Arrive in Moscow after 18 hour train journey, exactly on time. Shocked at the lack of delays - would just not be acceptable in England. Again, the weather is fantastic. We successful negotiate the metro, with me speaking Russian like a native (paddy), drop off the bags in Sweet Arbat hostel (v nice, great welcome, fab location on Moscows main street), and dash across the city to complete my world tour of stuffed former communist leaders. Lenin is on display in his mausoleum on Red Sq until 1pm on Thursdays and having just made it in time to see him, I [View Full Entry]

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Our arrival in Riga is met by frozen winds and a warm memory, tinged with regret, of the coats which we abandoned in London. D'oh. We clamber onto a jam-packed bus which whizzes us into Riga old town, nearly to the frontdoor of Franks Friendly Backpackers where a free can of fine Lativian beer greets us as we come in the door - proper welcome:) Slight confusion when English barman becomes convinced that le Frenchman Nico is Welsh. Tell Nico that must wear his beret and onion-string from now on to save mix-ups. Claim our bunkbeds, abandon the rucksacks (sore shoulders! [View Full Entry]

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Best day ever. Just had time to add a few photos before heading off on honeymoon... [View Full Entry]

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Finished the Paris marathon! Managed to keep running for over 5 hours! The so-called 'winner' only lasted 2hrs07. Lightweight. Brilliant day, really enjoyed the run - yes, really. Temperature was nearly 30degrees but unbelievably felt fine with the heat. Water stations running out of water was a bit rubbish, and I think 10 loos at the race start on the Champs-Elysee for a field of 35000 was a bit optimistic, but still, the triumphant sprint finish and getting the medal were unmissable. Planning the next one, perhaps backwards this time:) [View Full Entry]

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Hurray!! [View Full Entry]

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