Above and beyond how beautiful everything is, I cannot say enough about how kind, generous, and open-hearted the British people are. They happily share their history, their homes and their culture with foreigners, and one cannot remain a stranger for long.
They think of others and take care of each other. We noticed lots of charities and volunteers who did everything from restoring the canals for the narrow boats, to giving tours, caring for the elderly, raising funds for every cause, donating works of art for the public to enjoy, and maintaining historic monuments and buildings for everyone to enjoy for free.
The one thing we missed was the so-called famous British weather. It was never hot, nor did it ever get cold - and it was sunny or dry straight through. It rained on us once, for less than an hour while we were in the Cotswolds. I was, after all the stories I had heard, expecting to get wet while we were there. I like the rain!
On the way, at the gas station.
All loaded up and ready to go. Yes, the trailer is mainly for girl things. I'm so spoiled in my old age! It's a single-wheel Freebird trailer, and rides so nicely that I forget it's behind us.
Waiting for the ferry on the non-freight lanes.
The main highway was closed after an accident, so we missed the ferry. We were taking Transeuropa Ferries from Oostende, Belgium to Ramsgate, UK. I can recommend Transeuropa as being the cheapest (only 40 Euros for 2 people plus a motorcycle), and very nice. They had no problem switching us to another sailing, the next day - free of charge.
The ship's passenger dining room.
They are primarily a freight ferry - only one other car joined us for our sailing. The restaurant, lounge (with TV and DVDs), sun deck, and bar were just for us. The truckers have their own section of the ship. I felt like I was a VIP!
Ship's Captain!
The Captain was not just distinguished-looking, he was extremely nice, taking a few minutes to talk with us. Sailing was smooth, the weather good, and I enjoyed meeting a real VIP.
The Port of Ramsgate.
Taken from the deck, you can see the white cliffs of Ramsgate. The water is a pretty green-blue, which reminds me of the Caribbean. JJ didn't have any trouble adjusting to driving on the left - he found it feels more logical to him. There are also signs at every roundabout to indicate the direction. I was shocked at how politely everyone drives in England!
Around the corner from our camp in Orcheston.
Our first stop was a cute little campground really close to Stonehenge. The owners are a nice couple, extremely helpful, and we met a nice Dutch couple also staying at the Stonehenge Touring Park. Free Wi-Fi throughout the park too!
Polite English bird and cat.
Even the animals are well-mannered. This was the owner's cat, I believe, who ate what he liked while the bird stood patiently behind him. The cat left some food in the bowl, and strolled away without even a sniff at the bird. Then the bird ate from the bowl as well, and no one disturbed either one.
Free to visit, and the ideal vantage point.
It's nearly eight pounds per person to visit Stonehenge, and you can only walk around the stones, not get right next to them. If you're on a budget, it's free to go here - you can see more, and there's this lovely sign that explains all the details of what you're looking at. My secret, just for you.
Mystical Stonehenge
If you have a good camera with a zoom lens, you can get as close as you like. From the "secret" location (above) you can also clearly see the barrows, avoid all the crowds, and with the money you save you can enjoy a nice meal.
The Green Dragon in Market Lavington
If you only have one English breakfast in your life, have it here at the Green Dragon. It's a short drive from Stonehenge, and incredibly delicious. It's also the local pub and meeting place, and they have a B&B. The people who work there are super, super nice - and everyone takes the time to chat with you. They really know the meaning of making one feel welcome, and I haven't had a better breakfast in all the world. Not yet, anyhow.
Ancient rock in Avebury
Again, a short ride from breakfast (not far from Stonehenge) and you're in Avebury, a Neolithic henge circling a village - the largest stone circle in Europe, predating Stonehenge. In between Stonehenge and Avebury is a very mysterious military installation with all kinds of activity - including air battle simulations with explosions, extremely low-flying radar planes, and unidentifiable lights in the sky.
We found motorcycling through the countryside to be quite fun with the rolling hills and snaking roads, and the views across fields of gold and green was so beautiful. You'd pop in and out of tiny villages, most seemingly remaining largely unchanged over the years.
High Street in Avebury, pop. 486 (in 2001)
High Street (in the U.S. Main Street) with this horse and another behind him tied to the sign - all loaded with groceries and supplies.
Details on a house
Just riding by, saw this and thought the craftsmanship was cool. Much of England, particularly outside of the larger cities, is breathtaking. There is a lot of preservation and restoration that will keep the beauty available for future generations to enjoy as well. So many buildings we visited were built well before my country existed as America!
I think I'm going to publish this entry and you'll have to wait for the second half of the journey. I haven't been feeling well since I returned home, and at least you'll be able to see a little. I will return to posting when I'm up to it. In the meantime, be safe and well wherever you are...
