Following on to the fatal road accident near Wiston where the 17 year old pupil from Lanark High School was flung from the coach which crashed through a wall and ended up in the river.
There is now to be an enquiry into the accident but there are obviously questions being asked as to why the driver left at 6 a.m. for Alton Towers. BUT at the same time there were buses running through here, albeit they were stopped when the conditioned worsened, and in the same are there were other school buses running, and believe it or not - when everything was at a standstill, my friend Fergus sailed majestically past me in his McEwans Coach - good lad, good Scout !! well trained.
In Penicuik the Police were out in force stopping lorries from heading south and west where the roads were very bad. I spoke to one of the smallest, scruffiest,cops I have ever seen, he was soaked because he had forgotten his leggings, and really did not look at ease in the conditions.
The Co-op /Morrisons in Penicuik, was in a bit of a pickle as part of the roof had collapsed during the morning and with water pouring in the electrics had shorted out. Although there were morning papers the afternoon papers "did not get through".
The low pressure and storm surges in the North Sea have caused havoc with the marina in North Berwick being breached and many boats damaged and on the other side of the Forth the caravan site at suffered badly as the sea wall disintegrated and caravans fell into the sea.
Rangers F C were well hammered last night at St Johnston, who scored a couple of really good goals, there is a exert on the STV news of two elderly supporters which might end up on U tube. However if Rangers continue in this negative vein and Celtic have a good run there is still the chance that the Premiere League could go to the wire yet,
Interesting to see the antics after Wayne Rooney got kicked in the shins last night !! Flown home, Police escort ( WHY) to the hospital for a scan, etc. What a carry on - just because England are depending on him to win the World Cup for them.
RGB should be in PA, USA by now despite the fact that his flight out of London was an hour late for some reason - no doubt they are heading for Jake's Bar, Westchester already ( current issue T shirt in the offing).
For an update on our ongoing carry on with Edinburgh City Council, their management are just unbelievable, ever other week we learn more and more -- and are just gobsmacked at their cheek and underhand actions - when will it end. Beggers belief that they can continue to abuse staff, if that be the case then just what are they hiding from the public with regard to other projects.
Claire is 21 again tomorrow - having a day off to come to terms with the fact!!!!
And the snow has stopped - meantime.
Wednesday, 31 March 2010
1.30 p.m. update from a busless community
Reporting in from not so sunny Penicuik, where my current depth in the garden is 11 inches. However, more to the point the "people" who dumped their cars on the min road have appeared and are attempting to move them.
It is a bit of a pantomime, as they had done some digging, throwing the snow onto the road and the snow plough has just passed and swept the snow back into the sides blocking the cars in again !! A bit of occupational therapy !!
We heard that the buses stopped running again this morning, but i would suspect that they are operating on the main road now.
As you can see, there is no way we will get the cars out our back street today and possibly not even tomorrow - the snow is megga wet and heavy and is snapping branches on trees, etc.
Further to the serious accident this morning I hear on the news that one of the pupils died as a result of the crash - our thoughts are with the parents and relatives.
I believe that the main London - Edinburgh rail line is blocked by a landslide between Berwick upon Tweed and Dunbar, so we are back to buses again - I wonder why we did away with the horse and carriage !! Just leave your car there madam - no problem !!
Made it into and out of the airport no real problem - swapped cars and picked up a wee Fiesta and headed back onto the bypass. By the time I got back to Penicuik, there was another inch of snow lying on top of the 5.5 inches earlier and conditions are really hellish. Fortunately nothing is coming in from either Wedst Linton or Peebles, and folk seem to be taking heed and staying at home so what traffic there is on the main A701 is moving, but slowly.No idea where this woman was heading she just decided to abandon her car across the road from us , but got stuck in the process and halted the traffic. She parked up, took her shovel and headed home I presume. So now there is no way that the bus service will resume until the snowploughs clear this mess and these cars are moved.
Not sure what is happening along the A702 but it is apparently closed at West Linton with no diversions and Mrs. B. says there is some kind of rescue underway relating to a bus in a river near Biggar !!! will need to wait and see. UPDATE - bus with 37 pupils and 6 teachers from the lanark area skidded off the road near Wiston , Lanarkshire and ended up in a river, there are quite a few seriously injured and a lot of walking wounded - ambulances, rescue teams and helicopter are on the scene at the moment. No doubt it will get worse before it gets better - and I will not be putting in any bedding plants this weekend.
Not very clever looking.
Had a peek outside and traffic is starting to move, but for most of the night there was that ominous silence which meant that nothing was moving. Around 3 30 a.m. there were sounds and since then the snow plough has been through, leaving a black top and with a +3 c things are melting - which will in turn lead to flooding.
There is more chaos than usual as those who were caught out last night have just dumped their cars leaving a single track where normally three vehicles would be passing .
However, we are up, and heading for the airport shortly - it appears to be fine in that part of the City. just a case of getting there.
E mail from the Phil the Redneck of OZ, reporting on the progress of the two upside down boys, Robbie and Scott. Looks like Scott will be back here very soon, as soon as he has been to his brother's 21st - so our peace will once again be disturbed.
Time to make a move, I have cars to swop over this morning so they can get serviced, and with this cold and cough could have another day typing.
There is more chaos than usual as those who were caught out last night have just dumped their cars leaving a single track where normally three vehicles would be passing .
However, we are up, and heading for the airport shortly - it appears to be fine in that part of the City. just a case of getting there.
E mail from the Phil the Redneck of OZ, reporting on the progress of the two upside down boys, Robbie and Scott. Looks like Scott will be back here very soon, as soon as he has been to his brother's 21st - so our peace will once again be disturbed.
Time to make a move, I have cars to swop over this morning so they can get serviced, and with this cold and cough could have another day typing.
Tuesday, 30 March 2010
Wilder by the hour, here in Penicuik
Well, winter really is back again - watched the snows this morning, which eventually disappeared by 4 p.m. , but then , as forecast the blizzard swept in. One picture was taken at 7 p.m. just before dusk, however since then the road and the field have been completely hidden under about an inch of snow and there is a line of cars stationary while the owners wait for the snow plough to clear the road up into Cornbank. Hopefully RGB and Go Jo will be home soon, and then with even more luck they may make it to the airport in the morning for their flights to London and PA to meet up with Briggsy and Co again.Managed to remain focused today and caught up with some outstanding work, even got all wrapped up in the waterproofs and boots and took myself out for a walk in the fresh ( perishing) air.
Saw the Scottish news tonight and was interested in seeing the item about the two men who committed a murder on the island up north. One of the accused, Jack Campbell, I knew many years ago when he used to live in Charterhall, Glasgow. Jack was a real whizz kid with CCTV and very innovative, years ahead of many other companies with one of the first remote monitoring centres in Scotland. He also adopted some marmoset monkeys from one of the Research Centres when they were being "retired", and gave them a home, quite a character, which is obviously an understatement under the present circumstances.
White x-mas all over again!! It looks that way
So - during the night I could hear the rain falling but when we got up it was to yet another blanket of snow, albeit wet and mushy. However, listening on the radio, other parts of the country are a lot worse already - I wish I was somewhere hot again, I am sure that the pool boys could find me a brollie out there at The Savita !! My report for Trip Advisor has been published, that should cheer the staff up.
So yesterday, made it on a cold morning without any problem on the motor bike, parked round the corner so no morning stroll. Nice steady morning for me as one of the supposed new starts failed to reappear, never mind Kirsty @ Hiawatha was there at lunch time.
Heard of three friends who all have some form of "the big C", an ex PC ( Bill) called in to congratulate RGB on the recent awards the Mercat has won - he was saying that he had had a patch of skin cancer removed from his back. One of my "Companions" in the RA had confirmation that he was to receive radio therapy, etc for his diagnosed cancer, and thirdly, I heard that the Retired lady Inspector I wrote about a few weeks ago is now in the Marie Curie Hospice, Fairmilehead, and not very well.
Listened to a very interesting debate (for a change) on real Radio phone in last night where some eloquent fans were calling in discussing the proposal by the Rangers Supporters Club to raise money from the fans to buy out Sir David Murray. They all believed that it would be perfectly feasible for them to raise over £100 million. Seems that a similar model has worked for several cash strapped clubs in Europe over the past few years.
Now choked with the cold so it looks like the sensible thing to do today will be stay in and get on with my "wee hillock" of paper.
So yesterday, made it on a cold morning without any problem on the motor bike, parked round the corner so no morning stroll. Nice steady morning for me as one of the supposed new starts failed to reappear, never mind Kirsty @ Hiawatha was there at lunch time.
Heard of three friends who all have some form of "the big C", an ex PC ( Bill) called in to congratulate RGB on the recent awards the Mercat has won - he was saying that he had had a patch of skin cancer removed from his back. One of my "Companions" in the RA had confirmation that he was to receive radio therapy, etc for his diagnosed cancer, and thirdly, I heard that the Retired lady Inspector I wrote about a few weeks ago is now in the Marie Curie Hospice, Fairmilehead, and not very well.
Listened to a very interesting debate (for a change) on real Radio phone in last night where some eloquent fans were calling in discussing the proposal by the Rangers Supporters Club to raise money from the fans to buy out Sir David Murray. They all believed that it would be perfectly feasible for them to raise over £100 million. Seems that a similar model has worked for several cash strapped clubs in Europe over the past few years.
Now choked with the cold so it looks like the sensible thing to do today will be stay in and get on with my "wee hillock" of paper.
Monday, 29 March 2010
Sleep Deprivation - or old age
The big question is why? - why wake up in the middle of the night, alert and ready to go - Lord only knows.
When we were away I met Suzy from west Lothian who suffers the same problem , but obviously much younger. She had just finished an assessment at the Edinburgh Sleep Centre and was waiting to see what the results were.
So, it is still dark this morning , overcast but just about dry at the moment - good job as I am planning on using the mighty steed of steel today, could have had a lift in , but it would have taken me ages to get home this afternoon.
Have just about recovered from Saturday night, and from Grant and Co the message is just about the same.
Just put my boots on , which were out in the garage. One was full of peanuts which the squirrels have obviously pinched from the bags of bird feed and stored them there. Will need to check out the rest and see what other surprises there are.
Need to dash
When we were away I met Suzy from west Lothian who suffers the same problem , but obviously much younger. She had just finished an assessment at the Edinburgh Sleep Centre and was waiting to see what the results were.
So, it is still dark this morning , overcast but just about dry at the moment - good job as I am planning on using the mighty steed of steel today, could have had a lift in , but it would have taken me ages to get home this afternoon.
Have just about recovered from Saturday night, and from Grant and Co the message is just about the same.
Just put my boots on , which were out in the garage. One was full of peanuts which the squirrels have obviously pinched from the bags of bird feed and stored them there. Will need to check out the rest and see what other surprises there are.
Need to dash
Sunday, 28 March 2010
Sunday result for the Saints
Sunday evening and I am still trying to recover from an excellent evening at The Mercat Bar last night. There were forty six people present for the wine dinner which was enjoyed by all. Lots of praise to Claire and the team in the kitchen and the waiting staff who were slick and on the ball. I will need to write a separate blog with some photos later.Despite a late night and losing an hours sleep due to the clocks being moved forward, I still made it on time to get the bar opened. I think that many folks forgot about the change of the the clocks as we were quiet till about 10.45 a.m. then it got kind of busy.
The Southhampton V Carlisle final of the English league was on the TV with the Saints winning. Our youngest supporter was dressed for the event, just hope she, Ma pa, Granny, Aunts and Uncle all enjoyed it ( good one Tam )
On the way into town, sun shining this first day of spring I took a couple of snaps on the way of the open air theatre at Comiston , some of the terraced houses. And then stopped at the old District Fire Station at Ardmillan where I did my Firefighters Badge when a young scout way back in 1960. In those days it was a fire station but has now been taken over by a funeral director.
Saturday, 27 March 2010
Saturday - yet another hands on morning
Saturday, a bit of a rush today - Anyway made it to Loanhead last night to RA 305 , just a pity that the candidate had to call off at the last minute - however Alan McGregor and his team did some work with a substitute.Up to give Mrs B a lift into town to see Kate at Imarni's , who is leaving today to have her baby - hope she keeps well.
Had intended sitting quietly in the Mecat, having breakfast, etc , but plans went squee wiff as the place filled up at the toot ! Well and truly so, so that was me running about doing my bit for two and a half hours. A big group came in , lads from down south , all dressed up , so iImanaged to get the three Spidermen before they left to go to the football Rangers v Hearts which Rangers won 4 - 1.
Had some junk mail sent to the bar, from "Domain Renewal Group" a full con sent out all over the UK from yet another group of thieving, robbing, sods. Trying to get me to re-register my domain name, however for me it was lucky that they did not even have my details correct - BUT BE WARNED.
I was checking through some of the photos i had ready for the blog on holiday , which i had missed out due to the slow Wi Fi, so I have added one showing some well manicured gardens in the Savita and the two holiday Reps, Kerry and Lauren who were based at the Savita - they were really nice, and I would chat to them whenever they were about. Both are heading off to Turkey to work soon.
Now about to leave for the wine dinner at the Mercat - but with the clocks changing tonight and me having to do an open in the morning, looks like I am going to have to behave myself.
Friday, 26 March 2010
Just keeping going.
Still tired, but what can one do, same question applies to the rain which has never stopped all day, and the forecast is for possible frost tonight and maybe some snow on high ground tomorrow.
Took myself back to bed at 8 a.m. for an hour then it was up and off to town, first to Bookers cash and carry, then to Matalan - where I broke with tradition and sat in the car and "chilled" as Sparky would say.
Into the mercat by 11.45 a.m. and then all helllet loose, the place was fully booked throughout the lunch period with some people waiting and others wh had to be turned away , a good complaint - none of wearied, and the Kitchen team of Claire, Jamie and Jemma were right on the ball.
Missed Jamie's birthday while I was away , so Mrs . B. treated him to a couple of beers later on tonight.
Mrs. B. heading off to Loanhead to meet with friends so I am aboutto get changed an visit Honor , Concord and Fidelity RA Chapter in Loanhead also, where hopefully i will be able to stay awake.
I will need to photograph the new poster opposite the pub , it is another spoof and dig at the tramworks folks.
Took myself back to bed at 8 a.m. for an hour then it was up and off to town, first to Bookers cash and carry, then to Matalan - where I broke with tradition and sat in the car and "chilled" as Sparky would say.
Into the mercat by 11.45 a.m. and then all helllet loose, the place was fully booked throughout the lunch period with some people waiting and others wh had to be turned away , a good complaint - none of wearied, and the Kitchen team of Claire, Jamie and Jemma were right on the ball.
Missed Jamie's birthday while I was away , so Mrs . B. treated him to a couple of beers later on tonight.
Mrs. B. heading off to Loanhead to meet with friends so I am aboutto get changed an visit Honor , Concord and Fidelity RA Chapter in Loanhead also, where hopefully i will be able to stay awake.
I will need to photograph the new poster opposite the pub , it is another spoof and dig at the tramworks folks.
Back to sleepless nights - worse luck
Back to normal, wide awake at 4 a.m. - no point in trying to sleep so it was up at 4.30 a.m. and pottering on the computer after I had started the first wash from the suitcase.
Never mind, RGB has me working lunch time today in the Mercat Bar, so that should wake up my ideas, Mrs. B. might even come in for the run and go to the sale at the House of Fraser and then back to get her golden locks sorted.
Wine Dinner looks good to go tomorrow, forty two booked in so it will be cosy.
This weather today (pouring rain) but no fog today, makes me want to jump back on the plane again, but with the heat over there I would need a bigger shade than the brolly I have here.
I see that Rangers have missed out on the treble by losing to Dundee, bit of a pity , the lad in the Savita with the Rangers tattoo will not be too happy. And I see Mr Mowbry has got his marching orders from Celtic - surprise , surprise.
Not too thrilled with Mr Darling, but then I never was.
Got the digital picture frame up and running so we are already viewing the holiday snaps, just wait till Grant @Photogenics gets his eyes on them !!
Interested in the item about Yvonne Murray the former Commonwealth Games and Olympic medalist being back in traing for a triathalon. She was one of my main supporters when I introduced the Schoolwatch project way back in 1987, did lots of school visits with me and helped give it a good profile, hope she does well.
Thursday, 25 March 2010
Missing the sun already
Made it home in one piece !! Just .
Had an hours extra wait at Sharm airport which is a nightmare of a place on a Thursday with all the outgoing flights. It takes only one delayed flight out to jam up the terminal with passengers.
The prices they charge for food and drink are just unbelieveable, makes Dick Turpins Sisters look like angels, while these guys just smile and ask for £3 a can for coke, same for a bag of crips , £6.50 for a small panini, etc. You certainly do not have a problem getting rid of your spare money.
The Thompson flight home left an hour late , but pilot made up 30 mins on the way - still a long flight at 5 hrs 30 mins, but it passed OK. There were a lot on the plane who had just come off the Red sea Cruise which seems to be quite good. The Departure Board was showing us as having left before we even got on board !!!
Into Glasgow where the weather was better than expected, but the fog - it was the worst drive home I have had for a long time, 50 miles and from Hillend to Penicuik a total pea souper - but we made it.
RGB has his mugshot plastered all over the centre page of the business section of The Scotsman, 25th , in an article about the budget - nice wee story as well.
Bed time
Had an hours extra wait at Sharm airport which is a nightmare of a place on a Thursday with all the outgoing flights. It takes only one delayed flight out to jam up the terminal with passengers.
The prices they charge for food and drink are just unbelieveable, makes Dick Turpins Sisters look like angels, while these guys just smile and ask for £3 a can for coke, same for a bag of crips , £6.50 for a small panini, etc. You certainly do not have a problem getting rid of your spare money.
The Thompson flight home left an hour late , but pilot made up 30 mins on the way - still a long flight at 5 hrs 30 mins, but it passed OK. There were a lot on the plane who had just come off the Red sea Cruise which seems to be quite good. The Departure Board was showing us as having left before we even got on board !!!
Into Glasgow where the weather was better than expected, but the fog - it was the worst drive home I have had for a long time, 50 miles and from Hillend to Penicuik a total pea souper - but we made it.
RGB has his mugshot plastered all over the centre page of the business section of The Scotsman, 25th , in an article about the budget - nice wee story as well.
Bed time
The long trip home from The Savita..
Thursday 25th
All packed, changed and ready to go, just waiting for the bus to arrive. It has been really nice, so now we have a few farewells to say, quite sad as we have made friends with a couple of the staff. BUT if Mrs B keeps her word we will be back again, once the weather starts to cool down again.
We have heard that the airport is a real nightmare on a Thursday so hopefully we will get through the next three hours or so without much trauma, then it will be a five hour plus flight back to Glasgow and then.
Wi Fi is so slow toaday I am not going to get anymore pics on till I get home. I did have a couple with Samy and Mr Shady, but they will wait.
All packed, changed and ready to go, just waiting for the bus to arrive. It has been really nice, so now we have a few farewells to say, quite sad as we have made friends with a couple of the staff. BUT if Mrs B keeps her word we will be back again, once the weather starts to cool down again.
We have heard that the airport is a real nightmare on a Thursday so hopefully we will get through the next three hours or so without much trauma, then it will be a five hour plus flight back to Glasgow and then.
Wi Fi is so slow toaday I am not going to get anymore pics on till I get home. I did have a couple with Samy and Mr Shady, but they will wait.
Wednesday, 24 March 2010
Last evening at the savita
Wednesday 24th.
Sun has been shining all day, 30 C , no breeze, and it has been warmer than expected, so much so that we have had to get under the brollies. Must say, that compared to many hotels we have stayed in they have literally hundreds of brollies, both fixed and portable, and many trees, etc where you can seek cover / shade. I can think back to hotels in Majorca where I burnt to a frazzle, and was using bushes and walls for cover. Took a few more shots of the garden today, so neat, and very well maintained, in fact tonight as we came up from the beach we both commented on the familiar smell of freshly mown lawns, something I will not have to bother about at home for a couple of months yet.
The aqua gym and some of the other games attracted good participation today which was good - so hopefully there will be a big turn out at the amphitheatre tonight for the show.
Met the Reps from Thompson’s and Air tours who have been great, they are part of the “family” here, so pleasant, just a pity that Kerry is off to Turkey soon.
Tonight we are back to the main restaurant, but will wait till later when “Borris” and his friends / family have had their fill and things quieten down. We did have the option of another visit to the Italian from Samy which was very nice, but we are going for something less formal on our last night.
Popped in and had a look at some of the “copy” watches on sale here, which is no different from any other hotel or market in Egypt, the variety is amazing and the quality varies from poor to near perfect, with prices ranging from £25 to £150 depending on what you are looking for. One owner was saying that he an English customer who comes back every six months and buys a different watch each time. There are a number of tourist style shops in the hotel, the only thing that annoys me is the fact that we have to haggle over everything, HOWEVER, that is just a major factor of life here, you just have to role with it and haggle like hell.
Home tomorrow, back to northern climes, but if I could I would be back here next week. – enough said.
Hope Sparky Mark, Grant, Andy and co are all geared up for the wine dinner on Saturday, might even have Suzy from here, who will home to join us.
Sun has been shining all day, 30 C , no breeze, and it has been warmer than expected, so much so that we have had to get under the brollies. Must say, that compared to many hotels we have stayed in they have literally hundreds of brollies, both fixed and portable, and many trees, etc where you can seek cover / shade. I can think back to hotels in Majorca where I burnt to a frazzle, and was using bushes and walls for cover. Took a few more shots of the garden today, so neat, and very well maintained, in fact tonight as we came up from the beach we both commented on the familiar smell of freshly mown lawns, something I will not have to bother about at home for a couple of months yet.
The aqua gym and some of the other games attracted good participation today which was good - so hopefully there will be a big turn out at the amphitheatre tonight for the show.
Met the Reps from Thompson’s and Air tours who have been great, they are part of the “family” here, so pleasant, just a pity that Kerry is off to Turkey soon.
Tonight we are back to the main restaurant, but will wait till later when “Borris” and his friends / family have had their fill and things quieten down. We did have the option of another visit to the Italian from Samy which was very nice, but we are going for something less formal on our last night.
Popped in and had a look at some of the “copy” watches on sale here, which is no different from any other hotel or market in Egypt, the variety is amazing and the quality varies from poor to near perfect, with prices ranging from £25 to £150 depending on what you are looking for. One owner was saying that he an English customer who comes back every six months and buys a different watch each time. There are a number of tourist style shops in the hotel, the only thing that annoys me is the fact that we have to haggle over everything, HOWEVER, that is just a major factor of life here, you just have to role with it and haggle like hell.
Home tomorrow, back to northern climes, but if I could I would be back here next week. – enough said.
Hope Sparky Mark, Grant, Andy and co are all geared up for the wine dinner on Saturday, might even have Suzy from here, who will home to join us.
Tuesday, 23 March 2010
Tuesday 23rd.
Sitting here typing when I should be at The Laird O’ Cockpen 500 RA in a cold windy Bonnyrigg – no contest !! However, having attended all the meetings there for the past three years I am sure that no one will be totally critical because I took the only free time I had off to come here to the Savita Resort and Spa Hotel for ten days- and I am certainly not regretting the decision.
Weather today is brilliant, air temp 30 C, sea at 22 C, no wind at all, just perfick as I have said in previous blogs.
Took a bed by the pool where it wass initially very quiet but as time progressed we were getting a bit hemmed in so headed off to the sea side for some space, ideal.
Sandwiches for lunch as usual were back to being delicious, fresh white cut crusty loaf, cheese, mayo, tomato , salad and roast beef - yummy, again with the Rose or three.
Plenty of action again , all the games, volleyball, water polo, bowls, darts, yoga, water gym., private card games, and good music from the poolside DJ.
Sat out till sunset which was about 5.30 p.m., and then got changed into my Egyptian robes which we bought on the Nile cruise ship and we headed out to take a few pictures to show that I had brought some copies of the Web User magazine with me. Caused a bit of a stir with the guests but the staff thought it was great that we had taken the trouble to dress up. Got some shots in the reception area, and then eventually ended up in the Bedouin tent on the beach where the Nubian waiter set me up with the bubble pipe.
Got myself changed and headed upstairs where there was duo playing in the open air bar, and a show on down in the outside amphitheatre by the animation teams.
8.30 p, went to the Indian theme restaurant, but it was possibly too long a wait from our sandwiches at 1.30 p.m, as we then had another 40 minutes before the 1st course arrived. Food was very nice, an ideal amount to eat, however I am sure our greedy friends would much prefer the main dining room where they could self administer their grub!!.
Very nice meal but for me who does not usually eat Indian food I would honestly have to rate it third after the Chinese and Italian, but as I say that is only my opinion.
Heading back to the bar and the wi fi area do sort out this despatch.
The clock is ticking down, only one and a half days to go till we leave, then we have Mrs B’s night at Loanhead on Friday and the wine club dinner at the Mercat on Saturday night with a full day beforehand – and worse still, I think the clocks change on Saturday night, one hours less sleep.
Sitting here typing when I should be at The Laird O’ Cockpen 500 RA in a cold windy Bonnyrigg – no contest !! However, having attended all the meetings there for the past three years I am sure that no one will be totally critical because I took the only free time I had off to come here to the Savita Resort and Spa Hotel for ten days- and I am certainly not regretting the decision.
Weather today is brilliant, air temp 30 C, sea at 22 C, no wind at all, just perfick as I have said in previous blogs.
Took a bed by the pool where it wass initially very quiet but as time progressed we were getting a bit hemmed in so headed off to the sea side for some space, ideal.
Sandwiches for lunch as usual were back to being delicious, fresh white cut crusty loaf, cheese, mayo, tomato , salad and roast beef - yummy, again with the Rose or three.
Plenty of action again , all the games, volleyball, water polo, bowls, darts, yoga, water gym., private card games, and good music from the poolside DJ.
Sat out till sunset which was about 5.30 p.m., and then got changed into my Egyptian robes which we bought on the Nile cruise ship and we headed out to take a few pictures to show that I had brought some copies of the Web User magazine with me. Caused a bit of a stir with the guests but the staff thought it was great that we had taken the trouble to dress up. Got some shots in the reception area, and then eventually ended up in the Bedouin tent on the beach where the Nubian waiter set me up with the bubble pipe.
Got myself changed and headed upstairs where there was duo playing in the open air bar, and a show on down in the outside amphitheatre by the animation teams.
8.30 p, went to the Indian theme restaurant, but it was possibly too long a wait from our sandwiches at 1.30 p.m, as we then had another 40 minutes before the 1st course arrived. Food was very nice, an ideal amount to eat, however I am sure our greedy friends would much prefer the main dining room where they could self administer their grub!!.
Very nice meal but for me who does not usually eat Indian food I would honestly have to rate it third after the Chinese and Italian, but as I say that is only my opinion.
Heading back to the bar and the wi fi area do sort out this despatch.
The clock is ticking down, only one and a half days to go till we leave, then we have Mrs B’s night at Loanhead on Friday and the wine club dinner at the Mercat on Saturday night with a full day beforehand – and worse still, I think the clocks change on Saturday night, one hours less sleep.
Back in te bar with Suzy, Solvy, and two other couples from the UK
Monday, 22 March 2010
Meditation
i have no idea who this young lady is , but she was so calm, still, meditating in the early morning to the sound of the waves.
Cocktails, Crocodilesand chinese food at the Savita
Monday 22nd
Really good day today, weather up to scratch, no problems at all.
Pleasant 27 C again, but with no breeze at all – so we managed a different pair of sun beds today, nearer the front and with a view of the diving platforms.
Early breakfast and out in the sun b y 8 a.m., no point in lying in bed while the sun is shining, is there ? Took myself off to try and get booked up for the theme restaurants but got my timing wrong so we have the Indian on Tuesday night and the Chinese tonight - which hopefully will be good.
Headed back for a cuppa at the dining room, spoke with Samy who was looking tired and very busy, and shortly after wards met Mr Shady, GM, who stopped to say hello and see how we were doing. I really cannot fault the staff on their hospitality and attentiveness.
Back to the beach where I was totally engrossed in a thriller book, “You Can’t Hide”, by Karen Rose, one of the best I have read for a long time.
Lunchtime it was up to get the sandwiches again, excellent, and on the way back had one of the young waiters show me how to make a cocktail. I was at the bar for a while and was appalled at the rudeness of some of the quests, you could spot the “Brits” a mile away, they were the ones who said please and thank you to the bar staff!! Enough said.
Spoke with several other British guests who were here for a week before taking a Red Sea Cruise, all were enjoying themselves and were certainly complimentary about the Savita, which was nice.
Ended up the afternoon with a visit to the hairdressers and beauty salon where I had a shave and a bit of facial pampering (bit old to restore the damage) and Mrs. B. had a superb pedicure, facial and hairdo. Again , the staff were first class and the young manager, Amir El Sied had a bit of a vested interest as his wife lives in Fife, so he was delighted to have someone Scottish to talk to and had a look at my archived pictures on the computer.
Had a wee fright in the room where our Steward had modelled the most marvellous crocodile out of the towels, scarves and items in the room.
Now 11 p.m and we did have our Chinese meal in the theme restaurant, absolutely bloody marvellous, it is the first meal which we have not finished this week, and that was simply because there was too much – superb.
During the meal I had a couple of text messages from RGB , seems that The Mercat Bar has been reviewed by “The List” so we will have to wait and see how they rate it.
The in house photographers managed to capture us tonight, the old adage that “ the camera never lies” is wrong , these boys were great and Mrs. B. has proved that she still has the looks, a couple of spectacular poses for us to bring home. She has christened one of them Jonathon, no reason why, but he does answer to it.
A really good day here at the Savita Resort and Spa
Really good day today, weather up to scratch, no problems at all.
Pleasant 27 C again, but with no breeze at all – so we managed a different pair of sun beds today, nearer the front and with a view of the diving platforms.
Early breakfast and out in the sun b y 8 a.m., no point in lying in bed while the sun is shining, is there ? Took myself off to try and get booked up for the theme restaurants but got my timing wrong so we have the Indian on Tuesday night and the Chinese tonight - which hopefully will be good.
Headed back for a cuppa at the dining room, spoke with Samy who was looking tired and very busy, and shortly after wards met Mr Shady, GM, who stopped to say hello and see how we were doing. I really cannot fault the staff on their hospitality and attentiveness.
Back to the beach where I was totally engrossed in a thriller book, “You Can’t Hide”, by Karen Rose, one of the best I have read for a long time.
Lunchtime it was up to get the sandwiches again, excellent, and on the way back had one of the young waiters show me how to make a cocktail. I was at the bar for a while and was appalled at the rudeness of some of the quests, you could spot the “Brits” a mile away, they were the ones who said please and thank you to the bar staff!! Enough said.
Spoke with several other British guests who were here for a week before taking a Red Sea Cruise, all were enjoying themselves and were certainly complimentary about the Savita, which was nice.
Ended up the afternoon with a visit to the hairdressers and beauty salon where I had a shave and a bit of facial pampering (bit old to restore the damage) and Mrs. B. had a superb pedicure, facial and hairdo. Again , the staff were first class and the young manager, Amir El Sied had a bit of a vested interest as his wife lives in Fife, so he was delighted to have someone Scottish to talk to and had a look at my archived pictures on the computer.
Had a wee fright in the room where our Steward had modelled the most marvellous crocodile out of the towels, scarves and items in the room.
Now 11 p.m and we did have our Chinese meal in the theme restaurant, absolutely bloody marvellous, it is the first meal which we have not finished this week, and that was simply because there was too much – superb.
During the meal I had a couple of text messages from RGB , seems that The Mercat Bar has been reviewed by “The List” so we will have to wait and see how they rate it.
The in house photographers managed to capture us tonight, the old adage that “ the camera never lies” is wrong , these boys were great and Mrs. B. has proved that she still has the looks, a couple of spectacular poses for us to bring home. She has christened one of them Jonathon, no reason why, but he does answer to it.
A really good day here at the Savita Resort and Spa
Sunday, 21 March 2010
Savita Resort and Spa - sunny Sunday
Sunday 21st.
What can I say, the sun has been shining, nice 27 C, hardly any breeze at all, sea 22 C – so I could not resist jumping in beside the fish !!
Anyway, moved away from the poolside today to one of the little sandy areas nearer the sea and beside the sailing centre, it is a bit quieter there so plenty reading done between my wanderings and distractions.
The morning keep fit class, darts, pool games, and yoga – I managed to give a miss as I have found yet another good book to read, time for study and ritual books when I get home.
I am getting better at the lunchtime sandwiches, today’s were superb, a real treat, and once again washed down with a nice wee Rose.
We had a joint massage booked for 4.30 pm. but I chickened out of the brutal one and opted for a lighter more relaxing one – which was very pleasant, as was Mrs. B’s.
Once again I have to say that I have nothing but praise for the staff here at the Savita, they are friendly, sociable, and so very helpful - I would certainly come back here again. Anyway I still have another four days left of this holiday.
Pleased to hear that Scotland did something right this weekend, although I still do not have the result - spotted it on @tddf (Tams) twitter last night along with some story about him finding an unconscious person while out walking baby and called for medical assistance, etc - good one Tam..
Race night at The Mercat Bar last night which hopefully went well, a bit of a new venture.
Heading off to the Oceana Dining room again tonight, we will not have access for the next couple of days as it is being used for another big conference group, not a problem.
What can I say, the sun has been shining, nice 27 C, hardly any breeze at all, sea 22 C – so I could not resist jumping in beside the fish !!
Anyway, moved away from the poolside today to one of the little sandy areas nearer the sea and beside the sailing centre, it is a bit quieter there so plenty reading done between my wanderings and distractions.
The morning keep fit class, darts, pool games, and yoga – I managed to give a miss as I have found yet another good book to read, time for study and ritual books when I get home.
I am getting better at the lunchtime sandwiches, today’s were superb, a real treat, and once again washed down with a nice wee Rose.
We had a joint massage booked for 4.30 pm. but I chickened out of the brutal one and opted for a lighter more relaxing one – which was very pleasant, as was Mrs. B’s.
Once again I have to say that I have nothing but praise for the staff here at the Savita, they are friendly, sociable, and so very helpful - I would certainly come back here again. Anyway I still have another four days left of this holiday.
Pleased to hear that Scotland did something right this weekend, although I still do not have the result - spotted it on @tddf (Tams) twitter last night along with some story about him finding an unconscious person while out walking baby and called for medical assistance, etc - good one Tam..
Race night at The Mercat Bar last night which hopefully went well, a bit of a new venture.
Heading off to the Oceana Dining room again tonight, we will not have access for the next couple of days as it is being used for another big conference group, not a problem.
Dinner not up to the usual, but still nice - ended up with sazanne and Solvey back in the main bar, both having fun.
Saturday, 20 March 2010
Saturday, last day of this year's six nations
Sat 20th
Another sunny day in the resort, no complaints at all – managed to find another quiet corner, brolly up and we were settled for the day – “just perfick” as Pa Larkin used to say in “The Darling Buds of May”
Have never soon so many full plates of food on tables at breakfast time!! Our “Ruskie” friends know how to pile them high – but think nothing of leaving full plates behind, untouched.
Headed for the “Bocca” this morning, bit disorganised, mixed group who, as the youngsters got fed up just cleared off and left me with a couple of other blokes, so there was no winner and no proper end to the game - that is one bonus about going to an adults only resort I suppose.
Headed for the dining room at lunchtime and prepared my usual plate of sandwiches, roast beef, mayo, salad, on lovely fresh bread - yummy – washed down with the odd rose or three.
Back to the pool and then into the sea for dip with the fishes, none that I could see but as I was not wearing a face mask I could not see them anyway - but when I did come out I managed to get a couple of snaps for Grant as requested.
Booked in for another couple of massages tomorrow – now that should be fun !!!
Dinner sorted for today and then if we are still awake there is a “Fakir Show” in the outside theatre at 9.30 p.m.
I see that Andy Murray took a bit of a thrashing today, sorry about that, just hope that the Scottish rugby team do a bit better against Ireland tonight.
Lovely neal once agi in the Oceana room, lovely bit of roast lamb, etc , suited me fine. Now a bit blustery so we will give the outsiude show a miss.
Another sunny day in the resort, no complaints at all – managed to find another quiet corner, brolly up and we were settled for the day – “just perfick” as Pa Larkin used to say in “The Darling Buds of May”
Have never soon so many full plates of food on tables at breakfast time!! Our “Ruskie” friends know how to pile them high – but think nothing of leaving full plates behind, untouched.
Headed for the “Bocca” this morning, bit disorganised, mixed group who, as the youngsters got fed up just cleared off and left me with a couple of other blokes, so there was no winner and no proper end to the game - that is one bonus about going to an adults only resort I suppose.
Headed for the dining room at lunchtime and prepared my usual plate of sandwiches, roast beef, mayo, salad, on lovely fresh bread - yummy – washed down with the odd rose or three.
Back to the pool and then into the sea for dip with the fishes, none that I could see but as I was not wearing a face mask I could not see them anyway - but when I did come out I managed to get a couple of snaps for Grant as requested.
Booked in for another couple of massages tomorrow – now that should be fun !!!
Dinner sorted for today and then if we are still awake there is a “Fakir Show” in the outside theatre at 9.30 p.m.
I see that Andy Murray took a bit of a thrashing today, sorry about that, just hope that the Scottish rugby team do a bit better against Ireland tonight.
Lovely neal once agi in the Oceana room, lovely bit of roast lamb, etc , suited me fine. Now a bit blustery so we will give the outsiude show a miss.
Friday, 19 March 2010
Friday night at The Savita Resort and Spa
Late night last night having met up with two young ladies from the UK, Suzanne from Broxburn and Solvey from Reading, both school chums originally from Ayrshire who had arrived earlier in the evening.
Sun was shining again, but a bit windy and blowing sand all over the place, but it eventually died down about 10 a.m. so it was a roasting day once more.
Plenty of activities taking place when I had a walkabout, bowls; aqua robics; football, darts; and along the front there were lots of swimmers in snorkling off the floating jetties. The water was teeming with fish, however a couple off young lads were feeding them when it was forbidden in order to save the eco system.
I did eventually take the plunge and have a wee swim, very nice and the sea water was warmer than the pool.
Met the GM Mr Ismail Shady who was doing his rounds in the dining room . Ahmed Samy the Dining room Manager was really happy to see his photo on last nights blog.
The photographers were doing great work, the light at this time of the year is perfect for them, I am just sorry I decided not to bring my big camera with me.
When the sun went down we took ourselves out the complex, and took the shortcut (200 yards) over the waste ground and into the next part of the resort which houses the Hilton Sharks Bay and the Concorde which are bigger and newer hotels, and leads along to a shopping centre called Soho Square.On the way back there was poor camel tethered to a stake and settling down for the night, no wonder it had taken the hump !!!
Nice choice for dinner tonight, but it will be an earlier night - this enjoying yourself is a bit tiring.
Sun was shining again, but a bit windy and blowing sand all over the place, but it eventually died down about 10 a.m. so it was a roasting day once more.
Plenty of activities taking place when I had a walkabout, bowls; aqua robics; football, darts; and along the front there were lots of swimmers in snorkling off the floating jetties. The water was teeming with fish, however a couple off young lads were feeding them when it was forbidden in order to save the eco system.
I did eventually take the plunge and have a wee swim, very nice and the sea water was warmer than the pool.
Met the GM Mr Ismail Shady who was doing his rounds in the dining room . Ahmed Samy the Dining room Manager was really happy to see his photo on last nights blog.
The photographers were doing great work, the light at this time of the year is perfect for them, I am just sorry I decided not to bring my big camera with me.
When the sun went down we took ourselves out the complex, and took the shortcut (200 yards) over the waste ground and into the next part of the resort which houses the Hilton Sharks Bay and the Concorde which are bigger and newer hotels, and leads along to a shopping centre called Soho Square.On the way back there was poor camel tethered to a stake and settling down for the night, no wonder it had taken the hump !!!
Nice choice for dinner tonight, but it will be an earlier night - this enjoying yourself is a bit tiring.
Thursday, 18 March 2010
Another sunny day at the Savita Resort and Spa
Savita Resort and Spa Thursday 18th
Finished off on Wednesday night in the Italian theme restaurant where the food was excellent, I had a lovely piece of fillet beef.
The dining room manager, Samy, came in and after our meal had a wee chat with me, he, like the other mangers really cannot do enough to help. It is a shame that a tiny minority of the “guests” do not seem to appreciate what is being done for them.
Up this morning, sun shining, but still a bit of a breeze which kept the brollies flat on the deck for safety’s sake – so with the breeze blowing it was very pleasant sitting out , next to a pool which I was able to roll into to cool down.
The day passed nicely, sandwiches by the pool which were more than enough , but a treat was in store for the two of us . I had booked a nice Egyptian massage in the Golden Spa, which was even heavier for me than usual, but having had one on Monday many of my original “knots” had gone so it was bearable - and the masseur was really sweating by the time he had finished. Mrs B. was likewise impressed by her masseuse and we have another session booked already for later in the week, and she has her eye on a really special session before we get home.
During the day we saw the G.M of the hotel on his rounds, taking a real interest in the place, keeping his managers and staff on their toes. But realistically they did not need it as everyone seemed to on top of their jobs. The front house manager, Mohamed Sarhan, came for a wee chat as we were having tea (yes - tea) in the foyer, he is a really nice bloke, newly arrived at the hotel and still finding his feet. The staff work long hours, 8 a.m. till 11 p.m. for four weeks and then have a week off - sounds a bit like RGB at the Mercat Bar, but he does not get the week off !!!
However, the night is young, and there is a Kareoke on tonight - do I disgrace myself, family and friends ??? and do a RGB ( never being able to compete with the Rhinestone Cowboy!!!) - watch this space.
Just finished dinner in the Ocean room which is set aside for the British guests on the nights that there are no conferences, etc. thus avoiding any hastle in the main dining room with our “Ruski” friends Have to say that the meal was first class, me , not being a vegetarian was in my glory, the veal just melted in my mouth, but I was not allowed seconds by Mrs B. – should have topped up the plate the first time, and that was without any sides.
Samy, the Manager was over the moon when he posed with Mrs. B. (@ Cleopatra), but what was it she did with an Asp!!!
Great meal – no fuss, and lots of happy faces - karaoke still to come .
I
Finished off on Wednesday night in the Italian theme restaurant where the food was excellent, I had a lovely piece of fillet beef.
The dining room manager, Samy, came in and after our meal had a wee chat with me, he, like the other mangers really cannot do enough to help. It is a shame that a tiny minority of the “guests” do not seem to appreciate what is being done for them.
Up this morning, sun shining, but still a bit of a breeze which kept the brollies flat on the deck for safety’s sake – so with the breeze blowing it was very pleasant sitting out , next to a pool which I was able to roll into to cool down.
The day passed nicely, sandwiches by the pool which were more than enough , but a treat was in store for the two of us . I had booked a nice Egyptian massage in the Golden Spa, which was even heavier for me than usual, but having had one on Monday many of my original “knots” had gone so it was bearable - and the masseur was really sweating by the time he had finished. Mrs B. was likewise impressed by her masseuse and we have another session booked already for later in the week, and she has her eye on a really special session before we get home.
During the day we saw the G.M of the hotel on his rounds, taking a real interest in the place, keeping his managers and staff on their toes. But realistically they did not need it as everyone seemed to on top of their jobs. The front house manager, Mohamed Sarhan, came for a wee chat as we were having tea (yes - tea) in the foyer, he is a really nice bloke, newly arrived at the hotel and still finding his feet. The staff work long hours, 8 a.m. till 11 p.m. for four weeks and then have a week off - sounds a bit like RGB at the Mercat Bar, but he does not get the week off !!!
However, the night is young, and there is a Kareoke on tonight - do I disgrace myself, family and friends ??? and do a RGB ( never being able to compete with the Rhinestone Cowboy!!!) - watch this space.
Just finished dinner in the Ocean room which is set aside for the British guests on the nights that there are no conferences, etc. thus avoiding any hastle in the main dining room with our “Ruski” friends Have to say that the meal was first class, me , not being a vegetarian was in my glory, the veal just melted in my mouth, but I was not allowed seconds by Mrs B. – should have topped up the plate the first time, and that was without any sides.
Samy, the Manager was over the moon when he posed with Mrs. B. (@ Cleopatra), but what was it she did with an Asp!!!
Great meal – no fuss, and lots of happy faces - karaoke still to come .
I
Wednesday, 17 March 2010
sunny once again, and still no complaints about the Savita spa
Wed 17th
Thought we were finished as we headed back to the room last night , but no - we had a call at 11p.m from the room service to let is know that there was a dish of fresh fruit for us, so wrapped in a towel I accepted same. Very nice gesture but it turns out that my friend on the management team has asked for it to be delivered in the afternoon , never mind it was lovely.
Warm again during the night, but apart from that I am getting more than an hours sleep at a time which is a bonus.
Up early again, lovely morning and headed for the sun beds working on the principle that if you cannot beat them, join them , however – I have no idea what Mrs B was thinking of as she chose one of the busiest bits of the poolside to sit !! not to worry , it was near the loo and the bar !!
Breakfast was super, the dining room was quiet so no hassle, no fuss, had my usual “treat” a couple of eggs, enough, eat often but little unlike our fellow guests.
As usual I have ants in my pants so I wandered all over the complex during the first couple of hours, it is lovely, nice wee hidden pools and garden , very quiet , and then the busy poolside and right down through the rocky little corners where folks were baking nicely in the sun.
Headed up to reception and had my Manager friend ( Mohamed) and the IT lad (Mohamed0 sort out last nights blip with the computer – so, so helpful.
Round the pool there were plenty of things going on led by the two animation teams, sports, exercises, dancing, etc . and also the massage teams were doing good business. There are two pairs of outside tables over and above the inside massage salon which is beautiful.
The barmen, like the rest of the staff were on the ball, kept us going with drinks, and took their lives in their hands by claiming there was no beer – Management came close to finding a barman swinging from the overhead fans !!
Lunchtime, I headed up the dining room and made a coupe of nice fresh sandwiches for us to have by the pool, but I could have had a whole assortment of things - not today as we are heading for the Italian theme Restaurant tonight.
Been a lovely day so far, and for me to say, NO COMPLAINTS , that is a big compliment.
Just heard from RGB, looks like The Mercat Bar did very well last week, our rugby team from the USA are now heading West and cannot complain about the Scottish hospitality
Thought we were finished as we headed back to the room last night , but no - we had a call at 11p.m from the room service to let is know that there was a dish of fresh fruit for us, so wrapped in a towel I accepted same. Very nice gesture but it turns out that my friend on the management team has asked for it to be delivered in the afternoon , never mind it was lovely.
Warm again during the night, but apart from that I am getting more than an hours sleep at a time which is a bonus.
Up early again, lovely morning and headed for the sun beds working on the principle that if you cannot beat them, join them , however – I have no idea what Mrs B was thinking of as she chose one of the busiest bits of the poolside to sit !! not to worry , it was near the loo and the bar !!
Breakfast was super, the dining room was quiet so no hassle, no fuss, had my usual “treat” a couple of eggs, enough, eat often but little unlike our fellow guests.
As usual I have ants in my pants so I wandered all over the complex during the first couple of hours, it is lovely, nice wee hidden pools and garden , very quiet , and then the busy poolside and right down through the rocky little corners where folks were baking nicely in the sun.
Headed up to reception and had my Manager friend ( Mohamed) and the IT lad (Mohamed0 sort out last nights blip with the computer – so, so helpful.
Round the pool there were plenty of things going on led by the two animation teams, sports, exercises, dancing, etc . and also the massage teams were doing good business. There are two pairs of outside tables over and above the inside massage salon which is beautiful.
The barmen, like the rest of the staff were on the ball, kept us going with drinks, and took their lives in their hands by claiming there was no beer – Management came close to finding a barman swinging from the overhead fans !!
Lunchtime, I headed up the dining room and made a coupe of nice fresh sandwiches for us to have by the pool, but I could have had a whole assortment of things - not today as we are heading for the Italian theme Restaurant tonight.
Been a lovely day so far, and for me to say, NO COMPLAINTS , that is a big compliment.
Just heard from RGB, looks like The Mercat Bar did very well last week, our rugby team from the USA are now heading West and cannot complain about the Scottish hospitality
Tuesday, 16 March 2010
Tuesday 16th Sharm el Sheikh and sunny
Well, the sun was up before us again, as were the sunbed huggers, however it was not a problem as there are lots of beds and acres of space. The complex has about a 500 yd frontage onto the sea, however the only bit of the trades description act being is the fact that it all rocky and not sandy - minor thing considering that there are superb little alcoves and gardens all along the front to get tucked into, and the gardens at the quiet end are nice and peaceful. Over and above there are three or four little pools in enclosed garden areas, near to extra little bars and cafes.
There was a string breeze this morning so the brollies were taken down for safety’s sake, bit cloudy but air temp at 27 C and sea at 22 C, (warmer than the shower some days).
Managed to get booked for one of the theme restaurants tomorrow night ( Italian) which is supposed to be the best, and tonight we are making for the Old market in Sharm so the mini bus leaves at 5 p.m..
Bit of a clash with my massage so the Spa people changed it for me there and then, what can I say – the guy was excellent, and very persistent - he dug and dug away at the many knots in my back, was standing up on the massage couch and kneading away - BUT, he was not brutal. It took him ages, and I he ended up giving me about 90 mins, but he did well and I felt like a Million Dollars as I bounced down the steps from the Spa back to the poolside.
Plenty going on, water polo, salsa dancing , French boules, group games etc - for the young, fit and daft it is perfect..
I met with Mohamed, the young Manager who had replied to my E mail enquiries, he is an absolute gentleman, lives on site and works from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., every day for one month and then has a week off to go home to Cairo to see his wife and family which takes him 12 hours on the bus. He actually recognised me having read the blog, and know from reception that we were reasonably happy as there had been no complaints from our room !!.
Have to say that the lunch scrum was as usual, there are some ding bats around – they come up to the snack bar, with about thirty folks sitting waiting, and proceed to peer into all the serving dishes and try to take food and wonder why they are being chased off by the staff !! It is better to sit back and let them get on with it – worst bit is all the food which is wasted when they take far too much.
Anyway all set now for our shopping trip – a wee adventure.
So off we headed for Old Sharm , an old town (my bum) it was just a tourist trap on the edge of the desert, obviously one of the older villages, but being built up and sold off as a genuine market town – just another renal, Blackpool, Benidorm, etc.
Mini bus took about 25 mins to get there, onle a couple of roundabouts so we kept having to do U tuns through dual carriagways – odd, and evry half mile or so there were either sppd humps or police chck points.
Into the old town , just the same old “tat” we had seen in cairo and Luxor, so much genuine papyrus that every art student in Egypt is working 25 hours a day to produce the genuine article !! I think not. However we saw what we wanted to see in about 40 mins so stopped off at a local café for coffee and a shot on the old bubble pipe - Hope Jamie still has his warmed up for me – and none of the whacky baccy , we had apple flavour – but it was an experience.
The so called shopping trip was supposed to last three hours but everyone was fed up within an hour and a half se we had lots of time to kill.
Back to the hotel by 8.30 p.m. , dining room had calmed down so we had a good choice of fresh dishes and a couple !!! of glasses of rose wine to wash down dinner.Presently listening to the entertainers inside, but with a stiff breeze we have given the amphitheatre show a miss to
There was a string breeze this morning so the brollies were taken down for safety’s sake, bit cloudy but air temp at 27 C and sea at 22 C, (warmer than the shower some days).
Managed to get booked for one of the theme restaurants tomorrow night ( Italian) which is supposed to be the best, and tonight we are making for the Old market in Sharm so the mini bus leaves at 5 p.m..
Bit of a clash with my massage so the Spa people changed it for me there and then, what can I say – the guy was excellent, and very persistent - he dug and dug away at the many knots in my back, was standing up on the massage couch and kneading away - BUT, he was not brutal. It took him ages, and I he ended up giving me about 90 mins, but he did well and I felt like a Million Dollars as I bounced down the steps from the Spa back to the poolside.
Plenty going on, water polo, salsa dancing , French boules, group games etc - for the young, fit and daft it is perfect..
I met with Mohamed, the young Manager who had replied to my E mail enquiries, he is an absolute gentleman, lives on site and works from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., every day for one month and then has a week off to go home to Cairo to see his wife and family which takes him 12 hours on the bus. He actually recognised me having read the blog, and know from reception that we were reasonably happy as there had been no complaints from our room !!.
Have to say that the lunch scrum was as usual, there are some ding bats around – they come up to the snack bar, with about thirty folks sitting waiting, and proceed to peer into all the serving dishes and try to take food and wonder why they are being chased off by the staff !! It is better to sit back and let them get on with it – worst bit is all the food which is wasted when they take far too much.
Anyway all set now for our shopping trip – a wee adventure.
So off we headed for Old Sharm , an old town (my bum) it was just a tourist trap on the edge of the desert, obviously one of the older villages, but being built up and sold off as a genuine market town – just another renal, Blackpool, Benidorm, etc.
Mini bus took about 25 mins to get there, onle a couple of roundabouts so we kept having to do U tuns through dual carriagways – odd, and evry half mile or so there were either sppd humps or police chck points.
Into the old town , just the same old “tat” we had seen in cairo and Luxor, so much genuine papyrus that every art student in Egypt is working 25 hours a day to produce the genuine article !! I think not. However we saw what we wanted to see in about 40 mins so stopped off at a local café for coffee and a shot on the old bubble pipe - Hope Jamie still has his warmed up for me – and none of the whacky baccy , we had apple flavour – but it was an experience.
The so called shopping trip was supposed to last three hours but everyone was fed up within an hour and a half se we had lots of time to kill.
Back to the hotel by 8.30 p.m. , dining room had calmed down so we had a good choice of fresh dishes and a couple !!! of glasses of rose wine to wash down dinner.Presently listening to the entertainers inside, but with a stiff breeze we have given the amphitheatre show a miss to
Monday, 15 March 2010
Sharm el Sheikh - fun in the sun
This is totally frustrating, I spent ages writing a blog, tried to copy it over, and then add photos, but the WiFi system here is so slow it is just not working the way i want it to.
Good flight out, arrived on time at 11 p.m. local time, airport was quiet and got to the Savita resort and Spa by 11 45 p.m - Bar was closed, not even a cupp.
Anyway, after a lie in we were about four hours beind those who wee out at 5.30 hogging the sunbeds. never mind we got one and a brolly but some sod pinched the brolly while we were at the Reps meeting. meal times are fun, rugby training comes in handy as our eastern European friends have no idea of the concept of queuing or taking anything less than a mountain of food, which mostly goes back in the bin - greedy hoggs.
Sun has shone, but not too brightly which suited us today- bars all over the palce so dehydration is not a problem !! Realistically, rooms are good, hotel is very nice, if you do not like the food on offer you can always have chip butties and soup.
Had a tester massage so up for a Thai one tomorrow - 10 p.m , which is 8 p.m UK, and we are ready for bed. Missing the team, it would have been fun.
Sunday, 14 March 2010
Old friends, what a nice surprise.
Now resting in the lounge at Glasgow Airport, quite comfortable, table service to make sure folks do not go OTT.
Steady run through on the Motorway but as I did not have the map for the car park I was ever so slightly lost for a short time.
Anyway, arrived at the airport and was met with a massive queue, nearly died off, however it was not hours so we only took five or so minutes to get checked in.
On the way through the halls we were following a couple with three children and then realised that they were friends who we have not seen for three or four years, Joan and Denny from Cambuslang. We were on a two week cruise with them several years ago around the Med and Portugal. They were off with the grandchildren to give their mother peace as she has just had a new baby - lovely to see them again. Denny and Joan used to organise the most wonderful x-mas New year parties, all themed, etc for when he was home on leave, held in the Miners welfare Club at Halfway, and with about 100 attending - great fun.
The sunrise was taken a few mornings ago from the A702 at Lowries Den looking south over the hills which were still totally snow covered.
It had looked even nicer a few moments earlier but by the time I stopped and got the camera out, shame.
Will just have to wait and see how I get on in the sunnier climes of Egypt.
Saturday, 13 March 2010
An exciting and different day, OSM and 6 Nations
Saturday was a hectic and eventful day.Up and dressed in my finery and off down to Bonnyrigg for a meeting of the OSM.
The mighty Joe Myres insisted on posing with the Blaikie boys - it would make a good front row !!!
Not as big an attendance as normal but with several other big meetings on at the same time in other parts of the Country it was to be expected.
Never the less it was a lovely ceremony carried out by Andy Mckeen, Alex Mooney and Jim McQueen - so now i have a bit more reading ad learning to do during the next few months.
After the lunch which was quite brief, Sparky and I got changed and took the bus into The Mercat to meet up with RGB , Mrs B Go Jo, Briggs and the troop - place was mobbed, and unlike previous years when the pub emptied as everyone headed off to the match , this time it remained very busy throughout.
We had groups of girl on a hen party , RWM Craig Gordon and Mike Gilhooley with wives, and then out the blue the infamous "Cod" from the Sportsmans appeared. However he was a much quieter soul that in the bad old days - lovely to see him and have a blether about his new life and activities.
From what I remember the Match was a bit of bore and ended up as a 15 - 15 draw, so England retain the Calcutta Cup, and Scotland appear to have won the wooden spoon.
Sparky had arranged for Pauline to pick us up at 6.30 so we made it out of town before the crowds got too bad in the Haymarket area.
So now we are all packed , and raring to go - just passing time before we head off to the airport, where hopefully we will have a good flight and find the sun shining. Will need to wait and see what happens with regard to Internet in the hotel.
Friday, 12 March 2010
Mr Myres now on site
Peace shattered, Joe Myres has arrived in Penicuik, Briggsy carted off home by Ma and Pa Briggs suffering from the after effects of a long flight and a long day "on the pop".
They came with British Airways via Heathrow, at least they got here, unlike those poor souls whose holidays, weddings, etc have been ruined by the impending strike by BA cabin staff - as far as I am concerned I would not criticise anyone for not flying BA in the future due to the unpredictable behaviour by the staff. For what was one of the World's leading airline, it is now a total loss making operation, lacking credibility, and with a government who cannot even run the country efficiently, there is no point in baling out yet another loss making operation because their Union are so militant. Looks like Ryan Air or Easy Jet might well be the flag carriers of the future. Go Jo and RGB have already changed their flights to the USA later this month.
Earlier this week I commented about the numbers of Central European beggars lined up along Princes's Street, now we have a formal complaint about the charity "muggers" on the same route who are making the public "run the gauntlet" during their shopping trips in the city, I was always under the impression that Camelot, when they got the Lottery franchise were going to help all the little charities. HOWEVER we now know that the Government are hijacking the funds to help support their own so called community projects, ie the Olympics.
Trying to get sorted for my installation into the chair of the Soutra Isle chapter of the OSM tomorrow, and now it looks like I am going to be heading for the bright lights of Edinburgh, the seething rugby crowds, and the intense expectation of a brilliant win for Scotland in the Calcutta Cup
They came with British Airways via Heathrow, at least they got here, unlike those poor souls whose holidays, weddings, etc have been ruined by the impending strike by BA cabin staff - as far as I am concerned I would not criticise anyone for not flying BA in the future due to the unpredictable behaviour by the staff. For what was one of the World's leading airline, it is now a total loss making operation, lacking credibility, and with a government who cannot even run the country efficiently, there is no point in baling out yet another loss making operation because their Union are so militant. Looks like Ryan Air or Easy Jet might well be the flag carriers of the future. Go Jo and RGB have already changed their flights to the USA later this month.
Earlier this week I commented about the numbers of Central European beggars lined up along Princes's Street, now we have a formal complaint about the charity "muggers" on the same route who are making the public "run the gauntlet" during their shopping trips in the city, I was always under the impression that Camelot, when they got the Lottery franchise were going to help all the little charities. HOWEVER we now know that the Government are hijacking the funds to help support their own so called community projects, ie the Olympics.
Trying to get sorted for my installation into the chair of the Soutra Isle chapter of the OSM tomorrow, and now it looks like I am going to be heading for the bright lights of Edinburgh, the seething rugby crowds, and the intense expectation of a brilliant win for Scotland in the Calcutta Cup
Seniour moment or two
The Eurovision Song Contest rears its head again, so now we are subjected to what is a total waste of time and money - would not be so bad if there were half decent singers or a song worth listening to - BUT having said that I am watching some tidy members of UNI 5 !!!
HOWEVER - having fallen asleep in front of the TY at 1.30 a.m.,this morning I was not quite flavour of the month as dawn broke.
Usual ritual pre holiday clean up - house has to be spick and span before we leave - even for a weekend - that way we can find out if RGB has a party while we are away. He did once, and we only realised it when he put the pictures back in the wrong place !! apart from the complaint by the neighbours about the live band practising in the garage.
Anyway, when I did get sorted I headed down to Roslin to return Andrew Stewart's wee book on harbours to him. popped in for a blether and was enthralled with his current set of photo's of churches and some well known local houses. Beeslack House, now a nursing home, but restored to its former glory, beautiful.
Young singer Josh, did very well.
Back to Andrew, now a very youthful 74, his next project is unique, he is going to research and write up the history of the Doocots and ice houses in Midlothian, good one,
Had to leave, eventually, detour due to shocking road works at Bilston, down to Costco where I appear to have boobed again, bought Mrs B some Olay anti wrinkle cream - did not go down well.
Had an emergency call from Claire at The Mercat so it was off, back to Bookers for more supplies to keep our visitors well fed and looked after over the weekend.
RGB and Joe Myers somewhere en route to the house - Briggsy out the box and away to bed at hs folks.
Had some controversial comments for the blog , but having a senior moment so cannot remember what they were - should start writing down notes again.
HOWEVER - having fallen asleep in front of the TY at 1.30 a.m.,this morning I was not quite flavour of the month as dawn broke.
Usual ritual pre holiday clean up - house has to be spick and span before we leave - even for a weekend - that way we can find out if RGB has a party while we are away. He did once, and we only realised it when he put the pictures back in the wrong place !! apart from the complaint by the neighbours about the live band practising in the garage.
Anyway, when I did get sorted I headed down to Roslin to return Andrew Stewart's wee book on harbours to him. popped in for a blether and was enthralled with his current set of photo's of churches and some well known local houses. Beeslack House, now a nursing home, but restored to its former glory, beautiful.
Young singer Josh, did very well.
Back to Andrew, now a very youthful 74, his next project is unique, he is going to research and write up the history of the Doocots and ice houses in Midlothian, good one,
Had to leave, eventually, detour due to shocking road works at Bilston, down to Costco where I appear to have boobed again, bought Mrs B some Olay anti wrinkle cream - did not go down well.
Had an emergency call from Claire at The Mercat so it was off, back to Bookers for more supplies to keep our visitors well fed and looked after over the weekend.
RGB and Joe Myers somewhere en route to the house - Briggsy out the box and away to bed at hs folks.
Had some controversial comments for the blog , but having a senior moment so cannot remember what they were - should start writing down notes again.
Thursday, 11 March 2010
Anti Social Behaviour - and theft = to be serious
Shocking news on the TV tonight re the elderly man, Mr Agnew who died as a result of continual harassment by local yobs. The issue of Anti Social behaviour is now a major problem, one which has been increasing for many years - and which will not go away until there is a radical change in the attitude by the police, the public and the legislators. The actions of the radical minority, the doo gooders, the European Bill of Human Rights, have all contributed to his near total breakdown of law and order.
There was a lot to be said for the days when a "bobby" walked the beat looking like a policeman with a white shirt, shiny shoes and a pressed uniform -not a para military look a like ; when Police , policed by consent - which meant that officers and the public worked and knew each other, to the extent that Police lived where they worked and therefore had an interest in the community. Me I had to ask permission to get married and was not allowed to buy my own home without consent.
I, as a youth had my ears boxed on several occasions by the local Police in Currie, and as a young officer gained respect within a mining community by taking on the local yobs in "square goes" - nowadays, I would have landed in jail for doing likewise.
BUT on a happier note, RGB was awarded with his certificates by the Best of Britain people following the campaign by his clients to highlight the good food, service, etc at The Mercat Bar.
I have been doing a "Twitter" (StuartBlaikie) for a few days now, and having problems trying to link it to both The Mercat bar and my blog - very complicated for a non techie person like me.
Hate to say it but my toes curl when I see Mr Darling our Chancellor on the TV - just cannot cope with the man - he and Mr Brown, are probably bigger rougues than the three MP's who appear to be scapegoats for the wholesale abuse of the expenses system operated to the apparant benefit of our MP's in Parliament
There was a lot to be said for the days when a "bobby" walked the beat looking like a policeman with a white shirt, shiny shoes and a pressed uniform -not a para military look a like ; when Police , policed by consent - which meant that officers and the public worked and knew each other, to the extent that Police lived where they worked and therefore had an interest in the community. Me I had to ask permission to get married and was not allowed to buy my own home without consent.
I, as a youth had my ears boxed on several occasions by the local Police in Currie, and as a young officer gained respect within a mining community by taking on the local yobs in "square goes" - nowadays, I would have landed in jail for doing likewise.
BUT on a happier note, RGB was awarded with his certificates by the Best of Britain people following the campaign by his clients to highlight the good food, service, etc at The Mercat Bar.
I have been doing a "Twitter" (StuartBlaikie) for a few days now, and having problems trying to link it to both The Mercat bar and my blog - very complicated for a non techie person like me.
Hate to say it but my toes curl when I see Mr Darling our Chancellor on the TV - just cannot cope with the man - he and Mr Brown, are probably bigger rougues than the three MP's who appear to be scapegoats for the wholesale abuse of the expenses system operated to the apparant benefit of our MP's in Parliament
Exciting moments - in the day of pork chop
James Bond called here this morning , or I thought he had !! Not Sir Sean Connery, but our Jeffrey , the cleaner. He was working away with the mega powerful back pack vacuum cleaner, when there was a big bang , flash of blue light which nearly scorched his bottom - I suspect that he had been trying to take off , jet pack style Poor soul got a real fright and blew some of the circuits.
On the way in this morning at 0630 hrs I was passed on the A702 at high speed by a boy racer in his little black Alfa Romeo , T14 JAP, however, as usual i had caught up with him by Hillend. But not to be outdone he passed a slower van - on the inside and when he got to the traffic lights , up the inside lane and raced off to cut in front of yet another car. Must have been really keen to get to work, maybe not so keen as when he was at school - but probably had mummy to drive him there and back.
Forgave tam , so he managed to get a warm cuppa and a roll for breakfast.
On the way in this morning at 0630 hrs I was passed on the A702 at high speed by a boy racer in his little black Alfa Romeo , T14 JAP, however, as usual i had caught up with him by Hillend. But not to be outdone he passed a slower van - on the inside and when he got to the traffic lights , up the inside lane and raced off to cut in front of yet another car. Must have been really keen to get to work, maybe not so keen as when he was at school - but probably had mummy to drive him there and back.
Forgave tam , so he managed to get a warm cuppa and a roll for breakfast.
My version of the dawn chorus
Must be a record for me - less than an hours sleep at a time - Crept into bed at 10.45 p.m and was awake again by 11.30 - and so it went on all night. 4 a.m. had a wander and tried to get off again - no luck. But on Friday I am supposed to get a long lie in !!
Made contact with the Hotel in Sharm el Shiek where we are going on Sunday, and they do have Internet ( at a price) , so it will be interesting to see how things compare when I get there , especially in view of the hammering the pound is taking and the dropping values for tourists abroad.
I am led to believe that in 2012 all employers will have to start and contribute to Pension Funds for their staff. It is no wonder that this year the commonwealth office have reported the highest numbers of people wishing to leave the UK and go live abroad. At this rate, the British will be living elsewhere and the UK will have become a dormitory state for the EU and others !! I am surprised that recent "Non Dom" to return to the UK has done so - he would have been better off buying a small Island somewhere sunny and declaring himself either King / President or Prime Minister !! Not a bad rant for this time of day.
AOL keep doing odd things to the start up of their programmes, and my computer has been giving me weather forecasts , etc. Due the mild spell we were having i thought it was related to Penicuik, but this morning with another solid frost outside, I see that +3c is rubbish , and is actually London !!
No news from Grant @ Photogenix who is in Benidorm , or the local Police over there, so I presume he is enjoying himself,
Off to sunny Edinburgh to get The Mercat Bar up and running.
My countdown for Saturday has already begun , but not sure how it will all fit in , Briggsy (Graham Briggs) and Joe Myers are due here from Westchester PA on Friday , got the OSM Installation of Saturday morning , the Six Nations rugby Saturday afternoon and the added excitement of the Calcutta cup in Edinburgh Saturday p.m - so it looks like the Gorebridge RA ball may be out the question in the evening. And I still have to pack my case.
Made contact with the Hotel in Sharm el Shiek where we are going on Sunday, and they do have Internet ( at a price) , so it will be interesting to see how things compare when I get there , especially in view of the hammering the pound is taking and the dropping values for tourists abroad.
I am led to believe that in 2012 all employers will have to start and contribute to Pension Funds for their staff. It is no wonder that this year the commonwealth office have reported the highest numbers of people wishing to leave the UK and go live abroad. At this rate, the British will be living elsewhere and the UK will have become a dormitory state for the EU and others !! I am surprised that recent "Non Dom" to return to the UK has done so - he would have been better off buying a small Island somewhere sunny and declaring himself either King / President or Prime Minister !! Not a bad rant for this time of day.
AOL keep doing odd things to the start up of their programmes, and my computer has been giving me weather forecasts , etc. Due the mild spell we were having i thought it was related to Penicuik, but this morning with another solid frost outside, I see that +3c is rubbish , and is actually London !!
No news from Grant @ Photogenix who is in Benidorm , or the local Police over there, so I presume he is enjoying himself,
Off to sunny Edinburgh to get The Mercat Bar up and running.
My countdown for Saturday has already begun , but not sure how it will all fit in , Briggsy (Graham Briggs) and Joe Myers are due here from Westchester PA on Friday , got the OSM Installation of Saturday morning , the Six Nations rugby Saturday afternoon and the added excitement of the Calcutta cup in Edinburgh Saturday p.m - so it looks like the Gorebridge RA ball may be out the question in the evening. And I still have to pack my case.
Wednesday, 10 March 2010
Bright sunny Wednesday - and a few notes.
Bit of a rush tonight, sort of tired this morning due to a late night, car frozen over as were a couple of bits of Lowries Den which led to a moment or two of raised heartbeats and the twitching of the nether regions.
Bar was fairly quiet during the early part of the day although my first customer, a Frenchman from Paris did tuck into the full Clansman breakfast, just to set him up for the day.
Running around doing all sorts of quick chores and I came across my newly cleaned and pressed jacket , thanks to Jodi at Leme, but if I had not found it by accident it would still have been there.
Despite the apparent progress being made by the tramworks people, big furore in the paper and on the TV tonight as the main Contractor, a German Company are still at loggerheads with the City Council, and say that there will be even longer delays and an unknown escalation of the costs. raises the question , we knew they never won the war - so why should we expect them to be able to complete this job !! - ouch .
Had to head for Bookers Cash and Carry on the way home, but poor show as they did not have several of the items I wanted - so although it was not a wasted journey , it was not far off.
Need to curtail my efforts tonight - late and Mrs B not in her usual sparkling form.
Listening to RGB upstairs in his room , I now fully appreciate why laminate flooring is banned by some housing associations and local authorities in multi occupancy dwellings - the racket is terrible.
Tickets are out for the RA 500 Social at Bonnyrigg, Friday 30th April 2010 and they have a cabaret act on the Bill - need to get some tickets sold.
Bar was fairly quiet during the early part of the day although my first customer, a Frenchman from Paris did tuck into the full Clansman breakfast, just to set him up for the day.
Running around doing all sorts of quick chores and I came across my newly cleaned and pressed jacket , thanks to Jodi at Leme, but if I had not found it by accident it would still have been there.
Despite the apparent progress being made by the tramworks people, big furore in the paper and on the TV tonight as the main Contractor, a German Company are still at loggerheads with the City Council, and say that there will be even longer delays and an unknown escalation of the costs. raises the question , we knew they never won the war - so why should we expect them to be able to complete this job !! - ouch .
Had to head for Bookers Cash and Carry on the way home, but poor show as they did not have several of the items I wanted - so although it was not a wasted journey , it was not far off.
Need to curtail my efforts tonight - late and Mrs B not in her usual sparkling form.
Listening to RGB upstairs in his room , I now fully appreciate why laminate flooring is banned by some housing associations and local authorities in multi occupancy dwellings - the racket is terrible.
Tickets are out for the RA 500 Social at Bonnyrigg, Friday 30th April 2010 and they have a cabaret act on the Bill - need to get some tickets sold.
Esk 42 RA , tonights meeting had its moments
Headed down to Esk 42 RA tonight without Sparky who had got his head, brain and diary all in a muddle.Very good attendance with a couple of Companions over from France,
But the points of interest were twofold, there was an Affiliation of a member from South Queensferry No 389, Peter Allan, who took his obligation from his nephew, Simon Fairly - a nice touch, and secondly, Bill Chippendale came up from the Borders and brought with him a personal friend, Richard Anderson, who he had discovered was a past principal of Esk 42 way back in 1961 / 62 / 63, and who has not been up in this area for a very long time. having returned to the fold he will be due some very very long service petitions.
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