#Big Ben tower climber

[youthchronical]

Man with Palestinian flag who climbed London's Big Ben tower arrested - The Times of India

Man with Palestinian flag who climbed London’s Big Ben tower arrested (Picture credit: AP) LONDON: A man was arrested early Sunday after he climbed the Big Ben tower at the Palace of Westminster in central London while barefoot and holding a Palestinian flag. The man, who appeared to be staging a protest on a ledge several metres (yards) up Elizabeth Tower, which houses Big Ben, stepped off the…

[mercsandmonsters]

Tag Dump #3: Male Muses

Let's get these guys tagged.

[noodle-is-unstable]

The JJK Characters as cryptids

(Drabbles)

Ft ~ Satoru Gojo, Suguru Geto, Kento Nanami, Toji Fushiguro, Ryoumen Sukuna, Choso, Takuma Ino, Shiu Kong, Uraume, Yuki Tsukumo, Shoko Ieiri, Mahito

Synopsis ~ The JJK Characters if they were cryptids. Could be Kinktober because if you squint hard enough it looks a little like monster fucking

Content Warning ~ 18+, spooky cryptid folklore things, Idk adult stuff

Gojo ~

Á Bao A Qu

the A Bao A Qu lives on the steps of the Tower of Victory in Chitor, from the top of which one can see "the loveliest landscape in the world". The A Bao A Qu waits on the first step for a man brave enough to try to climb up. Until that point, it lies sleeping, shapeless and translucent, until someone passes. Then, when a man starts climbing, the creature wakes, and follows close behind. As it progresses further and further up, it begins to become clearer and more colorful. It gives off a blue light which increases as it ascends. But it only reaches perfection when the climber reaches the top, and achieves Nirvana, so his acts don't cast any shadows. But almost all the time, the climber cannot reach the top, for they are not perfect. When the A Bao A Qu realizes this, it hangs back, losing color and visibility, and tumbles back down the staircase until it reaches the bottom, once more dormant and shapeless. In doing so, it gives a small cry, so soft that it sounds similar to the rustling of silk. When touched, it feels like the fuzz on the skin of a peach. Only once in its everlasting life has the A Bao A Qu reached its destination at the top of the tower.

This reminds me of Gojo because he was always living up to other people's expectations while never picking his own path. He wanted his students to surpass him so he would follow and watch to see if they could do it. Following his students lead him to fight Sukuna, freeing him and allowing him to achieve his true nirvana

Geto ~

Atmospheric Beasts

Atmospheric Beasts are the strangest of the flying monsters from ufology, cryptozoology and astrobiology. According to eyewitness reports, these beings are, apparently, living creatures, but they break all the usual rules that the biologists apply to living organisms. They appear to be able to levitate without any need for wings; as well as their bodies are even depicted in a semi-solid, often partially invisible, state.

I like the idea that these Atmospheric Beasts were actually just Geto flying around with his curses. He too was floating and flying above everyone. Breaking the laws of physics by simply existing

Nanami ~

Domovoy

The Domovoy a Slavic household Guardian shape-shifter spirit of a given ancestry a spirit who lives in the fireplace or behind stoves. Root word Dom meaning house is from Slavic folklore that lives in the home and protects the family from harm in all ways especially the children and animals. They have a troll-like appearance they have the power to shape-shift into anything but most likely cats, dogs, bears and horses. The Domovoy is said to be able to predict the future, however if enraged the Domovoy will lash out or in sometimes even leave the kin. The Domovoy even has a female counterpart called the Domania. The domovoy is believed to be coexisting with the house. The kin of the domovoy can give gifts and offerings to him.

Nanami would absolutely protect his house and everyone in it with all his power. He is very protective of those younger than him already. I dunno, he just gave me the vibes

Toji ~

Fear Liath Moor

Am Fear Liath Mór, or Big Grey Man or The Grey Man of Ben MacDhui is known to stalk the people who climb the mountain Ben Macdhui, the second highest peak in Scotland. Because of the high levels of fog there, not many people have seen it. Some believe the Grey Man to be a guardian of the mountain, but others believe him to be the guardian of a gate to other dimensions. The grey man is reported to be very tall humanoid, at least 8 feet high (Although sometimes as high as 30 feet). It is covered in short, gray hair, hence the name. Many times the witnesses didn't even see it, but still could hear it due to the loud footsteps. Many believe the Gray Man is a relative to sasquatch/bigfoot. It normally stalks its victims until they realize that it is following them, and then it chases them. This is a common pattern. It walks on two legs, and walks (and runs) like a normal person.

Toji feels like the gateway between the normal and curse knowing world so it seems fitting he would guard it. It is also an interesting parallel because it was of great note when Gojo perceived Toji. It was the first time he said someone actually saw him and he didn't like it

Sukuna ~

Achiyalabopa

Achiyalabopa was a huge bird god of the Pueblo people. He is described as being of extraordinary size and having rainbow-colored feathers as sharp as knives. It was considered a celestial creature and may have once been attributed to the whole of creation.

Sukuna is almost a pseudo god with his reputation and skill. Wings as sharp as knives paralleling his technique. Obviously not attributed for creation but could be argued he was the best showing of what sorcery could truly be and therefor the creator of true curse prowess

Choso ~

Horned Cat

Horned demon cats or Horned cats are the phenomenon of felines with various kinds of "horns" on their head or on their body. These cats or mostly of an occult origin however there are accounts of biological animals and mutations.

The idea the Horned Cat is from occult origins and Choso was born from curse, human experimentation. A creation that was never meant to be of this world but was still created. He also gives cat vibes

Ino ~

Manitou

Manitou is a term used to designate spirit beings among many Algonquian groups of Native Americans. It refers to the concept of one aspect of the interconnection and balance of nature/life, similar to the East Asian concept of qi or the Hindu concept of Brahman; in simpler terms it can refer to a spirit (compare to the Japanese concept of kami). This spirit is seen as a (contactable) person as well as a concept. Everything has its own manitou - every plant, every stone, even every machine.

Ino's technique being Auspicious Beasts Summon allowing him to be a spititual medium it feels fitting. He connects to beast souls and embodies them for his technique, living as a balance between human and spirit beast

Shiu ~

Pale Crawlers

Pale Crawlers are a phenomenon, usually enigmatic entities that appear at night. They are humanoid creatures described as thin and pale, with long limbs with claws and large black eyes. They are known to be incredibly fast, stealthy, and smart. While unconfirmed it is likely that pale crawlers are hyper aggressive.

Shiu is someone that works from the shadows, smart, stealthy and doesn't do his own dirty work. Though unconfirmed it's most likely when backed into a corner Shiu would have no problem being aggressive and even kill

Uraume ~

Abatwa

The Abatwa of Africa are a legendary race of minuscule hunters originally told of by the Zulus as being a menace in their territories; but in the past few decades the tales told of these beings in English language media has greatly changed.

Uraume is the definition of small but deadly. Tiny and likely to go unnoticed but an absolute menace. Uraume could take out people ten times their size and decimate populations

Yuki ~

Siren

In Greek mythology, sirens are female humanlike beings with alluring voices. They are always around locations surrounded by cliffs and rocks. Sirens continued to be used as a symbol for the dangerous temptation embodied by women. "Siren" can also be used as a slang term for a woman considered both very attractive and dangerous.

Yuki will always ask "What's your type?" hoping the answer is her. She has been shown to get agitated when not answered. Her words have often left people in danger or injured. (Leading Geto to become a curse user, leading Todo in training that left him scarred)

Shoko ~

Akkorokamui

According to Shinto mythology, the creature is human-like and contains a bright red color. The Akkorokamui is also characteristically described with the ability to self-amputate, like several octopus species, and regenerate limbs. This characteristic manifests in the belief in Shinto that Akkorokamui has healing powers. Consequently, it is believed among followers that giving offerings to Akkorokamui will heal ailments of the body, in particular, disfigurements and broken limbs.

Shoko's reverse curse technique parallels the healing ability of the Akkorokamui. Though she isn't as destructive she is willing to help those close to her

Mahito ~

Nixie

The Nixie, are humanoid, and often shapeshifting water-spirits in Germanic mythology and folklore. The enthralling music of the Nøkk was most dangerous to women and children, especially pregnant women and unbaptised children. He was thought to be most active during Midsummer's Night, on Christmas Eve, and on Thursdays. However, these superstitions do not necessarily relate to all the versions listed here. Many, if not all of them, developed after the Christianizing of the northern countries, as was the case with similar stories of faeries and other entities in other areas. When malicious Nøkker attempted to carry people off, they could be defeated by calling their name; this was believed to cause their death.

Mahito is known to be a shapeshifter of sorts. Very whimsical and joyful, almost childlike. Dancing, playing, general glee but very dangerous. He lured Junpei to the sewers and is still a curse after all. Though whimsical he would take, torture, experiment and kill people

[tieflingkisser]

Protesters support Big Ben climber

Protesters gathered outside Charing Cross police station in London in support of Daniel Day, the man who climbed London's Big Ben to raise awareness of the genocide in Palestine. Protesters were heard calling Daniel a "hero" after he stood on the ledge of the tower for over 16 hours. The 29-year-old was charged by authorities for reportedly causing a public nuisance and trespassing on a protected site. Waves of support were shared across social media platforms in support of the protest.

[joeledsouza-12]

Top 6 things to do and places to visit in UK

Travelers from all over the world are drawn to the United Kingdom, an enchanted island nation tucked away off the northwest coast of mainland Europe because it has so much to offer in terms of experiences and locations. The United Kingdom, which consists of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, is a country rich in natural beauty, history, and culture. Every kind of traveler can find something to interest them in this varied archipelago which offers sights to see from the busy streets of London to the peaceful surroundings of the Scottish Highlands. Don't forget to look over the required travel documents as you explore the UK. To guarantee a hassle-free visit, think about obtaining a UK visa for your travel arrangements.

The United Kingdom's rich history dates back to the Neolithic period, and a succession of historical occurrences and cultural shifts have melded the country's contemporary character. Its cities and landmarks exhibit a blend of historic customs and modern energy. There is something for everyone whether you are drawn to the famous sites of London, the ancient castles of Scotland, or the quaint seaside villages of Wales. A UK visa might be your ticket to seeing these amazing places and thoroughly immersing yourself in the UK's varied attractions. These are the top six activities and destinations in the UK that are sure to leave you with amazing memories.

Here are the Top 6 things to do and places to visit in UK

1. Stonehenge, England:

One of the most mysterious and recognizable sites in the United Kingdom is Stonehenge. This Neolithic monument in Wiltshire is well-known for both its enormous stone circle and its connection to prehistoric rites and celebrations. Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage monument, provides tourists with an insight into prehistoric Britain and its innovative architectural design. History buffs should not miss Stonehenge, which is surrounded by other historic ruins and burial mounds and is still a powerful emblem of early human civilization.

2. London's Big Ben:

Big Ben or the Elizabeth Tower as it is formally called is one of the most iconic sights in London. This clock tower, which is located near Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament is a timeless representation of the city and British history. Big Ben is a must-see because of its fascinating history and beautiful architecture, which were created by clockmaker Edward Dent and architect Edmund Beckett Denison. The essence of London's magnificent architecture and rich history is encapsulated in its chimes and stunning structure.

3. Cornwall:

Cornwall which lies on the southwest coast of England, is a paradise for people who appreciate the outdoors and the seaside. This charming county offers breath-taking beaches, isolated coves and spectacular cliffs along its more than 480 kilometres of untamed coastline. Surfers from all over the world come to Newquay's Fistral Beach, the most well-known of them. Beyond its beaches Cornwall offers a genuine English glimpse of life and a classic seaside retreat with its charming fishing communities and picturesque moorlands.

4. Climb the UK’s Highest Peak:

Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the United Kingdom, is a popular trekking destination at 1,345 meters above sea level. This impressive peak in Scotland has two main routes: the Mountain Track, which is good for most walkers and the difficult Carn Mor Dearg Arête which is best for strenuous hikers. The National Three Peaks Challenge, which showcases the UK's varied and dramatic landscapes, challenges climbers to summit Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in a single day appealing to those who are looking for a bigger experience.

5. London's Tower Bridge:

One of London's most recognizable buildings is Tower Bridge which spans the River Thames. A remarkable example of Victorian engineering, this moveable bridge is distinguished by its twin towers and bascule mechanism. The high-level walkways of the bridge offer visitors sweeping vistas of London and its vibrant river life. Tower Bridge is a popular tourist destination and a representation of London's industrial past due to its historical significance and stunning architecture.

6. The Dales of Yorkshire:

Rolling valleys, limestone hills, and crystal-clear rivers can be found in Northern England's Yorkshire Dales National Park. The Dales are well-liked by outdoor enthusiasts and provide caving, rock climbing and abseiling options. The park's scenic trails offer guided treks that highlight its natural beauty for a more relaxed experience. The Three Peaks task which covers Pen-y-Ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough for stunning views and an exhilarating trip is a task that daring hikers can set for themselves.

Conclusion:

Discovering the UK offers a multitude of adventures, ranging from the historic wonder of Stonehenge to the busy streets of London featuring Big Ben and Tower Bridge. The UK has a wide range of attractions to suit any kind of tourist, whether you're looking for the tranquil settings of the Yorkshire Dales or the untamed beauty of Cornwall's coastline. The variety of experiences offered is enhanced by visiting historical sites like Stonehenge and climbing Ben Nevis. These locations highlight the UK's rich history and culture in addition to its breath-taking natural surroundings.

Make sure you have the required travel documents by applying for a UK visa in order to maximize your vacation. This will make it easy for you to see everything the UK has to offer, including its breath-taking natural settings and ancient landmarks. A well-planned and properly documented vacation to this intriguing country will make for a pleasurable and unforgettable experience.

[cuteandreamateo]

DAREDEVIL IN WYOMING: GEORGE HOPKINS

Hello guys! What’s up? I enjoyed watching the movie of Ben Affleck as Matt Murdock, portraying the character Daredevil.

DAREDEVILS

Who are daredevils? They are the ones who love doing dangerous stunts. Do you know that there was a famous daredevil in the 1940s? Wanna know him? Well, then, let’s get it on!

He is George Hopkins. A professional parachutist. On October 1, 1941, he successfully landed on top of a remarkable tower. That was before the Americans entered World War II. The said summit is the Devils Tower. The reason why he is the only person who reached the top of the said tower through a parachute is because the National Park Service prohibits current daredevils from attempting to do the same.

REACHING DEVILS TOWER THROUGH PARACHUTE

There was a bet. It was between George Hopkins and a bizarre businessperson named Earl Brockelsby. Here’s the deal. If George could reach the top of the Devils Tower through a parachute, he would get $50.  That’s a lot of money during that time. Earl had been fascinated with eccentric things and he was excited for George to do such stunt.

George was aware that the National Park Service would not allow him to pursue his objective, which is to reach the top of the tower. So he made it to a point to keep the activity a secret. But, he allowed a few journalists to be part of his adventure. George aimed to keep his climbing a secret until he reaches the top and returns to the ground successfully.

Luckily, George was able to witness physically the surface of the Devils Tower. But, guess what happened next? He had a big challenge getting down. Initially, the people tried to provide him a 1,000-foot rope.  But, unfortunately, the plane above him threw the rope in a wrong direction. So, instead of the rope reaching the right place, it fell off the edge of the tower. Also, Goerge really had difficulty finding the way to go down.

Days passed and George stayed on the summit. He was stranded there for almost one week. He was provided with food and considerable clothing to keep him warm and to energize himself. In order to rescue George more effectively, a team decided to move. The rescuing happened on Oct 5. The group was led by Jack Durrance, a skilled technical climber. What’s interesting here is that almost 7,000 visitors desired to witness the rescuing of George in the Devils Tower.

Instead of making it a secret attempt, it became a big news. To cut the story short, they eventually rescued George after tiring 9 hours of climbing the tower. And, they all reached the top safely. George was perfectly fine when the rescue team saw him at the summit.

ABOUT DEVILS TOWER

Devils Tower ascends from the ground like an enourmous fist, expanded that appears like it touches the sky. Its size is like a football field. Some people call the tower as “Bear Lodge Butte” and others call it “Home of the Bear”. Devils Tower is extraordinary because it has greenish to grayish appearance. You can find it in Northeastern Wyoming, USA. What makes it noteworthy is that President Theodore Roosevelt professed it as America’s first national monument. That happened on September 24, 1906.

Knowing how this structure come into light is still a mystery. It’s indeed an example of miracle of nature. Imagine, though there’s no volcanic activity in that area, but the Devils Tower is composed of igneous rocks. Some experts think that it’s the neck of an extinct volcano during the ancient period.

Because of soil erosion, the sturdy formation remained still. According to experts, the Devils Tower’s age is almost 50 million years old. And, the eroding of soil that uncovered the tower possibly happened between 5 and 10 million years in the past.

BONUS INFO

Perhaps, most rock climbing enthusiasts know Frank Sanders. He is a professional rock climbing guide. He was able to reach the top of the Devils Tower at an age of 65. Thanks to modern gears for rock climbing. If you want to watch his adventure at the Tower, you can find a link at the description section below.

Reference:

Frank Sanders > https://youtu.be/cCv9_Iv-8j8

[mythicallore]

Strange and Creepy Encounter’s on Scotland’s Mountain of Mist

     Located at the western end of the Grampian Mountains of Scotland, looming up into the clouds over the grey landscape of the Scottish Highlands towers the majestic mountain called Ben Nevis, or Beinn Nibheis in Scottish Gaelic. Soaring up 1,345 meters (4,411 ft.) above sea level, it is the tallest mountain in all of the British Isles, an imposing figure and its perpetual wreath of clouds swirling about it have contribute to its name, which translates to “mountain with its head in the clouds.” Indeed, 355 days of the year see this land of fog, ice, rocky peaks, and jagged cliffs immersed in an impenetrable cloak of clouds and mist, making it a dangerous proposition for the many hikers and mountaineers who come here, finding their way through the haze through manmade rocks pile trail markers called cairns. It all has a rather ethereal, dreamlike quality to it, and although it is a beautiful, haunting landscape of craggy mist-shrouded peaks, icy fields, and sweeping cliffs, there have been reports over the years of very strange encounters out there in the freezing fog and ice.

One of the odder accounts I have come across, and the one which prompted me to look into reports of strange experiences here to write this article in the first place, was one relayed to me personally in the wake of my recent article of the mystery of a supernatural apparition seen on another Scottish mountain called Ben Macdui, known as the Big Grey Man of Scotland. Although this contact had never seen the Big Grey Man, he had had a rather similarly unnerving encounter while hiking out on Ben Nevis, when he encountered a group of what seem to have been very mysterious entities indeed wandering through the fog. He would tell me:

Not Ben Macdui, but I had a pretty strange experience that might be related as I was hiking up another Scottish mountain called Ben Nevis. I was hiking a trail with a friend there near the high cliffs of the north face, and on this day the fog was real thick, like a soup hanging in the air, and we had to be very careful because there was some difficult terrain there, good for scrambling but not ideal for taking a leisurely hike when visibility was so low. We were the only ones out there at the time and there was a very eerie vibe to it all, the only sounds our own voices as we made our way along the rough footing.

At one point we came up past a cairn and saw something moving through the fog ahead. It appeared to be three figures, and these individuals were tall, probably at least 7 feet if not more. It was disconcerting to see, and as they drew nearer we could see that they seemed to be decked out in some sort of robes which looked to be an off-white color but it was hard to tell because of the fog. They were just so tall and weird looking that my friend and I were taken aback, and what made it even stranger was that they were just sort of gliding along, moving incredibly smoothly over rock piles and loose footing that would have even a professional struggling to work over it. But these guys, they were just having no problem at all, moving far more fluidly and quickly than they had any business doing. It was unsettling and spooky to say the least.

These massive robed figures just sort of swiftly moved past us through the mist, totally silent and completely ignoring us, before disappearing out of sight into the fog and rocks. I have no idea what to make of what we saw that day, but it is definitely one of the oddest things I’ve ever seen and I’ve always wondered about who or what those figures were.

What were these strange wraiths? Were they ghosts? Illusions? Something else? This would not be the only time mysterious shadowy figures have materialized from the fogs of Ben Nevis. A report for Deadline News Agency tells the strange tale of brothers James and Alex Robbie, who in August of 2015 were at Ben Nevis to camp out there for a week in order to raise money for the children’s charity The Archie Foundation. They made a camp near the ruins of an old abandoned observatory that sits at the peak of the mountain and was once used from between the years of 1883 and 1904. One day, a mysterious stranger suddenly stumbled out of the mist blanketing the area and held out what appeared to be a stone graver marker bearing the cryptic inscription “Wilson 1810,” before disappearing back into the gloom as suddenly and inexplicably as he had appeared. Robbie described what happened:

We only had about two days left on our trip. This guy came up quite early, about 10 or 11am. He described the observatory and he said “I’ll show you something.” and he went to look for the stone. We could tell he knew where it was but could see he was playing for time. He actively used the word “gravestone.” There was this amazing inscription on it. He let us take a couple of photographs and then he disappeared into the mist, down the hill. Quite disturbing stuff, and I spent the final two nights wondering if some reprobate would come forth from his tomb, dressed in the garments of the grave, and visit us in our hut.

It is hard to say what could possibly be going on here. Was this a hoax or some sort of prank, or is there something more mysterious going on? It’s a rather unsettling encounter whatever the case may be. Interestingly, there have been quite a few sporadic reports from people seeing mysterious figures lurking in the fog of the mountain, which are often said to emanate a heavy sense of unease, fear, and even abject panic, usually vanishing into thin air when approached. Are these ghosts, spirits, or just the mind playing tricks?A decidedly even scarier account of an unidentified entity was reported by British Bigfoot Sightings Reports, and concerns some sort of shambling beast on Ben Nevis. The witness claims that he and a friend had gone to Ben Nevis to do some camping and hiking, and that on the second evening he had heard something very large and ominous prowling about in there in the dark just past the thin veil of the tent. The witness explains:

Sleeping in a damp cold bivvy is not at all pleasant. I did finally drop off to sleep but I woke up for some unknown reason in the middle of the night. As I lay awake I could hear footsteps walking round us. At first I was quite interested in this, as I thought an animal of some description had paid us a visit. But as time went on I began to realise this was definitely a two legged creature, with quite purposeful steps. The footsteps, by now, were really close – only a couple of feet away, and I started to get the chills and had a massive fear come over me from nowhere, I was on high alert instantly. Writing this I still get the chills about who, or what, it may have been.

It would later become apparent that the others had heard the very same sound, none of them were able to explain it, and it was frightening enough that none of them was in a hurry to ever camp at Ben Nevis again. Considering that noone in this case ever saw the actual source of the sounds it is hard to know what to think of this one, but there have strangely been Bigfoot sightings on the mountain in the past, so is that what this was? Or was it a ghost or just someone messing around with them? Who knows?

One phenomenon that could be indicative of mysterious creatures or spectral entities roaming the mountain are the occasional reports of unearthly howls, screams, or wails echoing out from out in the foggy wilderness, which serve to baffle just as much as they do to terrify. One such account was brought forward by a witness named Christopher Sleight, a producer for BBC Radio Scotland’s outdoorsman program Out of Doors. Sleight gave his own account of his spooky encounter with this mystery on BBC News, and claims that he was out ice climbing with a friend at a place called Comb Gully in February of 2015 when they were alarmed by a very bizarre and disturbing noise. Sleight says of the bizarre experience:

I was placing an ice screw when I heard the first scream. It started indistinctly, slightly muffled, but quickly became sharp into focus. It pierced through the mist – the most visceral, awful sound. People talk about blood curdling screaming and for the first time I understood what they meant. That noise sent a stream of cold blood around my veins and chilled the back of my neck. My first thought was simple but terrible: I was listening to someone who had just watched a loved one – not simply a climbing partner, but a loved one – fall to their death. There was so much pain and loss in that dreadful noise. At that moment I just wanted to be gone – off the climb, off the mountain.

The first impression that he and his companions had was that there had been a climbing accident, either from the victim or more likely someone who had seen the victim fall. They did an inspection of the area and could see no sign of anything amiss, yet due to this suspicion they kept an eye out for any sort of rescue activity or accidents on their way down the mountain after their climb, and along the way they met other climbers who reported having heard the same ear-piercing wail. However, it became obvious that there was no sign of any rescue efforts, no trace of any accident despite several other climbers having gone off to investigate the mystery scream as well, and it also turned out that no one had even been reported missing at all. Sleight would later say:

A brief search close to where we finished our climb revealed nothing. We headed down to Fort William. I later spoke to another climber I knew who had been on a route in the same corrie. He had abseiled off his route and gone to investigate the screams he heard, but he also found nothing. Other climbers have done the same. Nobody could find evidence of an accident and the police said no-one had been reported missing. So we don’t know who was screaming. We don’t know what happened to them. We probably never will. But I’ll never forget how a horrible scream coming out of the mist reminded me so vividly, so awfully, of the dangers of this beautiful game that we play. Lochaber Mountain Rescue Team was asked to investigate the reports of screaming, but later stood down after no trace of a casualty could be found. Screams and howls are still heard on the mountain by climbers to this day.

That last line there is rather ominous, implying that these sorts of screams are a continuous phenomenon, and indeed they have been reported in the area from time to time. Are they related? What is going on here? Although Sleight does little to speculate on what the origin of the mystery scream could have been, there is something rather enigmatic and ominous about the whole thing. Why would there be no sign of any accident or people in distress if a climber had just perished? Why was there no trace of activity related to a search or rescue, and indeed why wasn’t there any person reported missing on the mountain that day? More eerily, why have such mysterious screams continuously been reported over the years on Ben Nevis, all without any news of an accident or disappearance? Are these really the anguished howls of doomed climbers? Are they from some sort of nefarious creature, or even something more mysterious still? No one really knows.

Here we have looked at just a few of the strange mysteries of this isolated misty mountain, a selection of the truly bizarre from this fog shrouded locale. It is hard to know what could be behind any of these odd occurrences and encounters, whether it be supernatural forces, unexplained mysterious phenomena, or something more mundane. These cases are anomalies that deft any real clear explanation and serve to stir the imagination. Whatever may be going on, the imposing Ben Nevis with its crown of clouds sitting king over all it surveys can certainly be said to be a place of great magnificence, as well as one of great mysteries hiding within its mists.

[notanotherbookreview]

Ben Hecht's Message to the World Today, Themes that are still with us.

GOVERNMENT AS CRIMINAL SYNDICATE

Covering  "The Gangster's Ball" he wrote: “The guest list included nearly every criminal in town with the price of a shave, and nearly every whore from Englewood to Evanston who had access to a ball gown,” Hecht wrote. “Pickpockets, pimps, porch climbers, jack rollers, sluggers, heisters and gunmen I had seen before court judges were on display socially in the Coliseum; and the judges with them. The judges, police officials, bigwigs from the city hall and state capitol and every variety of the political genus were intermingled with the agents of crime and vice."

Covering the election of Thompson, a corrupt mayor he wrote: “Every paper was a bloodhound baying after Thompson. The headlines never let up during Big Bill's long roost in the city hall. Scandal on scandal was ‘bared.’ The looting of the city's treasury was constantly exposed and documented. Tales of thievery by Thompson and his henchmen, of collusion between the city hall and the town's 'inferno of vice and crime' were offered daily to the citizenry. In the teeth of this constant exposure as a political ogre, Thompson offered himself biannually as a candidate for mayor--and was elected five times."

In 1940,  writing the screenplay for "Foreign Correspondent" he wrote the line, “I want a good, honest crime reporter!”

HUMAN NATURE AND DEMOCRACY

We might ask?  Does our electoral college system make sense and is it working? Can the same be said of our system of electing senators? Is our 2nd Amendment consistent with human nature?

Hecht was very aware of human nature and "the Big Lie." He warned us of the way demogogues tap into our fears and resentments. He understood they used scapegoats. Deeply interested in human psychology and mass psychology, he was most interested in the darker sides--. psychopathy and the mass psychology he had seen in Germany.

HUMAN NATURE AND DENIAL

Hecht made history for shattering the American media silence of the greatest story of the twentieth century that the press completely missed: the Final Solution to the Jewish Question.

He understood that we were not driven by impulses of xenophobia, bigotry, fear and hatred of the Other. As Edward R. Murrow said: “We are currently wealthy, fat, comfortable, and complacent. We have a built-in allergy to unpleasant or disturbing information."

WHAT IS THE BIG STORY OF OUR GENERATION THE PRESS IS FUMBLING TODAY?

During the Second World War, we witnessed mass man’s capacity for genocide.The war ended with the atom bomb. Through the late 20th century, we were caught in the thrall of a nuclear arms race, remaining fifteen minutes from global nuclear holocaust.

Now, in addition to “loose nukes,” we are steadily, but relentlessly, driving a global mass extinction event, exhausting our basic resources, so that scarcity and mass migration will  increasingly stoke global conflict.

MEDIA AS EXTORTION--A history might include The Herald Examiner, Hollywood Nite Life, Confidential Magazine, The National Enquirer and other rogue operations like News Corp and Fox News.

Hecht was under no illusions about the intelligence of the ordinary citizen, or his capacity to remember from one day to the next which politicians are gypping him and how they are going about it.

He wrote about the owner of The Herald Examiner "Howey did not operate his paper by any code of ethics dreamed up at journalism school in an ivory tower full of idealistism. He ran it on the same basis as other businesses operated in the community. By the time Howey assumed the helm of the Herald & Examiner, he had amassed an extensive collection of files. The paper’s sole support of mayoral candidate William Hale Thompson proved another winning card.

Charlie MacArthur, Hecht’s co-writer of The Front Page and a former reporter under Howey exclaimed the police were always at the beck and call of the paper to prevent rival newspapers from taking photographs at crime scenes or bring perpetrators for “interrogation” at a hotel nearby Hearst headquarters. “The other papers howled with rage, but what could they do?” said MacArthur when interviewed for Howey’s obituary. “Walter had the resignations of half a dozen city officials in his desk to be used at his convenience.”

[kill-your-darlings-art]

A little backstory: About a year and a half ago I came across a promising book called Everland by Wendy Spinale. It was a retelling of Peter Pan, but recoloured in steampunk and a post-apocalypse, set in the aftermath of an alternate World War I. It sounded fascinating, frankly, and I was thrilled to read it. Surely, with such an interesting premise, it must have been awesome, right?

Instead, I found a poorly-told story with poor characterization, ridiculous and unnecessary retcon, poor pacing, a terrible prose, and so riddled with historical inaccuracies that I honestly don’t think she bothered to do any research at all.

In a fit of righteous fury, I decided to rewrite it. So I spent an entire afternoon researching and writing. Then I promptly forgot about it.

Anyway, this post recently reminded me of it, so I went and found it. I only have the first chapter written, and I don’t really intend on continuing it, but I just realized that I haven’t posted any of my writing yet (because I’m terrified of thieves), so, here it it.

NOTE: I wrote this back in May of 2017, and other than fixing a few spelling mistakes, I haven’t edited this. So if it’s completely terrible, please don’t think this is an accurate representation of my current writing skill. Thank you! :)

ONE:

It had been nearly a year since the bombs dropped on London, the German bombs that had betrayed the Peace Treaty and let out a deadly virus that killed thousands. The once grand city lay in smouldering ruins, a ghost of its former self. One could hardly recognize the place it had once been.

From the top of what was left of Big Ben, it was possible to see the decimated city in all its glory. It was a fantastic vantage point, and not one that the Marauders―German soldiers still lingering in the city―dared to use. The bombs had caused the stairways inside to collapse, leaving the only paths to the top through the twisted heaps of metal that used to be the gears of the clock. The Marauders were far too cowardly to risk their lives climbing up the clocktower, and they weren’t agile enough anyway. Any inexperienced climber would have a hell of a time making it up alive. Luckily for the boy sitting at the top of the tower, he wasn’t inexperienced.

He was known by many names, the boy was, many of them foul. Only a few months ago, his moniker had been Star, but he had left those who had given him that name far behind. To the Marauders, he was known mostly as “Geist,” the boy who vanished into thin air right before their eyes and existed only to taunt their very existence. Before the bombs had dropped, he had been known as Will, and though that life was far behind him, he had decided to use that name once more. Besides the broken stopwatch in the pocket of his jacket, his name was the only thing he had left of his old life.

Will’s gazed out at the smoking ruin of his birthplace, an empty feeling in his chest. In the past six months, he’d grown all too used to this view. It almost didn’t hurt to look at where his childhood home lay anymore―almost.

Childhood home. What an interesting choice of words. Will may only have been fifteen, but he was no longer a child. War forces one to grow up far faster than they should. He’d learned that much very quickly.

At this height, he could see the lines of Marauders, tiny as toys, moving through the streets. The enemy was on the prowl, and that meant the hunt was on. Something halfway between a grin and a grimace twisted his lips as he jumped to his feet. 

Time to toy with some Marauders, he thought, sliding his bow over his shoulder. It was karma time.

He tucked himself away in the shadows, watching the soldiers from his second story vantage point. Silently, he slid his bow of his shoulder, took an arrow from his makeshift quiver, and nock it. They’d gotten smarter, he’d noticed; bronze breastplates were now a part of their uniform. He’d have to be creative if he wanted to fell one in a single shot.

Taking a deep breath, Will drew the string back until his hand brushed his cheek. Time seemed to slow as he aimed meticulously, focusing on an exposed stretch of dark skin on the back of one of the soldier’s necks.

3―

Breath, Will.

2―

For Jamie.

And he let the arrow fly.

With a thud, it found its target. The Marauder went down like a sack of coal, his gun clattering to the street. The impact caused his helmet to go spinning off into the gutter.. He was dead before he hit the ground.

“It’s him!” shrilled one of the soldiers, and a twisted smile turned the corners of Will’s lips. It was the reaction he expected, the one he desired. In his own sick kind of way, he loved to watch them panic and flail around, terrified of the next attack. Those rotten Marauders deserved to know how the kids they toted away to Everland felt. They deserved to feel the fear that they caused. They deserved it all.

Two more went down before the Marauders finally had the brains to flee, leaving the bodies of their fallen comrades to rot. The moment they were gone, Will emerged from his hiding spot. He dropped down from the balcony of the once lovely townhouse to the dirty street below with the stealth of a cat stalking its prey. Splashing through the malodorous and possibly poisonous water that had puddled in the cracks of the street, he approached the bodies.

Will knelt down by the corpse nearest to him and swallowed. This was the one who had lost his helmet, revealing his face. Dark hair, dark skin―likely a native German soldier and not a British-born traitor like that Smeeth fellow Will had encountered in the past. The soldier had been so young, Will couldn’t help but notice, younger than Will himself, most likely. 

When one is face to face with a Marauder, it’s exceedingly easy to forget that they are just children. Will had long since learned to ignore the sick that pooled in his stomach whenever he watched one drop dead, an arrow from his quiver pierced through their heart. Most of them were hardly older than he was, and he was murdering them in cold blood.

No one had told him that humanity was a casualty of war, too. He’d learned that the hard way.

But Will didn’t need to remove the boy’s thick leather gloves and see the sores on his hands to know that he’d been very close to dying anyway. The skull-like hollows of his cheeks and his cracked, bloody lips were evidence enough.

When the bombs had dropped on London, one of them had targeted a research facility located a few miles from the city. Unbeknownst to the common folk (and quite possibly the Germans, as well), the facility had been hosting a sample of a deadly virus known as the Horologia virus. It had spread like wildfire, engulfing Great Britain and likely the rest of the world. The adults and the infants died within days. The only ones who had survived were children, for reasons unknown, leaving countless orphans to the mercy of the Marauders.

Unfortunately for the Marauders, they weren’t immune to the disease, either. That’s why they still strolled the streets of what was left of London; on orders of their Captain, they captured all and any children they came across in hopes of finding a cure in their blood. If it weren’t obvious, they hadn’t found one yet.

Will swallowed his disgust as memories flashed through his brain, images of his friends being dragged away, kicking and screaming, by the Marauders. None of them had ever been seen again. He pushed himself to his feet before his brain lead him down that inevitable path again, to the memories of Jamie.

No, he told himself firmly. Don’t even think that name.

To distract himself, Will swiped one of the dead Marauder’s guns and began to inspect it. ‘79 Reichsrevolver, if he wasn’t mistaken. German military issue―nothing too special. Every Marauder had one.

With a hesitant sigh, he pocketed it―after removing the rounds first, of course. He wasn’t ignorant. While he personally didn’t use guns―he found them loud and inconvenient and incredibly lacking in combat compared to his bow (he’d been classically trained)―he knew some people that might like the extra firepower.

Moderately satisfied, he darted back into the shadows, quickly leaving behind the proof of the blood that stained his hands.

Wendy Darling gazed out the window of her hideout, her eyes fixed dismally on the polluted night sky. The city that she as well as many others had once called home had been destroyed, leaving this smoking ruin in its place. She longed to leave this dusty, dingy warehouse and return to the home of her childhood, but she knew that there was nothing left of it. The Marauders made certain of that.

Time to get moving, she thought, swinging her legs over the window ledge.

“Where are you going?” came the harsh whisper, startling her.

It was Joanna, Wendy’s younger sister. Joanna furrowed her brow, crossing her arms over her chest. Tapping her foot, she looked every bit like their mother did when waiting for an explanation upon catching them doing something wrong.

Pressing a hand to her chest and willing her pulse to return to normal, Wendy let out a sigh. “We’re down to a few liters of water so I’m going out to scavenge for supplies,” she said, adjusting the straps of her rucksack absently. “I won’t be gone long.”

Joanna shook her head. “It’s too dangerous,” she protested. “The Marauders―”

“I know how to deal with them, Joanna,” Wendy interrupted. “Just stay here and keep an eye on Mikey until I come back, alright? He’s been having terrors again. It won’t do to leave him by himself,” she added quickly, already knowing that Joanna would insist on coming with her.

The younger girl bit her tongue, knowing that Wendy was right. They needed to stock up, but they couldn’t leave Mikey by himself; he was only six years old. It was better for Wendy to go by herself, as she didn’t have to worry about Joanna and Mikey as well as herself, which made being stealthy a lot easier.

The soft padding of bare feet drew their attention. Mikey had crawled out of bed and had made his way over to them, roused by the sound of their voices. He was the only one to inherit their mother’s lovely blonde hair, but dirt made it as brown as his sisters’, reminding Wendy of how long it had been since any of them bathed. Hygiene wasn’t exactly their top priority anymore.

“What’s going on?” he mumbled tiredly, rubbing the sleep from his eyes.

“Nothing, Mikey,” Wendy said softly. “Go back to sleep, alright?”

He shook his head. “Bad dreams.” Mikey reached for one of Joanna’s hands, not seeming to notice how she winced when he gripped it.

There was a reason her hands had been bandaged. The sores on her fingertips had only gotten worse since they’d first appeared, and no treatment that Wendy had tried seemed to work. Joanna, brave Joanna, had never complained, even as her sores worsened, causing her what could only be excruciating pain. Despite all odds, Wendy had managed, somehow, to convince herself that Joanna would be fine. Her wounds will heal in time, Wendy told herself. She blatantly refused to believe that it was the Horologia virus. It couldn’t be. But deep in her heart she knew the truth.

“Come on, I’ll lie down with you. Have I told you the stories about the mermaids in the Thames?” Joanna led Mikey back to the tattered, sorry excuse for a mattress they used as a bed.

“Are they real mermaids?” Mikey asked her, his eyes wide with that childlike innocence he had yet to lose. Wendy never wanted him to lose that innocence, but she feared that she wouldn’t be able to protect him from growing up for much longer.

“Joanna,” Wendy said, touching her sister’s shoulder. Joanna turned. “Try not to keep him up too late, alright? No pirates; you know he’ll be awake all night. We’re leaving when I return.” She hesitated. “Stay safe.”

“We will,” came the response.

Wendy ducked out the window and clambered down the brick wall of the building, easily finding a path in the cracks and holes that laced through the stone. Crevice climbing, while dangerous, came in handy when hiding in these older buildings. Dropping to the ground, she quickly ducked into the shadows.

A zeppelin flew by overhead, the hum of its engines sending a chill down her spine. One of Queen Katherina’s fleet, no doubt.

Queen Katherina of Germany had taken the throne years ago, before Wendy had been born, after the sudden and extremely suspicious death of her husband. The King had been a kind and generous ruler, and many had expected her to be the same. They were wrong.

It soon became clear that Queen Katherina was unsatisfied ruling a single country, and had plans to change that. England, with the help of a few other European countries, had attempted to stop her by creating the International Peace Accords. Every country in the world had signed the accords, for no one wished to allow Queen Katherina to go on a rampage. It was the only thing that every country had ever agreed unanimously on. Unfortunately, the accords meant nothing to the German queen. It wasn’t long before she blatantly defied it and drenched the surrounding countries in death and blood. This had earned her the very appropriate moniker “the Bloodred Queen.”

England was not her first invasion, and if Queen Katherina had her way, it would most certainly not be her last.

With this reassuring thought, Wendy made her way down the street, looking for a place to scavenge.

An hour later, Wendy found herself in an abandoned townhouse, searching through the cabinets for any remaining food. As she’d expected, most of it had been devoured by the rats that scurried around her feet (disgusting), but there were a stack of canned vegetables left behind that she snatched up as if someone were going to appear and take them from her.

The rest of the house was pretty bare, hardly anything useful to be found. Whatever family had left it behind in their attempt to flee London had taken whatever they could. Shame, really. She couldn’t help but wonder what happened to them. Were the children she’d seen pictures in so many forgotten photographs, smiling and completely, blissfully unaware of the tragedy awaited them, still alive? Or had they been taken by the virus, or killed in the bombings, or captured by the Marauders? Wendy would never know, of course. She knew it was pointless, even counterproductive to wonder about such things, but she couldn’t stop her mind from wandering to these places whenever she found evidence of the families left behind in the houses she searched.

While her haul wasn’t the best, it would have to suffice. The cans, a dull knife she found in the kitchen, and a torn frock that would probably fit Joanna occupied her stash. In the last room of the house―a child’s room, judging by the broken toys littered across the floor and the childish decor―she found one last thing: a dingy cloth doll in the shape of a bear. Mikey might like it, Wendy thought, shoving it into her bag. If he didn’t, well, if nothing else, it would make good kindling for a fire.

She headed back out into the drawing room, intending to sneak out the back where she’d gotten in, but the sound of a shout from outside startled her. Nearly dropping her kerosene lantern, Wendy blew out the flame and ducked out of sight of the window.

The loud thumping of heavy footfalls on the street outside meant only one thing: Marauders. They seemed to be running after someone, and at least one of them was shouting in German. Wendy dared a peek out the window. Uniform-clad Marauders were dashing down the street, rifles raised, after a blonde girl. She couldn’t have been any older than Joanna, but despite being chased by a group of armed blokes who were older than her, she was definitely holding her own.

Never stopping, the girl pulled a lever on her peculiar-looking metal-and-leather pack. A cog like something from a clock whirred on the outside, and then two beautiful copper wings sprang out. Just as it seemed as she was going to be stuck in the dead end at the end of the street, she pressed something else on her pack and flew―actually flew―over the high wooden fence and disappeared.

Wendy couldn’t help but feel a little relieved. The girl was one of the first children she’d seen in months besides her own siblings, and knowing that there were still people out there besides the Marauders was reassuring. It was nice to know that some of her own had survived for this long, regardless of how much longer they were going to last.

The Marauders stopped and stared at where the girl disappeared. One, possibly the same one from before, yelled orders and pointed down the street. The helmets they wore made his voice sound mechanical, making them appear more machine than human. Most of the group―about five of them―break off and go down a side street, leaving only the leader and two others behind. They seemed to be conferring with each other, deciding what to do.

Wendy watched them cautiously, wondering if she’d be able to get past them, when she realized that there were eyes looking back at her through the glass. She let out a yelp and fell back, drawing her knife instinctively. On the other side of the window was a boy, his pale face streaked black with dirt and his dirty hair falling into his vibrant green eyes. He looked at her pleadingly. “Let me in,” the boy mouthed, tapping on the glass.

Silently, she shook her head, guilt twisting her stomach. Turning people away for the sake of her family had become second nature to her, but that didn’t mean she felt good about sacrificing them to the Marauders.

He scowled, clenching his jaw. Without another word he pushed away from the window and darts down the street. Wendy tensed. There was no way he could make it past the soldiers without being noticed. Sure enough, one of them looked up, spotted the boy, and―

Fell to the ground, dead.

The other two Marauders jumped back. “GEIST!” one of them shrieked, and they both bolted after the others, not even bothering to remain calm. Whatever killed their comrade seemed to really spook them.

‘Geist?’ Wendy thought curiously. She didn’t know German, but she did know that a lot of German words were similar to English one. Geist sounded very much like...ghost? What on earth were they talking about? 

Mad, the whole lot of them.

From a house down the street, a dark shadow clambered out one of the windows and onto the roof. The moonlight broke through at that exact moment, creating a halo around them. In the light, Wendy realized that it was a boy dressed completely in black. A mask covered the lower half of his face, and there were goggles over his eyes, but she could see quite clearly that he had a mass of black, curly hair. What appeared to be a bow was slung across his body.

The boy on the ground, the one with the green eyes, nodded to the figure on the roof, but the boy with the bow just turned and disappeared without acknowledging whether or not he had seen the green-eyed boy. Wendy got the feeling that they weren’t exactly best of chums.

She watched the boy vault himself over the fence after the girl before she ever dared to move. Wendy bolted out of the house as fast as she dared. She’d never seen Marauders this far from London proper (no, not London, she reminded herself; they called it Everland now), which meant that they were getting smarter―or more desperate. She needed to get back to Joanna and Mikey as soon as she possibly could.

Wendy only hoped that she wasn’t too late.

The brick wall tore and bloodied her fingers as she scrambled up the wall, but that was the least of her concerns. Wendy couldn’t shake the feeling that she was being watched as she positively threw herself through the warehouse window and into the presumed safety of their current hideout, but when she’d peered into the dark she’d seen nothing. It had taken her longer than she’d wanted to get back here; the sky had begun to lighten with the impending sunrise. That’s what she got for taking an unfamiliar path in hopes to avoid the Marauders. 

She stood slowly, brushing the front of her blouse in a futile attempt to remove some of the dust. Then she smelled it; the sickeningly sweet smell of rum and pine oil. Something was wrong.

And that was when she noticed the tall figure standing in the middle of the room.

Marauder.

Wendy unsheathed her knife and raised it. The Marauder hadn’t noticed her yet, and so she had the advantage. She snuck up behind him, poised to sink her dagger into his back. She brought the knife down―

Faster than she could blink, the boy spun and knocked the knife from her hands, sending it flying across the room. It hit the wall and clattered to the floor, too far out of reach for her to go for it. On instinct, Wendy raised her fist, fully prepared to punch him directly in the face. If anything, it would hopefully slow him down―

Wait, face?

She faltered, and the boy caught her fist. “Blimey, calm down!” said a lilting voice. The boy pushed her fist down carefully, as if he didn’t want to hurt her. Wendy got her first good look at him. Dark hair curled around an olive-toned face, the lower half of which was hidden behind a mask, which was really just a piece of dark cloth tied over his mouth and his nose. A pair of mechanical-looking goggles sat atop his head, revealing that he had steely grey eyes.

Wendy recognized him instantly as the boy with the bow.

She opened her mouth to demand what he was doing there, but before she could, Mikey vaulted around the boy and hugged her tightly around the waist, looking frightened. “Mikey! What’s wrong?”

“The pirates came!” he sniffled, pressing his face into her dirty shirt.

“Not the Marauders,” Wendy said weakly.

“Joanna said they were pirates,” the child said. “She told me to hide, so I did. I hid in the bin until he came.” Mikey’s gaze went to the boy. For the first time, Wendy noticed the frock coat slung over Mikey’s shoulders. It could only belong to the boy, who looked odd without it in his white shirt and black trousers. He’d pulled the mask down around his neck, showing off the rest of his face. He looked fairly normal, to be honest. Nothing particularly interesting about him at all physically. Wendy felt very foolish for believing that this boy could be a Marauder; he lacked the uniform and general stature of a German soldier. Nor was he wearing one of those ridiculous helmets.

Wendy turned back to her younger brother. “Where is Joanna?” she asked, her voice barely a whisper.

This time, the boy answered. “The Marauders took her. Your sister’s likely in Everland by now.”

[arplis]

Arplis - News: 20 Secret Staycation Swaps That Look Like They’re Abroad

We’re here to guide you through the coronavirus lockdown. Sign up to the Life newsletter for daily tips, advice, how-tos and escapism.

It’s safe to say our summer holidays are going to look decidedly different this year with quarantine travel restrictions in place, but that doesn’t mean you can’t dream about your next staycation getaway for life after lockdown.

The UK is filled with stunning landscapes, idyllic beaches, and quaint villages – it’s amazing how a few hours’ drive really does feel like you’re getting away from it all.

We swapped some popular overseas destinations with some strikingly similar UK equivalents. Enjoy.

Related...

Are Staycations The Way Forward For Your Holiday This Year?

1. Visit West Voe Beach, Shetlands, Scotland instead of Yyteri Beach, Finland 

This crescent-shaped white sandy beach of West Voe beach is sheltered by steep dunes covered in marram grass and looks out onto turquoise waters. It reminds me of Yyteri beach on Finland’s west coast.

Yyteri has a magnificent 6km stretch of golden sands that has a wild feel and is backed by extensive sand dunes, wispy beach grass, and nearby woodlands. 

The Shetlands has the upper hand with almost 1,700 miles of coastline and West Voe beach is one of five spots to receive a Seaside Award from Keep Scotland Beautiful. It might not be the piña colada-sipping kind of beach holiday, but you can almost imagine breathing in that fresh sea breeze.

2. Visit Observatory Gully, Ben Nevis, Scotland instead of Mont Blanc, the Alps, France

Gasping for a slice of the piste? Trade your usual ski holiday in the Alps for Scotland’s Ben Nevis, which is the UK’s highest mountain. Standing tall at 1345m, the Scottish slopes have had peak snow conditions for years where skiers, climbers, and snowboarders can tear up the slopes and take in the stunning views at the same time.

The Alps might be the more popular choice for a ski session because of its huge alpine ski region that stretches almost one thousand miles across five countries and houses thousands of ski resorts, but when flying is out of the question, sometimes you’ve got to bring powder to the people right at home. We don’t make the mountain rules. 

  3. Visit Elegug Stacks, Pembrokeshire, Wales instead of Nusa Penida, Bali

Elegug Stacks’ dramatic natural rock formations will rock your world. Pembrokeshire is famed for its secluded rugged cliffs, sandy beaches and untouched woodland, which some say resembles Nusa Penida in Bali.

The largest of three exotic Nusa islands off from mainland Bali, this crystal clear bay boasts picturesque cliffs and lagoons, but it can get too busy during peak season, so take the road less travelled and opt for Wales. It might lack in infrastructure (and guaranteed sunshine), but makes up for with unspoiled natural beauty.

4. Visit High Force Waterfalls, Durham, England instead of Nauyaca Waterfalls, Costa Rica

Maybe TLC were wrong. We should go chasing waterfalls, especially when they’re this beautiful. Fall for Durham’s High Force Waterfalls, which is one of the most spectacular cascades in Britain and enjoy the soothing sounds of continuous water flow.

To match the roaring force of nature it’s been compared to Nauyaca Waterfall in Costa Rica, which sits in a wide canyon that’s covered in lush greenery and offers a deep natural pool at the base where you can dive right in. You might not be able to swim at High Force Waterfalls, but the rocks are far more ancient – with origins dating back over 300 million years!

5. Visit Langamull Beach, Isle of Mull, Scotland instead of Crane Beach, Barbados

Langamull beach is home to glistening white shell sand, hidden coves and clear blue waters, which often gets mixed up with Crane Beach in Barbados. Can you spot the difference?

Voted one of the ‘Top 25 Sexiest Beaches in the World’ by The Travel Channel, the Barbados strip of powder-soft, pink-tinged sand is known for its luxury nearby resorts and villas.

But who needs the nine-hour flight to the Caribbean when we have ‘The Mull of the Caribbeans’ right here on British soil? It’s one of the island’ best-kept secrets, steeped in rich history, bountiful wildlife and iconic scenery. 

6. Norfolk Lavender Fields, Heacham, England instead of Provence, France

Wake up and smell the lavender. Surround yourself with acres upon acres of dusky purple-hued flowers in Norfolk’s lavender fields. They might not be as famous as their French counterpart in Provence, but you can still get your fill of calming, delicate fragrance right here in the UK.

Provence does trump Norfolk on the stunning mountain and stone backdrop, but you can always visit another year. It’s cutting it fine, but we may catch the tail end of the season just before the lavender is harvested in September.

7. Visit Mealtfalls, Isle of Skye, Scotland instead of Háifoss Waterfall, Iceland

Prepare to be entranced by Mealtfalls’s powerful stream of water that plunges straight off a cliff and down into the turquoise clear waters below. On second glance it looks just like Háifoss Waterfall in Iceland. 

Háifoss is one of the tallest waterfalls in Iceland and comes in at a whopping 122m high and well worth a visit once you’re able. If you’re lucky enough, you might be able to see rainbows within the mist of the main falls.

However, the good thing about Scotland is that there’s minimal hiking required if you’re not feeling up to it and want to get straight in seeing the stunning ancient cliffs. Result.

  8. Bidean nam Bian, Scotland instead of the Asian Himalayas

Take in the breathtaking views of the majestic range of Bidean nam Bian mountains on the south side of Glen Coe. The higher you hike the more dramatic crags, ridges and summits you’ll spot along the way.

It draws similarities to the lush, verdant green mountains of the Himalayas. Travel seekers looking for adventure across the other side of the globe can chase similar thrills in Scotland.

9. Visit Cockington Village, Devon, England instead of Veules-les-Roses, France 

Jokes about the name aside, Cockington is a picturesque thatched-roof village hidden away just outside of Torquay, originally founded in the Iron Age. It’s worth taking a walk back in time along this UNESCO geopark site’s narrow lanes and the nearby Cockington Country Park, which has bagged a Green Flag Award for the last 23 years in a row.

Cockington looks the spitting image of the lovely Veules-les-Roses village in France. A small, quaint town in the Normandy region dotted with watermills, Norman houses, and flower gardens. Lush.

10. Visit Sgwd yr Eira Waterfall, Brecon Beacons, Wales instead of Tad Mork Waterfall, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Hidden deep within the Welsh valleys of the Brecon Beacons is waterfall country where you’ll be treated to towering falls left, right and centre, but the highlight is the beautiful Sgwd yr Eira’s classic rectangular drop.

It’s the same shape as the Tad Mork Waterfall in Chiang Mai Thailand, which looks every bit as breathtaking and serene as the photo looks. But who needs Thailand when you have an area of outstanding beauty right on our doorsteps? It’s a 2.5-mile walk to get to the falls from the nearest village, but you’ll be rewarded with magnificent falls in full flow.

11. Visit Gaping Gill, North Yorkshire, England instead of Son Doong, Vietnam

Fall in love with Gaping Gill’s 98-metre deep pothole and have a rock-solid good time. This Northern Yorkshire rocky landmark is only open twice a year, get a glimpse of one of the most complex cave systems in the UK.

Speaking of large caves, you’re going to dig Son Doong cave in Vietnam. It’s the world’s biggest cave measuring 1.35bn cubic feet long, it’s so big that it has its own weather system and can comfortably fit a Boeing 747 in its largest passage. Yeah, that big.

For now, all the geology lovers out there can get their fix by appreciating some of the wonders we have right here in Britain.

12. Visit Lunan Bay, Scotland instead of Cape Cod, Massachusetts 

Seeing double? Don’t worry it’s not your eyes deceiving you, Lunan Bay in Scotland looks exactly like Massachusetts’s Cape Cod. This British beach was originally built for King William of Scotland to defend against Viking invaders and really does have it all: a magnificent sweep of sand, a cave with an arch at its northern end, and even a ruined castle.

Its American hook-shaped counterpart can be just as beautiful, with its quaint fishing villages, kitschy tourist traps, and marram grass backed beaches dotted throughout. However, Scotland edges in the lead with its cool Viking history.

13. Visit Sandwood Bay Beach, Sutherland, Scotland instead of Skallerup Strand Beach, Lønstrup, Denmark

Secluded long coastal stretch facing the ocean? Check. Huge beautiful pink sand dunes? Check. Crystal clear freshwater blue lake? Check. Hit the holiday jackpot at the picture-perfect Sandwood Bay Beach in Scotland.

And for the lottery rollover, Denmark’s family-friendly Skallerup Strand Beach is also a winner. There are tons of activities to do here including hiking and beach fishing.

14. Visit Achmelvich Beach, Lochinver, Scotland instead of Saleccia Beach, Corsica, France

Enjoy your one-way ticket to relax town at Achmelvich Beach. Sprinkled with sandy white beaches, a ruined old mill, and a hidden cove, who would have guessed that all this was in Scotland? With its tranquil deep blue waters, it echoes something you would find in the south of France.

Do a double-take of its doppelgänger at the secluded Selaccia Beach on Corsica Island. This dazzling flash of white sand is actually on a desert part of a protected area near dense scrubland, but head north of that and you’ll be rewarded with the same turquoise seas as Scotland. 

15. Visit Castell Coch, Wales instead of Bran Castle, Transylvania, Romania

Magic by name, magic by nature. Castell Coch or ‘Red Castle’ near Cardiff in Wales towers high above the surrounding ancient beech woods. This 19th-century Gothic Revival castle was built upon the ruins of a medieval fortress and it’s almost impossible to tell apart from Bran Castle in Transylvania.

Perched dramatically on a hill and you’ll be able to see its distinctive orange-tiled turrets and steeples rise high above the trees. Both castles have mystical properties attached to it. One is associated with wizards and witches, and the other with vampires. We’ll let you decide which is which.

16. Visit Smoo Cave, Sutherland, Scotland instead of Phra Nang cave, Krabi, Thailand  

Go deeper underground to see Scotland’s Smoo Cave. Its limestone scenery dominates the Sutherland region and offers a fascinating network of cave systems.

For more stalagmites and stalactite formation action, cast your eye to Phra Nang cave in Krabi. Legend says that an Indian princess was killed in a shipwreck offshore and her ghost occupied the cave, which is why it’s sometime’s known as Princess cave. Whatever the tales are, one story that’s set straight is that this boat access-only cave underneath a cliff surrounded by alluring white-sand beaches is legendary around Thailand.

17. Visit Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales instead of Ithaca, Ionian, Greece

It’s not surprising that Barafundle Bay in Wales scooped up the Seaside and Green Coast Awards for one of Britain’s best beaches. From scenic walks along the impressive rocky cliffs to dramatic rock arches and rolling sand dunes, this golden half-mile crescent-shaped stretch is worth its weight in gold.

You may have visited Barafundle’s Greek twin: the island of Ithaca just off the northeast coast of Kefalonia. Ithaca is a mythical Greek island that’s home to Odysseus and glorious views across the Ionian Sea.

18. Visit Kynance Cove, Cornwall, England instead of Costa Paradiso, Sardinia, Italy

Kynance Cove in Cornwall is known as the Jewel of the Lizard Peninsula and it’s easy to see why. From its brilliant turquoise seas, pale sandy beaches and rocky coastline, it’ll soon be the jewel of your eye, too.

But don’t get confused with Costa Paradiso in Sardinia. Both share a similar craggily shore, but Italy’s beach resort offers a secluded beach with panoramic views of the Mediterranean rocky terrain. We’ll take both, thanks.

19. Visit Durdle Door, Dorset, England instead of Anacapa Island, California, US

Dorset holds the key to a chilled out break in the sun. Make your way down to Jurassic Coast and peep through the stunning natural wonder of Durdle Door that defines the dramatic coastline.

Once we can travel again, 5,000 miles west of Durdle Door lies the volcanic Anacapa Island off mainland California. Here, you’ll score another hole in one with another almost identical natural formation. It’s one of the most undeveloped, but utterly magical national parks in the US.

20. Visit Portmeirion, Gwynedd, Wales instead of Loro Ciuffenna village, Tuscany, Italy

Modelled on an Italianate-style village – it’s no wonder that Portmeirion on the coast of North Wales takes after its enchanting Tuscan twin. Take a walk through this fairytale technicolour pastel village that overlooks the beautiful Dywryd estuary, woodlands and mountains.

Portmeirion looks like the charming medieval village Loro Ciuffenna, where you’ll see familar rainbow-coloured buildings sitting high above the Ciuffenna river. 

Related...

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Arplis - News source http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Arplis-News/~3/ntw3Rs9A7gI/20-secret-staycation-swaps-that-look-like-they-re-abroad

[kylo-wrecked]

Prince Ben Solo went on regarding Rey haughtily. She was different, all right. One could easily say the waif made it a point to be different. She came to the Mountain Palace and morally declared her difference each night. She was the only one of his--his mother's subjects to ever speak to the Prince. 

They had names for him. Prince of The 'Dark' Tower (there were no 'dark towers' in the Mountain Palace, but he did live in a structure very much resembling a turret), Prince of 'Shadows' (maybe it was the hair? Or the jerkin? Had to be one), The Hidden Prince, his personal favorite, 'Prince Ben, the invalid,' and others he won't mention here. 

Point blank: she wasn't put off by him. Rey did not stand there and shake in her ruddy brown climbing boots at his very appearance. No, Sir, Your Excellency. She made demands. She dared. Rey was so was persistent, she almost had it the other way around--Ben afraid of her instead. 

He took a step away as Rey bristled and crackled like a small fire in his courtyard. Ben had nearly missed her offer just watching. 

"--You will?" 

He had to reign in his excitement, lest he reveal he truly had not ventured into what Rey called 'the city.' Not even by carriage.

"Okay," Ben agreed. "No more pointing."

Surely he had the capacity to be nice. He smoothed a hand over his brocade doublet and hesitated.

"Just a minute," Ben urged her a moment later. "Please," he clarified.

Then he removed the midnight cloak, the brocade doublet, his sword belt and empty scabbard, a brooch that glistened like the night sky, the rings from his fingers, save one. And by then, he looked like a perfectly acceptable young man of middling class. In his underclothes. But he was much less conspicuous now. 

Ben burrowed his princely wears beneath the Tudor bushes, where they would remain hidden, at least until the gardeners began their work the next morning. He was not a complete dolt, after all.

I'm no fool, he thought, as he followed Rey up and over a side of the palace wall crawling in ivy. It was not especially difficult for a good climber to scale, which Rey patently was. Ben had little trouble because he was a large, sturdy man, physically fit and tall. But Rey had something else. Stealth. And as soon as they were over the wall, Ben realized his bigness meant relatively little. 

_____

edited

kylo-wrecked​:

Show him around! The waif could manage that, couldn’t she? She’d likely smuggled so much with those lithe, solid arms, and climbed many walls, and hills, and, he imagined, towers, with those firm and lithesome… Bells began tolling in Prince Solo’s head. 

Looking very much disgruntled, with his hair in disarray, and his cape half-way in the rose bushes, Ben began again, “I’ll be the king who–”

Then that shrug, the flippant lilt in Rey’s accent. ‘Climbing down from your tower means nothin’.’

“Nothing?” Ben barked.

Prince Solo approached the waif with an index finger raised, as though he were ready to accuse Rey or call the guard, but he merely stopped midstep and said, “Nothing!” again, and scowled. 

“I see,” he muttered. “And what would suffice something, ‘Your Majesty?’" 

Ben hadn’t quite realized how tall Rey was, for a woman. And, well. Fine. Not pretty, but not unpleasing. Fine. He supposed he couldn’t tell because she was so far below. 

Rey eyed him as he snapped. He didn’t even have an answer. She should have guessed as much. He never seemed to know how to answer when it came to what kind of King he was going to be or even wanted to be. Whoever Prince Solo was, he wasn’t even sure of it himself. She was different. She knew who she was, and what she wanted. Even if it wasn’t the majesty of a castle, she had been forced to face the fact that she was no one, and that all she wanted was to belong. Sometimes she felt that when she came here, to talk to him.

She stepped back as he moved towards her, startled, and not willing to let him that physically close. That was dangerous. He might not know that, but she did. And he was much bigger than her. No matter what he was a threat. She glared at him as he snapped.

She arched her eyebrows as he asked her what would be ‘something’. “Actually learning more about your people. And not through the lense of your high spot.” She motioned past him. She glanced at the area around them. “… I suppose I could show you the city. If you’re nice.” She crossed her arms. “Which means no more awkward pointing.” She added. She had to admit she was enjoying this. He wouldn’t know how to survive in the city. But she did. She knew the rules he got to ignore. It would be good for him to see the world from a different point of view. “Come on.” She turned and started to head towards the way she always got in. She was a good climber, after all, and this part of the palace wall was not as well guarded.

[thegrimrunner]

Towards winter 2016

A strange weekend following an invite to visit Dumfries House and have dinner with Prince Charles and twelve others at the behest of a mutual patron. Ann was truly dreading it, I thought it might be an adventure and we should judge it as a one-off experience. A new ‘Chinese’ bridge is opened on the estate in pouring rain; Ann and I retire to our plush estate accommodation and knock back a few gins that we sneaked in for Dutch courage. By early evening, we are plied with champagne while being given a tour of the grand house; by the time the formal dinner comes around and I am introduced to the Prince I am already steaming.

The next night I am back in my old stamping grounds of New Cross in south London watching Test Dept — the industrial band I played with from 1981-90 — kicking up a storm in a crowded Amersham Arms. Lots of faces I haven’t seen for decades leer into a crowded view but it is surprisingly good to hear original band members Paul and Gray scream out their anger at the current political landscape. With a few more concerts the set will build into a hefty and relevant cultural statement. I have to laugh at the brilliant contrast with the previous night of crushingly  posh Scottish revelry. I suspect I was born part Celt / part chameleon.

As summer turns to autumn and the strength returns to my legs, I invite Al to head up to the Torridon mountain range for a few days of running. Our weekly jaunts take on a more focussed meaning, as without some decent training we will crumble in the high hills. On a perfect day we head for Ben Lui, an elegantly shaped mountain situated just to the south west of Tyndrum. It contains a  grand central cirque flanked by two sharp ridgelines to the summit and the completion of a hefty climb in any conditions. Al’s partner Julie joins us and we set off on the five mile approach road past a gold mine to reach the base of the Ben.

Ben Lui looks benign from a distance, but as you get closer, foreshortening makes it loom quite suddenly overhead. It is a big beast of a hill, a genuine leg sapper with a good deal of steep pathwork to handle as you wind your way up the side of a tumbling burn to reach a roughly collapsed corrie at 2,000 feet. As we pick our way over streams and rockfalls Julie begins to tighten. One of the toughest and most committed amateur athletes I know — completing an Ironman in Spain — she finds it tricky going at height on uneven ground. But with encouragement all three of us reach a bealach at 3,000 feet with great views opening up to the north.

Al and Julie decide to hold it there as I plough up the increasingly vertical path to the top. Any vestiges of an earlier hangover are shaken off, and there is some fine scrambling sharpened by airy vistas looking back down the mountainside. I meet an excited couple from Nottingham who are joyfully taking in the panorama, incorporating Bidean nam Bean, the Aeonach Eigach ridge and Ben Nevis. Time for a quick descent to catch A and J up again and I feel a deal of pain in my thigh, jarred by jumping down too hard from rock to rock and tuft to tuft. It’s a solid twelve miles in total to back to the car park, with the team reunited to hobble out the last couple of miles on ever stiffening pegs. The next day I have difficulty even walking backwards downstairs. For 72 hours the muscle damage is as bad as any fast marathon.

A couple of weeks later and it’s time for Torridon. It has been a gloriously rain free October and with little frost at night, all of the trees are still holding onto their leaves and colour. The onset of winter feels bearable. The A9 offers its usual panoply of car smashes. It is a magnet for poor driving, but luckily we witness no deaths as the traffic slows and flows again past twisted wreckage. We stay on the side of Loch Kishorn in a 70’s bachelor pad replete with pine wood ceilings and pool table. The next morning we drive north flanked by steepening mountains to Torridon village and a craft fair in the village hall. We stock up on cake and pastries and fill a flask with tea. Here we get precise directions to find the stalkers’ path that threads between the huge flanks of Liathach and Beinn Eighe, leading to Coire Mhic Fhearchair, one of the finest corries in Scotland, revealing a classic view to a towering triple buttress above.  

We spot the ruined croft by the roadside marking the hidden entrance to the route and in the process fail to see the correct car park, which nestles behind a high verge to our left. As a result we drive on to a second car park, start at the wrong end of the walk and eventually find ourselves 2500 feet up the slopes of Beinn Eighe in shrouding mist, facing an ever steepening and leg-sapping scree run up to an invisible summit. This was meant to be a gentle ‘warm up’ day, protecting our legs, so we retreat discussing the worrying fact that it took us a good hour to figure out that we were approaching the  hill from the wrong end. This is becoming a habit.

Undaunted we set out early the next day with maps in hand, compasses primed on mobile phones and unbelievably find the correct start to reach the rising slopes of Slioch, following a gentle path for a few miles alongside a babbling river to the shores of Loch Maree.

The immense bulk of the mountain rises above us, imposing and daunting; so it’s heads down and a dogged drive to access an upper corrie via countless steps and erratic streambound paths. After a lung busting hour we break out onto a flatter section of ground circled by a higher line of peaks beyond. The vast flanks of surrounding rock are stripped and bare, with all visible routes to the summit looking near vertical to our untrained eyes. A quick chat with two returning climbers and we quickly change our direction of ascent. We seek out a high and isolated lochan, which marks entry to a hidden series of rough zig-zagging paths taking us up and up to prepare for a final nerve-tinglingly steep push to the top. Funnelling cloud forms are being sucked upwards on strengthening winds and by the time we find the summit cairn, visibility is down to 50 feet. We meet a couple who ask if Al and I are brothers, spurred no doubt by the arrival of our long noses and similarly inane and manic chat. Every few minutes the clouds blow open and we get a tantalising glimpse of the chosen route continuing round the ridge; we plough onwards into the mist.

You are up and beyond here, alien visitors; there is the vulnerability and re-sizing of ego that occurs on great mountains. You are but briefly passing through, privileged to experience a powerful natural setting, one that demands respect and knowledge of your strengths and limitations. As we scurry along the final narrowing ridgeline, my pulse begins to race. The wind is building in huge gusts and I wonder whether it would be better crawling over rocky sections with gaping drops down to god knows where on either side. With the added intensity of moving at speed and with lungs heaving, there is a deal of excitement as we battle onwards to reach the final cairn.

The descent is painfully long but enthralling, demanding total concentration. Al spots a feint line through seemingly endless rock mounds, which involves lots of jumping and large stepdowns until we reconnect with the corrie floor. We stop halfway to pose for photographs and eat scrumptious cheese and plum jam rolls. By the time we reach the river again, having completed a half marathon with 3800 feet of up and down, our legs are truly shot. It being Sunday in the highlands, all the shops have closed, so we have to stop off at a pub in Loch Carron in the hope of begging some ‘foodie’ provisions. It turns out the Essex born owner, who looks like a Motorhead roadie, is a gentleman and we retire to Kishorn to make a fine paella and down a good Rioja, dancing around our bachelor pad with punk classics playing in rotation on a BBC 4 nostalgia night.

The year ends with a final operation, a lump nestled between my ribs that has wedged in deeper than I or the surgeon had hoped. It has to come out,  but all that matters is the long term prognosis is good. 2016 has been a battle on many levels and I’m glad to see the back of it, but days like these in Torridon are such a blessing, perhaps because they can’t always be expected. My final thought on the year both personally and with the wider political malaise in mind, a quote from Raymond Williams: ‘To be truly radical is to make hope possible, rather than despair convincing'.   

[torentialtribute]

Three Peaks Challenge one of the most inspiring adventures I’ve seen

It started last Saturday at 5:00 PM. The first of the two groups of ten girls waited a moment as they took their photo and then marched down the bridge over the rustling, gurgling Nevis river and away in the fog and rain of a gloomy evening.

The second group left a few minutes later.

I did not know it then, but it was the start of one of the most inspiring sporting adventures I have ever experienced. The Three Peaks Challenge, where you have 24 hours to try to climb Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon, is rejected by some courts for danger and exhaustion, but the desire to overcome adversity is often what defines the best of the sport.

<img id = "i-21f6c8533c36a087" src = "https://dailym.ai/2EZpE3j -0-image-a-53_1560025296291.jpg "height =" 476 "width =" 634 "alt =" The Three Peaks challenge is a huge test of willpower and endurance and requires team effort The Three Peaks Challenge is a huge test of endurance and requires team effort

The Three Peaks Challenge is a huge test of endurance and requires team effort

After we saw them go, Murray, who attacked the minibus for the first group, and I drove back to Fort William and had some fish and chips, staring at the rain knocking on the sidewalk and thinking of the girls, all members of the Women's Hockey Club of University College London , who climbed the highest mountain in Britain in this dirty weather, and I wondered if they might return.

On the top of the mountain, the same thought occurred to a few girls. When they got close to the top, other hikers gave their urgent warnings to stay away from the ice and snow collections that concealed pure drops, but by that time the visibility was so poor that they could barely see ten steps ahead of them. The temperature was well below zero. They continued to panic, reached the top and began their descent.

The first group came out of the fog quickly after 9:30 am. My group, crumpled, soaked and relieved, crossed the bridge about 45 minutes later. Despite the terrible weather, they had negotiated the first part of the challenge on time. They were still on track to beat 24 hours.

It was dark now, but on the way to Glencoe it was still impossible to miss the majesty of the mountains that came from Loch Linnhe next to us.

Ben Nevis in Scotland "

the tough challenging competitors should scale the imposing Ben Nevis in Scotland

The Three Peaks is an extreme physical test for hikers who climb 10,000 feet and run 23 miles of hard, steep terrain on their quest. the drivers it is a journey through some of the most beautiful British landscapes, breathtakingly beautiful landscapes.

We arrived in Wasdale Head, at the foot of Scafell Pike, just after 4.15 am when the first hints of light reached the hills began to light up towering above Wastwater. Sheep and their little lambs were sleeping on the road, reluctant to wriggle themselves for our minibus. The girls climbed out and started their climb. They hoped to be back in four hours.

I slept in the mini bus for a while. When I woke up, just after 7.30, the other bus left the parking lot. I walked to the mountain to stare at the landscape and noticed the Mountain Rescue on the edge of a nearby field. A group of men pulled on backpacks. Soon another vehicle arrived and more men got out. Then a helicopter appeared above one of the rocks. One of the mountain rescuers lit a bullet and swung it into the air and the helicopter landed in the field, with sheep and lambs scattered to the four corners

I called one of the mountain rescuers that as fast as I could my daughter and a group of her friends were on the mountain. & # 39; It's not your daughter, & # 39; he said vividly. & # 39; Don't worry. & # 39;

I received a text message shortly thereafter. The girls struggled. Their pace was slowed down because one of them had turned a knee and was unable to continue climbing. She urged them to continue and catch up with her as she walked back down. It would give them a chance to complete the challenge within 24 hours, but they would not leave her.

They were still half an hour away from the summit. They made a plan. Five of them stayed with her while the other four walked to the top. When they returned, those who stayed stayed took their turn to go to the top. Then they walked downstairs together.

During the trip, one of the girls scrolled through her phone when she saw a news report. The body of a 35-year-old man, the mountaineer Mountain Rescue teams had searched for, was found on Scafell Pike. The story mentioned that a climber tried the Three Peaks Challenge also died earlier this year when he fell on part of the so-called Broad Stand.

Crossing people like Snowdon (pictured) often leaves competitors with problems "

Crossing people like Snowdon (photo) leaves competitors often behind problems

We arrived in Snowdon at 1.30 pm The girls had three and a half hours to go up and down the largest mountain in Wales, it was pouring rain and the mountain was covered in clouds but they thought they could do it.

They left at a rapid pace, and the first group returned a few hours later, completing the challenge in less than 23 hours.

Ten minutes to seventeen we all got to the rickety gate that marked the finish line and stared out over the rocky field on the hill to the point where the lane in the distance comes around.

I was prepared the second group girls that corner to come but the minutes counted and 5 p.m. came and went. Then they came around the corner at 5.20 pm. All together. Walking as one. At one point in their descent, knowing that the target was slipping away, they had started making a final bid to meet the deadline. They didn't want to break up, they didn't want to. This was about the team.

We all applauded as they came through the gate and several of the erupting girls in tears of exhaustion, relief and disappointment about the fact that they had come so close. We took more photos and were reminded that they had raised more than £ 10,000 for Bloodwise's charity by taking on the challenge. Then they came back on the mini bus for the long journey home.

I think some of them thought they had failed. But there are various measures for success and failure. They might not have completed the challenge in the allotted time, but they displayed a spirit, dedication, and dedication to each other on those three mountains that they should be proud of for the rest of their lives.

Fun and easy does it for me

It was strange to be in a strange city on the coast in the reach of the United Kingdom in the run-up to a big England competition this week and yet not to be greeted with the sound of groups of aggressive, drunken supporters singing about wars of long ago, the slogans from the far right shouting, intimidating local residents to the point of having to take their children home from school early, on car & # 39; s must climb and mock police.

Welcome to Nice and the cheerful, excited preamble of the English World Cup ladies duel against Scotland on Sunday evening in front of a sold-out audience at the Allianz Riviera stadium.

On and next to the field, the ladies' game has increasingly recommended it.

England fans announced their presence in Porto for UEFA

] English fans have announced their presence in Porto for the UEFA Europa League

Rooney rule critics miss the point

As welcome to the long-awaited news, the English football league decided previous week to make her clubs mandatory at least one black, Asian, and minority ethnic (BAME) candidate when looking for a new first-team manager.

To the foaming wages and various knuckle-holders on social media and elsewhere who greeted the implementation of the Rooney rule with furious assertions that the job of a manager should be given to the person best for it qualifies, regardless of credo or color, there is a very simple answer – thank you, that is exactly the point of the Rooney rule.

So I'm glad you're there for it, even if you're stupid to realize it.

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[yeahdigimon-blog]

Today, because of the many stresses people have to buy daily from their work or everyday problems, they want more money and time to spend traveling around the world.

Today, becau redtube e of the many stresses people have to buy daily from their work or everyday problems, they want more money and time to spend traveling around the world. So this writing provides some tips on tourist destinations that can be a good choice for travelers: The Colosseum, which was started to build the Flavian dynasty emperor Vespasiani's building, AD 72, was completed in 80 years. AD This huge amphitheater was built at the artificial lake in the center of Rome. This magnificent arena was designed in an elliptical shape that was 48 meters tall and could accommodate 55,000 spectators. The Colosseum, a huge arena, is considered one of the most impressive buildings in the Roman Empire The Eiffel Tower was built in 1889. International exhibition in Paris dedicated to the events of the French Revolution. This weight is 700 tons and is 300 meters high. This tower becomes the world's largest building until 1930. During his lifetime, the Eiffel Tower has undergone several significant events which, in 1954, Climber climbed along with parachute in 1984 two angels The Eiffel Tower, a Parisian icon, gives viewers an excitement every time they pass The Giza pyramids are described as ancient Egyptian architecture. Meanwhile, the three largest pyramids in the Giza Valley include the Great Huff Pyramid, the Kafreh Pyramid and the Menkaura Pyramid, built for the third and fourth dynasties. Giza's pyramids originate from the desert and were made from colossal stones thousands of years ago by Egyptian workers The Great Wall of China, one of the greatest wonders around the world, in 1987 Became UNESCO World Heritage Site. Similar to the giant dragon, the Great Wall extends through the wilderness, meadows and mountains extending about 8,851.8 km east to west of China. The Great Wall of China is known as the Chinese serpentine masterpiece due to its enormous architectural and historical beauty. Taj Mahal, one of the eight wonders in the world that was built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India, based on the principles of self-directed geometry and architectural elements, can overpower all the structures with its beautiful architectural beauty, made from mostly white marble. In addition, the Taj rejoices in the beauty of dawn and sunset, especially in the light of the whole moon. Taj Mahal has smooth, solid marble lines, along with a reflection pool in the middle of well preserved gardens. The Hollywood mark, which is recognized as nine white letters, listing the city's name, is considered one of the world's most iconic icons. This huge sign means ambition, success, glamor and drowning associations in the sense of its metaphor. The Hollywood sign does not seem to be an architectural achievement, a sense of engineering, but it is the world's largest tagging eye Big Ben, one of London's renowned sites, named after the first job of Commissioner Sir Benjamin Hall, seems to be sparkling at night. In addition, the parliament can be recognized by light during the session, shining above the clock. With regard to its specifications, four clocks measure 23 feet square, a minute hand is taken 14 feet long, and figures 2 feet high. Big Ben, an English symbol, also a great timer, surrounds the House of Parliament and the Westminster Abbey Machu Picchu, which also acts as an observatory for astronomy, can be seen as a dawn trip, as well as huge ruins. More importantly, this construction is considered to be the highest in the Andean area and is surrounded by limestone, majestic valleys and narrow valleys. Machu Picchu, Revised 1911 Yale's archaeologist Hiram Bingham is known as one of the most beautiful places in the universe Table hill, a mountain flat basin in the southwest of South Africa, shaped like a horizontal sandstone layer, affected by wind and water erosion. In addition, this spectacular mountain is considered one of the most famous places in Cape Town and is well-known tourist tourist tourism, which provides hiking, camping and various events. The Table Mountain is the beginning of Africa, and its magnificent beauty is featured in the magic cloud of the cloud, as this construction comes from the horizon and over the Cape Town towers Related Links: India - Ultimate TourismDestination The Netherlands is an ideal tourist destination The most popular three summer Connecticut tourist songs

[mylittleangel24-blog]

Nowadays, due to the great stress people have to copy every day from their work or everyday problems, they want to spend more money and time traveling around the world.

Nowaday redtube , due to the great stress people have to copy every day from their work or everyday problems, they want to spend more money and time traveling around the world. Thus, this paper gives some suggestions for tourist destinations that may be good choices for travelers: The Colosseum, which began the construction of Emperor Vespasian, the leader of the Flavian dynasty in AD 72, ended in 80 AD. This large amphitheater was built at the site of an artificial lake in central Rome. This wonderful arena was designed in elliptical shape, which was 48 meters in height and can accommodate 55,000 spectators. The Colosseum, the great arena, is considered one of the most impressive buildings of the Roman Empire The Eiffel Tower was set up for the 1889 Paris International Exhibition to commemorate the French Revolution event. Weighing 700 tons and being 300 meters in height, this tower becomes the world's tallest building until 1930. During its lifetime, the Eiffel Tower has experienced some strange important events, such as the escalation of a climber in in 1954, in 1984 by two English. The Eiffel Tower, the Parisian icon, gives viewers an emotion every time they pass The Giza pyramids are characterized as the architecture of ancient Egypt. Meanwhile, the three largest pyramids in the Giza valley include the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Kafra and the Pyramid of Menkaura, which were built during the Third and Fourth Dynasties. Pyramids of Giza are rising from the desert and made from large stone blocks thousands of years ago with the bare hands of Egyptian workers The Great Wall of China, among the greatest miracles around the globe, was listed as a World Heritage by UNESCO in 1987. Similar to a giant dragon, the Great Wall runs through deserts, meadows and mountains, extending over 8,851.8 kilometers east China. The Great Wall of China is known as the serpentine masterpiece in China thanks to its great architecture and historic beauty The Taj Mahal, one of the eight wonders of the world, built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India according to the principles of geometry and symmetry of the self-replication of architectural components, can overcome all the buildings with marvelous architectural beauty made mainly of marble White. In addition, Taj is displaying stunning beauty at sunrise and sunset, especially in the light of the full moon. The Taj Mahal features polished and smooth marble lines, along with the reflection pool that runs amidst well-preserved gardens The Hollywood sign, which is known as nine white letters depicting the name of a city, is considered one of the most evocative icons of the world. This great mark contains ambition, success, fascination, and dazzling associations in the sense of its metaphor. The Hollywood sign does not seem to be an architectural achievement, an initiative, but it is the world's biggest mark that catches viewers' eyes Big Ben, one of the most famous London points, named after the first commissioner of works, Sir Benjamin Hall, seems to be great at night. In addition, parliament in the session can be recognized by light shining over the face of the clock. In terms of its glasses, the four clock numbers are 23 square meters, the minute hand has a length of 14 feet and the figures measure 2 feet in height. Big Ben, the English symbol, also an excellent timer, surrounds House of Parliament and Westminster Abbey Machu Picchu, which also functions as an astronomical observatory, can be seen as the journey to get there, the dawning, and the huge ruins that need to be discovered. Most importantly, this construction is seen as the setting that rises to the Andes and is covered with visible cliffs, large mountains, along with narrow valleys. Machu Picchu, revised in 1911 by archaeologist Yale Hiram Bingham, is known as one of the most beautiful antique universes in the universe Mount Tabela, a narrow mountain located southwest of South Africa, whose shape is formed by the horizontal layer of sandstone exposed by wind and water erosion. In addition, this spectacular mountain is considered one of Cape Town's most popular destinations and is a well-known tourist attraction that offers hiking, camping and various activities. Tablet Mountain presents the beginning of Africa and its stunning beauty appears on the magical blanket of clouds as this building rises from the horizon and drains over Cape Town Related links: India - The Distinction of Ultimate Tourism The Netherlands - an ideal for determining tourism Top Three Summer Connecticut TourismDestinations

[giacarangiphotos-blog1]

Nowadays, due to much stress, people have to copy every day from their work or daily problems, they want to spend more money and time traveling around the world.

Nowaday redtube , due to much stress, people have to copy every day from their work or daily problems, they want to spend more money and time traveling around the world. Thus, this writing gives some suggestions on tourist destinations that may be a good choice for travelers: Colosseum, which began to be built by Emperor Vespasian, leader of the flavian dynasty, in 72 AD, was completed in the 80's. This huge amphitheater was built at the site of an artificial lake in central Rome. This magnificent arena was designed in an elliptical form that was 48 meters high and holds 55,000 spectators. The Colosseum, the great arena, is considered one of the most impressive buildings in the Roman Empire The Eiffel Tower was built for the Paris International 1889 exhibition to celebrate the event of the French Revolution. Weighs 700 tonnes and is 300 meters high, this tower is the tallest building in the world until 1930. During its lifetime, the Eiffel Tower has experienced some significant strange events like being peeled by a rock climber in 1954 together with a parachute of 1984 by two Englishmen. The Eiffel Tower, the Parisian icon, gives the viewers a thrill every time they pass The Pyramids of Giza are characterized as the architecture of ancient Egypt. At the same time, the three largest Pyramids in the Giza Valley include the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Pyramid of Kafhre and the Pyramid of Menkaura, built during the third and fourth dynasty. The Pyramids of Giza rise out of the desert and were made of large stone blocks thousands of years ago by naked hands of Egyptian workers The Chinese Wall, among the largest wonders of the world, was ranked as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Like a giant dragon, the great wall passes over deserts, grasslands and mountains and increases about 8 851.8 kilometers from East to West of China. The Chinese Wall is known as China's Serpent Masterpieces thanks to its vast architecture and historical beauty Taj Mahal, one of the world's eight wonders, performed by Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India according to the principles of self-replicating geometry and symmetry of architectural components, could outweigh all constructions through its magnificent architectural beauty made of mainly white marble. In addition, Taj sees its amazing beauty at dawn and sunset, especially in the light of the full moon. Taj Mahal has soft, stylish lines in marble along with the reflection pool running across the center of the well-preserved gardens The Hollywood character recognized as nine white letters spelling out a city's name is considered one of the world's most inspiring icons. This great character has ambition, success, glamor and dazzling associations in its metaphorical sense. The Hollywood sign does not seem to be an architectural achievement, a performance of technology, but it's the world's biggest character that captures eyes for viewers Big Ben, one of London's famous sites, named after the first work commission, Sir Benjamin Hall, seems sparkling at night. In addition, Parliament can be acknowledged at the meeting through the light that shines over the face of the watch. As regards its specifications, the clock's four clocks measure 23 feet, the quarter hand measures 14 feet in length and the numbers measure 2 feet in height. Big Ben, the English symbol, also an excellent timekeeper, surrounds Parliament House and Westminster Abbey Machu Picchu, also acting as astronomical observatory, can be seen as the walk to reach there, the entrance at dawn, as well as major ruins to be discovered. More importantly, this construction is seen as the setting high in Andes and is covered by pure cliffs, large mountains, along with narrow valleys. Machu Picchu, revised in 1911 by Yale archaeologist Hiram Bingham, is known as one of the most beautiful ancient sites in the universe Table Mountain, a flat top mountain located in southwestern South Africa, the shape of which is formed by horizontal sandstone strokes exposed by wind and water erosion. In addition, this spectacular mountain is considered one of Cape Town's most recognized destinations and is a well-known tourist attraction offering hiking, camping and various activities. Table Mountain is the beginning of Africa, and its amazing beauty is displayed in the clouds magic felt as this construction rises from the horizon and tower over Cape Town Related links: India - Ultimate TourismDestination The Netherlands - an ideal tourist destination Top Three Summer Connecticut TourismDestinations