jumped behind the bar (think Cuba guys) and poured a Heineken... Did a pretty good job too...
Today I went to Rachel's hometown, Draghada, to meet the fam and see her house. It was a picturesque little place, about half an hour from Dublin. It was really nice to see where little Rachie came from, and to see her family again!
Tomorrow we are off to Galway! We're there for a night, then we're going to Rachel's cottage about an hour from the city. Should be beautiful! There until Friday or Saturday... Updates to come...
xx
Exiting through customs (I had been really nervous going up to the window, not knowing Rachel's home address of where I was staying...the man asked me two questions, and then sent me on my way. That's Ireland for ya.)
Rachel Rock was waiting to collect me, in her pyjamas. Typical.
We then met up with the lovely Laura Boyd for lunch, and reminisced over paninis and salads, not very Irish, but satisfying. It was great to be with the Irish lasses again!
Refusing to let me get over my jetlag, Rachel had her girls over to the apartment that night. We partied in true Irish fashion into the wee hours of the night...Welcome to Ireland.
Sunday I joined up with Laura's friends (she had to work) and went to my first Irish football match. (Only played in Ireland--think rugby, soccer, and volleyball all mixed together.) It was such a cool experience, very Irish! Laura introduced me that night to chipper (also very Irish, take-out food) which was a tasty treat. After watching X Factor (the whole country is obsessed) we went to Cuala, which is basically the clubhouse/pub for the football team that we had watched earlier that day. It was located in a town called Dalkey. Bono and Van Morrison's homes are also both located in Dalkey...let the stalking begin.
The pub was probably my favorite experience yet. I shared pints with the most Irish men you could ever meet. All in the best of moods (despite their loss) singing and dancing all night long. (Again into the wee hours.) They all made fun of my accent, since I was of course the only foreigner there, and proceeded to make me say things like "out" and "about" repeatedly throughout the night.
I also had the absolute pleasure of meeting the Irish version of The Situation. I kid you not, this is NOT A JOKE. It was fantastic. The most entertaining guy I have ever met. It was grand.
At one point too the bartender, Rob, challenged me to a pint pouring contest. I gladly jumped behind the bar (think Cuba guys) and poured a Heineken... Did a pretty good job too...
Today I went to Rachel's hometown, Draghada, to meet the fam and see her house. It was a picturesque little place, about half an hour from Dublin. It was really nice to see where little Rachie came from, and to see her family again!
Tomorrow we are off to Galway! We're there for a night, then we're going to Rachel's cottage about an hour from the city. Should be beautiful! There until Friday or Saturday... Updates to come...
xx
NEW BLOG
Hey guys,
Really sorry, but I cannot for the life of me remember my old gmail address...haha whoops. So I had to create another blog. Please keep checking this one, I won't be updating the old one!
Really sorry, but I cannot for the life of me remember my old gmail address...haha whoops. So I had to create another blog. Please keep checking this one, I won't be updating the old one!
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