And finally....

 So here it is-the final blog. The ferry's booked, Kye' had his treatments, the route to Dieppe has been planned and I have a table booked in the restaurant for my final French meal. Brittany has been fantastic- great wide beaches, skies that go on for ever, delicious seafood, Irene and I really enjoyed our few days; since then I have been back in Chartres where this trip began.

And what a trip its been- lasted 20 weeks, covered over 12000k's and had some amazing times - yes, of course there have been some down times but they pale into insignificance when I consider the life I have been so fortunate to have led - everything I had asked for-  and talk about being looked after - not one thing has gone wrong  (whoops, maybe I shouldn't be pushing my luck, Not at Dieppe yet!)
And Betsy has been a star - I was so lucky to find her - thanks Steve at Eastfalia.

But I can't go without thanking you all for your texts and emails- they made such a huge difference. And whilst this adventure is finishing a new one begins- where to live, how to earn some money so I can go again if I want to - so much to look forward to - but don't worry, - I'm not planning on blogging that one - not yet anyway.

So, a final au revoir and a bientot from Jane and the gang.

A quick note

To all of those of you who have emailed me regarding finding a  vet for Kye-he thanks for you for your concern, says he's well but has to have a flea and tick treatment by a vet before he is allowed back into the country.(Even though he has been having them every two weeks.....! )

 He does wonder why I dont have to have any shots - I tell him that its because alcohol kills all known germs, and there he was thinking I was doing it for pleasure,
Bye for now

France Continued...

 And since then I have been pottering around the Burgundy region- really lovely - full of little villages, medieval monasteries and fabulous towns like Beaune - where I couldnt resist a winetasting in 13th cellars - 13 million bottles but we didn't get the really good stuff- wonder why? (This is a picture of the famous Hospital de Beaunen) and Cluny famous for its abbey.
Have been staying on municipal sites which tend to be just outside the town and cost around 9euros per night. And talking of the nights- brrr is all I can say on a public site- if I tell you that 8am its been 6 degrees you get the idea- but it has been lovely and sunny during the days.

Making my way to Brittany now, meting Irene in Dinard next weekend, going via Carnac and the standig stones. After then, well think the weather is telling me that its time to head for the ferry so will prbably be back the following weekend after fidning a vet for Kye's treatment - he is really wel and enjoying France I think.
So adieu et a bientot.

En Route to France

 These are the mountains through which the Frejus tunnel passes, I dont think I have ver been in such majestic scenery - and people put their feet into two pieces of wood and throw themselves down them- must be mad!

But it was a fantastic drive, although the tunnel itself wasn't that great- as its so old there are no fans so it gets very stuffy- hate to think what it would be like when its busy - the diesel fumes must be awful- memo to self- next time close the windows!

But after the lovely drive I came upon yet another lake- and stayed a couple of nights on Lac du Bourget - beautiful.

Arriverderci Italia, Bonjour France

 As you an see the sun has come out again and I've had a great time here on Lake Orta - its a very special place and I think the nicest of the 4 lakes that I have visited and not just because of the weather!
Its small and beautiful and there's a lot to see and do and not too many tourists- if you're a walker then this ones for you.
Anyway- tomorrow I'm off over the border to France, lst leg of this journey. Will be meeting Irene in Dinard on the 21st  for a few days but got 2 main wine growing regions to get through first.
Here's to continuing good weather for us all.
Ciao for now

A quick hello

I'm sure that there are many of you, my dear readers ( staring to sound like Jane Austen now,) who are of the  age to remember the song Hello Mother, Hello Father about the child who was at camp - well, that's just how its been with me -all will become clear.

I have been on the Italian Lakes for five days now - firstly Lake Garda - which was incredibly busy so I scarpered after one night though Garda itself looked as if it could be nice, and arrived at Lake Iseo which is much smaller and prettier, three nights there and arrived at Lake Como. How fab I hear you thinking- and yes I am very lucky to have this opportunity - only thing is that until this morning I've not been able to see much of the area due to the atrocious weather - thunderstorms, torrential rain, strong winds and the temperature not much above 13 degrees.  Now I know I didnt engender any sympathy when I was coping with temperatures in the 40's and I understand why- but just a little sympathy if you would for the last few days- no form of heating, everything gettng damp - at least have proved the point that can't sleep in Betsy in the winter!

But now the sun has come out and it is goregous - think Lake Como is the prettiest of the three I have visited,-  the mountains are stunning so am looking forward to a couple of days around here. I did go on a ferry trip around Iseo just to pass the day really but couldnt see much so am hoping for better things this week.

Unfortunately the on board elecric system has packed up, a very nice German spent about half an hour trying to fix it for me but to no avail - not a real issue just makes life slightly more complicated- more thinking of how to charge electrical items and how to keep the wine cool as the cool box does drain the battery quite quickly- have got the solar panel to trickle charge the battery but that does depend on the sun ( see above!)

 But apart from that life on the road is going well, probably ought to leave Italy soon for the sake of my hips - have had some scrummy food this time.

So will sign off with the wish that you are all well, keep the texts and emails coming, really do appreciate them.
Bye for now

Buon Giorno from Italy

As most people who read this blog will know  I  realised that staying in Greece this winter wasn't really a workable option so decided to head back to the UK. As it seemed silly just sitting in the same place spending money I booked  the ferry and came back to Italy, arriving on Wednesday morning but not before visiting Meteora. For those of you who dont know it I urge you to Google it- it is the most fantastic place and the drive there over the mountains is stunning - mainland Greece has so much going for it, I think it is a shame that generally we only think of the islands when we think of Greece.
 Anyway, back to Meteora - not only was it stunning it was cooler and I found a great campsite with a pool, lots of trees and greenery and bird life -total difference to the past few weeks..And I also had a very enjoyable encounter with a pair of  rare animals- native English speakers! We had a riotous supper together thanks to the very good local wine

.After three days it was with a sad heart that I headed back down to Igoumenitsa to get the ferry, I've had such a good time and met nothing but kindness - I look forward to coming back and being able to explore Thrace and Macedonia - will just make sure that its not the height of summer next time!
I had a nasty shock when I went to the ATM just before getting on the ferry , it  appeared to process the card, return it but not any money - major panic, but phoned the Caxton people who assured me that all was well - really cannot find fault with these guys, transaction free, no charges, good exchange rate and a great service - dont know how they are making money but its not from me.

Good ferry crossing, on the open deck option again which means that you can sleep in your camper but use all the facilities, great option as it saves paying for a cabin and especially if you have a dog otherwise they would be in the kennels. And there were lots of us this time- probably 40 so we had a nice little community with lots of dogs crossing their legs - number 1's were okay but number 2's??? so as we disembarked there was a  line of campers heading for, and stopping at, the first sight of greenery where there were lots of relieved dogs!

First stop in Italy was Urbino - much as I love Greece, it was nice to be back in Italy, was ready for a fix of Baroque and Italian religious art and boy, have I met that need in the last couple of days - I've been up to my eyes in Madonna con Bambino, especially in the National Museum in Ravenna -they've a whole room full. But my idea that it would be a bit cooler in Italy hasn't quite worked out, it has been in the high 30's, low 40's - sorry to go on but the real problem is keeping Kye cool especially when sightseeing in the cities, and yes I suppose I should have thought of that but ... so we are now back on the coast where there is a lovely breeze whilst I work out next  step.

Think that I will head for the lakes, Lake Maggiore and Iseo then to France via Turin, would like to spend some time in the Loire Valley and maybe finish off in Brittany - haven't been there since I was little but may not be rushing off too soon as this campsite has got a great onsite restaurant - nuff said!

So, I hope that everyone is well, so glad that you are having some good weather at last, wouldnt it be great if there was an Indian summer.
Till the next time,
Ciao

Meteora

 Photos cannot do justice to this amazing place. It really is other worldly and i urge you to google it to get a better idea. There are 7 monasteries in continual use from the 14th century, the first holy men used the caves from the 11th century - mind blowing

Nidri Waterfalls

 This isa lovely spot just outised Nidri, which sadly  not such a lovely spot as it is very touristy- but here we're up in the hills. Theres a freshwater pool just behind me, I didnt take the plunge!

Vassiliki Bay

So this was home for a few days and I'm sure you can see why.

On the Move

Hello everyone, hope everyone has settled down after the Olympics, bought an English paper last week as there was an Olympic special in it, was really good to catch up on all the excitement, haven’t heard much about the Paralympics though – did it just fall off the radar?

Most of the people who read this blog will already know that I have decided to head back to the UK, my idea of living in Greece for the winter has turned out to be not that realistic for a number of reasons, prime being that there will be no work for foreigners this year, its hard enough for the Greeks bless them, and also the language will be much more of a barrier than I had thought- maybe I should have given myself a fighting chance and chosen a country with the same alphabet! And I’m starting to miss you lot!

But I’ve had a lovely time here – been shown nothing but kindness and have just loved being back amongst Greek people, they’re seem so laid back – I went to get my hair cut yesterday, they said it would be about 25mins so I said I would go and get a coffee – oh came the reply in that case don’t rush, see you in about an hour!

And its not over quite yet. My ferry to Italy is booked for Tuesday night but before then I am heading to Metorea about 5 hours from here. It is famous for having a number of monasteries perched on top of high rock pinnacles – the monks used to be hauled up by ropes and baskets but think they’ve moved on from that now. I am also told that it is a very beautiful part of the country.

I had originally thought that I would go up to the Italian Lakes on the way back but have since decided to take a more direct route as diesel is the greatest expense so afraid George Clooney is going to have to come and find me!  So as before, I’ll let you know where I’m going when I know.

Will post some pictures when I’ve got better internet connections.

So bye for now

I've unpacked!

Surprise, surprise- the wind blew me back to Lefkada, specifically to Vassiliki where I have moved into a studio apartment on the far end of the bay. Has everything I need as well as a spare bed so if anyone can find a reasonably priced flight..... though be warned it is basic and the weather is very, very hot!
So as I'm not a sun worshipper the challenge is to keep us both cool so I am currently sitting in a cafe overlooking Syntota bay drinking an iced cappucino -they are so delicious! Have taken the room till the end of August, then I'll see. Till then I'm on holiday. ( So whats new I hear you ask)

Had an uneventful journey from Salonica once I was heading in the right direction - I was happily barelling along, having left at 6am to miss the traffic and worst of the heat when I noticed that I was driving along coastline - hmm I thought, I'm supposed to be driving through mountains then I saw a sign for Sofia which you will all know is in Bulgaria!! Interestingly the compass was showing west but guess that the fact that I was driving into the rising sun should have given me a hint. Well its only the 2nd time in 5000k's so think thats not a bad track record.

Thought you might be interested in two aspects about life in Greece at the moment-life is getting so difficult with increased taxes and reducing incomes its becoming more common for younger people to move out of the cities and go back to their homes n the villages because they can at least feed themselves there - sustainability in practice.
 I was quite shocked to hear that following the latest elections the extremist party is now the 4th largest in the parliament - this is leading to major abuse of the mainly Afghan immigrants in the cities, evidently many people were so disaffected by the choices in the elections that they didn't vote. Of course I am living in a little bubble being on a tourism island and not speaking the language, one can't know whats really going on.

On a lighter note I have been enjoying the Olympic coverage on Greek tv- they focused on the beach volley ball for a while then the pairs synchronised swimming which was quite amazing to watch - no tennis or track events yet but I have hopes- brilliant that the home team are doing so well, long may it contiune.

Bye for now

The Lovely people at Akti Retzika

So I'm off tomorrow, and here I am with  Katerina, her adorable son Kyriakos and her lovely Mum Soti. They have made me feel so welcome and I will miss them but guess thats the life when you're travelling- its been a lovely interlude and I hope to return next year.So, back on the road and we'll see where the wind takes me.
Bye for now
Jane x

Interesting what can happen

Well, it appears that phase 2 is staying here in Epanomi and not doing very much of anything at all for the next week apart from relaxing and enjoying myself. After all, that's what gap years are all about isn't it?

Bye for now
Jx

Proud Parents and Godmother

The Very Happy Couple

Another day in Paradise

Hi All,
We,, since I last wrote I moved on to Vassiliki Bay in Lefkas which is a lovely place that Irene and I had stayed at a couple of years ago when this whole idea started. Spent a few days there then moved over to Thessaloniki in preparation for the trip to England for my godsons wedding.
So as planned Irene arrived last Monday and we have settled on a lovely campsite on a long sandy beach but because of the thought of us all being squashed in Betsy we moved into an apartment with a real bathroom. Its a lovely place on the beach with lots of gardens, trees, beach bar and a choice of 3 tavernas.

Last Thursday I flew to England for a very brief visit (sorry to the people I didnt manage to oonnect with but it was very hectic) and spent a wonderful 24hours in Bristol. The wedding was very special and I wouldn't have missed it for the world - then a flying visit to Cuckfield and back on the 6am flight on Sunday. Luckily the weather was good for the wedding, dare I say that I quite enjoyed feeling cool for a change but have enjoyed the weather since I got back. Glad to know that the sun is shining for you all now and hopefully for the Olympics. Am hoping to find a tv for Friday to see the opening ceremony.


 Irene goes back to England tomorrow (boo) and I will move back to Lefkas on Thursday with a plan to find somewhere to settle for the month whilst I formulate the next phase, will keep you posted when the bright idea comes.
Till then hope you enjoy the photos from the wedding.
Bye for now

A quick reminder of what summer looks like. (sorry!)

 This is the view from the campsite I've been staying at since I arrived in Greece on Sunday morning after a sleepless night on the ferry.Am about 30 ks from the port -saw this and decided I could cope for a few days -just outside Parga.
Really feel like I'm on holiday now, bought a parasol and snorkelling kit and have done very little for 3 days, lovely rest after all that driving.
Will probably move on down to Lefkada tomorrow for a few days and then up to Thessaloniki to meet Irene and then back to England for the wedding - really looking forard to that, hope the weather changes for that big day and for you all.
Bye for now

Greece - here I come!

Hi,
Just the quickest of messages to say that I am in Bari to get the overnight ferry to Greece- done over 2000K in Italy and have loved it.
And guess what-I have a surprise visitor in the shape of Irene who decided to incorporate some sunshine with waving me off at the Ferry terminal - seems so appropriate given that idea for this trip started while we were in Lefkas nearly 2 years ago. True to form she has also brought a big suitcase full of goodies - Im so lucky with my pals.,

So arriverderci from Italy,it will be Kalimera from Greece next week.

When in Rome.....

 Ready

Artist at work

Flegrea House garden

Up Pompeii

Hello everyone, hope all is well in your worlds-  have been spending much of the last couple of days visiting the amazing sites of Herculaneum and Pompeii with a side trip to a little known Roman villa on the outskirts of Pompeii called Oplontis – worth a visit if you are in the area as it has some wonderful frescoes.
Am camped on a site just opposite one of the entrances to Pompeii –Spartacus camping- ( could have had Zeus or Apollo – getting the picture?) and its a lovely little place with a plunge pool and little shop, downside is it has the hungriest mosquitoes I have come across on my trip!

Decided to see what modern Pompeii has to offer last evening so went off with Kye around 7pm and came upon a large square with fountains and large church complete with high bell tower with angels on each corner, also a couple of nice restaurants so had a very nice supper. Just about to leave when  3 American ladies came along to the next table, all dog mad- next thing Kye and I were happily ensconced, me with large glass of red wine.
 And what a good evening we had! I am proud to announce that we formed the international branch of the Montesano Dog Club, based in Alabama, I’m looking forward to receiving details of our first convention. My heartfelt thanks to Constance, Pollie and Elizabeth for a great evening and wish you all well.

So on the move today, back up to the Puglia region to a part that I missed last time the Gargano National Park and just a couple of hours north of Bari in preparation for the ferry on Sat night.

So, bye for now
Jane

Wafted into Paradise!

Just wanted to let you know what a lovely relaxing time Weeze and I are having- we are just outside a busy town on the outskirts of Naples called  Pozzuoli. But we are staying in the loveliest of places, nominally a b and b, in effect it is a haven of peace and tranquillity with a lovely garden with lemon, orange and apricot trees. Oh, and a pool!
Only one other person staying so we have taken over the whole place, the owner is a sweetie and has given us access to a kitchen so we are self catering, except for breakfast which is served on the terrace.

This a major archaeological area, with the 3rd largest amphitheatre in Italy which we visited today, the rest of our time has been spent doing not very much at all - bliss.

Kye of course is in his element as no only does he have his Auntie Weeze to spoil him he has the choice of beds - I on the other hand am just luxuriating in constant hot water, a washing machine, unlimited internet and yes, of course a big bed. Betsy is having a well deserved rest as well. Got 2 more nights here- think we're going snorkelling tomorrow then Weeze is back to Blighty and I'm back on the road.

Will post pictures whenever, bye for now.

Oh- huge excitement as its the Euro final tonight, fingers crossed.

paestum

 

fishing net in abruzzo

 

how this for a view? the concrete carpark

 

On the East Coast

Hello again, hope you are all keeping well. Glad to hear that the weather is improving in England, though how long that will last given it is Wimbledon.... I’ not going to mention the weather here as it appears that I am getting little sympathy, just to say that Kye has been having trouble adjusting – seems to spend most of his time asleep, so no difference there then!

Talking of sport- the last night in Gallipoli was the Euro 2012 match between England and Italy. I happened to be at the bar checking my emails when they were setting up a big screen and lots of people started to arrive, so being curious ( and not having seen a tv since I left) I went over to see what was happening. Sat down and started to watch then realised that I was outnumbered about 400 to 1 so decided that discretion was the better part of valour, wished the lads well and beat a retreat.  Found out the result the next night and decided it had been the right move.

 I left Gallipoli on Monday morning and headed off towards Lecce which is supposed to have a wonderful Baroque centre- took me a lot longer than I had anticipated and arrived to discover a very large and very busy city, round and round I went looking for the old part, got very hot, frazzled, lost so decided I had seen a lot of baroque in the past weeks and left- sometimes I’m not the greatest sightseer. But I did have a destination in mind- a very old town called Matera which I reached just in time to find my overnight stop.

Matera is famous for its old town called the sassi – houses cut into caves, people were still living in these caves up to the 1950’s and not through choice, it was one of the poorest places and malaria ridden areas in the country, there was such an outrage about children dying of the disease that the government of the day was forced to do something. It is really quite fascinating and has an interesting energy/feel to it. Wandering around one could get a sense of a real community, the part I was in had a number of music academies so there were sounds of different instruments wafting in the air, quite entrancing.

My overnight stop was at an agrotourism site, only took 10 campers but outside town with horses, goats, peacocks and no cicadas much to Kyes relief. To my relief they had hot showers – the first for 5 days – lovely! Oh and a nice restaurant where they only served local dishes – no pizzeria here.

The last couple of nights I have been on a very relaxed, and relaxing site just outside Paestum, south of Naples. The site opens directly onto a lovely long sandy beach with good sea – big rollers and surf.

Went to visit the site today, Paestum has one of the largest Greek temple complexes outside of Greece , 2 of the temples are in great condition and the museum has explanations in English which makes it so much more interesting- had heard about it a long time ago and has been on my list – it did not disappoint!

So tomorrow on my way to Naples, well, just outside to meet good pal Weeze who is coming over for a few nights. She has booked us into a dog friendly b and b, not sure which I’m looking forward to the most, seeing her or sleeping in a bed (only joking Weeze) both are going to be great. Am sure we will fit in some sightseeing as well as lots of chat.

With that I’ll sign off. Hope that Andy Murray isn’t causing too much stress no doubt the papers are full of will he won’t he, lets hope he does.

Ciao from a cold and wet Italy. (and if you believe that you’ll believe anything!)

Phew, its hot!!

Hello all,
Just a quick post today to let you know that I am just outside Gallipoli on the plantar surface ( or underneath) of the heel of Italy- no I didn't realise there was another one either!,

Am staying on a largish campsite that would be hell if it was busy but as it isnt its fine. It does have a lovely pool area so have decided to stay for a few days and just stop, feeling a bit weary from the heat ( sorry to go on about it) and also didnt have the best of sleeps in the concrete car park due to the security lights, then the next night camped in a pine woods as there were absolutely no campsites for miles around. Had had a great day sightseeing- largest caves inEurope- grotto di Castallena- google it for some amazing sights and then the Truli area- little conical houses specific to this area.

The scenery is very like Greece - quite barren, olive groves,pine wods and loudest cicadas I have ever heard, having real problems getting Kye out of  Betsy cause hes cared of the noise!

Right, thats my lot for now- internet access not that easy so will be in touch again soon.
Ciao for now.
x

view from campsite in volterra

 

Basilica in Assisi

 

The Italian Adriatic Coast

Well, I guess you've all painted lovely mind pictures having read the title of today's message and yes- some of the scenery has been stunning, and I bet you are conjuring up a picture of the campsite we are at tonight- well, I bet that you couldnt get near it. I'm just outside a little town called Polignano a Mare which has great reviews in the Lonely Planet, the old town is jutting out on limestone cliffs with caves and waves crashing.

And where am I camped in the midst of all this natural beauty? Why - a huge concrete car park of course! Its actually an 'area de sosta' which are basically sites for campers and lorries, they provide  basic services, but this one has got showers and free  wifi all for th princely sum of 10 euros. And before anyone starts getting anxious, it has great security, there are 5 other campers here including an Australian couple who had stayed the night before so am quite safe, if not entranced. But it was the only place to stay, no campsites for 10 ks either side of the town and  it really was time to stop.

Been steamy hot today, even the Italians are commenting. But its been a good day, driven down the autoroute from just south of Pescara on the Eastern Coast to Bari-lovely city, spent a bit of time wondering the streets in the old city then went down to the ferry port and booked my ferry to Greece- July 7th with Superfast ferries, chose them because they have an open board option after July 1st - this means that you can sleep in your camper and use all the facilities on board with no extra cost. This also means that Kye can stay in the van, other ferry operators require you to put them into a kennel, for which you have to pay. Anyway, seems like a really sensible option for an overnight crossing. And now I've decided on a date I can work out a bit of an itinerary.

Seems like there is lots to explore round this area of Puglia and then the heel of Italy, but depending on time I might drive round the whole foot but definitely want to visit Herculaneum and Paestum which are both in the Naples area - anyway, wait and see.

Also wanted to say thanks for the nice comments you have been sending either via the blog or emails, glad you are liking my ramblings. I enjoy doing it too. Will have another go at some photos.
Right off for a nice cold shower - Thursday is forecast 40 degrees- will make sure am not in concrete car park!
Bye for now,
Jx

Bon Giourno from the top of a mountain overlooking Assisi, on a very hot afternoon.

 We’re camped in the middle of a pine forest so have some shade and a little breeze, its wonderfully peaceful, a resident blackbird is singing his heart out all day, but so glad he doesn’t turn into a nightingale when the sun goes down!

Quite a lot has happened since I last wrote so you might be best to put the kettle on or pour a glass.

I spent 2 days in Pisa and really enjoyed it- went down to the south of the city across the river to get a feel of the real Pisa and then later in the day went back to visit the sights. What I wasn’t prepared for was how beautiful the whole place is, and whilst it was good to see the leaning tower I was completely blown away by the Duomo and the Baptistry – I spent a very happy couple of hours wandering around ending up with a campari and soda in a pavement bar. That night there was yet another tremendous rainstorm, made me feel quite at home

The next morning I pottered about a bit putting off the moment I was going to have face the roads and all these mad Italian drivers, had been hearing horrific stories of being nearly forced off the road by other campers. Well, as I couldn’t sit in the campsite in Pisa until my money ran out I girded my loins (metaphorically) and set out for Lucca. Well, what a breeze that was! Before I knew it I was there and had no problems at all, driving along a lovely road with the most amazing scenery.

Into Lucca, and to be honest I wasn’t that impressed, walked around a bit, found the cathedral which was closed, found two other churches I wanted to see, which were closed, so decided that I would leave and head for Sienna.
Decided to take the smaller roads so that I would see San Gimgiano en route so after a few detours round parts of Lucca that you normally wouldn’t see as a tourist I found the right road. (By the way, aren’t roundabouts great? If you’re not sure which road it is you can just keep going round- my record is 4 circuits so far!)

Anyway cutting a long story short, I drove through the stunning Tuscan countryside all the time climbing and climbing, I was going via a town called Volterra where I would turn off to SG; when the turn came I looked at the road which was even narrower than the one I was on, and with my promises not to do anything foolish ringing in my ears, sighed and continued along the Volterra road. SG would have to wait for another time. Sienna here I come.

Except – up and up we went, round and round we went, switchbacks and corners with the road narrowing the higher we climbed and no option than to keep going. Betsy was a star, didn’t quite have to change into 1st but there were a few moments when I wasn’t sure we were going to make it especially when we went round a very tight bend and met a lorry coming towards us. But the bonus of course was the view, breathtaking- unspoilt  mountains and valleys.
 Just as I was thinking how nice it would be to stay round there up popped a sign for a campsite and that’s how I came to discover the lovely hill town of Volterra.

The campsite was just lovely, very relaxed, nice areas to walk Kye off the lead and not too busy. The walk into the old town was about 25mins (uphill) through the more modern town which was vibrant, lively with childrens laughter and such friendly people, the old town was stunning and blew Lucca in to a cocked hat.

Met some lovely people at the campsite, an English couple Andy and Pam who have been travelling around Italy, got married on Elba and have decided they want to make Volterra their home and a Belgian couple Eric and Galetta   who were on holiday and were sad to be leaving. We had a very happy evening drinking more of the local red than was probably wise (well the boys did anyway).

After 2 nights there I decided to head for Sienna and Assisi, after all I had been in Italy for 4 nights and only travelled 60 kilometres. So up early to miss the traffic and the crowds and arrived in Sienna by 9.30am. Parked up just outside the city walls, in the shade for Kye, and in I went. Well,  as soon as I entered the city I was in love, everything about it. The piazzas, the architecture, the Duomo which is an art gallery in itself and could take a day to really appreciate. I realised that there was no way I could do justice to this wonderful city so decided that I would leave with the intent of going back for a proper stay, outside of summer, sometime in the future. So with a bit of a heavy heart I got on the road to Assisi.


Scenery changed as we went from Tuscany to Umbria- rolling hills rather than mountain peaks, bypassed Perugia (pretty town, big traffic jam) then arrived in Assisi. Been a long held wish to visit here and it hasn’t disappointed. Apart from the St Francis connection, which is what has drawn me, I hadn’t appreciated what a beautiful city it is. I’ve had a very special time here, one which will always stay with me.

So, I’m planning to be off tomorrow, was originally going to go to Orvieto and see the cathedral there but think I have had a surfeit of cathedrals, religious paintings and hill cities so think I’ll head off towards Puglia and find the sea- who knows? But when I’ve got there I’ll let you know where I am.

Sorry this has been a mini novel rather than a post- hope its been worth reading.

Ciao!

 
 

 
 

 

Yes, its me again, twice in 48 hours but just wanted you to know that I have landed safely in Italy and am at a campsite  about 10mins walk from the centre of Pisa. Charging a huge amount of money compared with France but then again - location, location, location!

Thought I'd give you a few statistics from the last couple of weeks:

Driven 1928km, highest point was 560m.

Average price of campsite - 15e per night

Average price of baguette - 1.10e

Average price of cup coffee - 3.00e, same as beer, wine much cheaper at 3e per bottle- no contest!

Diesel 1.35e in supermarkets, 1.45e in garages

Number of GB plates seen in Corsica- 1

%of people met in France and Corsica who spoke English - 20%

% of people who laughed at my pathetic attempts to speak French (not including Irene,) 50%- the others just sighed!

Number of conversations I have had in English since I arrived on this campsite  - 6!

As for the weather - torrential rain all last night, forecast cloudy and overcast – I’m sharing your pain!

Bye for now

 Hello from sunny Corsica on Saturday June 9th. Sounds like you all had a great Jubilee celebration, I watched it on I Player and it just shows that we Brits can show the world how to party, will also admit it brought a bit of a tear to my eye or maybe it was just dust.
Irene and I spent the night  at a French Passion Farm - now now, don't get too excited - its the name of an organisation of farmers who offer free overnight stops in exchange for you buying their produce. Well ours went one step better and had a little restaurant under the pine trees, also open to the public, so we spent a very happy evening there. the most beautiful views over the valley and a lovely walk around the fields. Didn't feel it was appropriate to bring out the union jacks i had brought for the occasion but think those will come in useful later in the trip - tell you more when its time.

Now, I know I keep talking about the fabulous scenery we have been passing through and would love to show you pictures but am having real difficulty getting my head around picasa 3 and Livedrive briefcase - I need a Nick, ( sorry for those of you who dont know what I'm talking about, just bear with me) Do hope that I will get some photos on soon.

So, after the Camargue we drove down through Provence to Toulon - I can just hear you francophiles screaming at the thought of just driving through one of the most beautiful parts of the country but we had a reason, we really wanted to get to Corsica in time for Irene to see some of it. We did have a little stop in a very small town in Provence where we very nearly created a diplomatic incident when we drove into the field where they were preparing for a big procession that all the town was waiting to see - lots of horses, a band, a girl all dressed up who was obviously the centre of attention - until we arrived that was.

 And why did we drive in there  I hear you ask? Well, because we are good drivers who didnt want to block the road and followed the parking signs- how were we to know that they led to the field in question and that the entrance was only just wide enough to get Betsy through  and that they were going to make us turn around - how ould we know?? Well, it was absolute chaos - men shouting at us, Kye barking, a policeman trying to manoeuvre us out by shouting in the loudest French we had ever heard - are you getting the picture? So glad Irene was driving. Anyway, she got us out and we beat a hasty retreat thinking we might not be welcome.

So down to Toulon which was very noisy because there was a rugby semi final and they won-then Irene remembered  Jonny Wilkinson played for Toulon so we celebrated with them. Got the overnight ferry to Ajaccio which was sooo comfortable - our cabin was bigger than Betsy and we had beds! One each! with pillows!! except that I had to have Kye who was very good as I had slipped him some calm you down pills. Arrived the next morning after a good night sleep and a nice breakfast and off we went again.

Both of us fell in love with Corsica as soon as we got on the road- stunning countryside, wild forests, mountains, long sandy beaches and little coves with azure blue seas. Quieter roads though goodness knows what they would be like in the summer when the hordes arrive. We did a lot of sight seeing including prehistoric sites, roman remains and lots of citadels and old towns - all worth a visit.
The campsites have been so much more relaxed and we've had a really enjoyable time. Then the sad morning when Irene had to go back to real life, unsurprisingly there were a few tears on both sides but then the stiff upper lip came back into play ( along with the rescue remedy) and we both just got on. Irene flew Calvi to Marseille to Gatwick, I went to Calvi to buy a ferry ticket for Italy on unday afternoon and then got out of there because we were on one of the least favoured campsites - everyone in their place and woe betide anyone who steps out of place.

We did have a bit of a crisis when we discovered the water pump on Betsy had packed up - but its no real problem as water is easily available and it does mean less weight so easier to get up the hills.
I have spent the last 3 nights at a lovely relaxed, ramshackle campsite on the beach just outside st Jean de Floret on the northwest coast - sure it was a lovely little fishing town once  but now it has a big marina with big boats and women with big hair, but tucked round the corner is the locals marina - much more my style.

So Italy beckons tomorrow- think it will be a bit of a shock after this peaceful sojurn but these past days have reminded me that I am on holiday not a route march so will definately make sure I have some down time.

Thats all for now, thanks to everyone who has emailed, appreciate hearing news or send me a text-either way good to hear.
Bye for now.
Jane x

Hi All,
Thinking of you starting to celebrate the Jubilee- hope you all have a great time. Its Saturday and we are down on the Camargue at a campsite on the beach,  sun is shining with a lovely breeze which is such a relief after the last couple of days.
We've been at Carcassone which I have wanted to visit for many years- it really is a little fairytale castle up on the hill but it transpires that the turrets are not original, added in the 19th c- also its rather a tourist trap but we visited in the evening so it was  peaceful. Am starting to understand why people asked if I was bringing  bicycle- we are walking miles but helps wear off the croissants!

Learned a salutory lesson this morning when we were leaving the campsite- don't let the fuel get too low and ask at the campsite where the nearest one is;, we went round Carcassone for a good half hour  ( even using the satnav) before we could fill up and get on our way - think we only saw 4 petrol stations in the first 15mins of travelling.

So our original plan was to head up into Provence but as were driving we decided to head down this way, only just got into the area and we saw a huge flock of flamingoes and the white horses are everywhere- just like the New Forest really. We have been seeing the most amazing scenery as we've driven down -I never realised that France was so beautiful - the other thing we have noticed as we come further south is the change in the cars- definitely moving up in the world- porsches etc- wonder what we'll see as we move closer to Nice- probably just like the carpark at the McIndoe!

And on the note- bye for now
Jane and gang

Hello All, Its Wednesday eve and we are in a lovely campsite on the river just outside a town called Laguepie on route to Albi. Had an amazing day driving through Dordogne and then the Lot Valley using back roads as much as we can. Stopped in an lovely town called Beaulieu which has  a medieval abbey - this is starting to  become a theme this trip - last night we stayed in a town called Chambourcy which has a medieval town which is still inhabited - it appears to hang over the cliffs and is built of sandstone which gleams at sunset.
We're on our way to Albi and then to Carcassone - somewhere that's been on my wish list for a long time, after that, well not sure yet but think it will be a few days r and r though whether its in France or Corsica is still to be decided.

The sleeping arrangements are working okay- Kye seems to get more quilt than either of us but as we are getting further south it doesn't seem to matter as much. What is notable is food prices - much higher than anticipated however as wine prices are so much more amenable I'm sure I will come out a winner - though  the 48 hr abstention will prove to be even more of a challenge!

Only problem is that Kye is really unsettled, I know he will adjust as time goes on ( not got much option has he?) but in the meantime he is a bit of a sad dog - Irene and I though are happy as.... choose your won phrase.

Bye for now and will try and do some photos next time, thanks to everyone who has emailed or sent texts- much appreciated.
Jane and team

Coffee Break

 Bonjour mes amies. Well, we made it across the channel arriving in Dieppe at 4am English time. Irene and I envying Kye as he was tucked up in his bed in Betsy whilst we were struggling to get comfy in the chairs.
Anyway - here I am at 5.30 am having a cup of coffee by the Seine, and very lovely it was too.

We are now parked up in a lovely campsite in Chartres and will be staying for a couple of nights. Walked miles today, the cathedral is absolutely amazing and a lovely old city. Only problem is that all the shops are shut for 2 days as its Pentecost so no chance of getting any provisions.Mind you the restaurants are open so bon appetit!

Must tell you that I used the satnav this morning to find the campsite so thats another set of word I'm going to have to eat!

Bye for now,
Jane

Hello all, can't quite believe it but I am only six days away from leaving; booked on the overnight ferry from Newhaven to Dieppe next Saturday. Itinerary so far is down to Chartres for the first night then somewhere close to Limoges, then onwards to Carcassone and around Aix en Provence for a few days of well deserved resting in the sunshine ( remember that??) Then over to Corsica for a couple of days then ferry back to Livorno in Italy and down to Brindisi to get the ferry to Greece - need to be there in time to come back for a few days to attend my godson, Tom's wedding on July 20th. After that, well who knows, but when I do I'll let you all know too.


So I am spending the next few days with good pals and then packing Betsy on Friday - lets hope she turns into the Tardis I have so much I want to take! And quite how Irene, Kye and I will manage our sleeping arrangements for the first week.......


Will be popping back when I can, bye for now

Here's Betsy!

 Next photo will be in the sunshine!