Hi,
In KL cafe while Julie has her feet cleaned by some human eating fish. Erghh! I am avoiding, but photos will follow when we return to Melbourne tomorrow.
Heh Rachel, look foward to seeing you tomorrow night at the airport. Will call soon.
Lv Mum and Dad.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
"On our way home" - In KL
Hi,
We are in an internet cafe in KL after a long, sleepless, flight from Istanbul and Dubai. Aircraft way full of KL bound Arabs and their noisy kids. We couldn't identify the parents, all the women were wrapped up in black and veils. We lost 5hrs in the trip, so our body clocks are a little screwed. Will be heading off to the shops shortly. KL has many of those to offer.
We visited Petronas towers this morning when we first arrived from the airport, approx 9.00am. All the tickets had been handed out for the day and the queue was enormous. They look like they send one lift load up at a time and then wait until it returns with the load. There are only 1700 tickets issued per day and it seems to take all day to work through them. To get a ticket we have been told we need to get there at 5am or 6am. We are going to pass on that this trip.
Looking forward to getting back to Melbourne on Tuesday. See you soon. Stay safe.
Lv Julie and Frank.
PS. David, Thanks for the comment on the strobe effect. The amazing thing to me was that I saw the effect 'before' I took the photo. The view through the lcd display had halted the image. Digital camera must refresh the image constantly, at a high speed. Talk soon.
We are in an internet cafe in KL after a long, sleepless, flight from Istanbul and Dubai. Aircraft way full of KL bound Arabs and their noisy kids. We couldn't identify the parents, all the women were wrapped up in black and veils. We lost 5hrs in the trip, so our body clocks are a little screwed. Will be heading off to the shops shortly. KL has many of those to offer.
We visited Petronas towers this morning when we first arrived from the airport, approx 9.00am. All the tickets had been handed out for the day and the queue was enormous. They look like they send one lift load up at a time and then wait until it returns with the load. There are only 1700 tickets issued per day and it seems to take all day to work through them. To get a ticket we have been told we need to get there at 5am or 6am. We are going to pass on that this trip.
Looking forward to getting back to Melbourne on Tuesday. See you soon. Stay safe.
Lv Julie and Frank.
PS. David, Thanks for the comment on the strobe effect. The amazing thing to me was that I saw the effect 'before' I took the photo. The view through the lcd display had halted the image. Digital camera must refresh the image constantly, at a high speed. Talk soon.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Photo Comment
Hi,
Rachel, Change of plan. We got a computer that says "yes".
Question now is "What is the refresh rate of a digital camera?". We flew from Santorini to Athens and had the opportunity to photograph the islands on the way. We were in a prop aircraft and the amazing thing is when I went to take a photo the props were strobed still. There were 4 props on the motor and the strob effect showed 4. Refresh rate of digital camera = engine revs. How fast was the engine turning?? David, what do you think? Sorry for the nerdy stuff...
Other photos show the Blue Mosque, Fort on the Bosphorus, view from our cruise today and a keen resturant owner before the Turkey / Germany game last night.
Saw whirling Dervish tonight. Time for a rest. Stay safe.
Lv Julie and Frank.
Rachel, Change of plan. We got a computer that says "yes".
Question now is "What is the refresh rate of a digital camera?". We flew from Santorini to Athens and had the opportunity to photograph the islands on the way. We were in a prop aircraft and the amazing thing is when I went to take a photo the props were strobed still. There were 4 props on the motor and the strob effect showed 4. Refresh rate of digital camera = engine revs. How fast was the engine turning?? David, what do you think? Sorry for the nerdy stuff...
Other photos show the Blue Mosque, Fort on the Bosphorus, view from our cruise today and a keen resturant owner before the Turkey / Germany game last night.
Saw whirling Dervish tonight. Time for a rest. Stay safe.
Lv Julie and Frank.
Photo Attempt No 4
Hi Rachel,
Turkey computer say's no. I will attempt to send photos to you. Can you post please?
Lv Dad.
Turkey computer say's no. I will attempt to send photos to you. Can you post please?
Lv Dad.
It's Istanbul not Constantinople (was Bysantium)
Hi All,
I am trying to post some photos from our İstanbul hotel but the keyboard and computer may get the best of me. Some letter are in strange places and this post may end up wıth funny 'i's. We are also being called to prayer as I type and I may have to go and kneel toward Mecca shortly. You may guess from the title of this post that I have the old song stuck ın my head. I hope this note removes the itch.
Istanbul is busy, hot and noisy, especıally the Grand Bazaar. It could have been more noisy but, unfortunately, Turkey lost to Germany last nıght ın Euro 2008. We have spent to last 2 days gettıng around via guided tours which at this stage of our trip ıs welcome. We haven't had to think about our next event.
Twas nice to hear Helen and Pete had a good tıme ın France. Hope they had a good trip home. Should be there by now. We are now ready to commence our way home. See you soon.
Lv Julie and Frank.
I am trying to post some photos from our İstanbul hotel but the keyboard and computer may get the best of me. Some letter are in strange places and this post may end up wıth funny 'i's. We are also being called to prayer as I type and I may have to go and kneel toward Mecca shortly. You may guess from the title of this post that I have the old song stuck ın my head. I hope this note removes the itch.
Istanbul is busy, hot and noisy, especıally the Grand Bazaar. It could have been more noisy but, unfortunately, Turkey lost to Germany last nıght ın Euro 2008. We have spent to last 2 days gettıng around via guided tours which at this stage of our trip ıs welcome. We haven't had to think about our next event.
Twas nice to hear Helen and Pete had a good tıme ın France. Hope they had a good trip home. Should be there by now. We are now ready to commence our way home. See you soon.
Lv Julie and Frank.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Photo Comment
Hi Everyone,
The photos are not quite in order but I think you will get the "picture"! The photos are of segments of our sunset cruise and volcano climb. The "red mud" picture is of the hot springs on the volcanic island. It was like swiming in warm tomato soup.
I am currently in the dining room of our wonderful hotel using one of their PC's to post this message. Our visit to Santorini is almost over and we have agreed that 5 days is a minimum stay here and is also the right amount. Julie and I think we have left enough unseen to warrant another visit but if we stay any longer we will spoil the experience.
We have a long day of travel today. Far too long in the airport lounge however a rest from sun and walking will be welcome. Time to read a book. Roll on Istanbul.
Will post from Turkey if possible. Stay safe.
Lv Julie and Frank.
The photos are not quite in order but I think you will get the "picture"! The photos are of segments of our sunset cruise and volcano climb. The "red mud" picture is of the hot springs on the volcanic island. It was like swiming in warm tomato soup.
I am currently in the dining room of our wonderful hotel using one of their PC's to post this message. Our visit to Santorini is almost over and we have agreed that 5 days is a minimum stay here and is also the right amount. Julie and I think we have left enough unseen to warrant another visit but if we stay any longer we will spoil the experience.
We have a long day of travel today. Far too long in the airport lounge however a rest from sun and walking will be welcome. Time to read a book. Roll on Istanbul.
Will post from Turkey if possible. Stay safe.
Lv Julie and Frank.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Photo Comment
Hi All,
Survived the driving in Greece and returned to Athens in time to catch the ferry to Santorini. All our Greek experiences have been wonderful. We haven't left yet and we are planning how we can return. All the shots below are from Santorini and are only a brief glimpse of what we are seeing. We would like to post all the photos but then there would be nothing to show when we return.
Hope all are well. Let us know what you think of the images.. Will be in touch soon. Maybe from Istanbul.
Lv Julie and Frank.
Survived the driving in Greece and returned to Athens in time to catch the ferry to Santorini. All our Greek experiences have been wonderful. We haven't left yet and we are planning how we can return. All the shots below are from Santorini and are only a brief glimpse of what we are seeing. We would like to post all the photos but then there would be nothing to show when we return.
Hope all are well. Let us know what you think of the images.. Will be in touch soon. Maybe from Istanbul.
Lv Julie and Frank.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
From the sea to the mountains
Hi All,
In Delphi today after a long drive from Naplion.. 35C most of the day. Not much sea breeze. The ancient sites are 400BC and the sights are mountains and sheer cliffs. It is another different view of Greece. All good..
Will post from Santorini with photo updates..
Lv Julie and Frank.
PS. Heather, Had a re-think on your comment. Maybe the word in your note should have been "instead", if so, Florence is only 2 hrs by train to Cinque Terre. A simple day trip would work for you. Either way you can get to see if you want.. Take care. We will chat when we get home.
In Delphi today after a long drive from Naplion.. 35C most of the day. Not much sea breeze. The ancient sites are 400BC and the sights are mountains and sheer cliffs. It is another different view of Greece. All good..
Will post from Santorini with photo updates..
Lv Julie and Frank.
PS. Heather, Had a re-think on your comment. Maybe the word in your note should have been "instead", if so, Florence is only 2 hrs by train to Cinque Terre. A simple day trip would work for you. Either way you can get to see if you want.. Take care. We will chat when we get home.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Photo Comment
Hi All,
The first photo is of the Acropolis. The rest are in Napflion. Sorry about the fuzzy 'people' shot but it's about the image. All these Greeks outside in someone elses lounge room, drinking and eating. The place was hopping last night. Long weekend. Much quieter today..
Oh well, off to the beach (rocks).. Stay safe.
Lv Julie and Frank.
The first photo is of the Acropolis. The rest are in Napflion. Sorry about the fuzzy 'people' shot but it's about the image. All these Greeks outside in someone elses lounge room, drinking and eating. The place was hopping last night. Long weekend. Much quieter today..
Oh well, off to the beach (rocks).. Stay safe.
Lv Julie and Frank.
What is the best place in Greece??
Hi All,
This is a difficult question as at this stage Julie and I think all of Greece is a favorite.
Athens and the Acropolis are wonderful. The other Greecian ruins are fantastic. The Greek mainland is stark and beautiful. Napflion is beautiful, blue and grey and red. They say Santorini is the best place but what a build up..
We are in the middle of a Napflion internet cafe at the present and it is "full" ( at least 40) of game players. Can't have any PC's at home. Or they are all kids on holiday, with their parents on this long weekend, with nothing to do. Whatever, we need to get out of this noise..
Be in touch soon. From Santorini? Stay safe..
Lv Julie and Frank.
PS. Heather, If you are in Cinque Terre all will be well. It's only 12km from top to bottom. Any of the villages or anywhere in the park is good.
This is a difficult question as at this stage Julie and I think all of Greece is a favorite.
Athens and the Acropolis are wonderful. The other Greecian ruins are fantastic. The Greek mainland is stark and beautiful. Napflion is beautiful, blue and grey and red. They say Santorini is the best place but what a build up..
We are in the middle of a Napflion internet cafe at the present and it is "full" ( at least 40) of game players. Can't have any PC's at home. Or they are all kids on holiday, with their parents on this long weekend, with nothing to do. Whatever, we need to get out of this noise..
Be in touch soon. From Santorini? Stay safe..
Lv Julie and Frank.
PS. Heather, If you are in Cinque Terre all will be well. It's only 12km from top to bottom. Any of the villages or anywhere in the park is good.
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Budapest - Built in the "old" style
Hi All,
Budapest is a suprisingly charming city. Weather warm and humid . Seems a clean and safe city.
Having been bombed very badly in WW11 and then occupied by the Russians for almost 5 decades, the city and the people are remarkably positive. They have been a Republic for the last 16 years and have embraced the westeren values without losing there own. Glad we came here.
Is also nice to get more balanced meals after the bread, cheese and meat diet that seems to dominate Italy. Bring on more goulash! The down side is that dinner costs 9000 forints. The good news is that the AU$ = 145 forints so we feel very rich. We changed AUS$400 2 days ago and got 58,000 forints. Needed a wheelbarrow to get out of the bank..
Stay safe everyone. Will blog from Athens in a day or so..
Lv Julie and Frank.
PS Soggy, Please let Alex know that we liked Budapest very much. He has nice relatives.
Budapest is a suprisingly charming city. Weather warm and humid . Seems a clean and safe city.
Having been bombed very badly in WW11 and then occupied by the Russians for almost 5 decades, the city and the people are remarkably positive. They have been a Republic for the last 16 years and have embraced the westeren values without losing there own. Glad we came here.
Is also nice to get more balanced meals after the bread, cheese and meat diet that seems to dominate Italy. Bring on more goulash! The down side is that dinner costs 9000 forints. The good news is that the AU$ = 145 forints so we feel very rich. We changed AUS$400 2 days ago and got 58,000 forints. Needed a wheelbarrow to get out of the bank..
Stay safe everyone. Will blog from Athens in a day or so..
Lv Julie and Frank.
PS Soggy, Please let Alex know that we liked Budapest very much. He has nice relatives.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Last day in Italy
Hi All,
Looked around Milan today. Weather warm and sunny, around 25C. Milan has more to offer than we first thought. Took a bus tour and there are some fine buildings, wide streets and typical Italian traffic jams. I guess all citys present well when the weather is nice..
On to Budapest tomorrow. Stay safe.
Lv Julie and Frank.
Looked around Milan today. Weather warm and sunny, around 25C. Milan has more to offer than we first thought. Took a bus tour and there are some fine buildings, wide streets and typical Italian traffic jams. I guess all citys present well when the weather is nice..
On to Budapest tomorrow. Stay safe.
Lv Julie and Frank.
Sunday, June 8, 2008
3 days in Cinque Terre are not nearly enough.
Hi All,
We are having a lovely time in Cinque Terre. Many thanks to Helen and Pete for the recommendation.
The weather has been mainly fine and sunny. Certainly not cold. Had some rain yesterday morning but that kept the tourists away and allowed us to walk the lower track without too many others. Every view in the park is a wonderful experience. The natural scenery is green and lush and steep. The man made stuff is a colourful contrast and a testiment to resourcefulness.
If you like beautiful places, good food, lots of walking and fresh air this is a place you have to visit.
Off to Milan tomorrow with mixed emotions. New places to see but will be sad to leave Monterosso in the Cinque Terre.
Be in touch soon.
Lv Julie and Frank.
We are having a lovely time in Cinque Terre. Many thanks to Helen and Pete for the recommendation.
The weather has been mainly fine and sunny. Certainly not cold. Had some rain yesterday morning but that kept the tourists away and allowed us to walk the lower track without too many others. Every view in the park is a wonderful experience. The natural scenery is green and lush and steep. The man made stuff is a colourful contrast and a testiment to resourcefulness.
If you like beautiful places, good food, lots of walking and fresh air this is a place you have to visit.
Off to Milan tomorrow with mixed emotions. New places to see but will be sad to leave Monterosso in the Cinque Terre.
Be in touch soon.
Lv Julie and Frank.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Bye to Michelangelo's town
Hi All
We have nearly finished our stay in Florence. Looking forward to less people and more greenery.
Will post when we can. Stay safe.
Lv Julie and Frank.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Photo Comment
Julie and I are now in Florence and have discovered an internet site provider that is helpful.
Just a couple of shots from Venice and Verona below. Not the best images we have but a sample. San Marco Square, "gondola, gondola",Island off San Marco, view of Verona from bell tower and part of the old Roman Arena.
Time is short. Sights to see in Florence. David awaits.
Lv Julie and Frank.
PS. Mary, Many thanks for photos. Looks like party went well.
Just a couple of shots from Venice and Verona below. Not the best images we have but a sample. San Marco Square, "gondola, gondola",Island off San Marco, view of Verona from bell tower and part of the old Roman Arena.
Time is short. Sights to see in Florence. David awaits.
Lv Julie and Frank.
PS. Mary, Many thanks for photos. Looks like party went well.
Monday, June 2, 2008
We're not lost! All roads lead to St Marcos Square - Venice
Hi All,
No photos this post. Something to do with Italy and viruses? We will try again soon.
Good luck to Dave (Jack) with the interview. Glad all the humans and the animals are well.
Having a lovely time in Venice although very tired. Must have walked 6 hours each day in search of sights. Initial reaction to Venice was not good. We think all of Italy come to this town on weekends. There must have been 1/2 million people here on Saturday. We found the secret though. Get up at 7.00am and get out before any one arrives. Great day Sunday. Went out onto the islands after a walk in San Palo. Very hot and sticky weather but everthing is old and interesting.
Will post again soon from Florence. Hopefully with photos cos we have lots to show..
Stay safe all.. Keep the comments coming, we are keen to hear from home and others.
Lv Julie and Frank
No photos this post. Something to do with Italy and viruses? We will try again soon.
Good luck to Dave (Jack) with the interview. Glad all the humans and the animals are well.
Having a lovely time in Venice although very tired. Must have walked 6 hours each day in search of sights. Initial reaction to Venice was not good. We think all of Italy come to this town on weekends. There must have been 1/2 million people here on Saturday. We found the secret though. Get up at 7.00am and get out before any one arrives. Great day Sunday. Went out onto the islands after a walk in San Palo. Very hot and sticky weather but everthing is old and interesting.
Will post again soon from Florence. Hopefully with photos cos we have lots to show..
Stay safe all.. Keep the comments coming, we are keen to hear from home and others.
Lv Julie and Frank
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