Blogs from Stockport, Greater Manchester, England, United Kingdom, Europe

Suzy has taken root. If she stands much longer she will develop flat feet. She will develop flat spots on her boots. She will become mucky and muddy in the incessant rain that seems to have fallen throughout December and January and looks to continue for a week or so through February. She is fed up. No perhaps I should rephrase that. I am fed up. It has felt like a long winter with everything shut up. Despite looking at camping books, reading blogs I feel as if my feet are rooted in this Derbyshire earth. Everywhere is closed. Things though perhaps are looking up. Next week is half term. The children will be having their first holiday of the year. At this time the National Trust wakes up as do other heritage sites. They understand ... read more

So we are now back on British soil and it feels surprisingly great! I’m not too sure we’ll be so enthusiastic when were back at work and reality hits home, but for now its really nice to see everybody and to have our home comforts back.. Vimto, flushing toilets, kebabs, cider, our bed, the list is endless!! We had a great last week in Thailand, we spent a few days in Bangkok shopping, then headed back down to Hua Hin to Kris’s house for a great few days of R & R.. check out the pics from the Intercontinental’s pool, it was absolute bliss and the perfect way to end our trip! Our final weekend was spent in Bangkok with Kris, Oay and Abi. Darren had his ‘lads night’ with Kris and Mark which thankfully didn’t ... read more

The Beaches of Brazil From Rio we caught the bus to Paraty, and what a stunning coastline. Small little harbours with golden sandy beaches fringed by palm trees and little beachfront bars (overlooking the Nuclear power station and the oil pipeline). We stayed in a great little B&B, which was completely empty except for us, that meant long leisurely breakfasts and afternoons by the pool. Paraty is a lovely old colonial town with cobbled streets and whitewashed houses, a final chance to kick back before we come home. It was also our last chance to enjoy the local Brazillian food which has been superb. We have had some of our best South American meals in the last 10 days. Farewell Brazil After a few days on the beach it was back to Rio before catching our ... read more

So, we are one week away from starting our big adventure. A lot to do in not a lot of time. Can't wait. Bit giddy, bit scared, bit rough from last night still.... read more

Today I woke up around 11:30 am, I stayed in Lindsay's room, it was glorious. So much better than a hostel. Her bed was like a giant pillow and I had a lot of sleep to catch up on. I felt bad though because my cousin Stephanie was planning to take me to Manchester United's field at 10:00. Luckily, I discovered she was still asleep as well, so I decided to take a shower. Their bathroom was very typically English. It was themed in black and white with the ceiling beams visible. In the middle was a huge white antique bath tub that took up the majority of the room. In the corner was a small curved glass enclosed shower with a hand held shower head. It was incredibly cute. I loved it. I used the ... read more