Day 1 in Cologne, and didn't know what to expect. The taxi driver when I arrived was so funny, and had me in hysterics, but also warned me of some area's around my hotel and also of pick pockets. I arrived to my hotel after dark, so my night in was pretty quiet. I did however wake in the morning, feeling a little worse for wear after a few nightmares - I think what he said played havoc with my mind. But, after a full breakfast I headed out on foot and the first place I find is the Alter Markt (Christmas Markt). I was amazed. The whole area was vibrant with Christmas stalls, beer barns, and a skate rink for people to go skating on. It would be lovely to do it, but dont want ... read more

Flying to Amsterdam from Leeds.. was a long day, after catching 2 buses and then waiting for the international flight to Amdsterdam. Finally arriving at my hotel at approximately 9pm, it was time to get some well deserved rest. 1st day of December, In Amsterdam, and the temperature of just 2c. Rugged up I went out for the day, visiting the Ice, I Amsterdam area, also doing a tour of the Coster Diamonds Museum, and shop and got to try on some wonderful diamond rings while there. And yes a replica of the Royal Crown...all those diamonds.. From there I met for lunch with a friend who lives in Amsterdam. Erik met me at the Van Gough museum and then we made our way to lunch. I thoroughly enjoyed the lunch and of course meeting Erik. ... read more

Today I had a tour ticket for the Anfield Stadium - Liverpool FC home ground. I arrived a little early, so I could do the museum prior to the tour. I had the opportunity of getting my photo taken with the Champions League Cup - and not only did i just get to put my hands on it, i got to lift it and hold it near a life size picture of Steven Gerrard. What a highlight, I then walked through the museum looking at the history of the club, the Managers, the Players, and also a few pieces of the Hillsborough tragedy, where 96 lives were taken during a game in 1989 because of overcrowding including the memorial wall. From the museum I then went for my tour. Instead of the normal 40 to 50 ... read more

Monday and it is onto my next destination, Liverpool, North of London. A 6 hour bus trip and I arrive around dinnertime. I was pretty hungry, by the time I got there. I checked into my hotel room, and wow, what style and was a dream room... such a shame I was on my own, but I love it. needed to eat so thought to go for a walk, and I find this authentic Italian restaurant.. Oh my goodness, I have never tasted anything like it. Spaghetti Gamberi, and Lava Cake for dessert. I have outdone myself with the selection of room and meal tonight, but has got me ready for a big day tomorrow. The hotel location was central and everyyhing is within walking distance too.... read more

It's Saturday, and what a better way tahn to go to Notting Hill, to the Portabello Markets. Full of little stalls, with antiques, jewelery, and of course clothing and food stalls. I saw the biggest crepes ever, and just had to try one.... Nutella was what they use as a base, although you can choose your own bases.. I had strawberries and cream, and it was so yummy and filled me up right through to dinner. I did a little bit of shopping of course :) I didn't get to see the blue door, although did manage to see the bookshop, the tattoo shop and the coffee shop stores which were in the Notting Hill movie. :) It was a nice walk although the weather was a little drizzle throughout the morning. From Portabello Markets I ... read more