In 2014, I was in the UK following the launch of my book on the Thames Path, held at Marlow Library. Everyone was so kind and generous, especially as I was an Aussie with a rather cheeky approach to English history. 😎 Next day I received a
Read more →
OH TO BE IN ENGLAND! It was the perfect time for my elderly Aunt Leah to visit England, as my partner Rob and I were based in London. It was Leah’s first trip, and we were happy to take her on a tour of the country. Heading
Read more →
I’m almost beyond joking about the dreadful Coronavirus, but this image did make me smile, albeit a very wry smile. The following piece will explain why. MISGUIDED MUSICAL AMBITION After watching too many episodes of Australia’s Got Talent, my associate Editor Des decided he wanted to become
Read more →
Who would have thought that whale watching would be a genuine tourist draw in the Blue Mountains, two hours west of Sydney? Unlike coastal whales the species, known as hedgeritum greenius magnum is very slow moving and easy to spot. At certain times of year a prime
Read more →
BRUSH WITH FAME I once worked in an office where the favourite tea break amusement was Brush with Fame. It was difficult for new members of staff to get the hang of, because it was no use simply boasting that you had slept with a Rolling Stone
Read more →
My first visit to the United States was in the 1980s, about thirty years too late. If only I could have arrived as a ten year old, when I was obsessed with Yankee comic books. For years I lusted after Hershey bars , fudge brownies, double malts
Read more →
During an extended stay at our holiday home near Marlow, my partner Rob and I were joined by Brisbane friends Margie and Lance, who were making their first visit to the UK. The prospect of this extremely laid-back couple spending six weeks with a manic history
Read more →
I don’t agree with William about tea, because that comes before coffee for me. However, the rest is true. Porridge was on the 3rd class breakfast menu aboard the Titanic……among much else. Good grief, I wonder what those in 1st class were offered? Probably quails’ eggs and
Read more →
On our very first visit to France as a couple, Rob and I collected our hire car at the back of the Hotel des Invalides in Paris. It was an appropriate spot considering how sick I felt at the thought of careering around the city on the
Read more →