We start our journey across the Kzyzlkum desert, from Khiva to Bukhara, 450km of sand and scrubland, which will take 9 hours. The first 200 km is on a recently-made smooth dual carriageway but after this we bump and bounce our way along a rough, frequently potholed road and eventually arrive in Bukhara shaken but not quite stirred!! We have our evening meal in the hotel, which is one of our worst meals so far, and unfortunately several of the group, including both WanderingPeter and Alison are struck down with a dose of "Bukhara Belly" which curtails our exploration of Bukhara somewhat. One or other of us, however, does manage to see the wonderful Kalon Mosque, the Kalon Minaret (1127), demonstrations of the famous Bukhara carpet weaving and a meal at the house of a miniaturist ... read more

At last, we are traversing a section of the ancient Silk Road - travelling around the major "Silk Road Cities" of Uzbekistan. We arrived in the early morning in Tashkent - the exotically named capital city. Driving around the city we were amazed by the tree-lined, wide roads with extensive Russian-style buildings. A massive square, with a central statue of Timerlane on horseback - the Uzbek national hero, had pride of place. The whole square was surrounded by impressive large white buildings, headquarters of banks and industries, and the stark soviet built Hotel Uzbekistan. The Kukeldash Mosque, with its turquoise-coloured dome sparkling in the sun was magnificent, together with sandalwood pillars, tile and brick work. The adjacent medrassahs, a small museum, housing the world's oldest Koran, and other buildings formed a scene of Central Asia and ... read more

The Great Ocean Road, 151 miles running between Torquay and Allansford on the South East Victoria coast, has been described as one of the greatest coastal drives in the world - it certainly is!! The scenery is simply stunning, especially in the first section between Torquay and Lorne, where the road twists and turns along the coast, right at the waters edge. Bays and inlets of bright turquoise sea, large surf and long sandy beaches come into view around every bend. We break the trip by staying at a B & B in Apollo Bay, a small seaside town set on a wide expansive bay. We take a side trip, along Cape Otway Peninsula, to the old lightstation. On the way back we are again fortunate to see Koalas in the wild - more photographs!! Next ... read more

Our journey continued due south to the Australian Capital Territory and into the capital city of Australia - Canberra. Our first impression was of a quiet city with wide open boulevards lined by large Eucalypt trees, low buildings and the feeling of space. We found our hotel, with the help of Sheila, which was situated on capital hill and were pleasantly surprised that it had been recently refurbished. As it was a Sunday we had a drive around the city, enjoying the lack of traffic. We visited the National War Museum which was extensive. There were many exhibits, maps plans, photographs etc presented in a way which explained all the conflicts that Australian troops had taken part in. The Australians appear to honour their war dead in a big way. Next day, although hot and sunny, ... read more

What a fantastic city Sydney was! There was so much to see and do, the people were friendly and helpful with an amazing ethnic mix resulting in a vibrant atmosphere and a wide choice of restaurants all of which seemed to be of good quality - but it was not a cheap city to stay in!! Our first day showed us the highlights on a city tour. Sydney harbour was as spectacular as seen on the TV - but actually much better!! The Harbour bridge dominated the view across the shining blue waters of the harbour with the white shells of Sydney Opera House sparkling in the sun. Magical!! Bondi beach was exactly as one imagined - a sweeping stretch of white sand, deep blue sea with large rollers, surfers and bronzed bodies lying out under ... read more