Prologue

safe return again.

Another flight ended up with happy landing  on the Dublin Airport . 

Steward  have done the best to make our flight pleasant and help us return softly ,but anyway fact that holidays are gone and wind with rain are welcoming again dropped me into melancholy. 

To be grateful for a normal travelling again seems as a more constructive approach . 

After a two years global pandemic madness it was a first trip without face covering , checking up for vaccination prove or any other security polices to obtain . Even when I went to Mallorca in June , the face mask in bus was requested . I would not be allowed return to Ireland from Alicante without wearing face mask .Buff wasn't safe enough . 

  And this was the end of February ,when was known already ,that face mask is going be lifted in a few days only. But still guy on the airport asked me this famous question ''Where is your face mask?''. 

So It's really something ,what we are suppose cherish a lot . Travelling without  limitations brings us a sense of freedom , so we need protect this right . 

After a dark months ,when flights became banned and travelling impossible to do so we alive . During lockdown nb  five moving around was restricted even to two km distance only. 

Actually some are  argue  ,that flying is devastating for environment , but excuse me . For this reason we developed a new technology . Finding methods which save from carbon dioxide emission I see as our future but  vacations limitation idea means mental health and economy killing . 

How anybody may expect that we stop travelling if many are passionate about discovering other worlds . This is excuse me minds opening curiosity . 

Home sick regression .

Visiting my home city can be very emotional often. Meeting some people aften a many years brought me to feeling a sense of my identify .Previously I'm over a thoughts about my roots . Whatever I would  try to think in rational way it's not convincing me to cut my roots. There are still these with significant meaning for me.

We  went out from the aeroplane , passed to the airport taking a long way to  passport check in and baggage reclaim . When  I recall how it is in others , I must say , that only in Dublin I may notice this a long walk distance . There are not buses which would bring to the check in area . In Stansted airport in London train is going . Train operated on the airport . Well . In London everything is huge . 

Back to Dublin . After ,when I likely caught up my suitcase I immediately could move to the bus stop nb  16 . Maybe other options are more comfortable but this is the cheapest one . Unfortunately this bus is well hidden and available only for them who  are informed. For them who are not, aircoach is waiting just when they leave meeting point. That's smart idea. 

One and half of hour took to get Rathmines .Walk with suitcase and climbing to the second floor and I can assume ,that i'm back to Dublin again . 

I don't like have mess for ages after return from holidays . So I took a quick action and done laundry and some domestic work just when I got into house . I was glad finding a free washing machine. So I got to go refuse to bank check what is happening with my account . I don't want have internet account . If I want to know what is going on I need check on machine or wait for a statement .What is a bright side of this situation is that I like walk toward Grafton street . Artists performing there create absolutely unique atmosphere 

Also chats with these who I met over there or with these who were waiting for me here  are taking place. Slowly I back to normality and reality which I'm surrounded here and starting make plans for the future trips . This is like switching on surviving mode . Just this perspective ,this feeling ,having everything booked already makes me moving on through every day . 

My trips around  Europe .would 

It has been a time of my birthday . It seemed, that I didn't have anybody to celebrate that special moment with me . So I just decided to go somewhere anyway . 

So .In February only Canaris Islands are one ,where is warm around the Europe . For this reason flights are such expensive during a whole year . Well .Who cares .Is important pamper yourself for that occasion . The easy way was to go just to travel office and find any professional assist . The choice was Lanzarote , Puerto de Carmen . I agree that was an excellent idea perhaps  Puerto de Carmen is the best place in Lanzarote to stay in . There are large two beaches and one small, so is a plenty space for recreation . If I said that Vienna is charming I need describe  Lanzarote as absolutely lovely. Town Perto de Carmen is simply encharming and port just beautiful . Is option to take a cruise to Puerto de Calero. I have chosen underwater safari : cruise on the boat with windows under water so was possible observe what  was going there . Cool. I wanted also visit aquarium , but it wasn't a huge as I thought . What I will never forget and stay in my  memory forever it's a whole day tour to the North side . The living in Lanzarote for 20 years . The best from Canaries lay on the North -he said .And he was so right .  The main thing about is that .It's island formed from lava . 

The main attraction were Cesarian Garden created in crater .We went also to Cactus Garden with mill ,what gave impression like a I would find myself in Don Quixote of la Mancha story . Modern Art Museum and lunch were just a nice supplement added to the journey. 

After that I went to Poland . It was March but still freezing up to even eight minus in the night time . I went for business meeting and met acquaint from my home city who moved to Warsaw . Unfortunately weather wasn't good enough to do any sightseeing . All what we could to do was stay indoor and taste nice polish food. I basically saw panoramic of Wisla river ,when i was crossing  bridge  going by tramway . 

From that moment I broke schema ,that having  somebody is necessary for travelling and started my lonely adventures. Somebody told me ,that is non reason bring anybody with You and compered to taking a log to the wood . It's not incredible realise ,that in fact this planet has over 7 billions inhabitants? So let's figure out how to make a new friends  around the World . 

 

Monkeys from Gibraltar .

How my dream about Spain has been born . 

If I  want talk about my desire of going to Spain ,or if I may say stronger even idea of living in Spain I need uncover a little bit my background . It was a time when I worked for time share travelling company . I don't want explain  ,what concept of time share is . What is important here is a fact ,that selling an idea of going to Costa de Sol made me wanting  to go there too. By the time which I have spent sending others to Andalusia I actually sold this idea to myself .

It became my big dream to experience all these attractions which I was describing our guests on presentations . 

What I knew already I didn't need wait for any occasion to do it so . To create occasion and just go there seemed like a better option . So I back to the same travel office and  checked for availability to go there . Someone very experienced in advising the best in this area recommended me hotel Kristal located in Torremolinos; lovely town just in 10 min on the bus from Malaga with amazing beaches and many shops and restaurant on offer . 

My hotel was in the center . 

The first thing to do it was go to the beach . Spain is famous from awesome beaches castles ,flamenco and lovely food. Beaches there are great organised with showers and even beds for them who wish. Gazpacho and paella it was  simple dish was   necessary to try . In Andalusia gazpacho is a little  bit different. I will never forget flamenco show in taverna called  Pepe Lopez , Three couples were performing . The older man seemed as their guru. They were changing costume , scenery and music , but that what he presented in the end was unbelievable . At least he began dance with chair . 

Spain is also country of castles . Although is one to see in Malaga my dream was  to go to Granada and see the biggest castle in the South of Spain ; great inheritance of Muslim rule over there . This  dream came through  after many years , but Alhambra , which was included in ticket to the show had to be enough at that moment. A reason was ; I missed  tour from hotel and didn't find the main bus station . It happened much later on. 

However I got two monkeys on my head in Gibraltar . 

Likely our  guide was experienced so helped me take them off. 

What caught me up in Gibraltar .?

Let's start from general information. What is important to know , that is English territory .Spain and Great Britan were always fight for because of location and port . Africa can be reached just in two hours on the ferry . Trading with Africa is very profitable , so they didn't face economic crisis . There are many Spanish crossing border to work. Unemployment was only about two precent in 2012 during my visit. I worry about what happened there after Brexit . 

Although under British protection they were doing very well and becoming more independent from them . Its only about thirty thousands townsmen but they have their own currency . English is the first language but over half speak Spanish , what makes great opportunity for them ,who like improve both of them . You can find catholic church , Muslim mask , Protestant cathedral and Judish Synagogue ,what creates multicultural  climate . Four hundreds meters high 

rock and beautiful Mediterranean  Sea are  such colourful . 

Just arriving is unusual perhaps we needed wait when aeroplane get off before we could get in . Custom  check in was a normal procedure . This is a duty free area however is better do not risk take over four hundred cigarettes if you don't be in trouble .For me it was obvious  ,that I want see rocks . So we walked toward many of corridors dated from Second War , when British soldiers were hiding there . We also were see concert hall made in the cave , what has been amazing experience . 

And at least monkeys .

There is flock about three hundreds monkeys to count . Is legend saying that Gibraltar will still retain English unless monkeys are living there . So Churchill settled a many new ,when war has been ended . 

This is only one place in Europe where monkeys are living in wild world . And they are truly shameless . So please be careful whilst visiting there . You may get monkey searching your bag or over the head. Likely my  guide rescued me . 

I wish to stay there for a few days but it was one day tour. I had still two days left in Torremolinos .

Great performance on the square and man singing  Elvis Presley's song made my time there nicer.

 

I know La Rambla in Barcelona 

 

My old friend from secondary school got idea to go somewhere together with pleasant weather . We got excellent idea to  go to Barcelona . I choose Princessa

a four stars hotel for the first night. She arrived earlier and got ability stay there for  a longer in this lux. Our room was on the twenty first floor ,swimming pool on the twenty third floor. After many years in Ireland has been so weird for me to see high buildings . SIPTU with eighteen floors is the highest  building in Dublin . Next morning we had a time just for breakfast and s little moment over swimming pool . It was only one chance for swimming . Water in the sea was still too cold. Summer  season just was slowly starting in may. We wore t- shirts already ,but local people still something on. I encouraged her to have a look around before we move to Castle de Fields.

So we went out with purpose to see La sagrada Familia Cathedral. We met up with nice response from local people ,who were waiting on the bus stop. It was bus going there but we took underground anyway. This place has been found. This building is impressively massive. I hope reconstruction is completed by now. 

Transportation in Barcelona works incredibly well. 

The same one journey ticket was valid also in the train. Apartment was located beside the beach with lovely terrace. We could have breakfast and dinner served with a beautiful view. 
Karaoke bar became my favorite place. Carlos was singing in such professional way. Me well ...not so bad in some moments. It was cool example of tourists and locals integration. Something to do in this boring town life and making nice memories. We were welcoming there just after one night.

But let's move on to Barcelona. The red sightseeing bus for the next  three days seemed as the best option. I must describe Barcelona as amazing city; totally astonishing. This city offers so many great opportunities to spend Your time such as museums, cabs up to the mountains and of course cruise.  I liked visit Museum of Archeology. We both enjoyed jazz music played on catamaran. When I heard about Guell Park we immediately went out from the bus as I got feeling in my gul ,that is worth to spend there some time. Was impressive adore Gaudi mosaic .We bought necklaces . 

Castle the Fields as name is suggesting also is offering castle to see. Spain is full of castles. 

 Just last walk toward La Rambla Street and paella, one more night in karaoke bar and we had to return with lovely memories collected. 

Even seeing crowd of protesting  people doesn't  change it. 

Week of Glory in Rome. 

It was October . 

I put my holidays on schedule in October . 

Let's me explain that I don't like go on holidays in summer time. 

There are few reasons for it. 

First of all. We have a pleasant weather from May to  October.  Maybe hardly ever is warm enough for enjoying tinning on the beach but often we can play outdoor as summer is plenty of sunny splits. So is clever idea prologue warmth and catch some tan, when in Ireland is non any chance for. It makes return to Ireland more difficult but anyway is great escape from rain and wind even for a while. The best month possible if You plan to go anywhere in South of Europe is September. Sea is lovely for swimming and weather still so hot , even still over thirty degree , but at least nice cool evenings and nights are starting . 

Secondly. Is less expensive and more quiet out of season. However in Rome crowds of visitors arriving for a whole year. You need use camera extension for taking picture. 

Canaries are such expensive no matter what is a particular term of vacation. 

Thirdly.

For these who work in shops late break before crazy Xmas time is a very good option for recharging energy. 

I found cheap flights from Poznan to Roma Ciampino and return so let's go. 

After turbulences around my accommodation, which was canceled in the last min I managed with booking another one 

 even with location . 

I met my brother partner. She loves Italy and speaks Italian fluently. I just was trying figure out, what is good to see. She advised having map on the paper  Now we can imagine exist without Google map ,but during these times just city map was in use. Map on piece of paper is handy perhaps You can highlight your route -she said. Hotel was perfectly located beside Termini train station, so change turned in the good way perhaps before I had nearby  only  Vatican. From Hotel Marsala I was simple walking. Unfortunately I got  to spend idea first night in Ciampino.I thought that its going to be a few min walk , but in fact I had take a taxi. After walking around town I finally gave up. I couldn't just catch taxi on the street but had to wait in restaurant. It was four star hotel with fitness club, so not to bad for staying ,but I wanted explore Rome. Likely they had shuttle service to the airport. I just needed take bus to the city where I got in afternoon time. 

It would be much better idea  just book all my staying in Marsala. I know it now. I would do it, if I eventually go to Rome again . We learn by experience, Sometimes its cost taxi ride. 

On the next day I was ready for my Rome adventure. I have read article in which somebody described Rome as a city  which You need allow flow. so I decided take this advice. My first walk I decided lead to Trevi Fountanne. But finally I got to Colosseo .I have spent over two hours inside. What is good to know , the same ticket s valid to Palatine Hill . I just got hit by ancient legacy. It has been incredible walk toward Roman Forum . You may explore Catholic churches  and Museum of Vaticano , ancient Rome and also rich architecture and gorgeous plazas . Obviously Plaza Venezia impressed with shiny glory. I couldn't find however nothing taking breath away in famous Campo de Fiori plaza. Yes . In fact I would adore Gordano Bruno Statute. Anyway flowers were on sale as described Czeslaw Milosz in his poem . 

I paid my special attention to Vaticano. I went there three tomes . My brother partner was completely right. Is impossible combine Sunday mass and sightseeing . It was unbelievable go thought all restrictions , check in , security gates , see Swiss Guard . I felt like  really Catholic and truly honoured. Sorry ,that I didn't cover my arms but it was so hot even in October. After liturgy I went down San Angelo street and had the most delicious ice creams ever in local shop. It was my brother's partner advice. In Italy You must try piece of pizza on weight  and ice creams. This is really truth. Everything tastes differently there. But what I must  to say, that we have a much more to choose from widely different types of cuisines . In Italy You may meet just with one type of restaurant pizza-restaurant or eventually Bangladeshi food. Many of Bangladeshi live over there and do whatever to survive even if its selling bottles of water to tourists . 

My traveling instinct lead me to Michael Angelo Castle . Absolutely worth to visit . If You are looking for lovely panoramic of Tyber river that's a perfect choice. After I took a walk down to Termini Train Station .I cull to Leonardo de Vinci museum . Its an excellent example of Renaissance style.

I returned later to see St Poul Basilic . View from dome wasn't more spectacular than from San Angelo Castle , so no worth to by ticket to go up. r 

And finally I came especially for  Museum Vaticano . 

Is always a long queue of  people waiting for entrance . My advice is to careful with anybody offering tour with guide and skipping line . I have got three people approaching me whilst my standing. They offered me tour for forty two Euro. 

Information about price wasn't clear . Finally , when I came to ticket box the price was nineteen Euro. I waited for thirty minutes ,what wasn't so bad at whole. Please notice ,that was price in 2014 . I don't like even think how much it is for now. I was lucky to be there that time. It was conference in November called for Michel Angelo anniversary. They decided protect paintings in Sistine Chapel and change the lights for more natural and limit number of visitors .I just can imagine how difficult must to be get there. This chapel is the main attraction of Vaticano Museum. All is leading there. And is hard describe this unbelievable feeling to see all this art work which in fact costed Michel's Angelo life .It simply must be seen. But is much more to explore over there. We walked via beautiful rooms designed with Rafaello paintings. For me the really special was to see Vienna Battle painted by Jan Matejko. This is so fair that memory of this event in fact saving Christianity which has been the last moment of Polish glory. 

The wealth collected there is just impressive. I would just compare it with British Museum. Particularly Egyptological Exhibition has been absolutely beyond any commentary. Definitely is more Egyptian souvenirs collected over the World than in Cairo. We have quite precious in Dublin too.

It was great discover unique photos exhibition from Java and new stamps collection . I guess that non any guide would bring me there,  Finally I have spent about five hours there and left full of new memories. 

 

Naples and Pompei .

 

It was a time when movie Pompei was on the top.  Inspired by seeing this awesome picture I went for crazy and took one day tour to Naples and Pompei .It's far from Rome but reachable  via highway in about three hours so it's kind of a long journey for one day. We would see the house where Sophia Loren grew up. I must say that it was lovely view . Houses located on mountains looked charming. Walk with guide toward the bay was waiting for us. This is a totally truth that You may die when You see Naples. Yes . Sure , but in cause  this massive number of rubbish. Previously I heard that is a  serious  problem with recycling .  Bay wasn't impressive too I may say messy. We have got opportunity to see Vesuvio volcano which still works so eventual eruption   is still very possible. Also lunch served in the garden was included. Man playing on  guitar and singing however was a special tip. It all created unique atmosphere. But the main point of that day were two hours which we spent in Pompei ruin  with guide.  He said that what really happened it has nothing related with movie. And again. There are no any words to describe this incredible feeling during walk toward these streets dated over two thousands years ago , realising that it was market , hot bar service, gym over there , theatre ,  house of prominent or even a courtesans rooms with preferable positions painted above the entrance. Hooks used for parking donkeys were still existing . And of course bodies conserved in lava made massive impact.  Many of paintings on the walls are well conserved what was exciting to adore. If You  want to go there don't worry. They still keep uncovered items for next generations.

What  was to do more . Well . Finally I have found Capitol , which is  totally incredible building with  the hole on the roof. Also I was lucky reach famous Spanish Stairs surrounded  by Polish group singing songs. It was a heart touching moment. 

Just  ride around Rome by night and my time there was ended. My brother partner was impressed  when I showed her  photos. I didn't waste my time there. Well .  On the last night  I have stayed until late taking a risk because I conclude it wasn't safe at whole  . Journey to airport went easy perhaps the location was simple brilliant. I would not leave without having a lovely meal there. Pasta and courgettes. Naturally delicious .

 

One Day in Sicily .

 

 I have got in very special deal for my another Maltese holiday . During these years I could not imagine not going there. After so messy time year ago it was fine to go there alone again . On the some stages You may appreciate that peace , not having deal with somebody's moods and do whatever You really like do so. For example I would never expect that anybody else would like spend a few hours in museum. From the other hand having just parties and clubbing till late would be hardly accepted for me. I would also not just stay on the beach for a whole week and don't take any ride around. 

 

 But back to Malta .It was a big wow from me when I saw flight price. I even have changed my holidays term. After a little bit cold aura in May year ago put me into doubt s, how warm is going to be in April but anyway for this value I would take a risk. I was delighted to find cheap half board accommodation in San Antonio Hotel in San Pawl Bay. 

I didn't need worry about weather. Dear visitor. You can always count for a sunny weather over there. During my six times it just one time rainy and for a few hours only. We could back to sunny desk and enjoy sunny bath as normally there. 

Under all these a good savings deals circumstances I came up with idea of going to Sicily for a day. Obviously I bought this  excursion in place, where they offered better price. I had get up very early. Bus came pick up just after 5am. It was a big catamaran taking us to Sicily. Ferry would take too long, but catamaran was faster, so it took just about 3 hours to get there. 

I was surprised to see very restricted check in; guys with guns and dogs searching drugs. I guess so .We got into bus and joyride  began . I totally understood why this country has been inspiration for artists. Panoramic was just awesome and landscapes of mountains covered by lava absolutely astonish. But we arrived to beautiful town called Modica. 

It was about twenty six degree when we got there. Immediately I needed cappuccino . Cappuccino in Italy has specific taste .After  a little break we went to see this old fashioned town. 

During a walk we could adore lovely building and cathedral in baroque style.  
Local wine and chocolate trial was another attraction on offer. Full of nice times and taste Friday we move to Etna volcano . I love to go for hiking but it was non enough of time for. To go on the hill faster was possible on the cab. Well . In that time it was cost 35 Euro. But who knows whenever You will be there again. I decided to take that journey. Likely I bought new shoes before trip. So I was prepared for snow. What so nice holidays combination. I was enjoying beach in Melehia  on Thursday and experienced snow on Friday. I was so hungry when we returned so ordered panini with feta cheese and tomatoes ;probably the best ever which I had. 

We were going around on the bus for a rest of the day. Panoramic has been spectacular. Finally we it was a time back to Malta accompanied by guards and dogs.

 

Lovely City Breaks . 

 

My Black Weekend in Paris .

 

When I have changed my accommodation I got idea of finding a nice city break on offer . I'm simply like bargain hunter . I guess its a mental defect typical for shop workers. So . Actually I installed Ryanair and Booking apps on my phone to make sure that I'm not missing any sale occasion. I also receiving many emails on my inbox informing about hot deals.. 

I decided try how any city break would work for me 

Flight price to Paris seemed very encouraging to go there. Accommodation was hard to resolve .but anyway finally I found something  quite acceptable . 

 

Let's go to see this fabulous city. It's nothing to choose for romantic weekend than go to Paris for a few days. I caught early flight . During that time I have lived in Dublin One. Its made my travelling easier as I was able get O'Connell just in twenty min. We have plenty service to airport from city center. Dublin Airport is located in the North on the same side. 

Unfortunately risk of catching rain is non different at whole. 

This is not a long journey over there. However the Beauvais Airport is still far away . I didn't know that is possible reach the most beautiful beaches from there just in two hours. Well . Life is still about learning. I also discovered how much I could count for my French friend from the time when we worked together in the deli.

When I arrived I have price for a shuttle very expensive like probably in Paris. My French colleague always was saying that Paris is the most visited city in the World. 

As I have done it in Rome I decided use cheaper version . It was bus going to the city available for 15 Euro . It costed me a lot  of my nerves but I will describe of this situation later on . The bus tour took about forty minutes. 

My underground Paris experience began from  Porte Maillot via Champs-Elysees to Garibaldi close to St. Queen . I booked my staying in De ' Souvenir. Shower was amazingly inside my room but whenever I needed toilet I had to  use one shared in  corridor. I loved design . Likely my hotel was nearby metro station . Mc' Donald's restaurant just across and church close with square around famous from Sundays markets. Wow .I was so happy to manage with. Let's imagine that I went there alone totally disoriented how to navigate my trip, I went for a public transportation instead more easy way. The reason is that I like experience normal life in any place wherever I go . I love enjoy observing a simple life even in crowdy metro or bus ,waiting for on the stop. I would feel embarrassed in luxury five star stuff . 

Let' s back to Paris . 

Nice and handsome guys in hotel served my welcome coffee with croissant. By the time I discovered lovely bakery . It was pleasure taste this sweety stuff. Weather was absolutely gorgeous . Temperature raised up to thirty degree. It was impossible to take some rest after travel under these exciting circumstances.  

If all went so good so far question is'' Why not to go for? ,,

I went out .Paris was calling. My first thing to do was obviously to go to Eiffel Tower . 

Was really easy find this famous building just when I got out from the underground . I wasn't impressed when I approached this famous building. It seemed like rusty iron. How different its presents on photos. I quitted idea to take a lift to the top. Instead I took cruise available around. It has been incredible experience. I have seen all main attractions of Paris from Seine River. Weather still was staying  brilliant and I was just delighted. However that what happened later became my nightmare. 

But where is my French friend has gone ?

I left boat with excitement but thirsty .I began looking for any drink. But it was so expensive in tat area; even over three euro per small bottle. Eventually I bought some souvenirs ;something like fridge magnet, postcards, a little mirror.  At least I went to machine just when I entered metro station . I put my valet under elbow. But I couldn't  find it after when I got my change from machine. I began search my valet dramatically but its was no anywhere. People in metro saw me so shocked. I just lost my mind. I did not have any idea how I gonna resolve that situation. Someone brought me to police station. 

It was just terrible. They asked me fill up report form . Amazingly its was translated to Polish. There were two very nice guys with with hands cuffs on their hands trying pick me up or so. Policeman tried to stop them. I haven't got back my valet until today. All what  I have gained was phone nb to Polish Embassy so I could call there and talk to Consul. It was no anyone duty provide me transport to airport. I guess if I contacted Irish Embassy they would help me more. Likely I still had my passport. Everything else such bank card, all cash was  in the valet. After tis even I never set everything into one place. This is my strong recommendation to all travellers. I returned to hotel without any idea what I actually gonna to do . Actually with current technology facilities and my unlimited calls and data, What's App and other conveniences everything would be easier operate but

that time I had problem connect with hotel's wi fi . But anyway somebody topped my phone so I was able make a calls, ex blocked my account, consul advised request cash via Western Union. my 

Sadly  Nico left Paris because He was leaving France on Monday so He needed see off His family. We were suppose to meet up for a coffee next day. After a few years of lovely friendship I wasn't even informed about cancellation. He thought that I came with company suggested ask for a food at hotel Basically I stayed without anything to eat and drink except tap water and few sweets for a whole day. 

It was cash transfer possibility but I wasn't sure how its gonna work out. I just decided calm down and take a long sleep.

In the end I received emergency cash from Visa organised by bank . Thankfully the pick up  point was just around.

To be honest this is not secure and pleasant area. The street down was full of people trading and trying to sale anything possible. But finally I went trough crowded place and got the office. Lady from Western for a whole day. Union just stared at me and gave me cash. Uff .I was rescued . 

I emailed Nico and informed that I'm fine . I proposed to come over and enjoy a city after all these troubles but He wasn't willing to do it. I haven't contacted Him from that time. 

I liked don't waste a time in hotel anymore and went for an evening tour. I took a walk via Champs -Elysees which was under construction work. 

With peace I back to hotel . it was still Sunday left before return to Dublin. 

One  of mine friend recommended visit Versal so I took another metro journey. What makes sightseeing easier in Paris is fact that whole main tourist attractions are on the yellow C1 line. I mixed up route but got Versal . Train was  full  photos from palace on the wallpaper. It looked so cool. You knew where are you going to. 

I didn't like wait into queue to entrance They charged for a admission to see gardens. I bought ticket to train going around. Its seemed as a better idea in fact that weather changed and began be rainy. 

Honestly gardens didn't impressed me at whole in fact it's a massive square. 

All run catch train going back to the city so I did. It was not too late yet so I changed direction for Norte Dame Cathedral .

This place is just fantastic. I will be forever grateful for seeing it before a burnt . I attended to the evening mass and took a round around. Gothic architecture took my breath away. Statue of John Paul Second was a lovely attach . N

 After all troubles I likely returned to Dublin on Monday. Perspective to be stuck there forever was simply scary. I thought that my watch has bee stolen  during check in. It triggered me into crazy mood. I got forced to send my baggage to the hold in the plane but I wated keep on the board. After argument and in danger not tom be allowed fly I simple took off the yellow sticker and got on the board with strong vow not back to Paris again .,By the way .  You are hardly accepted there If You don't speak French .

I must to say that  this is a fabulous city and worth to visit . Might be just overrated the same like Italy. I would like explore Versal Palace inside, Louvre Museum and Bastille as I'm always curious of historical discovers but accompanied by  somebody special. 

 

Madrid for the weekend . 

 

After what I overcame  in Paris the typical reaction would be stop travel for a longer , but I wanted break this bad omen up and in opposite just to go anyway. A few days gap in my roster will to  get a some sunshine won with a fear of going  away again. Because is not beach facility available in Madrid flight tickets are usually  cheaper than to others sides of Spain . Finding bus to the city was my first thing to do when I arrived . I developed this habit after many trips . And its works . 

To be honest perhaps my life is busy I don't do any special research before I go . This is improvisation or at hot acting. I simple developed traveller instinct . So following this instinct I booked my room in perfect location on Atocha Calle close to Main Rail Station . Modern Art Museum,  Real Jardin Botanic Garden and Museum Prado were nearby . Although it wasn't beach around ,what I love a lot I could go to the park which is a great ,specious place for recreation . I  enjoyed watching  amazing plants and people during sport activities . Street artist made atmosphere . I have handmade bracelet which I bought there until today. I went for one day sightseeing bus tour but it was unnecessary in fact I had all the most important attractions around. Eventually was cool to see famous Real Madrid stadium .Paella was delicious but toast the next morning maybe not the same and cash tested  in every place . After Museum Prado experience with famous Execution Francesco Goya painting I  have visited Modern Museum . I shoot a few pictures of Salvador Dali work pieces however gigantic painting of Picasso was protected by two female guards . Likely a lots of His workshop to adore. 

Guys with guns on the Atocha Station gave me scary impression but finally I returned to Dublin satisfied after sunny break. 

 

Greatness of Gran Canaries .

Sometimes You get some company . Despite the most negative perception at least You will have a people for sharing You holidays experience . It happened for me however . My old but anyway younger friend organised with his flatmates excursion to Gran Canaria . Canaries Islands  are the most desirable holidays  destination for Irish people . They just simple love Spain and Spanish . 
When I attended to Spanish course it was popular foreigner language class . Spanish exchange  conversations in the library where just packed. 

Because this is a great possibility enjoy a lovely weather even during winter flights are expensive for the whole year. However from November till March is out if season .After months of awaiting at least we met on the airport and flew to Gran Canaria ; four girls and boy; just one had a boyfriend . 

 

We were looking forward this vacation as dogs waiting for bowl with food . Maybe I was more used to this type of sunny trips but they not really that time. They got an idea about going sometimes somewhere else than to Poland after our holidays. 

We met at  the airport on Saturday afternoon and flew. 

Share taxi ride wasn't a problem .

Beatrice choose probably the most attractive location close to Playa del Ingles in Don Quixote Apartments . So we took two apartments for four surrounded by garden .  

Unfortunately weather wasn't typically as should be there . I mean the wind was strong and because of that seating on the beach quite difficult, so unusual in that month over there. On our way we met my ex fitness instructor ,who declared Him as just married to other man . Would You that I loved Him secretly. It just hit me. We got informed that they were going for gey' s parade . Wasn't busy around . We would eventually meet couples these who attended to this event. Poor Beatrice began complain that it was non possible to pick up somebody for holidays affair . 

The answer in that situation was shopping . The first trip led to the shopping centre. Unfortunately it wasn't my cup of tea as I preferred different way of spending holidays. Although the place was seriously luxury I didn't like compare prices in the same brand shops in Dublin and there. After a three days I was tired . 

Working in shop and spending a free time at shops was just too much. 

I went for my options . The first was cruise . Arek joined . Girls were not interested at whole. 

I obviously enjoyed party on the boat . For Arek that performance  was too poor , mainly if we mean offered buffet. Because for Him food is everything and holidays about dining above everything. Another is shopping . Prices must be compared. 

I have found that whenever I go alone I spend less amount of money for another souvenirs  which Just are stored in baskets . The best idea is to buy something which You will use like for example bag , watch . necklaces, bracelet . I have collection of magnets on my fridge so every moment it makes me returning  to my holidays memories. 

For me was more funny take ride on banana. Just jumping into water has been a cold experience . 

They companions were on shopping mood again . Girls were going to the beach in the late mornings , back to apartment in the afternoon and getting ready for evening tour around restaurants and clubs . We had a great time in one Brazilian grill bar . Arek enjoyed plenty grilled met selection and I of course had to try paella and pizza Margarita . Columbian guy was straight despite my evaluation . So no matter what about circumstances there is always chance for romance. 

The best of the best for me what I have done it has been a one day tour on the North side of the island. They called it panoramic tour . And in fact landscapes were beautiful as I was amazed by gorgeous maintains over two thousand meters high . We would find local products . Somebody offered poncho but with just cabin case You need to be sensibly decide what to buy . We had many historical pieces on the way . Ice cream around cathedral was delicious and the oldest church from  where Christopher Columbo left for America - a lovely pie. We could no avoid visit rum factory . Naturally everything had to be tried before  sale. 

Full of new experience I returned to our apartments. Others were for shopping again . It was flamenco show in restaurant but perfumes seemed  more interesting than it. 

Arek was longing to waterpark ,so even though it's   no my cup of tea. I made sure that however we had spent a nice time over there I didn't change  my mind. 

And finally we went with Arek to Palmitos Park. Despite what all fighting for a animals rights would disagree with it was a cool experience .Surrounded by spectacular nature we attended to three shows during our few hours staying . The first was a parrots entertainment . It presented a wide spectrum of these birds intellect in pretty funny expose .

Moving to the next we would adore great swimmers swimming with dolphins . It was incredible just watch it. 

And finally it was birds show organised in the maintains such beautiful scenery. So we would admire eagles ,falcons, hawks and many others. 

Full of fresh memories made we returned to girls. Of curse they just went for shopping and to the beach .Later they were full  of regrets for not doing anything special during holidays time. Maybe next time. But what about if this next chance won't come along? I decided to use that precious opportunity as much I can . I felt filled up  with my plans and satisfied enough.

In the end the weather improved so finally we got a chance enjoy a beach as that terrible wind gone. 

Return to Irish climate and facing reality was a tough experience as always. All what we can do to fix it is just go away again. 

This is a great  opportunity for shop workers escape even for eleven days only and take a rest ;totally relax and forget about anything. Joanna 

Single on Crete 

In the next year Beata got idea of going to Crete . For me it seemed as a dream trough . She considered this direction as a spiritual journey . For me who is fascinated by ancient history it has been a dreaming destination as I always wanted to see vases from that age what actually happened . Joanna decided stay with her boyfriend .Well .They were sending photos with Greece specialities  from Lidl in Ireland.
Uff . What would be wrong with ? Is hard to understand for me . But anyway we were in group of three single guys going to take some rest . Personally I was looking for adventure in fact going for holidays is something more like just lying down on the sun bed for a whole week although I have found it very relaxing . But starting from the beginning .Our flight was in afternoon time. They arrived to Dublin airport in the morning . I liked take my time so I joined them a little bit later . We stayed in Chania for our first night. We took a walk toward the city immediately after loading in hotel .  The first of all it it has been possibility taste authentic salad . Honestly it would be quite difficult to stay on that stage for a whole our holidays time . However we enjoyed breakfast . I bagged them to let me go to museum before moving to our destinated apartment .So the Archeology Museum in Chania was marked . After we went to the bus station catch a bus to Agia Marina where we had booked accommodation in Eden Beach Hotel .What a perfect match . We had got a  specious apartment just beside to the beach . Arek got his own room . Well .He was just a one guy in our group So he deserved these preferences .

We girls shared second bedroom . Balcony was specious ,what I always like . Beatrice took photos over there in the end of our vacation ,. We had lovely view from and it was evening time such perfect time during summer time perhaps can't be a better light . She looked amazing in a brand new  tan on her skin. 

But let's back to the beginning . 

My vacation's companions evidently were not interested with  my sightseeing aspirations . Her plan was just get a tan .  For Him  a  good number of restaurants and shops was  all what He really needed during holidays. Well .It has been absolutely right place to do it so . I think that swimming pool and pretty enough beach just on the back hotel were such temptation to don't go anywhere out of . Despite my plan was to see what I wanted to see . I have been dreaming about discovering great ancient legacy .Although I enjoyed staying on the beach for a whole day and reading books ,however I needed also move on . We were visiting one tourism office regularly because Arek liked talk to that man from . 

But they were not able organise a group. In the middle of September season was going over. We  were so lucky experience very nice summer even over thirty degree temperature . was  still warm even during nights. 

This is what I miss living in Ireland. We may have nice warm daytime often but because the wind and cold breeze from the ocean nights are usually cold even during the summer. 

I took a cruise as its a something always to do . And it has been something incredibly wonderful Please . If You go to Crete googles are an very important accessories to use . Swimming is such cool in the pure  five meters deep water associated with caves. I also took a walk on the hill .Exploring a  such  lovely Greek landscape as on the movies stayed in my memories forever . For these kind of  moments is worthy to do anything . 

Beatrice eventually went for daily  excursion to Elafonisi Beach which is ranked in ten the most beautiful beaches in the World. What is characteristic for it's a pink sand. This is an effect of pieces shells which brings this specific colour .