a Sunday in Rome

I had 1 whole week in Rome. But my first few days were wasted on resting in the hostel. My first attempt to explore the city was a failure, my knees were weak and shaking and flu symptoms took me down until the onset of fever pushed me to stay in bed. I wasn't really sure what started it. All I could remember before I left London was an itchy throat and from there my temperature just went up so quick. 

I forced myself to get up and go for the 10am mass at the Vatican. That was top priority. It was just 1 metro ride from Termini Station, getting off at Ottaviano "San Pietro". I walked for a few blocks until I found the arches. There as I walked through the entrance, was the grandeur of the Vatican City. The square was packed with chairs to accommodate people who attended the Wednesday Papal Audience in summer.

Pope John Paul II Tomb

I realized I didn't have much recollection of the place. Photographs of the family's first visit during the early 80's were the only reminders of our tour. I was only 3 years old then, Dad carrying me on his shoulders. My sisters were old enough to wander around. Mom always said that Rome was my favourite place. Dad said it was only because that was the first city we visited. 

The gray clouds were already forming when I got there. The forecast was looking bad, but I was happy that I got there with no signs of rain yet. I quickly found the Swiss Guards at the Bronze doors right after security check point. One of the guards kindly handed out a yellow slip that was my entry for the Papal Audience the following Wednesday. (For more >> Papal Audience Info)

The mass was starting when I entered St. Peters Basilica. There was a guard at the end of the corridor, permitting only those who were interested to attend sunday service to enter the area close to the altar. We weren't allowed to take photos during the mass, which was good because some of the places in Europe that I've visited didn't care if people were roaming around with cameras flashing despite an on going service.

The whole service was in Latin. Of course that goes without saying that I didn't understand a word they said. There was a choir of what seemed to be highschool boys wearing red robes. The chanting was lovely to the ear, echoing around... I loved it. There was a procession of the bishops exiting as the service ended. I couldn't get a clear shot coz they were all walking so fast and the security guy was ushering me away. Each bishop wore a particular style of head gear or what they call a "mitre". On my way out, I found Pope John Paul II's tomb. I visited and stopped for a while to pay my respects.

The rain was pouring when I got out of the Basilica. To my dismay the whole square was packed with hundreds of people waiting for the Pope. Apparently, he comes out of the 2nd window of the apartment to lead the Angels prayer at noon. Whenever he is around he would do this every Sunday. It was amazing to see the devotion of the crowd. Despite the intense down pour they were still patiently waiting for the clock to hit 12.

Now at some point  I was telling myself it was crazy of me to be so cheap, not wanting to buy a raincoat

from the guy passing by... I was thinking it was a rip off to be paying 5 Euros. But seriously? Jowe? With the flu and all? I ended up buying one. Duh.

From the side of the arches I listened to the Pope pray the Angelus and say a short speech to his followers. A whole bunch of Argentinians cheered. I noticed a group of nuns from the Philippines, silently listening under the shelter of their black umbrellas.

I found my way back to the Metro, feeling weak. I was happy to have witnessed the event and was looking forward to the Wednesday Papal Audience. I got back to the hostel to a new 3-bed dorm and 2 new roomies. Yehsle from South Korea and a guy from Argentina.

I called it a night and snuggled under the warmth of the sheets. I had to make a pass on their night out. 

First Night in Roma

Before heading off to Gatwick airport, I had to pass by the China Embassy and pickup my passport. I was so relieved when I got my visa. I know I was pushing it too much. The guy before me was rejected. I didn't quite understand why though. But imagine if I was denied a visa and I already had my China flights all sorted out. geez.

It was gray and raining in London, the usual. I found my way to London bridge station and got off at East Croydon where I waited for my 1:08 pm train to Gatwick. Time flies when you're having fun, READ>>People watching while waiting. 

I was a little bit impressed with Gatwick. Everything was organized and security was strict. First time for my keychain to be taken away from me. But that was fine.

So I arrived in Roma around 6 pm and it was chaos when I got out of the airport. I guess thats typical.

Hostel Des Artes is located along Via Villafranca, just a few blocks from the Termini Station, the main station in Rome.  It was quite dark when I got out of the train station, feeling a little bit tired and woozy, I found my way easily to the place. A lot of Pizzeria places were along the sidewalks and I could hear heaps of Italians that night.

I got an upgrade from a 5-bed dorm to a 4-bed one, although, I couldnt quite use the context "upgrade" anyway. When I got in the lights were off and someone was already sleeping. I creeped in quietly and chose the bed closest to the window. The resto downstairs was buzzing with people having their late dinner. I was famished.

The place required cash only payment and I didnt have enough. So I had to walk to the closest atm machine, just to find out that it wasnt working for my mastercard. bummer. i wasnt in the mood and all i wanted was to have dinner and hit the bed. My fever was building up. A little bit grumpy, I walked back to the hostel and gave them an installment and said id pay the rest the following day. I was glad I was talking to the guy coz he was more nice than the pouty lady.

The pizzeria in the corner was my chosen place coz I didnt want to walk any further. For sure, Rome isnt cheap at all. gee weez! I went downstairs, avoiding the crowd of families and lovers seated outside. The waiter was really cheeky and asked, "table for 2?" I said "1" He said "2?" I said "1" Then he said 2 again, saying me and him. Cheeky. I smiled and said, Id like to sit down.

I ordered the cheapest on the menu which already cost me 4 Euros. Yeah I know, Im cheap, but hey, I knew I can get something more for that price had I been energized to walk further. Anyway, the 4 Euros bought me leaves. Yes, leaves. I felt like a goat. But, it went along with bread. So it was okay.

The waiter gave me a free shot of what they call Lemoncello which he said was on him. At first I thought it would just be tasing Lemony. But apparently it was a spirit. I gulped it down after my dinner. Again, at this point, I was getting annoyed with the waiters and chefs staring at me. Is it always like this in Italy if youre a solo lady traveling?

I walked to the counter and paid my bill. He then again gave me a shot of Lemoncello. This time I asked how much the shot was. He said it was on him again. Okay, now it was sounding dodgy. Then he asked if Im just traveling alone. I said yes, not wanting to chit chat any further. I said goodnight and he reached out his hand and gestured the beso. I shook his hand and of course, just like in French, with that gesture I thought he was just wanting a cheek to cheek. But NO! Gee Weez! If I could only poke his eyes with my 2 fingers I would have! GRRR. He was aiming for me lips. EEWWWW!!!

I quickly walked away and left the place. UGH!

I got back to my room and quietly sneaked under the blanket. My fever was getting worse. The bed was creaking as the dude 2 beds away rolled over. Later on I learned he was also feeling under the weather.

At 5 am, someone walked in. Another dude who just came back from partying.

The early noise of street cleaning could be heard from outside the window. I closed my eyes hoping the fever would go away so I could explore the following day.

The visa drama

I was supposed to leave Europe on the 10th of September. But as we all know, we can't always plan things perfectly. And when hiccups come your way, just accept it and deal with it. 

I ended up leaving London on the 22nd of September. 12 days later which meant the Tibet dream was over for the Asia leg. I was a little bit disappointed but I learned the art of letting go on this trip. There are things that you can't control which means don't push it too much of everything seems to be obstructed from having a worry-free adventure. 

I didn't over analyze the situation. By the time I got to the China embassy in London, I was told that online pre-booking for appointments were required and strictly imposed. They had a few consoles there with free internet. So I quickly scanned through for the next available date and time to book an appointment. To my dismay it was on the 8th of September. The window was too tight and I didn't want to push it. I had to reschedule my flight OR go somewhere else. All because of my negligence. 

Note: The Visa application office is at 12 Old Jewry, London EC2R 8DP and make sure you've got accommodation booked.

With that, I thought, since Tibet was out of the equation, what was the point of visiting China. Because of the political issues happening for the past years regarding Tibet, I didn't want to explore China at all. So.. Vietnam was the next option then Laos. But when I researched the prices, it wasn't practical at all. The next solution was to rebook my flight, which only cost me $150NZD. Good enough. Thus the departure of 22nd of September. 

I guess it was a blessing in disguise anyway. I was given the chance to see the Pope in Rome. And for me, that was an honour because he was just a few steps away.

Catching Up with family and friends in London

Catching up with my Cuz's

I got back in London and went straight to my cousin's place, Ate Dez. It was a strange feeling, knowing I was going back to where I started on my Europe trip. Arriving at her apartment was the confirmation that I've finished the Europe leg....though I didn't feel like I wanted to end there. 

with Ate Dez

We talked for so long, updating each other with what happened to her stories and as mine. I already gave her a gist of the adventures I've had (more of dramas)... it was good to see a familiar face and knowing that person wouldn't judge you at all. It was my first time to meet her flatmates. Ate Weng and Kuya Ray were also filipinos. I quickly warmed up to the them, as they to me, and we all ended up chatting.

As always, Ate Dez and I would usually camp out in the living room and talk until the wee hours of the morning, i.e. 4 am. Then wake up the following day, eat and then talk again. That was the cycle. But as I write this now, I actually miss them too. 

One day Ate Dez and I went to the London Eye. I haven't really been up there ever despite my visiting London for over 3 times now. I've never really desired to get on it anyway. We took photos around and met up with her friend Ate Roselle. It spontaneously became a girls night out without the booze. Instead of having drinks, we ended up with some yummy ice cream until midnight. We people watched and also talked about travel, love and how to know if a man is not into you and all that jazz. I learned a lot of things from Ate Roselle, which was good, at least now I think I've expanded my knowledge on the idea that Men are really from Mars.

I made sure that we visited Kuya Cyril and family who lived in Aylesbury. Ate Dez took the day off from work and we travelled by train. It took us 2 hours to get there but the ride was filled with our unending conversations so it was all good. We got there and all we did the whole day and evening was to eat. Oh yes, that's the Filipino way. hahaha. I was so BONDAT. what does that mean? Bloating and full because of overeating. Ate Linette, Kuya Cy's wife, just gave birth to their third son who apparently would be my grandson. It was really hilarious when Ate Linette left the baby to us because she had to collect her eldest son from school. After a few seconds of her walking out the door, the baby started crying. So imagine me and Ate Dez looking lost and trying our hardest to make faces and make him smile. Man, ain't easy to be a Mom, that's for sure! 

Catching up with Alf and Darko

with Alf

Last time I saw Alf and Darko was when they accompanied me as I left Hammersmith Station. And it seemed to be like it was just yesterday when Alf and I embarked on the Morocco adventure. Oh boy! yes, that was definitely an adventure! 

I met up with Alf at the London Bridge Station. It was so good seeing her again. I felt like there was so much to catch up on. She was my lifeline on the phone whenever I felt distraught sometime in the Europe leg. So far, she knew everything and even the deepest secrets. I was so glad to be talking to in person that night instead of just on the phone.

We walked our way to a Thai fast food place with yummy food. We chatted for almost 3 hours and updated each other. Oh yes, there were a lot of laughs about what happened for the past months since we last saw each other. As usual, the girls giggling. 

We met up with Darko later on. It was hilarious when we couldn't find him when Alf instructed him to go to London bridge. We were both waiting at Tower Bridge instead. I was just laughing while listening to the two of them talking on the phone. Well, to add up, I was shouting "Darko!" as I approached Tower Bridge. oops. wrong bridge. 

We lingered for a while by the river and found a bench. I also updated Darko of what was happening to me. After that we took some photos and said our goodbyes as they saw me off at Bus Stop 40.

Catching up @ Eastbourne

Mum, Johnny, Cath and me

I arrived at Hampden Park Train station earlier than scheduled. I hang out for a while at the new "Station Cafe", painted light blue, which was a few stores away from the railway. I ended up chatting with the new owner who was from Pakistan. He was a young lad at the age of 25, starting up his own business and hoping that it would work out. 

I walked back to the train station and found Mum around the corner, confused with the train schedules. I hugged her. It was so good to be back. It was again a strange feeling for me to be back again. Another confirmation that my Europe Leg was over.

I stayed at Mum's place for 5 days, catching up and just chilling out. I remember she'd always smile and laugh whenever I'd say "Let's Just Chill". There were days when we would walk Sky, who seemed to be more feisty than before. It was becoming more of a challenge taking her to the park. 

On the Saturday, I asked Mum if it was possible to visit Beachy Head. It is known to be the highest chalk sea cliff in Britain. It's name originated from the evolution of the French word "beau chef" meaning beautiful headland. There was a reason why I chose to explore that particular place in the Sussex Coast. Beachy Head has been known all over as the "Suicide Point", where some people would come from afar just to jump off the cliff and kiss death. I was so curious how it looked and if it was true that there was an imaginary vortex magnetizing certain people to jump. I'd say it would depend what state of mind you're in when you walk the cliffs. 

It was my first time to meet Johnny that day, Cathy's boyfriend. Sky was silent at the back as Cathy drove our way to Beachy Head. The skies were blue and it was a lovely day to go out for a walk. As soon as we arrived at the parking lot, Sky was already fidgety, excited for the walk. She had to be on a leash because it's been said that even dogs would run to their demise on that cliff. A few hiking groups were already ready for the walk though I wasn't really sure why they were all geared up. For me it looked like just a simple walk. 

Johnny pointed one of the vantage points. I followed and took a few photos. The views of the English channel were really stunning. The chalk cliffs were such a great contract to the dark blue sea. Mum wasn't really happy that Johnny and I were walking to the edges. But I've never really been afraid of heights, so I didn't give a fuss about it. As we walked further, I noticed a restricted area. Mum pointed out that it was the suicide edge of the place. I was about to go over the rope when I was told off. So we walked further until we decided it was time to have a beer. On our way back I looked at Mum asking if I could go over the ropes, then I looked at Cath for backup..until I was allowed. There were a few tombstones around, in memory of the lost souls who decided to end it all there.

I found it really cute attending Sunday service, sitting at the same pew, second one at the back set of rows. Her usual Church friends were all at the same position beside me, all ladies. Mum invited me to do the offertory with her.  I bought some cards from the Church and had morning tea after the service. 

On the afternoon of my last day Mum and I visited Dave, her eldest son. He was staying in a home just 2 bus rides away from Mum's place. I took my guitar with me coz I promised that I'd play him some songs. It was a good walk through Hampden Park to the bus stop. Mum and I did our brisk walk though she did find my stride too fast for her. Dave was in a good mood when we arrived. I met a few of the staff and we were told that he had an attack that morning. But he was looking fine and happy when we saw him. Mum introduced me and he held my hand for quite some time while staring at me. We went to his room and I found out that each of them had their own theme. He had his one decorated with army camouflage designs. His dresser had postcards glued to the doors, all them from Ate Jojo and John. Later on I played him a few songs. He listened and watched my hands strum the strings. It was so cute when Mum danced with him while I played Jason Mraz's song "I'm Yours".

Cathy ordered Chinese (from Eastbourne) for my farewell dinner. We were laughing all through out. It was just hilarious how Mum and Cathy had the typical British sarcastic sense of humor while Johnny and I would just eat away. Mum wasn't really into eating that much. After dinner, we had a box of chocolates and also the fortune cookies from the Chinese resto. We were all laughing because it seemed to coincide with our current states. 

The following morning I bid Mum goodbye and gave her a hug. I collected my guitar and other stuff that I left behind 3 months ago and hopped on the train bound for London. 

On my last week in Europe, there were 3 options. The top 1 was Ireland. Second in rank was Malta and last was Italy. It took me days to decide. And after a few suggestions from family, I made my final decision.

I chose to spend my last week in Rome, Italy.  

Saltburn-By-The-Sea, England

It was time to be enroute again.... as I found my way back to England, my last stop before leaving Europe. I had to organize my China visa and Tibet permit.

I arrived in Saltburn around 4 pm on a Friday afternoon. The skies were a little bit gray. I hoped it wouldn’t rain. The main goal was to surprise Josh and Jade, the couple I met when I joined the Moose tour through the Rockies in Canada. I did mention to Josh before that I planned to visit them at the start of my Europe leg. But because of the technical issues I had with booking my train to Scotland, I had to cancel that plan. Though, when I got to Edinburgh, I decided why not pass by, surprise them and say hi. He always told me before that I’d fall in love with the town. I understood what he meant when I got there.

I passed by Signals Bistro, hoping to see the lovebirds coz that was the family business. But when I couldn’t see a familiar face through the glass windows, I figured, Josh must have planned something special for Jade since it was her 21st birthday. So I went straight down the road to the hotel. Yeah…hotel.

I wasn’t really keen to book a hotel. But because the town didn’t have a hostel, all I had for options were hotels and B&B. For some reason, almost all of the places were busy. I remember emailing a B&B I chose online, just to be told that they were fully booked for the weekend. Good thing I came across a good deal at the Spa hotel. The location seemed nice when I checked out the map online. But when I got there, I was just awed by the scenery. It was right on a hill overlooking the sea. Stunning.

I found it a little bit awkward checking in a hotel with a backpack. I felt out of place. SO MUCH out of place. The place looked prim and proper, and there I was in my hiking boots, heavy backpack and front bag… looking like a hermit/nomad who might not be able to pay the night’s accommodation. But, the staff was friendly, so I was totally fine with it eventually.

the wharf

Having a room to myself in such a cozy setting was Heaven. Pure Heaven. And I told myself, why not…? It wasn’t like I had a choice anyway. But I told myself, It was about time I gave myself a break from the tiring sleeping adventures I’ve had on the road. I deserved a cozy bed for 2 nights, for a change. 

The hotel was just a walk down to the beach. The waves of the ocean was very relaxing to watch as I walked down. I was smiling all the way, loving the view. The long wharf that extended through the beach was a hangout for lovers, families but most especially fishermen who saw it as a place to catch up with friends over a few beers. The blue skies slowly came out when I started snapping photos, which gave me the best opportunity to capture the beauty of the place. Saltburn by the Sea is one of the seaside resorts within the Redcar and Cleveland area up North Yorkshire of England. It wasn't really far away from Edinburgh if you look at the map.

From the distance were gigantic wind turbines found on the shores of the town Redcar. Dark storm clouds formed as I watched the sun set from a distance. I later learned that a lot of residents were complaining about it, just the same in Wellington. But, I found it amazing, renewable energy. It might have done damage during the building phase, but in the long run, I see that renewable energy would always benefit citizens.

 As I walked on the wharf, I bumped into 3 elderly women visiting Saltburn for the weekend. It seemed to me they were having a girls weekend out, giggling all the way as they walked towards the end of the wharf, keeping their eyes on a young couple. It was hilarious hearing their crazy retorts, and one of the ladies told me to try the Fish and Chips at the harbour because the chips were awesome..but not just that...because the boy was gorgeous... <laugh> they were really cute. I can imagine myself growing old and still saying such cheeky retorts.

I met a gentleman fishing with 2 boys. I've always enjoyed talking to local fishermen, asking them what the usual catch of the day would be and how often they'd hang out. Apparently, he was teaching them how to fish. He was a cyclist, and considering to travel from north to south in New Zealand...with him and just his bike. Well, he wouldn't be the first to do that. It was something typical. When it started to drizzle I had to find shelter and leave them behind. I still intended to linger around so I could capture night shots of the wharf. I heard it was a sight to see.

The night scene was awesome, with the wharf getting lighted up. The effect was stunning with the water underneath. I took a photo quickly and had to walk back to the hotel before I froze to death. I wasn't equipped with the proper cold weather, although September wasn't really a month I'd think would require winter attire.

I met up with Josh and Jade the following day. I was glad to be given the opportunity to meet up with them even just for an hour. That's the thing when surprising people. When not fully planned, you might be the one for a surprise. It just so happened that Josh bought Jade tickets for a vacation in Spain, and they were to fly on that Saturday. I was still glad to see them though. It was a great feeling meeting up with them after last seeing them in Canada. I've been following their updates on facebook and was so happy for Josh pursuing his music dream. awesome stuff. I also met his twin sister Lydia, who was manning the kitchen that day. They had me over for dinner too, and I also checked out the bar upstairs which Josh designed and made himself. It was great seeing them in their lovely hometown.

the Rosslyn Chapel

The Rosslyn Chapel wasn't really part of the agenda. But a gypsy girl I met at the square mentioned it to me and said that its a must to see, so my curiosity got the better of me and there I was on my last day, at the Rosslyn chapel. I later found out that this was one of the scenes in the movie Da Vinci Code. And so that explained the massive crowd when I got there. Not what I was expecting. What I thought it would be was a peaceful place where I could have my silence. It was far away from that.

It was late afternoon when I got there. Silly me took the wrong bus from Edinburgh. I got there in the end, Roslin, Midlothian Scotland, in the outskirts of Edinburgh. The entrance fee was a little bit expensive but I guess the Chapel was in dire need of funds due to the crumbling walls and ceilings. I've learned that ever since the location was included in the movie, it suddenly became a hit tourist destination, with visits increasing from 400,000+ to almost a million each year. Good for business. 

The Rosslyn Chapel was technically part of the Sinclair Family, a well known and noble family that was a member of the Norman knights in Northern France, thus the influence of medieval architecture. What caught my interest was the alleged involvement of Freemasonry and the Knights Templar around the vicinity. However, I believe these were all speculations. Although, there were stones with etched swords that seemed to be those of the Templar Knights. 

The whole inner architecture of the place was rather stunning, in the sense of its uniqueness. I've never seen such intricate masonry in a church before. I was so used to seeing saints, cherubims, devils, jesus, mary, carved on the walls. But this time around there was a mix of Green men (more pagan), plants, musical boxes, animals and so much more. The external architecture actually reminded me of the temple Burubudor in Indonesia. Photos though were not permitted inside. 

A tall Scottish guy with glasses (who I found charming and cute) passionately talked about the history of the chapel. I asked if any more excavations occurred in the past century. He said that efforts were started but because of the fragile architecture, they had to stop and use scanners/xrays instead. They found there were metallic figures that seemed to be knights buried underneath.

Late lunch was beckoning, so I went out and found a hidden place away from the chapel's cafe far away from the people. All because I was a little bit embarrassed with the food I brought with me, big slices of chicken drumsticks from a cheap dairy shop in Edinburgh. I sat on the ground at the edge of a field and stared out while happily munching my chicken thighs. The view was lovely, rolling hills of greenery, covered by healthy green trees swaying with the wind. It was starting to be chilly and the scent of incoming rain was filling the air. I quickly finished lunch and went back for my last few moments in the Chapel. 

There was a new bus group that arrived. A swarm of elderly people stormed in the place and that's when I noticed Margaret, the lady I met earlier on the Highlands tour. She was enjoying the surrounds. I quickly sat with her, seemed that fast paced walking could get her breathless quickly. She's been joining group tours for the past few days, which was the best approach for her traveling around. After a few minutes, I left her to explore the chapel and said my goodbyes.

I found a bench outside, under a big old tree. There I filled up my postcards to families and friends. The guy who gave a talk earlier passed by so we had a chat. I found out that he was living in Spain, teaching English. He was such  personable guy and easy to talk to. As I write this, I realize I've forgotten this name. 

I finished filling up the postcards and made a final loop around the Chapel before I headed off. The Roslin town was quaint and charming. I found the bus stop back to town and got back to my hostel. It was time to pack up again.

a Bus Trip Around

Highlands

I decided to sign up for an organized tour rather than renting a car and go on a road trip to the Highlands. Lochness has always been part of my dream but after hearing a few unsatisfied feedbacks that the place is overrated, I decided to go for Loch Lomond and Stirling Castle instead. 

I was glad the bus stop was just along haymarket station, only a few blocks from the hostel. I quickly grabbed food for the morning and waited at the stop. Gray skies loomed over Edinburgh and the morning chill made me regret not taking a jacket.  The tour bus was packed, with only 1 free seat remaining. I've never been a fan of big groups but that time, I just couldn't be bothered to research further. I found a spot right at the end of the bus, where the noisy ones would usually sit. But the crowd was matured and the couples looked like retired citizens just enjoying their time exploring Scotland. 

I didn't get on the ferry cruise when we got at Loch Lomond. Instead, I chose to walk around the park that was situated right beside the port. There was a small castle, unnamed, on top of a hill and down along the river way was a small cafe. I bought myself coffee to keep me warm, and I just sat there staring at the Loch. 

So what is a Loch you may ask. It is both an Irish and Scottish Gaelic word for a lake or sea inlet. Loch Lomond is a freshwater loch that crosses the Highland Boundary Fault. It is considered to be the largest by surface area.

view from Stirling Castle

We then moved on to driving through the highlands, one of the places Scotland is known for. It was rather frustrating though not given the chance to walk nor hike up the hills. All I could do (as you can see in the photo), was to try and manage taking shots of the view from my window. Good thing the driver allowed me to seat right in front, where conductors would usually be seated. The landscapes were definitely amazing, but I could imagine how great it would have been if a hike was included. 

The last stop of the day was Stirling Castle, located in the town of Stirling. It is claimed to be one of the most important castles in Scotland's history. It was good that the tour allowed us 2 hours to explore the place. I tagged along with the lady I met on the bus. She was so quiet in the corner that I decided to chat her up. I found out she was a local, traveling around Scotland coz she knew she couldn't do that again. Her husband died and she didn't have kids. Very lovely and soft spoken lady. 

We walked through the castle doors and found our way to the workshop where there was a lady focused on a big tapestry. And that's when I found about the Unicorn Tapestries of the Queen. A guy in his black attire (going back in the days), explained to us the meaning behind the Unicorn story. A hidden code came out of the picture, which apparently was the story of the Passion of Christ. Due to the wars before against the Christians, the Queen had to hide it through the guise of a Unicorn story.

We passed through the King and Queens chambers, made me imagine back in the days when they'd be in their flowing robes and walking through the hallways. I bought some postcards from the souvenir shop and walked along with the lady I met on the bus. I then realized that we've never introduced ourselves. And that's when it sort of gave me goosebumps when I learned her name was Margaret. The name that Anne mentioned to me when she was reading my tarot cards. And I did tell Margaret about it. All she could say was "pure coincidence". We walked in silence, enjoying the afternoon sun. We finished right in time for an ice cream. She bought me a cone and we sat on the edge of the castle overlooking the town of Stirling. We were both smiling.

Hi and Goodbye to Mel

I messaged Will and Mel when I got to Edinburgh, telling them that I just arrived in their top1 place in Europe. Then I got a message from Will that apparently, Mel was back in the zone.

That's when I learned from Mel that it was her last 2 days in Edinburgh. And catching up was a must! It would have been great having Will there too, a Zakopane reunion would have been lovely. 

I went to the place where Mel was working and met her friends. It was her farewell party that night and the plan was to have a bbq somewhere in the park. That was the plan. It sounded like a plan. But we ended up doing something else. All in all though it was so nice seeing her again. We didn't get to talk that much because there were a few more who joined in, the friends she had since she lived in Edinburgh for a year. 

We had some chips with us and a few beers to share around. We made a circle in the park and chatted away through the late afternoon until the sky turned into the lovely color of red, sun setting in the background. A few friends of Mel arrived and I decided to call it a night, passing by a pub to check out the open mic as well. I hugged goodbye to Mel and told her that we'd meet again once I'm back in New Zealand.

Out and About in Edinburgh

I found Edinburgh charming. I've been hearing a lot about the city on numerous occasions. Majority from conversations I've had with Mel and Will who I met in Zakopane, Poland. When I got there, that's when I understood why they loved the place so much. Apparently, Scotts have their own Gaelic language, different from what the Irish. That was one of the things they'd highly emphasize on.... "We are Different!", as if spelling the last word out loud. 

The architecture around, most especially of the Old Town, was amazingly intact. It definitely gave people the feel of transporting back in time. I guess that's always the effect when you walk along cobbled streets and surrounded by gothic-designed buildings. 

I passed by a Catholic church adjacent to the Edinburgh's Castle. I quietly took out the breakfast I bought from a nearby supermarket and munched on it while I watched people pass by. The setting was peaceful. To my upper right was the castle and right in front of me were graveyards. Now, I know it might sound weird. But a few friends of mine are fully aware that I have this weird liking for such places.

My stop in Edinburgh was very relaxing. I took my time walking up the road till I got the castle. It's been said that there were evidences of human settlement on the castle rock that dated back to the Bronze Age. And according to readings, Edinburgh was the first UNESCO City of Literature. Awarded the European Destination of the year in 2012 and also one of the best places to live in the UK, this city has lured and attracted over a million of visitors per year, thus making it the 2nd most popular tourist destination in the UK. 

Just below the Castle is the lovely Prince Street Gardens, ordained with the lovely green trees all around and an ornate fountain surrounded with blooming flowers. The whole park was busy with people resting under the shade, as they licked their ice creams or sipped their afternoon coffee. I lingered for a while and appreciate my own ice cream as I people watched again. Oh yes, I did take my time.

Edinburgh also hosts the well known month of festivals, that being August. That includes the massive Fringe Festival, giving way to all kinds of artists, from comedians, musicians, buskers, street artists and the likes. As I arrived there, I was able to catch a glimpse of the remaining acts around. Each corner in the Old town, just along the main street from the castle, showcased different acts, from jugglers, clowns, solo musicians and comedy acts.

One of the acts I would never forget was of a guy, not dressed as a clown, but was outrageously hilarious in his own way. He was from Argentina and according to his introductions, have been practicing that kind of show for years. It didn't really require him much material. All he did was to cajole people who passed by, using more of his quirky remarks and funny actuations. Some were game enough to allow him make fun of their presence. However, some just couldn't be bothered. The whole crowd laughed and even grandpa's and grandma's enjoyed the show. 

I went back to the hostel and met Arthur, a Kiwi guy who just retired from his job of so many years as an Aircraft worker with Air New Zealand. As always, I quickly get comfortable talking to Kiwis/Maoris. We ended up having a few beers at the pub in front of the hostel, talking about New Zealand but more about flights and the technicalities of being an aircraft worker. There we also met a few locals who were our next door neighbors. We got kicked out when the bartender had to close for the night. I didn't expect an early closing time though in Edinburgh. But we couldn't be bothered to move to another pub. It was another day and so we said our goodbyes and Arthur and I went back to the hostel. I was happy to find my dorm room with only 4 people that night.

Enroute Edinburgh

I took the city bus from the airport knowing that the walk from the stop to the hostel wasn’t that far away. It was a shock to my system when I got out of the airport coming from Spain which was boiling hot and then flying to the chilly land of Edinburgh. I was definitely keen on buying a fleece to keep me warm. My black jacket that I picked up from the hostel in Winnipeg (donated by a previous backpacker) was something I terribly missed. But earlier on when summer arrived in Europe, I decided to donate it somewhere on the road, knowing that someone would eventually make good use of it just the same as I have.

The Hostel at Cliffton Terrace was right bang on in front of the Haymarket station. Just a stone throw away was a pub and a few food establishments. I was received by an American lady at the front desk, smiling cheerfully as she told me about the weather the past few days.. something I usually ask when I arrive. That would usually help me gauge planning for the next few days, or even, my attire.

I found my room, which was a 12-bed dorm. And oh boy, how congested it was. All of the beds were taken except mine, and all of the bags were astray on the floor. I arrived on the fringe of the Fringe Festival, right on time when people were leaving. Just the way I like it.

The toilet and shower was unisex and man, if you’re claustrophobic, better not choose that hostel. It reminded me of the Generator hostel in Hamburg. The space was surely maximized, to the dismay of people who were tall or fat. I couldn’t complain though. It was cheap. That was enough to shut me up. So I quickly took a hot shower and went to bed at 4 pm. I woke up the following day. It was my way of re-energizing after the adventures I had with my road trip in Mallorca.