Author: sage

21st August Friday

Our departing day, we did some sorting out stuff at Holly Grove, then we went to Watford to opticians as Bhavni had an appointment to fix her glasses. It was a bit more shopping afterwards and then we went to see Mavis for the last time.

Back to Holly Grove and we picked up my mother and dropped her to Northwick park hospital to see father. We then went for Lunch at Rajvi’s (though I quickly went and got a hair cut). After we went to see father in Northwick park – much more lively. Then it was all of us going back to Holly Grove for 4, where we got ready and brought the bags down.

Hamid the Taxi driver came at 17:45 and we got to Heathrow T4 at 18:45. Checking in was quick as our tickets came with priority and all the 6 bags were similar weight, the person allowed one hand luggage to go in the hold which was easier for us. We had some time so go before boarding so we went to the Weatherspoons and had some drinks (coffee and fizzy) with nachos. Airyen had a waffle from the waffle shop as well after we finished.

It was then boarding time – again priority. Bhavni’s plan for seating with a gap in the middle does not work as its a full flight, so we have to swap with someone. The flight was ok as sleep was a bit limited and special meals not set.

22nd August Saturday

We arrived in Abu Dhabi around 7am, where we got through immigration quickly and collect all our bags. We then went to the 2nd floor to get our hire car – the only booking for the day (upgrade to a T-Roc). Then we had to go to the car park where it took quite a while. When the car finally came the guy somehow managed to fit in all the luggage in the boot area with 2 seats down. We drove to our hotel – the Intercontinental near the Corniche. I got the wrong road a few times on the way – multi lane motorways and Airyen distractions.

We get to the hotel and check in, they give us a temporary room on floor 5, which is great for us to freshen up. We then go to brunch in the hotel and have a late breakfast.

After brunch we got the car and drove to Yaz Island and Ferrari world. I parked a bit far away in one of the first Mall parking areas so it was a bit of a search to the amusement park. We had got the 2 park passes so we just had to go in. We went to the first roller coaster Mission Ferrari – Airyen properly cries as does not like it – not an outcome I would have thought. It was just as well we went on this first as the ride stops working soon after.

We went to some other small rides then went to flying aces after some convincing of Airyen – it was still not great for him. We then did some other rides (I did the one in the Turbo Track on my own). At the end we went to the GT Challenge, now this Airyen liked and we ended up doing it twice.

We then left around 6ish, i had a problem paying for parking, and I could not sort it out until the next day. We got to the hotel, our room was now on the 12th Floor – set up for the Anniversary with a cake (and a bed for A). Airyen and I went for a swim as the pool was open until 8pm.

Bhavni had booked Byblos Sur Mer for dinner at 8.30, a Lebanese restaurant, so we got ready and quickly went there. It turned out to be a Michelin star place – It was nice. We went back to the room and enjoyed the nice desert.

23rd August Sunday – 15th Anniversary

We were up decently early and went for a morning swim, after which we got ready and went for breakfast – there was a small queue to get seated.

After breakfast we got our car and drove to Yaz Island again to Warner Bros World. This time there was specific parking, but it was quite a hot but short walk to get into the cool building.

We had to do the ticket entry thing again then went straight to the Gotham area and to the Batman: Knightflight ride – no real queue and was pretty good. From this we queued to the The Riddler Revolution, but as there was a sight problem, they took a bit of time to get the ride going for us, but in the mean time a man tried to get loose from the ride (saying he had a panic attack) and had become stuck, so they had to stop it and get us out individually then close the ride.

We went on a number of rides – Joker Fun House, Green Lantern: Galactic Odyssey, Justice League: Warworld Attacks, all with queues of less then 20 mins. Then we joined a long one – Fast and Furry-ous with a 50 min queue, where we also had queue jumping children – telling them they went out and got fast passes. Our last ride was the Flintstones boat ride. Overall this park felt less tired than Ferrari World and we enjoyed it.

It was then back to the car and the drive to the hotel. We got back in time for the last 10 mins of afternoon tea – it was aubergine buns for the sandwiches but they were good.

We decided to all fo for a swim again – quite refreshing, after which we had to get ready for dinner (whilst we left the costumes in the heat to help dry a bit). We drove to the Emirates palace and to Hakisan (which I had booked a month before) – apparently you are meant to get the car valet parked but i parked directly. It was a nice meal (with Airyen doing one hiccup as he wanted Bhavnis phone) – we ordered quite a few things and had some of the recommended drinks. They gave a nice desert for the Anniversary – which we all finished. After dinner we had a quick wonder around the hotel lobby area – really quiet. Then we went to the car – Bhavni had suggested to go and get ice cream (at a mall for parking), so I drove to Al Wahda mall where Airyen had a Cold Stone ice cream – sweat as he added sprinkles. It was then back to hotel, where after Airyen slept we did some packing. I left Bhavni sorting out other things and went to sleep.

24th August Monday

We had to be up early and we got ready and went for an early breakfast – things were not all out yet, but we could not eat too much anyway. We then checked out and with a bit of a struggle got all the bags in the car (though not a well as on the way in) for 7.20. We then drove to the Airport and got there for 8.10am. I had to wait for the car to get checked and then we could go and check in. The main bags were checked in fine – they would not put a hand luggage in though here. Our tickets were for all the way to Wellington. We just went to the departure gate lounge and after a while we boarded (priority again). The flight left around 10.45ish, it was a decent flight, this time with our special meals – though they were not that great – and the time change.

25th August Tuesday

We arrived early into Sydney airport, before 7am. Getting our hand luggage and through security / immigration to get out took us around 30 minutes. I ordered us an uber to central Sydney near to the Town Hall. There was a small mall we went to that allowed us to brush our teeth. Then we left our hand luggage at a bag drop off. shop that we booked online, so that we did not have to cart them about.

I then did a 3 hour self walking tour (thanks to Claude), starting at town hall through the queen Vic building (where Airyen insisted on a cinnamon swirl) and then near Martin place. Here we stopped for a coffee/drinks and a sandwich for Airyen. We then continued through Albert park and the botanic garden and to the Opera House. It was a good place to stop for a bit. Then we went to the circular quay onto the rocks. I went a bit further as I wanted a good look at the rocks. Then we walked back towards the town hall.

We ducked into the Hilton on Pitt Street for a bit as it had got a little drizzly and we were to meet Mishal around here for coffee. He came and we went to a coffee place in The Galleries called The Grounds of the City. It was nice catching up. After due to the rain we decided to go to the Australia Museum as it was close. We had a look at some of the Surviving Australia and Dino Exhibits. It was quite busy with school trips. Airyen made him and I go to a special exhibit called bloodsuckers.

We had time to go to a cafe (Le Monde) which was still open. I had a matcha late, whilst the others had hot chocolate. We then went to pick up the bags and got an Uber to airport getting there just before 4. It was really quick getting in and we had time to chill for a bit – no one wanted to wonder as we were all tired. Boarding our Quantus flight to Wellington, we had no problems. The food on board was better than the Etihad flight. We landed just before midnight.

26th August Wednesday

Wellington airport (helped by the time) was much easier to exit from than Auckland – we used the e-gates and the queue for Bio was not that big. We got out and had 2 waiting taxis (one with electronic eyes) to take us to the James Cook Hotel. We checked in and took our bags up ourselves.

It was then phone calls to the UK, going to sleep around 2.30am local time. We woke up at 8.30am and got ready so we could get to breakfast for 9.30am (it closed at 10), it was a continental affair. It was nearly 11 when we got out and walked along Lampton Quay. We met Mitesh briefly near bus stops there – his work is nearby. We then got to the Uniform shop and bought stuff for Airyen. Bhavni then went to look at beds while Airyen and I returned to the hotel. We got in the lift fine but our room was locked out as it just had gone 1pm. So after a quick trip to the reception we got all the bags out onto a trolley. Bhavni met us in the hotel and we left the bags there and went for drinks/pastry at a cafe called Earth and Monkeys.

We got back for 2pm and the transport was waiting for us. We loaded up and drove to Masterton. The driver was talkative and told us about lots on the way, though the others fell asleep by the time we were on the hills. We got to the house at around 4pm – quite a big place we have. We got all our stuff inside and then from the garage we got into the provided car to Pak n Save and got some essentials. Then it was back home and quite some time cleaning – there was lots of cat hair and the kitchen needed a deep clean. I made dinner – pasta / salad for around 8pm. There was then a bit more cleaning before a late bedtime.

11th February Wednesday (London)

After a semi normal day (with picking Airyen from school early) and an early dinner, we were in the Taxi at 6pm.

It was a good run to Heathrow T3. We checked in, but due to the two bookings we were going to be sitting apart. They tried to see if they could do anything but the flight was pretty full – in the end they put Bhavni one row ahead of us. We went through security all fine and then had a bit of time to chill, I filled the NZTA on the app, these guys had some of the food that we had taken from Rajvi.

We boarded the flight and settled down, watching a bit of entertainment on board, but all of us falling asleep for stretches. There were lots of food calls during the flight.

12th February Thursday (Dubai – Flying)

We landed in Dubai at 8.30 or so. It was a quick transit and at the lounge we asked about the seating for this flight. They told to ask in plane as there was going to be some room. We did that and after sitting in our place for a bit they said we can move to the back, where there was lots of room – we got 2 rows of 3seats. This was good for this long flight. Bhavni had to give up on her idea of working as the wifi was not working – I could do quite a bit offline.

13th February Friday (Brisbane – Auckland – Wellington)

We landed in Brisbane around 6.30am local time, it took a bit of time to get out of the plane as we were at the back. The security at transit was not too long and we were then in departures. Bhavni asked the Quantus staff at the gate about changing to the direct flight to Wellington, but you would have to try to get out and talk to the desk outside etc. So we got time to go shopping and have some drinks before boarding the flight. The seating was quite far apart – Bhavni sat with Airyen. Bhavni has managed to get a food choice – mine as veg was some fruit.

The plane had a 20 minute delay in landing as there was a queue into Auckland which as we had a local flight to catch was not ideal. Getting out of the plane we got to passport control – the line was “other” and was very long. So to speed things up I went through the e-gate and and collected the bags. Then waited for Airyen and Bhavni. Over 30 more minutes later Bhavni was still in the same queue, but they then split the queue (initially after her but she sold her case), so she managed to come through. In the mean time they had merged the declare/no declare line for biosecurity and I did not realise how massive a queue that was as it was around the corner. There was no way we would get to our next flight as it stood, but Bhavni got a tip from someone so we got to the front of the queue. As we had answered all are decorations well, we got flagged for a L1 scan which meant we did not have to open our bags.

Finally out we quickly walked to the domestic terminal (in the rainy conditions), as waiting for bus not an option. When we walked in there was another queue to JetStar (well not that big but still more than we could handle), however we got the tags for the bags and and a staff member told us to go to front as the drop off was closing. Finally we got to the gate and after all that the plane was not there. In fact there was a 1h delay due to thunderstorms. Finally boarding we actually got to sit together – another family had a similar issue so shuffle sorted it out. Landing in wellington it did not take long to get out. Before I had got our bags, someone called my name – it was Mitesh. We got the bags and got in his car. Bhavni ordered an Indian take away from Ruchi in Petone, we had to wait a bit for it, then it was to the apartment near Waterloo station. After saying bye to Mitesh, we had food (pretty decent), cleaned up and then it was bed time. Though I set up Airyens’s treasure hunt after Bhavni set up cards etc then went to bed.

14th February Saturday (Airyen’s Birthday)

For myself the night was a bit restless (due to a hot apartment, light and noise from outside along with Jetlag). Airyen woke up at 5am and went down to watch tv at 5.30. Bhavni and I got up at around 7.30 and got ready. We had a breakfast of cereal and bread and Airyen finally noticed all his cards and birthday banner that was set up by Bhavni. We then had some fun doing the treasure hunt that I had put out – most of the clues were fine, though a couple got him unstuck.

Just after 9am Mitesh came with his older daughter Kiara to drop off a car – a mini, which he demoed the controls, Kivari the younger daughter came with her mother soon after as they all had classes to go to. So after a little while they were off.

Around 10.20 we had set off, to drive to Zealandia, we ended parking at the overflow car park, a 5 min walk. We had a little bit of time to check in and look around the center before our tour which started at 11. The tour was a walk around some of the paths here explaining how the park came to be and how it works. The bird life was a little subdued do to the cloudy day, but we still saw a few things, like the kākā at the feeding stations.

After the 2 hour tour, we got out membership packs and then went to the cafe on the top floor for some lunch. It was closing early today so the hot food was limited, but we had falafel wraps warmed up.

Leaving we then went for a drive, to the southern coast and firstly to Owhiro Bay Beach. There were signs about water being unsafe due to Kia point wastewater treatment. But we has a little look around We then followed the coast around to princess beach and another lookout. From here we but across and found ourselves at oriental beach. We parked at the further end and walked to the actual beach area, letting Airyen on to the sand. After instead of going directly to the house, we went to Mount Victoria lookout for the proper tourist view. It was then a drive back to lower Hutt.

We stopped at Woolworths in the Queensgate shopping center to get a few supplies, then went to the house to get ready.

We had arranged to meet Mitesh and family at Bella Rosa 5pm, though we were a couple of mins late as we had though it was 5.30, for Airyens Birthday. We had plenty of food there and a quite big cake (blackforest with added butterflies) that Bhavni had ordered. They let us move to another table so we could stay there till 7.30pm.

After dinner they came over to the house. The children had fun running around/through the building. We had some drinks and sat for a while before they had to leave. We were a little tired so it was bed time soon after.

15th Feb Sunday (Kapiti)

I was up early before the rest today. They got up leisurely and then we had breakfast, taking our time before leaving. We drove up the Hutt valley and took the 58 across towards Whitby. We decided to go on the scenic route by the coast and had a stop in Pukerua bay for a walk on the beach there. Then we carried on to Paraparaumu. We parked in the MacLean car park and then went for a walk onto the beach as it was around 11am. It was quite a windy day, with the sand just blowing along the beach. We walked a bit down the beach crossing the small water outlet and then back on to the main road.

It was close to lunch time now, so we went to first the two fat chefs, but that was full, so we went to Ambiance cafe where they accommodated us with a space for 7. Mitesh and his family came soon after. We had a decent lunch there.

After lunch we went to the small park there and let the children run around for half an hour or so. We then all got into our cars at around 2pm and drove to the Southward Car Museum. This is a large museum with lots and lots of cars (and other vehicles) over a couple of floors. We split up and looked at the old cars there – the children roamed around together for most of it.

After around 1.5h we had finished and we drove back to lower hutt and he house, where we collected the cake and left over pizza, before we drove to Johnsonville and Miteshes house. The weather was really closing in so there was no view and they closed the curtains to keep it cosier. However we had a chilled evening with the children entertaining themselves and us as well as dinner of falafel.

By the time we were leaving the wind was really strong with heavy rain. Luckily Mitesh noticed the number plate falling off the car so we put it in the car and drove back to the house.

Overnight the wind was crazy and it made it really hard to sleep.

16th Feb Monday (Local)

After the crazy windy night we woke to still pretty a windy day. We were meant to go see Wellesley College, but there was no answer to the school phone (and Mitesh had messaged saying lots would be closed today).

After breakfast and a relaxed start, we decided to head to the school, just to get out (even though there was still no answer from the school, though it did involve pulling Airyen from the tv. The roads has lots of debris on them and there was still lots of wind around, though it was amazing to see the crews out fixing the damages already. We got to the school and yes it was closed. So we drove around to next town Eastbourne to see neighbourhood, before going back to Lower Hutt.

We stopped at a Woolworths and got some some food, after which we went to the apartment and made lunch. We chilled for a little while then Airyen and I went to the neighboring dairy and got snapper cards for all of us.

After we went to the Queensgate mall, where we sorted out our ASB cards then went for a walk around and some shopping.

Then it was home to make dinner. It was packing / eating and watching some TV for the evening before bedtime.

17th Feb Tuesday (School Visit)

Today was the first work day. After breakfast Bhavni went to Waterloo station and caught a train to the center before getting a bus to the hospital.

Airyen and I had a little time still – where I finished his packed lunch. We left at 8.30, driving to Wellesley. We got there and drove in through the gates parking and making our way in. The school was an old hotel, so had some lovely wooden stairs and furnishings. We introduced ourselves in the reception and Amanda introduced her self to us. She then took us to Airyen’s class saying hello to a few teachers on the way. We left him there with a couple of students.

Back at reception we met Mr Bain where we had a chat, before he took me around the school for a tour of the whole school. Afterwards (as I had not taken any photos) he let me wonder around taking pictures my self.

After I headed back to the flat. There I finished the packing and slowly loaded up the car with all our luggage. Then I checked out. I had a bit of time to do a food shop at Queensgate, then I headed to Mitesh’s for a while at 12. I chilled for a while and then just before leaving we had a try at the number plate – no go though.

I left and drove to Johnsonville, where our next apartment was, getting there about 2pm. It was a apartment on the upper level of a house reasonably high up on a hill. I unloaded the car and quickly had lunch (left overs from last night).

Soon it was time to head out back to the school. I got there and very soon after Airyen came out beaming away. I met Mr Bain again and also one of Airyens teachers who was quite impressed with him. Airyen and I took some more photos. We had a quick look at the cafes nearby but decided to to head home instead to the apartment.

I made a dinner of Beans and Rice, then we had time to chill, before Bhavni came – Airyen watched tv I did some work. When Bhavni came we went to pick her up from Johnsonville – who knew there were 2 Woolworths, so finding her was a problem. Anyway we popped into Woolworths and got some extra stuff. It was then dinner and a chilled night.

18th Feb Wed (Wellington)

Today we had breakfast early then we all jumped in the car to drop Bhavni to Johnsonville station. Airyen and I went back and had a more leisurely start leaving the apartment at 9.30. We managed to park near Johnsonville and got the 10am train which was a very nice picturesque ride.

We got into central wellington station, then we walked slowly to the cable car stop taking a few photos along the way. The cable car had a small queue for it, but we got the second one along and sat down for the ride up. At the top we went to the cable car museum there for a quick visit – its free and quite compact. We then walked down through the botanic gardens with stops along way (such as the playground). It was a pleasant walk with quite a few areas. The path crossed the motorway and then went on to come out near the beehive.

It was then time for food, just a little walk from there we found a quick eat – Airyen and i got a noodle bowl with salad to share, we then walked on a bit further to Midland park – a bit of green where the locals eat. It was quite pleasant in the sun and busy.

After we walked to the Te papa museum, surprisingly still a distance, and went in. We spent some time there, the most memorable bit was the exhibit about the first world war due to the brilliant large models of soldiers and people.

Finishing we headed to Oriental Bay – the beach. Airyen spent some time on the beach while just rested on the benches there. Bhavni met us there later after her course. Some more beach time, then after a bit of wondering the town, we got the 24 bus back to Johnsonville. It was then a quick visit to Woolworths to go shopping for food before going home. Dinner was falafel, after we then chilled.

19th Feb Thurs (Explore Hutt Valley)

We were all up early to have breakfast as we had to drop Bhavni to Johnsonville even earlier than the day before. Airyen and I then returned to the apartment where we stayed until 10am before heading out. I thought maybe it would be a good idea to see some estate agents in Lower Hutt, to leave our details – well we could not really find the rental departments of them and it was taking ages, so we left and went up the Remutaka Hill, all the way to lookout at top – here it was windy and cold, though it did not take too long.

A few photos later and we headed back to Upper Hut, where I thought to see the Maoribank Swimming hole – A quiet bend in the river where the water is calm. The entry was through a small park and was really quiet, here Airyen got his feet into the water, climbing on rocks. I just stayed and took photos then we both had some sandwiches.

Leaving we then were on our way to Lower Hutt when I spotted “The painting association of NZ”, so had to stop and have a chat with them. The lady there drives every day over the hill. After that we headed to Avalon Park, a small but nice park, where Airyen had some time to mess around on the slides and zip ropes as well as the water games. We loved the dinosaur in the lake.

After we had our fill, we headed back to Johnsonville, stopping at the mini showroom to see whether we could fix the number plate – they were quite nice but could not help. Near the apartment we again went to Woolworths to pick up food for dinner – which we then made in the apartment. We picked up Bhavni and had dinner together.

20th Feb Fri (Cycle Pencarrow)

So it was getting a habit – breakfast early then dropping Bhavni to Johnsonville even earlier than the day before. We went back to the apartment to get ready but we had to wait until nearly 10am due to an accident on highway.

When we got out we drove around he bay all the way past Eastbourne to the place you can hire bikes. It was sunny and seemed quite nice – a but breezy, but the guy warned us about the wind, so we /hired 2 electric bikes. Going out was easy to begin with as we got to the Lighthouses – then my electric assist failed. After talking with the help line who said take my time coming back and they will give a refund, I got it working intermittently by pressing onto the battery pack while cycling. Airyen and I even got nearly to the top light house. We then decided to go back. It was a harder cycle back as there was 40mph gusts – so much so Airyen was in tears for a bit. When we got back, I got a refund for my ride.

After this we went to the French cafe in Eastbourne for a treat for Airyen and coffee for me it was quite good a desert. We then went back to the Johnsonville apartment for a bit, before we headed out to Mitesh’s place for 5pm. The children were then entertained. We decided to have a Thai take away, so we chose some food and picked up Bhavni en route to the place. Getting back it was a nice night of music (kids singing) and other entertainment. Home and packing were the final things of the day.

21st Feb Sat (Wellington – Taupo)

Today we changed the plan and dropped Bhavni to Hospital after breakfast directly before returning to the apartment to finish packing and load the car. We checked out at 10am.

I drove to the Royal New Zealand Police College, which was at Papakowhai Road, Porirua, a lovely drive. This is the training academy and they were running drills with robberies when we went past. The actual museum was cool – they gave a case to solve by analysing clues at benches between the exhibits. We were the ones to find the accomplice not the main suspect first!

Airyen and I then headed to Avalon park for a bit for some more time in the playground, before heading to Oriental Bay – again parking at the far end. We met Mitesh and co there, and the children played for a bit, before the girls swimming class. I then drove to the Budget rental in the CBD. Mitesh and Bhavni came there and we got our hire car returning the Mini to Mitesh. Here we said goodbye.

It was then the drive to Taupo; it was a lovely drive and quiet on the way. We could see the damage from the storm along the way. As we got to the volcanos we had to stop and take some photos and Bhavni did some video calls to Rajvi. The journey was slightly longer due to a road closure (and one slow bit due to a crash).

Getting to the motel we checked in – opened all the windows to clear the air and then made Agli-oli for dinner (in the small kitchenette) – very nice to eat. After it was bed time.

22nd Feb Sun (Taupo – Whangaparāoa)

We woke to a nice scene. We had breakfast enjoying the view of the lake and the garden area – chilling until 9am. We then headed out driving north to Auckland. The roads were bigger and busy here and got more so as we drove north. Past Auckland we got to Stanmore bay beach in Whangaparāoa.

We found Sheylina – did not recognise her as she had curly longer hair. We joined Rians birthday party. Soon Grant came with inflatable boats and to help look after the kids. We spent some time there helping out – the kids went into the water – but in multiple groups, so we had to split up and look after them. They then did sand castle building competitions.

Most children got picked up then at 4.30 we went to Sheylinas house – They have 3 kittens, Airyen was ecstatic. We met Amani there – she has become a Teenager! We settled in a room, then were shown around the remodelled kitchen area.

For dinner they had organised going to a Thai restaurant for Rians birthday, with Grants mother joining. Quite nice and it was fun. It was then back to the house to chill and catch up before we went to bed.

23rd Feb Mon (Auckland)

Waking up and seeing all the children off and having our breakfast and more catching up with Sheylina and Grant we head out to Auckland to see some of our past areas.

We drove to Epsom first to see our old road – there are a few bigger town houses there now. We just of chance tried knocking at Sues door, and she opening it – recognising us. Peter was also there. We sat for a short while as they had to go but we caught up and exchanged email addresses.

We then went to Sitehost, but no one was there who we knew. So then we went to Cornwall park (took a few tries to get to the parking). We had to walk to top of one tree hill as no cars are allowed there anymore, so it took a bit longer. We tried pointing out places to Airyen (a little hard to engage him).

Back to the car we then drove to mission bay, parking just a block away. We had a little wonder at the waterfront before getting dumplings for lunch – they were good. Then it was the obligatory ice cream – getting from 2 different places and having it at the beach.

We then drove back to Whangaparāoa, getting some food at pack and save for dinner. At the house we made “Mexican” style rice (using the home tomatoes in their garden). We had dinner on the deck with the rice and tacos.

A chilled evening again.

24th Feb Tues (Whangaparāoa)

After Breakfast and the children leaving for school, we went to the Indian shop near new world to get Sev for the pani puri at dinner – you can get lot of Indian food here.

Sheyling had suggested we go to Brick Bay vinery, which we did. We had lunch there – a med platter to share and wine for me. After which we did the art trail – interesting as the artworks were so varied. Unfortunately there was no veg marshmallow treat for Airyen.

Anyway we headed back to Whangaparāoa for 3.30, where we then got joined by Sheylina and Rian to go to the beach with Rian. Sheylina and Bhavni went for a long 1 hour walk. The two kids did a little boating – I helped then the played in the sand and the rope swing for a while.

After we went to the house and chilled for a bit before driving at 6pm to the North shore and a restaurant called Aubergine to meet Meda and her family with 2 girls. We had a Mediterranean platter and Airyen had pasta – though he was not in a good mood. It was a nice meal and it was nice to see them.

We then headed back to Sheylinas via Pak and Save to get some gnocchi for the next day.

25th Feb Wed (Tiritiri Matangi)

Today we had breakfast (watching the kids go), after which we made packed lunches for the three of us. We had to head out to Gulf Harbor for 9.30am. The parking was already quite busy when we came, so were a small walk to the entrance.

There was a school group also going when we arrived, though we were told to go ahead. Soon the ferry arrived and we boarded and sat outside. Soon we were on our way to Tiritiri Matangi. After disembarking and being given a brief by the ranger, we got a choice of the walks to do – there were 3. We picked one, but ended up being the last group to set off. We saw a few birds around – including the upset owl, as well as a some Weta. At the end we got to the lighthouse, where we had our packed lunch and tea. We had a quick look in the building there, then saw 2 takahē running around. We then walked to the harbor and then to the nearby beach for Airyen to get to dip his feet in the water. We could not be too long as the boat was going to leave at 2.15 pm.

It was a nice sail back – sitting at the front. We got back to the the harbor and to the car arriving at Sheylinas for 3.30. For dinner we made some more Tex-mex rice, though it was staggered eating for most of us – due to classes etc on that day

We then did some packing and sorting for the next day.

26th Feb Thurs (Auckland – Melbourne – Dubai)

Breakfast was the usual affair with the addition of photos of kids before they left to school. As we had some time we went for a final time to Coopers bay beach between 11-12. Then it was back to Pack and Save to get some bits and fuel. We got to the house and chilled until leaving at 3.20 for the airport. This is after saying bye to Sheylina, Grant (who was having a boat re-validation meeting) and Bhavni. It was a decent drive to the airport and we filled at the Mobil near there. It was really confusing where to return the car and we went around a number of times before finally going to the correct point.

Afterwords it was a normal check in and a long wait to board the aircraft. The Quantus flight to Melbourne was quite busy. There was a lady booked in the seat between Airyen and I but luckily she moved ahead as her tv was not working, so Airyen had some room to sleep. We arrived into Melbourne and it was a quick transit to the Emirates flight to Dubai on a 777. Lucky for us the middle seat was empty, so managed to sleep a bit as well as well as watch tv.

27th Feb Fri (Dubai – UK)

We arrived in Dubai. It was a long way to transit (it seemed we walked the breath of a terminal as the transit rooms were busy). We had to go to terminal A (from C) by train. Since we had time we stopped for coffee and pancakes in Giraffe (I got to use my Dirhams). The next plane to the UK was quite busy, but we were both tired so we slept a lot of the flight. Landing in Heathrow it did not take long to get out, which meant we were waiting 10 minutes for the taxi. We got home around 3.30pm.

Friday 15th August London – Vienna

Our taxi was ready for us to depart at 4.10am to go to Heathrow Airport. It was pretty hard to stay awake in the taxi! At Heathrow we quickly checked in and made it trough security. We had plenty of time, so we went to get a bite to eat, Airyen did not fancy any of the food there – he wanted pancakes so we moved to Giraffe, where he did get them, we just got a lite bite and tea. With the lack of sleep Airyen wanted to leave and go to the plane – the gate had not been announced – but there was no reasoning, so we ended up in the normal lounge until the gate was called, then in a queue for 20 mins to board.

On the plane – Bhavni and I tried to sleep, Airyen decided he did not want to. It was just under a 2 hour flight to Vienna so we were soon landing. There were buses to get us to the terminal and it was really quick going through security and picking up the bags.

We took the S7 train towards the city followed by a tram to Südtiroler Platz. It was a short walk to the hotel Trend Beim where we left our bags, packing stuff away to reduce what we were carrying.

It was then to the nearby station to get the U1 line 2 stops north (I made us get the train the wrong way first). At the station exit there was a nice bakery where we got a few items for ourselves – all for €11. We came out near the opera house and walked to the near by park where we had a picnic. Pity Airyens sandwich had egg in it – but I enjoyed it and he ate part of mine.

We walked back and got the Vienna card from the office across the road (Bhavni and Airyen went and bought drinks in the Subway as most shops were closed). We had to go a little down the road to stop 2 for the hop on bus red route near the Palais Imperial with the nice plaza to walk around (for me). The bus was arriving in 20 mins and it was too hot Bhavni and Airyen, so they sat on the steps near the museum whilst I explored.

When the bus arrived we made our way to the top floor, this was a mistake as it was roasting, even when the bus finally moved – as there are only some vents and no AC. We spend most of the tour at the top, melting away and getting drowsy. Later we made our way down where it was a bit cooler. I don’t think we took all the information in.

Back at stop 2 we walked past a frozen yogurt place which was busy, but not what the guys wanted, so we found a very pink themed cafe that did ice cream (though I had a cold coffee drink). A bit slow service and apparently you only get water if you had a coffee).

From here we got the train and headed back to hotel getting into our room on the 7th floor. Bhavni passed out asleep, whilst Airyen refused to sleep and sat on his tablet instead.

After a couple of hours we got ready and headed out – taking the train 3 stops to the center. I did a personal walking tour of the area (with the research I had time to do at the hotel), surprising them with the Cathedral, the most expensive street, palace gardens and the town hall. All buzzing and nice to see in the cooler air. Airyen was now tired of the walking.

I then took them to Apapika Bowls for some poke bowls for dinner – which were rather nice. Then we walked to Hochstrahlbrunnen, the fountain, which was all lit up with colour changing lights. We sat for a little bit here, then caught a tram back closer to the hotel. We had to walk near a playground where Airyen played for a bit. Then back to the hotel to retire.

Sat 16th Vienna

We were down for breakfast at around 7.45, the breakfast was simple continental options. Airyen got a bit out of hand at breakfast, so by the time we left the hotel, it was a bit later then anticipated (I got some fruit from the supermarket quickly).

We walked to the station and got the red line to Karlplatz, changing to the green line to go to get the train and go to Schönbrunn, arriving at around 9.10. There were plenty of people going to the palace, so we just had to follow the crowds.

At the palace, we walked into the courtyard and then found the entrance to go directly in, due to the time. We were on the full palace tour, which included headsets to tell us about all the rooms (by typing the room numbers), which you got after the first few areas. There were many rooms, all with different themes according to which person occupied them – from opulent wooden rooms, Chinese influences and simple ones. There were lots of people seeing the rooms so you could not get a quiet photo though.

At the end of the tour was the souvenir shop, where we bought a postcard, then we exited into the formal garden area which was very nice.

We climbed the hilly area at the end (separately), past the fountain, which gave a great view back to the palace. We then walked back towards the front of the palace through the woods and some of the side gardens and past the orangery to the road.

We had to wait around 10 minutes for the yellow hop on bus, which eventually took us to outside the opera house, after going to the central station. The person on the bus suggested that we could do the boat ride as it was included, but going into the office there, we found it was not.

We again got some sandwiches from the same place as yesterday – but this time with a drink deal, having it in a smaller park this time.

Soon enough it was time to head to the opera house at 1.45, as we had the tour booked for 2pm. We had to wait inside for a bit for our English tour – they split it in 2 tours and we went on the first. The tour was pretty decent, with the girl showing us around speaking and explaining well.

We decided to catch the blue bus to stop 47. Airyen started to throw his toys out of the pram, so we went into the church there only had a bit of time inside, before walking to the town hall. This was followed by quite a rushed drink at a restaurant (not really worth it), before we had to get back to the stop to pick up the green line bus.

The green line went north to the top of one of the hills that overlooks Vienna (past the vineyards), taking around 30 mins each way. It was quite a good view, at the top, though we decided not to get out as we would have to wait 1h for the next bus. This bus gave some history of the expansion of Vienna.

Getting back to the stop in Vienna, whilst Bhavni did some research about dinner options, Airyen soaked himself in the mist cooler they had there. We then made our way back to the hotel using a tram and then walking for a bit.

Freshening up we went to a restaurant called Kekko near the central station, catching an Uber, where we had sushi and green curry. Airyen does not eat much though – Bhavni thinks its the cream cheese in the sushi.

We caught a tram back. Bhavni was feeling like a dessert, but the local cafe on the walk had run out of chocolate cake, so Bhavni walked into the Peruvian restaurant, so we sat and ended having pretty much a mediocre banana split – which I mostly ate. Then it was back to the hotel.

Sun 17th Vienna – Passau

It was a disturbed night as Airyen woke up at 1am complaining of pain and it took until 2.30am (with having to go to reception for a change of scenery) before we were all back to bed.

Waking up we decided to get the 10.13 train rather then 9.13 this morning, so we pack our bags then went to breakfast. I ate well – the rest so so. Getting our bags, we checkout and head to train station by Uber. The train was on platform 6 and we arrived about 10 mins before it was due to depart. The train journey was quite relaxed (2.5 hours and a few stops), with Airyen on his tablet, Bhavni sleeping a bit, and I doing a bit of computer work.

We get to Passau. Bhavni did a quick visit to the tourist office just nearby, then we walked with our bags to the hotel Spitzberg, around 600m with crossing over the railway on a bridge and slightly uphill roads. Getting to the hotel, we left our bags as we could not check in yet. We just picked up some of the cycling welcome pack.

We then took a walk to the old town, through the small park and then to the pedestrianised area. It was lunch time, so after some debate we went to Koi for bao buns etc, nice, also I liked the painting of Zoro (one piece).

From here we went to the cathedral as there was meant to be a paid walking tour, but it turned out that it was only in German. We had a brief look in the cathedral. The tourist office had suggested there was a nice museum up on the hill over the river, but we did not have that much time, so we headed to the glass museum as the description was that it had lots of lovely items – it did but it was rooms after rooms of glass pieces with just some descriptions, after the second floor we left, even then took a bit to get out.

We walked towards the conconfrance of the rivers, getting to the park there. Airyen had a few playground areas to unwind while we sat for a bit. Now looking at online maps on getting to the bike place (for when it opened at 4), it gave us limited options – maybe as it was a Sunday we thought. So we had to leave pretty soon and walk back – mostly along the river bank, but a good 30min walk to the bus depot. The maps had said to catch the 6106 bus, but we caught the 6 after asking if it goes there (using the included pack ticket).

The bike depot was not far from the bus stop. We got our cycles and an extra helmet for Airyen as ours were still at the hotel (some bargaining from Bhavni). We cycled back to hotel (around 20 mins along a main road) stopping at a petrol station to get water, they only had fruit flavored still water.

We continued to the hotel and parked the bikes in the bike garage and finished our checkin. We had to lift our bags up 2 flights of stairs to our room. A little sparse inside. We got ourselves ready and changed, then we went to get our bikes to go to the old town – I had a restaurant in mind. Just a little bit down the road I managed to clip the kerb and have a small fall, so Bhavni said go back while she dressed the knee wound I had got.

Anyway back on the road, we got into the old town (fast compared to the walk), but the restaurant that I wanted was closed. We tried a nearby Indian – weird as the waiter was not bothered with us and took a while to acknowledge we were there then blase-lly gave us menus with disinterest. Basically we think they did not like serving Indians – as most of the bad reviews were from them, so feeling uncomfortable we left.

We ended up at Koi again, though we had to sit inside. Though Bhavni and I ate well (a bowl and ramen), Airyen did not eat as much as we hoped, even though it was sushi. By the time we finished it was getting dark, so we just cycled back to the hotel (past the glowing fountain in the town center). Sorting out the bikes then ourselves before bed. The room was a little hot, but it was also too noisy outside to keep the windows open.

Mon 18th Passau – Engelhartszell

We were up at a decent time in the morning, and all of us got ready before taking our bags downstairs before 9 (down the stairs) and then to the breakfast room. The breakfast was decent enough.

We then got ourselves to the bikes, and got ready for the first proper cycle day at around 10am. We cycled along the river bank (after passing the park) to the confluence, this time actually making it. We had a little stop here to read the information here and take some photos of the rivers. Then it was back onto the route, crossing the bridge over the Danube. Here I was a bit confused about the route to take and took the cycle tunnel which was the wrong way – Bhavni was not amused.

Anyway soon we figured out the right way and carried on on the north of the Danube. We had a number of small stops en route to look back at Passau and the scenery, but not too long at each stop.

Our major stop was at Obernzall. We cycled into the main road and parked the bikes, then had a look at the options for us. The bakeries there were pretty limited in their options and also there was quite a bit of meat around which made it no good for Airyen to even investigate, so in the end (after 30 mins) we cycled back a bit to the supermarket (Netto), where we picked up some fruit and water and drinks.

We then cycled to the State park where we had lunch (debating whether to eat on the benches or cross the bridge – which we did). It was a pretty nice state park with fountains and lots of things, so that after lunch, which included theplas and puris, Airyen played, mostly with Bhavni and a little with me.

We were here about an hour before we moved on, and it was only around 30 minutes to the next stop which was the next hydroelectric station on the river. The Hanz Strom museum was closed today, so we could not visit but instead walked partly over the bridge here to see a ship crossing using the locks.

Potentially we could have taken the bikes across and carried on the other side of the bank, but we followed the tour and carried on the north side to catch a ferry across the river. Airyen got a postcard after offering the captains daughter some tick tacks when paying for the ride in cash.

Arriving in Engelhartszell, we were just near Hotel zum Goldenen Schiff, we parked our bikes there and then had to wait a bit as the owner only opened the door at 3.30. The owner first thing said that we had put the bikes in the wrong place, but then told us we could check in. I checked us in, paying the tourist tax, after which he told us that we could put the bikes in the store. We did so then went to our room – second floor. Quite a decent room, though a bit antiquated. We checked out the menu at the hotel (as google said that the restaurant I wanted to eat at was closed), the menu was a little limited – especially for Bhavni. We asked the owner if he would do a pasta (even just boiling it for Airyen if we bought it as he did not have any), but he said he did not have the time.

We then walked to the Spar down the road – it was quite a small spar, so getting bread and soup was not even feasible (packet soup), so we got some crisps for starters. We saw the pizzeria I wanted to go to on the way back to the hotel – it was closed due to illness.

Back at the hotel, Bhavni and Airyen went up to the room for a bit of time, whilst I stayed on the deck and ordered a beer enjoying the view of the river. I started talking to the people on the table next to me – turned out to be some American retirees doing almost the same tour as us.

Bhavni and Airyen came down and played Uno for a bit before we ordered dinner – 2 cheese grills and chips + salad. It was cash only.

After dinner we went to the room and retired for the night.

Tues 19th – Engelhartszell – Aschach

Well Airyen woke up in the night hungry, so had some thepla to keep him going. Due to that we got up a little later then expected. We packed and took our bags down for 8.30ish.

Breakfast was a more limited choice here – and again not the most accommodating host. We got everything ready and checked out just before 10am.

We cycled for around 30 minutes to the roman ruins in Oberranna. Its a free view of the ruins (mostly foundations) which is enclosed in a big barn building with walkways over them. Most of the info was in German, but there were plenty of English translations.

After finishing the ruins, it was a short cycle to the next bridge which we had to cross to the north bank, then just around an hour to the Schlögen loop. There were 4 different boats that you could take depending were you wanted to go on the loop and bank. We took the one from stop 1, which took us across to the “Schlögen” town – the right choice for us. Here we parked our bikes and a local confirmed that this was the way we wanted to go to the lookout. It was a decent ascent up to the lookout, taking over 30 minutes, but as the locals had assured us – it was worth it as the view was pretty good. We took some photos before having lunch up there which included crisps, thepla and apples. Some last taking in the views of the loop before we descended down. It was quicker but still a bit hard due to the gradient.

At the bottom we went to the Donauschlinge restaurant there, where we ordered some chips for Airyen and drinks all round. It was a nice place to stop – though quite busy, so we did not get a river side table (though we still had a view).

Chips done we then got back on our bikes and headed to our next destination around 2pm, we did not have many stops on our next leg getting to Gasthof Sonne around 4.15pm.

We check in and put bikes inside to the bike room at the back of the property. Out room was on the third floor, so it was a bit of an effort for me to pull our bags up there. Our room overlooked the main road and the river.

We got ourselves ready then headed out -out first task was to go to the spar at the end of the town, a 6 minute walk, to get water and other items. We then walked back and headed to the La Veneziana restaurant. (I quickly dropped our stuff back en route). The first waiter did not really seem to be with it but the second gave us a table. It was a nice meal – pesto pasta for Airyen, pizza bread, penne arrabbiata and salad for ourselves.

After the food Bhavni left Airyen and I to get the bill, as she wanted to go to get an ice cream from a rated shop before it closes. Meanwhile Airyen made a bit of a fuss about finishing his drink, so left me frazzled instead.

It was back (with one ice cream) to the hotel and then bed time.

Wednesday 20th – Aschach -Linz

Bhavni and I woke to take a picture of the sunrise, it was not that easy to sleep with sun coming through the window (too late we found there were better blinds), we were all wake soon after.

As usual we soon got our selves ready and headed down for breakfast with all our bags (easier then the way up). There had been a bit of commotion about missing sun tan lotion (and assuming we had lost it), but I checked Airyen’s pannier which was still on the bike – it was there.

Breakfast was a small affair – a few cereals, bread and cheese. The cheese and meat were next together and people were mixing utensils. So I asked the waitress and she gave me a whole stack of cheese.

After breakfast it was a quick check out, then we took out our bikes and started our cycle. We had a good cycle, crossing the river on another power station, with little stopping until we got to Ottensheim just before 11am. Here we stopped at a cafe called Wolfgang Gillhoffer in the town center. Outside the tables were full, so we went inside. It was cash only a place and the girl serving spoke English (the older ladies did not). I had a hot drink whilst Airyen bought a swirled bun, but was not really sure what flavor he had got.

Back on the bikes we cycled to Puchenau, where we stopped at a Spar to pick up some supplies for lunch. It was then a short cycle to Linz. We get there by 12.15 at the Art Technica museum, parking our bikes in the full parking racks.

We took a few minutes to locate the entrance and bought our tickets for €33. We firstly headed downstairs to -2, the AO floor exhibit. It was pretty good with lots of interesting things and interactive displays, such as generative scenery, motion detection and data visualisation, as well a a nice AI art generator from our drawings – Airyen trusted the AI to find safe mushrooms.

We spent a good while on this floor, before moving to -1, this was more of a display level showing materials and items as well as a whole section of 3d printing, where a lady was making some fun stuff for the children to play with. After this we went to level 0 and got some of our bags from the locker and headed to level 4. This was where the glass enclosed terrace was and we had our lunch there. It was nice and warm while we ate, with a great view of the river in front of us and the city after with no one else around. It was the last of the thepla and puri with fruit and crisps.

After our lunch we made our way down to the ground floor where the English projector exhibit was happening at 2.30. Here they had a number of 4k projectors and tracking systems in a room, so we had some cool 2d and 3d demos that we sat in- with all 6 sides having projections.

After that we went to floor 1 which was the child lab. There were a few interesting things, such as marble runs and music generation – Bhavni got told to be careful with a microscope. Airyen then spotted a Minecraft based game to generate clean energy- which meant we spent 1 hour on this floor and had to drag him away.

Outside we unlocked our bikes and then tried to head out – going in the wrong direction due to the one way areas until we retraced our steps. Bhavni was interested in going to the lookout on Pöstlingberg, so we started cycling to a station that the tram goes from but it was quite late (4pm), and uphill, so we gave up and headed back over the bridge into Linz, following google maps to get to our hotel – Hotel Schiller Park – a modern high rise hotel. We had to go park our bikes underground which meant we had to go through the side entrance, which took a couple of tries getting new cards from reception to open the door. We then checked in to our room on level 2.

While Airyen had a bath and Bhavni got ready, I had time to go to level 4 and have a sauna, before getting ready. All cleaned up we headed out for dinner at 6.30 to the Maharaja Indisches, a little walk away. The food was quite good, the proprietor liked taking to Bhavni in Hindi.

From here we walked to the main plaza. Ice cream was bought for the 2 for desert and on the way I took a zig zag route to see the sights. The plaza was nice to stop at.

Bhavni noticed that there was the tram to Pöstlingberg here, and there was one leaving at 8.30 to the top of the hill, so we jumped on it. It took 25 minutes to get to the top. Here I jumped out and quickly found the lookout area as we only had half an hour until the tram went down – otherwise we would be here one hour more. It was a really good lookout. The tram down took around 20 mins.

We walked back via the cathedral (finding a cash machine that did not take commission), then back to the hotel to retire for the night. Airyen knocks out quite quickly and we watched Austrian bake off a bit before we slept.

Thurs 21st Linz – Au an der Donau

Today we woke up one after another from 7.30. Again we got everything ready and went down just a bit before 9am. Its a decent enough setup for breakfast, just the usual limited items for us, especially as they ran out of bread rolls. Today there was rain predicted and the skies were cloudy – it had rained over night – but we were to be lucky as it did not rain while we cycled.

We checked out at 10 or so and got our bikes, taking the obligatory photo in the front of the hotel. We made our way to the supermarket across the road to get some water and supplies for the cycle, before heading out of Linz. We had to first cycle through the town to get to the Danube where we crossed it on the suspension bridge. On the north side of the river we had to cycle past the whole industrial area, which stretched on for quite a while near the highway 3.

The route pushed inland away from the 3 for a little bit, here we cycled past a Billa supermarket, then decided to turn back to get some drinks, I stayed with the bikes in the front while Bhavni and Airyen got the items. Then it was a really short cycle to K2 – Café & Bistro, getting there about 12.20. We grabbed some menus and sat outside, where we ordered a coffee for me and a toasted cheese sandwich for Airyen, which we had with a little bit of the stuff from the supermarket. There were some students (I think) who were having a supermarket picnic on the paved area in front of the cafe which was amusing to see.

It was then a short push to Mauthausen (15 mins), where we stopped at Roma Eis, an ice cream place which the guide book recommended – natural flavors. We parked our bikes just to the side of the parlor and sat in the front under the covered area after ordering the ice cream – it was pretty decent ice cream

It was then a 30 minute push to Donauhotel Lettnerhof, our hotel for the night. We got there about 2pm. The hotel was the hotel that we had had to pay extra for – quite a nice looking place. While Bhavni and Airyen stayed with the bikes downstairs I went through the hotel to the second floor and checked in, this was quite a long process. Eventually after finishing we got our keycard and put the bikes in the bike room, before going to out room on the ground floor.

After getting changed, we asked about food options at the restaurant. The guy there was friendly and was helpful for Bhavni as she had limited options. We then chilled in the veranda on the ground floor for a while. I found Sara (from the Americans) here, who told me that they had a washing machine here, so I found out how to pay for the powder and put a load in the wash.

We then walked to the Spielplatz nearby (Airyen being coaxed), past the harbor looking at the boats and the large raven statue here. Airyen then played in the park for quite a while, so I had to go back to put the clothes in the drier, and change my clothes that had got wet.

Airyen and Bhavni eventually came back as it had started to rain, but Bhavni had lost her key card – so I had to go to the park and retrace the steps – I found it near the zip line.

Back and out of the rain it was around 5.30, so we got ready and headed to the second floor for 6pm for dinner. It was spinach dumplings for me, lasagna for Airyen and mushrooms and potatoes for Bhavni. Mine was quite nice and Airyen always enjoys pasta. Bhavnis was OK. We had cake for desert.

After dinner we played some uno flip before bed time.

Fri 22nd Au an der Donau -Grein

Today we got up just after 7am and packed all the washed clothes. We were out of the room around 8.15 and went up to breakfast taking our bags with us to reception. We saw some of the Americans here for breakfast, which was ok – the standard bread, cheese, cereal. Today Airyen was being a little unsettled and did not want to wait for us to finish – sort of what was to come today.

So after checking out and getting our stuff, we got the bikes from the bottom, exiting and leaving our key cards where they suggested, before starting our cycle – it was quite cloudy at first, but got better over the course of the day.

While cycling Bhavni was ahead of Airyen and I and she did the thing of looking at us round a corner rather than the road – so had a fall. We had to clean and plaster the cut on her hand.

Our next stop was to the old iron village at Lehen, just before 11am, which was a little diversion from the R1. We got there and again ran into the Americans who had just been there. We got tickets and then had a look around the village – mainly a lot of buildings for different purposes, with us reading the English description on a guide of what was going on. Airyen liked seeing the animals that were there. We also got to make a hut from putting pieces of timber together – like a puzzle. We left here nearer mid day.

From here we carried on our cycle – going slightly the wrong way as a path that google maps suggested was closed, so a little retracing and we carried on to join R1 which swung next to the river again.

We had a little snack break with bananas and snacks, before a push to Grein. Just before the town proper we went to the Hoffa get some more supplies – water and lunch. Then it was to the town and checking into the Landgasthof zur Traube, after putting our bikes in their store at the back. Our rooms were right at the end of the hotel, but as our bags had not yet arrived, we changed into the day pack we had. We could have had food on the little balcony that our room had, it was overlooking fields, but Bhavni thought that it smelt too much of a farm. I thought maybe we could go to the top of the castle and find a place to eat, but Airyen (and Bhavni probably also) was quite hungry and it looked steep, so we decided to have food on the benches in front of the hotel on the green.

After lunch, our bags still had not come so we walked into town. We passed an Italian restaurant called Restaurant- Pizzeria Schwarzes Rössl and talked to the chef and booked it for 6.30. A bit of sight seeing and we walked to the river front to enjoy the view there. They have a solar system exhibit here where there are scale models of all the planets and the sun, with the appropriate distance between. We saw the Earth, Venus, Mercury and the Sun, then after Mars. After around 4pm we had a stop at Cafe-Konditorei where we got an ice cream – they are famous for it and it was quite good. Heading back Bhavni wanted to go to see the shops in town, so Airyen and I headed back, but as he was being difficult, so I headed to the castle – a few steps up. The castle was closing at 5pm (and was closed for a private event the next day), but they said I could look around the sides that were open – a bit of a view of the river and town. Airyen was still being himself so Bhavni joined us up here for a view before we went back down to the hotel at around 5pm. The bags had arrived, so we could get changed for the evening and while they chilled in the room, I got a beer at the hotel cafe in the front.

We walked to the Italian restaurant for around the right time – deciding to sit outside. The chef came and found us and suggested we sit at the back tables as it would be the most comfortable. It was a decent meal – pasta all around – aglii oli and pomedorro with a burretta salad. The chef came out to ask if all OK as well.

After dinner we went back to Cafe-Konditorei, going to the upstairs cafe. Airyen chose a piece of cake that we all shared – though had too much jam which we did not know. We had a bit more of a walk on the river front seeing Jupiter and Saturn, then it was back to the hotel for the night.

Sat 23rd – Grein – Marbach an der Donau

Like normal we got ready and went to breakfast at around 8.30 – though the bag drop was next to us – again the standard fare for breakfast. We checked out and got our selves ready, getting our bikes from the back.

Out route went a bit back on its self, to cross the bridge before Grein. We had got a little bit on the other side and taken in some lovely views of Grein when Bhavni said to me that Airyen must be in the lower gears – a standard by now – but that was not the problem – the problem was that Airyens front Tyre was flat. We stopped and I inflated it hoping it was a slow leak, but it was not far down the road before it was flat again. So I had a look at it but our kit that the bike people gave was missing the tyre levers. Bhavni was panicking a little saying we will have to go back to Grein and a bike shop. But we had the puncture repair kits, and I saw that there was a cafe nearby < 500m- Manuelas Radlerstation. So I inflated it again and we headed there.

As we got there and were just investigating, a group of local students came in cycling. Bhavni asked one of them for help and they were more than happy to help – they had tyre levers to get the tyre off. I found the leak and confirmed it was the only one in a bowl of soapy water before patching it. We then had some drinks – including an early beer for me. They 2 of the guys then helped us put the tyre back on. Bhavni paid for 2 of their beers.

It was past 11am now, so we pushed on for the next hour to near next bridge – Airyen was a little hungry and there was a cafe – Bistro Mogador. I ordered a coffee, but they did not have much that we wanted. Airyen started to have a little of his packed sandwich, but the waiter came out – no one else was there and loudly shouted Airyen cant eat his sandwich. So I finished the coffee and had a chat to him that you can not shout at children.

The route was to cross the bridge, but we carried on to the park at the beginning of Ybbs an der Donau. This was a nice place to have out picnic, and after Airyen got to play a little on the playground, such as balance bars end climbing frames. After our lunch it was a short cycle to the Fahrradmuseum – a bike museum. This was a bit of fun, with us first all getting up on a penny farthing in old timey hats, followed by seeing bikes through history, starting with things like the “Bone shaker”, all the way to early 2000’s – wood to carbon fiber.

After seeing the museum, at a little past 2pm, we cycled back to the power station bridge and crossed. Our route on the map told us to cut across the land rather than take the r1, but it would have been easier to just go round (though a bit longer) as there was a bit of a climb. It was then the r1 near the big motorway, until we arrived at our hotel – Hotel Wachauerhof, just after 3pm. After checking in, Bhavni suggested I go to the local supermarket to pick up some fruit and supplies. It was a 2 minute cycle – but it did not have any fruit, so I bought some crisps. So then I decided to cycle to the next spar – 5km further. It was good going and I picked up some fruit. Now getting back was hard as there was quite a strong wind.

Airyen was happy as he had a bath, but then decided he wanted to chills in room watching TV (Simpsons in German). Meanwhile we went downstairs and I had a drink.

Bhavni had asked about dinner as there were not any options near by, so at 6pm we had dinner with a nice view of the river – I had the vegetarian dumplings, Airyen had pasta, Bhavni had vegetarian balls with salad. Bhavni had the short straw here.

After dinner we retired to the room and chilled.

Sunday 24th Marbach an der Donau – Mitterarnsdorf

Today we got ready a little later and headed down for breakfast and as usual leaving the bags – similar setup to the rest of the places. By the time we checked out and got the bikes (making sure Airyens was OK), it was around 9.25. Our cycle was to continue then cross the next bridge and cycle towards Melk. The Americans has told us there was a tour in English at 11am, so not a lot of time, but we ended up initially making great time.

We got to the bottom of the abbey, seeing it above us, but was not sure of the way up. I thought maybe to follow the r1 a little further, but this led us the long way, going with the main road to the Abbey. Bhavni was not impressed. It was about 11 when we got to the Abbey, and looking for the parking for the bikes. I left Airyen and Bhavni to lock up the bikes whilst I walked and got the tickets. The tour had just left, but we could catch up, so when Bhavni and Airyen came, we went through the courtyards and up the stairs (giving in the tickets). The tour group was there including Susan and Chris (part of the Americans). The tour of the abbey gave some background to the building (it would be hard if wondering alone). Some of the rooms were quite nice (though there was no photography), as well as the views from outside.

At the end of the tour we had a quick look around the chapel, as it was going to close for prayers. In the courtyard outside we had a nice view again and the rest of the Americans also came here. We then went to the tower, which was included in the ticket to have a look out – Airyen was getting hungry so we took the stairs down to the nice small formal gardens and had some fruit and sandwiches, before having a small walk around part of the grounds.

A little wonder back up the tower then we left the abbey, but had a wonder at the entrance plazas which were quite nice – such as the water features. Then it was to collect our bikes and head down – about 1pm. This time Bhavni suggested using walking directions and this took us down a much easier route, past all the cafes and to near the place where we first arrived. Following the suggested route, it was a little cycle along the river then across the bridge to the other side of the river, where there was a little climb before the route became easy again, the nicest bits were where it went away from the main road and we got to see the vineyards appearing.

We continued our cycle arriving at Spitz around 2.45. We just to the ferry terminal and waited – though I got tempted with all the other people having ice cream, so I got some. We then crossed on the ferry to the other side and then cycled to out hotel – Gasthof zur Wachau, where we checked in. We ended up swapping rooms as the one they gave us had yellow water coming out of the bath. The hotel had a swimming pool, so we headed there. Not big, but some unwinding for Airyen. Bhavni and I had a chance to use the Sauna for a bit also.

After the swim we got back to the room and got ready. Sara had asked Bhavni if she could have some euros for Dollars as the ferry only took cash, so we did a little swap. It was about 5.30 when we headed by foot to the ferry, as food would have been very limiting at the hotel (after asking). We managed to negotiate the price down a bit as we had been on the ferry before – at fist the guy was adamant that we would just have to buy singles, but then gave us the multiple pass.

Crossing we went to Donauprinzessin, where we had a nice pasta dishes x2 with a shared garlic flat bread. It was petty good and we sat in the indoor part, but still had a good view of the mountains. For desert we had a Mozart cake.

The captain of the boat had warned that the last boat would be just a little after 7pm, so we made it to the pier by then and got the boat at around 7.10. The view of the river on the other side was pretty nice in the fading light. Getting back to the hotel we chilled for a while before calling it a night.

Mon 25th Mitterarnsdorf – Krems – Vienna

Airyen and I went for a swim in the morning, whilst Bhavni a bit of packing, then it was our breakfast routine at the usual time, with a similar spread of food in the hotel. We said bye to the Americans as they were staying an extra night here. We checked out just before 10am and got to the bikes, with the short trip to the port. The ferry was just arriving so it was good timing for us.

In Spitz we cycled back to the entrance of the castle ruin (Ruine Hinterhaus), which the Americans had tackled last night and recommended. Parking the bikes it was a small climb. The castle was defiantly worth it as the views from here were really nice and you could go right to the top.

A little past 11am we went back down and got on our bikes for the next cycle, though we had a quick stop near Wehrkirche St. Michael. It was then cycling to Weingut Schneeweiß – a winery where we picked up our complimentary wine for the tour. Airyen also got a nice ceramic bowl. We had a little fuel stop with some fruit outside before continuing on.

We decided here to follow the route the guide suggested – through the old town – rather than just go along the R1. This was a good idea as it gave a nice view and we found ourselves going past an Italian restaurant – Achleiten Stube – and as it was lunch time (12.30) we stopped. It was nice having the nice pizza and pasta overlooking vineyards.

We were back on the cycles at 13.45, but it was not long before our next stop at Dürnstein, where we took some pictures of the cool church. After this it was the final push to Krems, going through old streets before arriving at the train station at 2.35.

We caught the train to Vienna at 2.50 – it was a double decker bus – so of course we sat at the top – after belting our bikes down at the bottom. It was around an hour on the train arriving in Franz-Josefs at around 4pm. We got all our stuff and took our bikes off – your have to make sure you remember everything as the train was gone soon after. The front of the station had some works going on which foxed me a bit. The guide assumed you had not been to Vienna, so you could cycle round the ring road, but as we had seen this, I chose a route to the hotel which meant we were on cycle paths nearly through out – around 5km.

Getting to the hotel it took us a while to find it – google maps did not give us a precise location – it was in the end a bit like Punch and Judy – it was behind us. I checked in then I moved my bike to the cycle store, quite a long cycle underground. Bhavni and Airyens were left parked out the front for now. We took pretty much everything up to our room as this is where we leave the tour.

After getting in the room and cleaning up there was a lot of “debate” about what to do today and tomorrow – though I had made a plan. Anyway a little later we all went down. Airyen and Bhavni were going to move the bikes – but when Airyen followed Bhavni he had a small fall – getting cut and grazed a bit, so had to go and put a plaster in the hotel. In the end I took the big bike and Airyen his to the parking. We then went and got the tram nearby at around 7.20pm. It was then a 10 minute walk to the Hundertwasser Village, with the living wall – quite a cool building with the trees and planting.

After looking around for a bit we walked and caught the train just before 8pm to near the Danube tower. I had checked directions and there was a bus that took us nearly all the way to the Danube tower – this is in the middle of a park with nothing else around – Bhavni had had a bad experience so had been quite negative about the visit. But with the bus it was a short walk where we used the last of our Vienna pass tickets to go in around 8.30. We went to the top cafe, which revolves, where we had a hot chocolate each, whilst spotting the sights through the windows. Lovely experience – though it took a while to order. Airyen wanted to go down the slide, so I purchased a ticket for him and we tried to film it – very quick.

It was around 9.30 when we left – we called an Uber to take us to the station (that surprised the driver), then we caught the train to Prater, following the crowds into the amusement park. This place was busy.

First ride Airyen wanted to do was the bumper cars. We then did a roller coaster, then finally a fun house (Airyen bumps into perspex many times) , all this whilst wondering the large grounds. By the time we left here it was nearly 22.40. Bhavni did some research and we walked to the nearby Green Oasis Bowls & Burger, where we got a large poke bowl. We took this with us back to the hotel (via a tram from Praterstern).

We are the dinner in our room after 11pm then soon it was time for bed.

Tues 26th Vienna

This morning we packed up all our stuff early, before going down to breakfast. As it was a bigger hotel it had quite a nice spread for breakfast – the usual things we had been having plus also things like make your own fresh fruit juice. We finished up and got our bags from the room. We then checked out but left the bags with the hotel just before 9.30am.

We caught the train to the city center getting to the opera house. We had to meet just behind it for a walking tour, that I had booked yesterday, at 10am. The tour was a 2 hour tour, going first near the Albertina (art) museum before concentrating around the Hofburg palace, with a little break in the middle then parts of the city.

A little before 12, the tour had finished and we made our way towards the cathedral, thinking to get a look inside, getting there for the midday bells. While we were outside there there was a big precession which went into the cathedral, with a marching band playing – they ended up playing right in front of us. Probably not a right time to go in.

We then made our way to the Central Cafe. There was a queue (in the sun) to get in. Bhavni thought she might be able to do a quick shop whilst I was in the queue but I had to call her back as it was moving faster than she expected.

We got a table deep inside with the vaulted ceilings. We ordered some soup and bread rolls (as soup does not come with it), for our lunch. I did get told off about not eating the cream which had gone into the soup. Anyway we got some deserts after, with the 2 looking at the selections available in the counter, and a Vienna coffee for me. The waiter gave Airyen lots of chocolate to top it off.

Near 2 we left, Bhavni wanted to do some shopping, and I wanted to look at some historical stuff so Airyen and I went to look at Palais Daun-Kinsky, which was a nice free landmark with a lovely painted ceiling. Airyen was a bit painful after this for quite a bit.

It was then off to the Roomz hotel, getting there just after 3pm. We picked up our bags and made our way to the now renamed 4 points flex (where we had stayed at the beginning) getting there around 4.30pm. We chilled here for a while.

At 6.30 we headed out – getting the train to near the state opera and then going to the Poke bowl (Apapika). It was not quite as good as the first time. We then walked to the Ritz Carltion, as their roof garden was meant to be nice – it was closed today for a private event. After a quick run down of options we decided to try to go to Daz Loft (taking the tram there). There was no problem getting in – though the bar was on the 18th floor and was labelled as such which Airyen took to mean adults only. It was not that busy and had great views of the city. We got 2 mocktails – Bhavni got something off menu and I got one with a bit of matcha in it. Airyen had a lemonade but kept eyeing Bhavnis drink. We stayed as the sun went down and it got dark with the lights turning on on the sights.

We left just after 9pm, taking the tram to near the hotel. Back there we called it a night.

Wed 27th Vienna – London

We had to get up decently early today, going to breakfast then checking out. To make it easy for us we took an Uber to the central station, to get the 8.40 train to the Airport (which was on a upper platform) – surprisingly it was delayed 7 mins. At the Airport we checked in – our bags were over weight, but the person was fine with it.

Our flight was scheduled for 11.10. We ended up arriving early in Heathrow and our bags did not take long. We had to wait a bit for the taxi, then it was off home, getting there around 2pm.

12th July – Saturday – London to Southampton

After a late night, we were up and out of the house at 7.45 (though there was a brief return to get playing cards for all the others on the trip). We drove for an hour, to our per-designated meeting point – a service station on the A33 (the M3 was partially closed). Nirmal and Anji had set of super early at 7 so they had been there for ages, but we arrived minutes after Miten and Milan. We spent a little time there, people got drinks etc, while I distributed my sour dough bread.

It was then off again, to Southampton and the ocean cruse terminal. We arrived 10 minutes ahead of other 3 cars, not bad considering I drive the slowest. When they all had come to the terminal we left the luggage with the rest whilst Milan, Nirmal, Miten and I drove the cars (with me leading) to Hamwic Hall, where I had booked parking for all the cars. From here it was a short 15 minute walk back to the terminal. The rest had checked in the bags and we join them in the boarding queue. Our embarking time was meant to be 11.45, and we actually went in a little after 12.15 to the terminal, where we finised the checkin and boarded. Our Muster station was the Emerald Bar on deck 6, where we reported, before going to the Horizon on the 16th floor for food. We found a space and helped ourselves in the buffet.

Our rooms were called out as being ready just around 2. We went to them – floor 14 and chilled for a bit. All of our groups went our separate ways to explore the ship separately. After a while we met Miten and co in the emerald bar area. Whilst the others went back to the room, we had a well deserved drink. After I met Bhavni and Airyen at the room, we then made our way to the open upper decks where the rest had vaguely made there way. We went to the aft for the sendoff music party – Prisha and Saanya joined – though Airyen was not enjoying the music scene.

After the ship had departed all the families went our separate ways again. We had a wonder to look at the Cinema quiz, it was way too hard for us (silver screen trivia).

We went back to the room to change and get ready for the evening, going to an acrobatic show in the Sky Dome, before going to Horizon, where all the families met up (though a few had eaten before).

After dinner it was time to go for a (musical) show, which stated at 10.30 – Milan pushed the door, so we got good seats at the start, though had to wait for a while. It was a musical with the theme of air travel. Most of us were quite tired so it was not appreciated as much as it could have been, but some nice songs in there. After the musical it was straight to the rooms, with Airyen going to sleep, very soon followed by us.

13th July – Sunday Sea Day

We woke up quite late, especially as the time was changed to Norway time – 1h ahead. After getting ready we left to go to breakfast in the Horizon restaurant, it was quite busy. We met most of the rest of the group there as we had a buffet breakfast.

The 3 of us after went down for a Quiz after on level 7. The quiz was on guess the magnified objects, individually. I personally got a decent score. Leaving we met Miten wondering around with his family, so we had a explore with them for a bit – Bhavni went her own way. I also ran into Anji and Mothering, who i dropped into a health talk – was not really that good for Airyen and I.

Soon it was approaching mid day, so we went to the show areas, sitting ourselves at 11.40, for the Animal Guyz show at 12. It was a decently entertaining show, especially for the children.

After the show it was time to go for lunch at the Horizon restaurant – with all of us gathered around the same area. After the leisurely lunch I went and dropped Airyen to the children’s club – a bit of a queue to get in, then went and rejoined the rest.

Some of us wondered down to deck 6 and the Emerald Lounge, where we chilled while Bhavni and some of the girls went for a painting class. Then as the plan was fluid we tried to do a gathering on floor 17 at 4pm, but due to strong sea breeze, we decided to go indoors and ended up in the SkyDome area where some played cards, and some of us had a drink. I picked up Airyen at 4.45 and get him some chips from the restaurant here to keep him going.

Soon after it was time to go and get ready as it was formal night. The plan was to meet outside the rooms at 6.15, but with the many we were it did not go to plan so we met in Emerald at 6.30, where we took some photos of all of us as well as a professional picture.

Dinner was booked at the Italian restaurant for 7pm. We all had the starters and mains together (on the two tables that we were given), then Bhavni, I and the 2 girls went to see the nights show – music for soul. The person who was hosting was singing old but famous mo-town music. It was all good until he said the words that he was going back to the 60s, whereupon the girls looked at each other and left quickly. Bhavni and I stayed for a bit, but not too long as she did not really recognise any of the music.

Back to the Italian where all the rest were. We had time now to order some deserts for us. After we had some chilling time including photos of the sunset. Whilst most retired, a few of us tried to go to the stand up comedy show, however it was too busy, so we went to the cabins. Here I found the Kidz playing cards (phase 8) meaning we did not sleep until very late.

14^th – Stavanger

We woke up with the ship docked at Stavanger – the oil capital of Norway. We all met at Horizon for breakfast, after which we all decided to meet around 9am to disembark.

We spit into 2 groups, some to walk to the petroleum museum, whilst the others were to take a taxi. In the end, they also ended up walking but being 30 mins after us. Walking we arrived at just opening time and went in. It was decent enough a museum explaining the timeline of oil production here and the origins of oil as well as future energy.

We were in the museum until just after 11.30, where the whole group got out and had a walk around town. Bhavni and I got tempted and got a pastry each – mine was a pistachio based one. A bit more wondering around and then we stopped at a bakery for lunch, sitting on the tables outside. Some decided to get Mc’ds and others chips as did not want breads. It was pretty nice as the sun was quite strong. After we did a bit more walking around – including going to a chocolatier, before most of the group decided to go back to the ship.

So it was the 3 of us plus Milan and Rajvi that remained. We had to catch the bus to there, which was on the side of the lake area. It was a bit of a scramble to get the app installed to buy the tickets – as its cheaper. We got on the bus for the 20 min journey to the 3 swords, with a small walk after the stop. The swords (representing Harold defeating the tribes and having peace) came into view right on the edge of the water. We took some photos – the scene looked different when the wind picked up. Then we had some ice cream as we had a bit of time before the bus came. We were all impressed about how the bins got emptied there.

Back on the bus and to the port area of the city where Bhavni and Rajvi tried bargaining for keychains – pretty non interested sellers – “This is Norway”. So it was back to the ship, where we got ready.

A few of us then went to a quiz in the bar – not great scores I must admit, then it was for dinner at the Pearl restaurant for 5.45.

After dinner we had a show called “festival” at the theater, which was pretty decent. Bhavni and Airyen then went to retire to the rooms whilst I chilled with some of the group for a while.

15^th – Olden

Today we woke up at around the time the ship was docking. We all met at various times in Horizon for breakfast. We three left the same time at 9am as Milan, Neer and Prisha (the rest were going at a later time). We had not booked so we looked to see if we could do the lift – it was full for the morning. This was a blessing as we heard later the lift was overcrowded and you had little time at the top – just some photos and back down. So Bhavni booked us on the same tour as Milan and Co for the Glacier walk.

We were ushered to the “overflow bus” whilst Milan and co went on another bus, but amusingly ours left first arriving just before them. The commentary on the bus was pretty good. At the place we waited for them and then after the obligatory rest rooms, we started the walk. There were lots of people on this walk (we saw the “Troll” cars go), but it was pretty simple a walk to the glacier with a cold shower from a waterfall to cool us off in between. Pretty nice scenery on the walk, though the signs did show how far back the glacier had retreated over time. At the end of the walk we got to the scree and lake around 5 mins ahead of the rest – we had a good view of milan going through the water with his children clapping – took some photos and when they came took some more.

The walk back was even easier as it was mostly downhill. There was a bit of time to look at the gift shop before we had to board the buses. We passed the rest of the crew as they had their troll car rides going on.

At the ship port we decided to not worry about the Lauren lift and we all headed to the Horizon restaurant for lunch.

After filling our selves up, we decided along with Milan and Neer to go to Olden town. So we packed a bit and headed out. We went 5 minutes the wrong way towards the lift first, before going to the town. The town was mostly just tourist shops which we saw in a few minutes, whilst Milan and Neer looked for souvenirs.

We found an area near the river to chill at for a little while before we headed back to the ship. On the way back to lift was visible and looking at it we have been on taller lifts.

Back on ship, we went to our rooms and decided to go to a Jacuzzi with Prisha joining Airyen and I at around 4pm. Bhavni also joined a bit after – complaining about my directions.

I left the others to chill in the hot tubs, whilst I showered and headed to Brodies for the general knowledge competition – I got an ok score.

I went to the higher decks to join all the rest, watching the buses arriving late – from the Lauren lift – due to the queues. Because of that that the ship departed late, however there was a lovely send off for it, with music and flag waving.

Most of us then headed for a show which was in the skydome – Acrobatics and dancing – it was standing room only for us, though the children could sit on the stairs.

After everyone got ready, dinner was at the Perl restaurant downstairs.

After the show everyone headed down to the Emerald bar to play cards and or chill for a while. We even watched the sun set – though it did not get dark.

Putting Ayren to bed, I grabbed some tea from horizon and Bhavni and I had it in our balcony.

16^th Flaam.

Today when we woke up, we were docked at Flaam, the view out of our balcony was of a large cliff wall. After getting ready, we headed for breakfast, which today was at the Pearl restaurant at 8.15am – I quite enjoyed eating this way rather then the self service upstairs, but we still at a lot.

We then all went back to the rooms to get ready, before meeting some on the lower decks and heading out of boat around 10am. There was the usual waiting for some of the group to arrive. Whilst they were arriving we had a look at the pricing for Kayaking as Bhavni said she and Airyen could do it – its a bit expensive as its a 3h hire, so not really worth doing in the morning.

When everyone had arrived we had a wonder around, in the heat – there was not that much to see – shops and a small museum about the train line to here. As it was a hot day most just wanted to sit around, but we all got into line for the train at 11.30, boarding just before 12, so we got decent seating. The train was meant to leave at 12.10, but there were engine problems so the train actually left 25 minutes late.

The journey to Myridal had some impressive scenery – mountains, forests and waterfalls. Bhavni’s camera unfortunately ran out of charge so had to rely on her phone. We had a really brief stop at the famous waterfall – where a person was singing – just enough time for a quick photo, then we were ushered back to the train to end up in Myridal.

The train was meant to have a 20 min stop at the station before going back, but due to the delay setting off they gave only a few minutes. So a quick bye to all apart from us, Miten and Neer. We tried waving but not many saw us doing so.

We got a few refreshments then started our walk down – it was a longer walk then I anticipated – nearly 1h, with plenty of switchbacks, but plenty of time to admire the scenery (and see the train go back). I played a colour game with Airyen to keep him occupied. As we got to the bottom (where the zip line terminates), we found the bike place – there was definitely no shortage of bikes here.

We took a while sorting out our bikes and our helmets – getting correct sizes for Bhavni took a bit. Then we had some of our food – deciding not to use the facilities as they were gross (drop).

When starting the cycling, Bhavni said to stick together as a group, this however only lasted around 10 minutes, before we had Neer race ahead, followed by Airyen (and I for him), with the other 2 trailing.

It was an easy ride as it was really downhill, which was just as well as bikes were heavy and not well geared, which made the couple of uphills a bit more of a struggle than normal. I tried asking Airyen to wait at a point, but this was pretty much ignored and he carried on. From a bike you could appreciate the stunning scenery more than the train, but it was hard to stop with all the people cycling.

We got to the end of the cycle a little after 4pm and returned them. Airyen still wanted to go on to the water, so while the rest of out group went back we went to the boating place (past all the sunbathing locals), meeting Milan and Rajvi walking en route.

So asking about kayaking we got a canoe instead as it was cheaper, though still £80. Due to the limited time I ended going with Aiyren rather than Bhavni. We spent a bit of time on the water and rowed a decent way out, getting back quite wet. We took our shoes and socks and returned to the boat, getting ready.

Dinner was booked at the pearl, after which we went to a show called Greatest Days (that took inspiration from Take That), it was a bit of a tragic story.

I took Airyen up to sleep, luckily Prisha was in her cabin and volunteered to baby sit, so I could go down where the rest were for a while.

17th – Hogensford

Today we woke up whilst still sailing in to the next stop – not that we could see much as there was a dense fog. We soon docked, the piers and surrounds not really visible.

Breakfast was at the Pearl, where we all met – another filling meal.

After returning to our rooms and getting ready we joined Rajvi’s familly and & Miten’s as they were going out.

We planed to do the tourist walk which is what most people were doing. It was a decent walk from the pier to the main town, over the bridge. The fog meant it was cool.

We left Miten at the walking street, while we continued the rest of our walk, seeing the sights such as the library (where Airyen tries to hide from us) and various churches. We found a decorating shop and I introduced us as a potential supplier giving our details – you never know.

We find the rest of the crew at a shop there – before we continued our walk. We had to stop for a bit of pastry and coffee at a cafe, after which the rest except for Milan and I headed back – we finished the last bit of the walk

We then got back to ship around 3pm, meeting Bhavni who had lost her ship ID card, so helped her for a bit before Airyen and I went in, and headed to the jacussi which was still with a foggy view.

We spent a while there, with other people coming in and out, before getting out and going to the room.

Airyen and I got upstairs to find there was a party going on next door in Milans and Neers rooms. Wine and other drinks. Whilst here Neer said it was time to open his degree result email, which he had kept unread. He got a first ! No dry eyes in that family.

After quite a bit I left all of the guys and went for my usual quiz at Brodies before coming back in time for dinner.

Dinner was a celebration dinner in the Pearl restaurant, with some Champaign and non alcoholic bubbly.

Today service on our table was a bit slow, so we had to skip desserts, to go to the magic show at 8.30.

We spent a bit of time after at the Emerald bar, after which I went up with Airyen and put him to bed.

18th Sea day

Today was a sea day. Breakfast was again a served meal in the restaurant on 7th floor

I had booked the children’s Animal Guyz show for 12pm, but as we had finished our breakfast early enough, I took Airyen to the 10.30 show. After a few of the others went for a art class to paint with wine colours, including Airyen and Bhavni. I in the mean time I enjoyed the outdoors (in a sheltered area).

We all then went for lunch to the Horizon restaurant, with me dropping Airyen to the Kids club for an afternoon session at around 2pm.

Bhavni and I wondered around the shops for a bit, before we met up for Ice cream with most of the others at 3pm and then we lazed around for a bit, until I picked up Airyen at 4.30 and took him for a last Jacuzzi.

Dinner today we at the Horizon restaurant. I got some mushy peas and chips from the restaurant on level 8 for Bhavni and I. I also got a picture with Airyen and the Animal Guys, when going through the sky dome.

Our show today was at 8.30 – Digital. This was a really good show with brilliant lighting effects including on the dancers suits.

After the show we finished our packing and left our main bags to be collected. Then we spent the time after downstairs. Including some late drinks – Espresso Martinis. Though the second one from Brodies was not that amazing.

19th Homeward

After a bit of a limited sleep, we were all upstairs for breakfast in Horizon just after 7.15. It was really busy so we did not sit all together today. We then were back in the room to finish off our checkout. After a bit of chaos on where we were meeting, we settled on floor 6, where we soon joined the queue out.

Our bags were soon collected. Milan, Nirmal, Miten and I walked to get the cars, returning back to the port to load up. The plan was to go for lunch at Rajvis (except the Volvo) – again we arrived first.

25th May (Sunday) London – Ljubljana

As our flight was in the evening, we had decided to eat at my parents house, we were meant to get there for 12pm, as I had said to leave for the airport at 1pm, but were a little late. So it was straight to food before socialising.

Soon enough – just after 1, we left to go to Gatwick, pretty uneventful drive getting to the long stay north parking just after 14.30. It took a bit to find parking, but it was close to a bus stop.

We took our 1 suitcase and our backpacks and were soon on the bus to the terminal where the first thing was to check in, then go through security.

As we are big shoppers we decided to just head to a cafe area – ordering waffle fries and tea. Then it was a panic buy of water for Bhavni, before the 10min walk to the gate – which should have been boarding, but was late (Easyjet).

By the time we boarded and took off – we were about 25 mins late, which was a worry for me as the car rental place was meant to close at 10pm. Anyway we touched down near 9pm local time (we could not see that much out of the plane at night). Luckily Ljubljana airport is not big and i was soon out (leaving Bhavni to get the bag). We picked up the car from Avantcar, loaded the bags and then drove to Four Points by Sheraton, about a 25 min drive. Checking in was easy – i just had to move my car after. We got room 160. We were all quite tired, so it was the bedtime routine, after some food that we had brought from the uk. I went down for a bit so we were not getting underfoot – pity the bar closed at 11pm as i fancied a decaf coffee.

26th May (Monday) Ljubljana

Due to the time difference we all woke a little late, Airyen and I ended up down for the breakfast at 9am, with Bhavni joining us a little later. It was a decent continental breakfast – Airyen as usual enjoyed pancakes.

We left the hotel just after 10am and drove to the car park just near Park Zvezda, which is right near the center of the city – it only took around 15 minutes. Parking was fine and we came up the stairs near the pedestrianised side.

From here it was a really short walk to the Prešernov square where Bhavni had the night before booked us on a walking tour at 11. We had a bit of time to explore and before we registered for the quite busy walking tour.

The tour I thought was quite decent (a few minor political views). It did a circuit of the center, going over the triple bridge, the dragon bridge and the butchers bridge, then the cobblers bridge, explaining the main lowland sights around the river.

The tour finished around 1pm. We got some ice cream at the many parlours and some lovely cherries from the market, before walking up to the castle (the tour guide had said her grandmother – 90 does it every day – so taking the funicular seemed excessive).

It was not a hard climb, and we found ourselves at the castle. Entry is free to walk around the grounds and a lot of the castle. Its quite a nice place to walk around and we saw a few rooms and enjoyed the views over the city. A short while there we could see some major clouds coming in and soon we could here thunder. So we had a little food there – the cherries and the last of the food from London.

We thought we should then get down before the rain hits, however we were lucky and the rain skirted the center of the city, so that by the time we were down the sun was back out and around 3pm. We decided to go to the market and pick up some more cherries and one large tomato for later, then we did our own walk around the city, looking at some of the other sites (such as the poem in gold on the road). We decided not to get the famous desert here as it looked to much for us. Bhavni also led us into a big department store, where we bought a top for Airyen.

Because of the time difference we were going to get hungry earlier and Airyen wanted pasta, so I found a restaurant called “raw pasta” to walk to, visiting some stores on the way as they wanted to get key chains.

As we got near the restaurant, Bhavni got worried as this was the first street which had graffiti and looked not touristy. However I was undeterred and we got to the place – more of a local restaurant. We ordered 2 plates of pasta and one salad, it was really quite good.

While we were eating the rain finally caught up to us, so we had to walk in the rain. To get a respite we ducked into Cocao and ordered a kids chocolate for Airyen and a very luxurious hot chocolate with peanuts for Bhavni and I. We then braved the last leg to the car. It was around €15 for the parking all day.

We then drove to the hotel, where we quickly got to the room, changed and headed to the pool. We had it to our selves. Bhavni and I also got to use the Sauna in turn.

After getting back to our rooms we headed back down to the games room where we played a bit of pool and table tennis before Airyens bed time, though that its self tool a bit longer then necessary.

27th May (Tuesday) Ljubljana – Bled

Bhavni woke up ahead of all of us and went for a swim at 7.30. Airyen and I got up and went for breakfast around 8pm and she joined us soon after. After breakfast Airyen and I went for a swim whilst Bhavni finished packing. We then got our stuff together and checked out, loaded the car and then started our drive towards Lake Bled.

It did not take long to get to Lake Bled – I pointed our the Airfield that I had flown at near Lesce. Bhavni took some photos as we went past. We then carried along the road towards Vogel, which was another 30mins away as the road was more rural.

Getting to Vogel, the weather was getting more overcast, so it looked as if it may rain when we got there. Just after we pulled up in the parking lot, a large coach load arrived and as they rushed we had to wait for them before we could get our tickets for the lift and then we had to rush as the lift was just leaving.

It was a good view going up the steep lift there (what we could see in the crowded lift). At the top we got out into a cloudy drizzly atmosphere – we had a little walk up there, before going to the restaurant – it was busy with the groups, so we cut our losses and decided to get the lift down again – Airyen got a good view this time (as people let him near the front).

At the bottom we got into the car and drove to the end of lake Bohinj, to Ribčev Laz, where we parked and went to Karakter Bar. It was raining in earnest by now, so most of the seating was wet. We sat and ordered fries and drinks (eventually as the service was a little sub par). It was just after 1 when we left, took some photos and headed towards like Bled area again.

We decided to go to Soteska Vintgar, a gorge, so making our way there, we had to park at a hub car park, buy tickets and catch a shuttle bus to take us there. The sun had come out now and it was lovely. The bus took a good 15 minutes to come then we were on the way. At the entrance we were given hard hats and had our tickets scanned. The walk along the gorge was really lovely with lots of interconnecting bridges and wooden paths over the river. Lots of lovely photos and views.

At the end of the gorge after putting our hard hats away, we got Airyen an Ice cream, took a photo of the waterfall and then took the short way back – which was still listed as an hour – Bhavni was worried that it was the wrong way initially, but I assured her it was correct. It was a steep ascent initially and through woods, we were pretty much on our own for most of it. The last half was level and took us to the parking lot. Airyen was complaining initially about the walk – but in the end we only took half an hour. At the other end we had to wait 30 minutes for the next bus.

Bhavni had informed the next accommodation (Vila Rajska ptica, Jamova ulica) that we were running a little late, luckily the place was right near by. So we checked in and had a bit of time to get refreshed. Bhavni had also booked dinner, at ARROI in Bled for 6.30pm. We drove towards there, having to find parking nearby as its pedestrianised. We were seated outside which was nice with the good weather. We ended up ordering a lot of food – Sushi to Green Curry, but nearly all got eaten.

After dinner we ventured to the cafe across the road – as that’s where they originally made the famous Bled cake. Nice place to have food with the view over the lake, though they were closing now. We got a take away cake and then had a walk around part of the lake, lovely conditions for photos.

We then had a brief walk to a supermarket so that we could buy some cereal and milk for breakfast the next day. Then it was back to the car and the apartment.

28th May (Wednesday) Bled – Piran

After waking at a decent time, we finished our packing and had the cereal and some fruit for breakfast. I had been wondering about the route today, rather than just a motorway drive, so after loading up the car, I went and asked the manager of the place about the route. He however suggested a different route – much more scenic. He checked the roads – there were works but they should be only overnight.

After checking out we headed out and stopped a Bled to have a look at the lake in the morning. Then we joined the motorway, but headed north instead, getting off before Austria and driving to Kranjska Gora. We stopped just after at a town called Kozorg, getting out for a break. It was a nice place to stop with a cool view of mountains over a small lake, as well as a stream through a rocky valley. We stopped here at a cafe to get a drink – Airyen felt he needed to sit in a bubble even in the heat.

It was then off as there was a mountain road that went through the Triglav park emerging nearer the Italian border. It was really scenic, lots of hairpins and with so many opportunities to stop and take photos of the mountains and scenery. However as we just got to the Jesenice/Tolman border we got to construction works – the road was closed – there was no way past, even for bikers.

It was around mid day and there was nothing to do but head back to Kranjska Gora – there were choices if you wanted to cross the border but we had not opted for that in our car hire. Getting back down was very quick compared to the way up and we were in the town before 1. We went to Figo Gourmet, a pizza restaurant on the outskirts of town, where we ordered 2 pizzas and had lunch outside. They were pretty good and also pretty cheap with the drinks.

It was just after 1.40 when we made our way getting the motorway towards Ljubljana. We experienced a bit of traffic for the first time around the capital, then it was the next motorway towards the Adriatic coast.

After a while we got towards the coastal areas and had views of the sea. There was some traffic around here so we drove a few scenic roads. Eventually we made it to Piran area and to the Garage Fornače (as our hotel recommended) around 4pm. We found the parking and took all our luggage with us. The lift took us down 6 floors, then it was a little walk to where the bus pickup was, a short wait and €1 each, this took us directly to Tartini Plaza. Our Art Hotel Tartini Tartinijev was directly on the plaza.

We checked in and headed up, freshened up and headed down. We asked reception about places to eat – it turns out a Wednesday is not great lots of places are closed. We got Airyen an Ice cream at the nearby Pirano Pasticceria, then we had a walk around Piran, following the outer path. Airyen did some climbing on the rocks while we tried to keep a look out for restaurants – not that much appealed. We then ended up at a rocky beach area which then was not really possible to carry on, so then back towards the lighthouse, but we then took some inner streets – quite nice to see as its narrow cobbled streets and picturesque.

We found Srebrna vilica, a restaurant, they seemed to do some decent pasta on the menu and had good reviews, so I booked it for 6.15 – 45 minutes from then. We went back to the hotel sightseeing on the way and freshened up again before returning to the restaurant. We had a nice table reserved and we ordered a pasta dish each with a salad – agli oli for us and a creamy one for Aiyren. The waiter asked us about spice level, we said medium but it was very mild and a different take with croutons – though nice enough. By the time we had finished the restaurant had become busy and the waiter could not cope, so we gave up on dessert.

We walked up to the cathedral which had some lovely views with the clock tower just there. There was quite a bit of cloud today over the sea, so there was no point waiting for the sunset. Instead we walked towards the old walls – a bit uphill – some proper giant villas on the way. We walked a bit along some of the walls then down towards the harbour, before making our way back to the plaza.

We went back to the ice cream restaurant and Airyen had Crepes with chocolate ice cream and fruit (though he could not finish). Then it was back to the hotel.

29th May (Thursday) Piren – Ljubljana

This morning we got up and headed out for a little early walk around 8.30, then we headed to breakfast around 9am – it was in an adjoining cafe – it was ok, had to wait for fruit to come out. We then went and had a walk towards the lighthouse then to the to the room to pick up our stuff and checkout at 11am and getting the bus to the parking garage.

We loaded up the car (after finding the correct way to the car), then headed out. As we had most of the day we drove towards Izola taking the scenic route. We actually parked near the Large Spar a but before 12 and walked into the town – a good 20 min walk. There we got some ice cream for Airyen chilled a bit around the center and had a walk through the town. It seemed to be a nice place to stay. We then headed to the car – quicker on the way back.

The next drive was to Koper – after a bit of fun going around round-about’s finding a place to stop. We parked near the Mercator Center Koper, then walked it to the walled town through the Muda gate. This was really just a lunch stop, so we found a restaurant called noon koper that did rice bowls, and ordered one for us. After the quick meal we then made our way back to the car. I had just gone to the supermarket to get a coffee, when Bhavni phoned and asked if I had Airyens bag with me….. So it was off and a drive to near the gate – drop Bhavni off and go round the one way systems. Luckily the bag was at the restaurant – in the shadows.

Now we were on the move to the Caves – Bhavni put in the directions, but I noticed as we were driving that the caves seemed to be going past – ahh the other caves… so it was a bit of a cross country to the Škocjan Caves, where we parked and checked in. It was only a little while before we were called (along with the many others) to go to the caves. It was a bit of a decent to the entrance area, where we were split into a few groups and given a briefing – no photos – no touching anything was part of it. We went in with the second group, near the front. It was then a long tunnel to the start. Airyen made friends with our guide and asked him a lot of questions.

The caves a world heritage, and its clear why as they are quite amazing caves – fist was an area with lots of stalactites and stalagmites and generally a low ceiling, then there was a much more larger cave, then the unique area – the underground river. This was a bit like scenes from Indiana Jones with the lit switchbacks in the cave system and the roaring river. Its a pity that you could not use you camera here as this was so amazing. Airyen kept on asking out guide things and it was great as we got a lot of info everything, including history of this where old paths were and also how much the river floods.

After the cave we finished the guided path where we parted ways with the guides and then we took the longest path for the rest, which ventured through more caves and collapsed systems. We could take photos here, and there were some brilliant opportunities. At the end we had a little walk around some fields to get back to the car park.

Back at the car, we started towards Ljubljana, but decided to take a detour when we saw signs to the other caves; Bhavni suggested to go to Predjama to see the famous castle there. It was a bit of a distance away but when we got there (after 6pm), it was worth it just to see from outside – the castle set partially into a caves.

It was then time to carry on, our sat nav would not connect but we had a rough idea where to go luckily. It started working when we got near the motorway.

We got nearer Ljubljana and got to a supermarket where we bought some items for a simple dinner. Then it was off the Ljubljana’s secret place (passing the 4 seasons) where we offloaded our car and got in with the key instructions.

While the rest freshened up I made dinner – pasta. A nice dinner though more spicier then i expected from the sauce.

It was then off to bed for Airyen, and then packing and off to bed for us.

30th May (Friday) Ljubljana – London

Today was a earlier start, we had out breakfast and loaded the car, then checked out before driving to the airport. We returned the car – no issues – then checked in for our flight. Its a really small airport – I was tempted to get a hot drink, but the queue put me off.

Soon enough we were boarding the plane then on our way.

Back in the UK, we got off the plane and quickly through the security, then it was a short wait for our bags then the bus to our car.

Now back home was slow with lots of traffic.