Travelling the UK & Europe post Covid -19
“BUEN CAMINO” - GOOD JOURNEY
Over the past week I have been adventuring in Northern Spain – walking a small part of the Camino de Santiago Way.
I know a lot of our clients are avid walkers and if you ever get the opportunity, I would love to help you experience this fantastic area.
The Camino de Santiago or the Way of St. James, is a pilgrimage of Medieval Origin to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, in the North West of Spain.
It is said that the remains of the Apostle Saint James the Great were buried here and discovered by a shepherd in the 9th century.
This city is named after the apostle - Santiago de Compostela in English means -St James of the Field of Stars.
The Camino de Santiago is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is more than just a pilgrimage – it is the experience and trip of a lifetime which each year attracts many people from all over the world to walk the many different routes.
The most popular route is “Camino Frances or The French Way” of which I only walked a very small portion from SARRIA to SANTIAGO – 117.3kms over 6 days.
Along the way I spoke to many other “pilgrims” some who had started this route in St. Jean Pied de Port and who had been walking for over 40 days to complete the entire journey along this route.
Day 1 – Sarria / Portmarin 22.4kms
Day 2 – Portomarin / Palas de Rei 25.0kms
Day 3 - Palas de Rei / Melide 14.8kms
Day 4 – Melide / Arzua 14.0kms
Day 5 – Arzua/ Arca 19.1kms
Day 6 – Arca / Santiago 22.0kms
Completing at least 100kms of your chosen route and obtaining your Pilgrim stamps from the various hotels, restaurants, bars and shops along the way (minimum of 2 stamps each day) will allow you to obtain your Compostela Certificate.
I did this on my own – but I did not feel at all lonely.. I met some fabulous people along the way, and over the 6 days enjoyed drinks and dinners with my new friends.
There was such a mix of people types walking this route for many different reasons (religious, fitness)… families, couples , heaps of singles, old people, young people…from many different parts of the world.
I even met some fellow Aussies over this time.
One memory I will keep forever is of an older couple – well their late 80s….trudging this path… The gentleman with a walking stick, the lady with a walker….both with beaming smiles.
Note the paths are rocky, slippery, muddy – and I am amazed how they managed.
I was greeted with the words “Buen Camino” over and over – day in and day out….and have only just looked up to find the meaning of these words -“good journey”.
I walked up mountains, down mountains through the most beautiful little hamlets and villages…..through farms, crossing creeks and rivers….
There was so much to see including Romanesque Churches, Monasteries, rainforests, medieval bridges, castles and the most stunning Cathedral in Santiago at the end…
It was certainly not a walk in the park – and we experienced quiet heavy rain for the last 3 days, which made it a little harder to manage…cow manure mixing with mud, getting soaked through to the bones… but I was determined to finish every step which I did!!
I stayed in some great little 3-4* hotels – very food and wine focused in this region.
I carried a day pack and had my luggage transported each day….but there were many pilgrims walking with all their gear on their backs…no accommodation prebooked either.
There are so many Albergues (Hostels) along the way that don’t take bookings ..first to arrive gets the room for approx EUR10.00 per night– many of these offered refreshments to all throughout the day…and this is where I would stop for a drink and some lunch each day.
My stay in Santiago was at the most beautiful PARADOR hotel - The Parador de Santiago, known as the Hostal dos Reis Católicos, is a blend of history, art and tradition.
https://www.parador.es/en/paradores/parador-de-santiago-de-compostela
I feel so proud that I completed this challenge I set for myself…..and I enjoyed it so much that I am planning to walk the Portuguese Coastal Way next time.
I can highly recommend that you consider adding this or something similar to your next trip to Europe…for me it was the experience of a lifetime!!!
THE MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR / BEATLEMANIA!!!.... a visit to Liverpool is a must!!!
I was really looking forward to my stay in Liverpool – mostly as I am a closet Beatles fan!! And Liverpool certainly did not disappoint!
It is a really cool city with lots of things to do and see…
I managed to fit in a fair amount of sightseeing and touring over the few days that I was there.
There was also a Liverpool / Villarreal on at Anfield Stadium which made for a very interesting night with fans from both teams singing and dancing through the streets!!
The Magical Mystery Tour is a must do if you are a Beatles fan like me…the tour takes you to the childhood homes of the Fab Four as well as Penny Lane and Strawberry Field. The tour finishes with a free entry to the Cavern Club where there is regular live music daily. Really well worth taking the time to do this tour!!
The Beatles Story - Be transported on an incredible immersive journey as we tell the story of how four young lads from Liverpool were propelled to the dizzy heights of fame and fortune from their humble childhood beginnings. Replicas of the Casbah, Mathew Street, Abbey Road Studios and The Cavern authentically capture the early '60s, allowing you to personally experience the very places that helped make The Beatles the greatest band in the world.
If you are an Art Lover – don’t miss TATE Liverpool
And a ferry ride on the Mersey River is a must….
Wonderful architecture , the shopping is fantastic, and the food is great (visit the fabulous restaurants located in the Royal Albert Docks)
All in all – Liverpool is a wonderful city to spend some time in – consider including in your next trip to the UK….you won’t be disappointed!!
BONNIE SCOTLAND - INVERNESS AND LOCH NESS
A visit to Scotland is said to be not complete without a visit to Loch Ness..
I think you need to visit this area once….but it is very touristy and I probably would not go back.
There is the opportunity to search for Nessie on a boat trip on the loch.. Inverness is located on a river and quiet pretty with the castle on the hill overlooking the city.
DUNVEGAN CASTLE - ISLE OF SKYE
A visit to Scotland is not complete without exploring a castle.
Dunvegan Castle is located on the Isle of Skye and owned by Clan Macleod.
A wonderful insight into life prior to the modern amenities we have – complete with Bed Pans, Candles and an old fashioned Fire Extinguisher – which I am sure would not have been of much help in a fire..
PORTREE - ISLE OF SKYE
Seafront Portree
My stay in the Isle of Skye was at the Bosville Hotel in Portree.
A 4* ‘Pub Style” hotel with a great bar and a magnificent restaurant.
The only downside here – and in most of the British Towns is a lack of parking onsite in these old buildings…
The homes on the Isle of Skye are mostly white cement rendered with slate grey roofs….
The only colours I saw in the buildings was along the seafront in Portree.
My 4 nights were spent in the Northern Part of Skye exploring the area and attempting some of the hikes
Driving in the north near Uig to Staffin was slightly hairy until I got used to it…single lane roads with pull off areas on steep cliff faces….everyone is so patient waiting for each other and I felt proud of myself for managing the drive with no major incidents… Road signs are shown in Gaelic and English which I didn’t realise for a day or so !!
BONNIE SCOTLAND - THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS
The drive from Loch Lomond to the Isle of Skye was approx. 4 ½ hours… nothing for Australians, but talking to any Brits they were shocked I achieved this in the one day…with stops I might add!!
The path took me through Fort William and I was surprised to still see snow on the mountains….
Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in Scotland and home to the local ski resort - which is also open in the summer for hiking activities.
NEVIS RANGE MOUNTAIN EXPERIENCES
LOCH LOMOND
A wonderful and jaw dropping week I have spent in Scotland including The Highlands, Isle of Skye and of course Inverness to seek out Nessy – The Loch Ness Monster.
The scenery in the Highlands is so stunning changing from driving along the waterfront of the Lochs to the Mountainous Highlands.
I spent one night in Loch Lomond on my way to the Isle of Skye. I really should have considered this more and had an additional night.
There is a stunning Virtuoso Hotel in Loch Lomond – Cameron House which I was lucky enough to visit.
Ironically and through no research ( a travel agent always leaves their own bookings to the last minute) the hotel I was staying at was located next door to Cameron House.
The property offers Bedrooms and Suites plus self catering lodges…
Arrive by Seaplane , play a round of golf, take a boat trip on the loch, go hiking – there is so much opportunity for an adventure at this hotel.
CAMERON HOUSE
Standing on the peaceful southern shores of Loch Lomond occupying over 400 acres of magnificent woodland, Cameron House is an 17th century baronial mansion offering deluxe accommodation, award winning cuisine, superb leisure and outdoor pursuits. In addition, our championship golf course “Carrick on Loch Lomond” and exclusive spa provides an inspirational setting. With interiors that are almost as dramatic as the exterior of the manor, our stunning residence evokes character and comfort at every turn; we’re sure you will adore our impressive setting and the elegance that spans centuries.
As a valued client of Main Beach Travel you would receive the following Virtuoso benefits
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily full breakfast for two guests per bedroom
Cruise on Loch Lomond on Celtic Warrior, once during stay
Nip of Whisky from the Virtuoso Whisky Locker
Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
THE LAKES DISTRICT
The Lakes District in Northwest England is my most favourite part of this country so far.
It is a popular destination known for its lakes and mountain hiking.
Lake Windermere is 16km in length and 1.6km at its widest
My stay at the Old England Hotel – located right on the lake in Bowness on Windermere was wonderful. My room overlooked all of the activity on the lake and there were some beautiful areas to sit outside in the gardens on the waterfront.
The Bowness Blues Festival was on over the weekend which made for great entertainment with the Cinelli Bros – England’s # 1 Blues Band being one of the headliners – they were so good!!
My time was spent exploring this beautiful area both by water on the many boat services offer to the villages of Ambleside and Lakeside.. and also by foot checking out the galleries, traditional pubs and many cute little shops!!
The Samling Hotel is the Virtuoso property located in the Lakes District and whilst not located in a town, is not too far from Ambleside or Windermere.
Overlooking acres of Lake Windermere, The Samling Hotel immerses visitors in England’s enchanting Lake District. The striking gabled Georgian house, surrounded by a cluster of old stone buildings, boasts a coveted perch overlooking Windermere with expansive views across this UNESCO World Heritage site. Each of the 12 rooms displays individual character while lavishing guests in comfort; exceptional dining is enhanced by one of the world's best wine lists.
Our valued clients would receive the following Virtuoso amenities when staying at The Samling:
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily breakfast for two guests per bedroom (included in hotel rates)
$100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
JENNY TAKES ON THE SEAS ON A SILVERSEA CRUISE
I have been so very lucky to travel on the Inaugural sailing of the new Silversea ship – Silver Dawn.
The ship is the latest addition to their fleet and is the sistership to Silver Muse which has visited Australia on a number of occasions.
Cruising you say…after the Ruby Princess debacle???
Well – I am here to tell you that it was a wonderful experience and that all cruise lines have adapted their protocols to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff.
Staff were masked at all times but passengers have the choice to wear a mask or not…except in the theatre/showroom masks must be worn.
A negative covid test is required to be shown at the pier prior to boarding – currently Silversea are offering pre testing prior to embarkation.
To be sure I was all ok, I had my test the day prior to flying to Lisbon in Heathrow.
Temperature test each morning is taken by your Butler (yes I did say Butler)
If you (or others in your Travelling Party) test positive for COVID-19 or get identified as Close Contact during the cruise, SILVERSEA will:
Provide COVID-19 related medical treatment free-of-charge while onboard the ship;
Arrange and provide necessary land-based quarantine facilities free-of-charge for you and affected members of your Travelling Party; and
Coordinate and pay for appropriate travel arrangements to get you and affected members of your Travelling Party back home.
https://www.silversea.com/ships/silver-dawn.html
My cabin category was a Deluxe Veranda Suite on Deck 8 – very roomy with a lounge area, walk in robe, desk to work at and a spacy balcony. Just the perfect cabin for me!!
The ship is absolutely divine with stunning décor, lots of small restaurant options (Silver Note being my favourite), great lounges and bars with spectacular views.
As this was the Inaugural sailing for Silver Dawn we could tell the Captain and staff were all excited and very happy to be hosting passengers on the cruise.
Spain …. It is one of my favourite countries and the selected ports did not disappoint.
We travelled from Lisbon to Barcelona on this 7 night sailing which offered some fabulous shore excursions and the opportunity to see iconic cities including Seville and the Alambra Palace in Granada.
The weather wasn’t kind to us for a couple of nights along the Southern Coast of Spain – it was a bit of a bumpy ride!!
My time was spent wandering through the alleys and lanes of the Old Towns of these ports and trying to keep my step rate up for my 7 day Camino walk in May.
PICASSO MUSEUM - MALAGA
PICASSO MUSEUM MALAGA
https://www.museopicassomalaga.org/en
CENTRAL MARKET- VALENCIA
FLAT TYRE !!
Today I had to navigate the issue of a flat tyre on my hire car!!
I was stopped at some roadworks, only to have a lovely English elderly gentleman tap on my window to tell me the back left tyre was nearly flat…..
What to do about that in the middle of the country with no idea of the closest service station or town!
My response to him was – “Thank you…How flat?”
“Nearly flat” - he said…
I was approx.. 3 miles from my appointment at Ellenborough Park and decided all I could do was take a risk that I would make it there – and so lucky that I did…
The staff at the hotel were fabulous and assisted me in calling Avis roadside assist…I left the key with the concierge and he dealt with the car whilst I enjoyed a nice lunch.
Roadside assist pumped up the tyre and fixed it with gel….and also some rules – which I had to sign for.
Dont drive over 50 miles per hour (that’s near impossible for me) and don’t drive for more than 100 miles before getting that tyre properly fixed.
Heathrow Airport is just on 100 miles from my base (not accounting for getting lost) and the closest Avis Depot was 60 miles in the other direction at Birmingham Airport.
After some discussion with the hotel, they called and made an appointment for me to have a new tyre fitting in Cheltenham that afternoon – the car was fixed in approx 20 minutes and I was on my way!
Let’s see if Avis will cover the new tyre that I have paid for!!
“• always include “Roadside assist” in your car rental agreements
• It might not be a bad idea to learn how to change a tyre!!
”
ELLENBOROUGH PARK 15TH CENTURY COUNTRY ESTATE
Yesterday I inspected the beautiful Ellenborough Park located on the outskirts of Cheltenham.
I was made to feel very welcome by the Director of Sales – Joanne Reeves and her staff who hosted lunch and showed me around the hotel with some history lessons to boot!!
Ellenborough Park is a magnificent 15th century English country estate with a luxury spa, and beautiful grounds. Perfectly situated on the edge of the Cotswolds and a short drive from Cheltenham town centre.
The spacious bedrooms have luxury bathrooms with heated marble floors, fluffy bathrobes and plush toiletries. All rooms feature 21st century modern conveniences; many have garden views, some with private patios.
A culinary experience at Ellenborough is a memorable one, summer Alfresco options include the Taittinger terrace, Cedar Pavilion tent or in one of our quirky dining carriages. The main restaurant will be serving classical dishes and the historic Great Hall is the perfect backdrop for an afternoon tea.
The Indian inspired spa offers a chic décor and tranquil ambiance, it features mood showers and a juice bar. Guests can relax and unwind in the sauna, hydro pool and relaxation zone or the more adventurous can enjoy the all-weather outdoor heated swimming pool and fitness suite.
Steeped in history and boasting 5 stars, Ellenborough Park is nestled between the Cotswolds’ highest point and the gallops of Cheltenham’s world-famous racecourse.
HISTORY OF ELLENBOROUGH PARK
From humble beginnings a tenant farmer called Thomas Goodman discovered a slightly elevated spot and decided to build his house here. Block by block, transported by horse and cart, the building began in 1485 with the Great Hall.
Described as a ‘pretty manor place’ in 1533 by the King’s Antiquary and ‘one of the greatest curiosities in the country’ in 1796 by Samuel Rudder, Ellenborough Park has held a revered position in the county’s archives for more than 500 years.
The many layers of history at Ellenborough Park are personified by the overlying centuries of oak beams, stone fireplaces and intricate stained glass that adorn the hotel. If we look at the Ellenborough era, when in 1833 the 1st Earl of Ellenborough and former Governor General of India purchased the estate as his home, you can see how this fine property gained its current name.
In 1947, a Miss Bellamy opened the Oriel Private School for Girls on the site. This ran for 25 years until the school and property were sold again to become the Hotel De La Bere, which closed in 2008.
The restoration of Ellenborough Park commenced early the same year and took three years to complete. The vision was to transform a dated hotel by breathing new life into its historical elements and intersperse within it the modern luxuries of the world’s finest hotels.
In our seventh year of being Ellenborough Park, we started an extensive refurbishment. The aim of which was to not only rejuvenate the property, but to offer an experience that would delight all guests who visit the hotel. Cheltenham welcomes visitors from all over the world, and to keep our hotel at the exquisite standard that our guests expect, we made the decision to modernise and restore our public areas, in keeping with our history and heritage.
The refurbishment saw the hotel gain a new front entrance in the form of the original door from 1485. The Horse Box brasserie transformed, and our Restaurant received a complete makeover. A new reception area was also created alongside our cocktail bar and lounge, The Atrium. beautiful and historic house.
Ellenborough Park is rich in history which still shows through today.
There are still the holes from arrows (yes – bow and arrows!!) in the original front door of the property!!There are many of the original buildings in full use at this hotel – the extensions and additional rooms added have taken on the original look and it is hard to tell the new from old.
One of my favourite areas was the “Boot room” where guests can be fitted with boots and jackets and provided with a picnic in a backpack for a day of exploring the property…
I certainly recommend this hotel for a special experience to those of you planning a driving tour of the UK or for those who have been to London many times and are looking for a special stay in the English countryside for something different on your next trip.
The hotel is a Virtuoso Partner Hotel – and our valued clients would receive the following amenities for 2022.
Room Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Daily Full English breakfast (included in rates)
Complimentary Full Afternoon Tea with glass of champagne for two guests, once during stay
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Complimentary Wi-Fi
SPRINGTIME IN THE ENGLISH COUNTRY SIDE
Springtime sees the English Countryside at its best with wildflowers all along the roads and lanes – many yellow daffodils enhance the beauty of this area.
So many baby lambs on all the farms – very cute!!
For those of you who love walking and hiking – this is the place to stay with many different paths on offer including the iconic Cotswolds way.
I have been in training here for my big walking adventure in Spain – although the weather hasn’t been on my side with a couple of days of constant drizzle.
It doesn’t seem to bother to locals who just rug up and get on with it…..
I head off to Portugal in the next days to board Silver Dawn for my 7 night cruise.
Fingers crossed that I test negative at Heathrow Airport and can be on my way!! A negative test is required for me to enter Portugal and board the ship.
Heathrow offers a 4 hour result Covid PCR test for GBP 129.00….*That is approx AUD $250.00!!! – we all know who is making some good revenue out of Covid!
LOOKING FOR ROYALS IN WINDSOR
Today I spent the day in Windsor hoping to catch sight of some Royals!!
An 8km walk from my hotel along the River Thames on such a beautiful London day….
There is so much wildlife along the river – including 100s of The Queens white swans.
I passed Boveney Lock, but unfortunately there were no boats going through so I didn’t get to see it in action.
As I was nearing Windsor, I turned a corner to see the magnificent Windsor Castle towering over the town. It really is an incredible sight with so much history.
The town itself is fairly touristy, with tonnes of Pubs and Souvenir shops surrounding the castle.
One of the old pubs is named “The Duchess of Cambridge” - I am sure Kate would be pleased!
Windsor Castle is open to visitors - entry fee is GBP 26.50
ARRIVING IN LONDON
Staying out of Town
I had the smoothest arrival in London this morning – no Covid tests and no crowds!!
My bags were through very quickly and I have collected my rental car and made my way to the hotel to settle in quiet nicely today.
For a stay outside of London you might consider Monkey Island Estate - a luxury hotel on a private island in the River Thames….a few minutes from Windsor.
https://www.monkeyislandestate.co.uk/
I am lucky enough to be spending the next two nights at this hotel which is part of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World group.
It is a glorious Spring day in London – temperature of about 18 degrees…..and this is a beautiful location right on the river to enjoy!!
Monkey Island Estate lies on a picturesque island in the River Thames in the historic village of Bray, Berkshire. The island has a rich history centuries old, and has been the haunt of monarchs, aristocrats and artists, along with writers, famous performers and Berkshire locals and now is home to one of the finest hotels in Bray.
The two grade I listed heritage pavilions which form the property were originally commissioned as a fishing retreat in 1723 by the third Duke of Marlborough. These have been completely restored and renovated, with beautifully landscaped gardens and picturesque views of the River Thames. Set across seven acres, Monkey Island Estate features 40 exquisite guest rooms, and the Grade 1 listed Wedgewood Suite, designed by the award-winning New York-based Champalimaud Design.
DEPARTURE FROM AUSTRALIA
Travelling to the UK for vaccinated travellers is fairly seamless at present.
I flew with Qantas who require a copy of your International Vaccination Certificate upon check in with your passport and that was all.
There are no pre Covid testing requirements for the UK and no isolation on arrival – Hooray!!!
I enjoyed a great flight via Darwin on the Qantas 787-900 – I was lucky enough to use my points for an upgrade to Business Class making it a very comfortable trip.
The Business Class product on this aircraft is second to none with a roomy lie flat bed, large screen monitor with all the latest releases (House of Gucci is definitely worth watching), and a fabulous Neil Perry Menu!! Power and charge ports for phones and laptops and even a mirror for a make-up touch up!!
The Qantas Business Class cabin offers a single row on either side of the aircraft for Solo travellers and two seats together in the middle for couples/families travelling together.
The layout of the seats is great for privacy – especially the single seats adjacent to the window.
One downside- no wifi onboard Qantas International flights at this stage…..it felt so strange to be out of touch with the business for the duration of the flight but I actually enjoyed it (sorry everyone 😊)
Cabin crew were very accommodating and extremely happy to be back in the air!!
Flight time of just under 17 hours directly – DARWIN/LONDON…no worries about Covid restrictions transiting via Asia or the Middle East on this direct service.
It is so great to be travelling again !!
“A copy of your International Vaccination certificate can be downloaded through your MyGov and Medicare Ap.
You will need to enter your passport details so the certificate can be linked to through to your passport.
”
Jenny will be heading off to the UK later this evening
** Watch this space for her travel journey. **