#Pubs in the South Downs National Park

[dougrobyngoold]

Seven Sisters & Friston Forest - South Downs National Park, England

After our failed attempt yesterday, due to the weather, we decided to take a different approach to seeing the Seven Sisters. Doug found an 8-mile loop hike that started from the village of East Dean at a bus stop. The trail went out to the Seven Sisters and then looped back through the Friston Forest. We packed a few snacks and water, caught the bus to East Dean, and a few short minutes later, we found ourselves standing on the roadside in South Downs National Park. We pulled up the map and headed down the narrow road in the above picture. At the end of the lane, we found a small pub and picnic area off to the left. Up the hill from there we found the continuation of our trail.

After a short walk up this tree-lined path, we emerged into a huge expanse of land and sky.

WOW!! We finally got a view of the ocean - spectacular!

New friends that we made along the way.

The hike along the coast was amazing. The day started out sunny and warm, with a steady wind in our face. However, at one point, a storm blew in and we got pelted with a bit of rain and some gale-force winds. Luckily, it only lasted a few minutes. Here are the photos from the Seven Sisters portion of our hike:

Shortly after climbing up and over the hill in this picture, we turned inland, making our way over to the visitor center for the national park and the Friston Forest.

I believe this is Birling Gap, there is a bridge across the river or at low tide you can walk across. This is where we headed inland on our loop hike.

Making our way toward the Friston Forest from Seven Sisters.

Looking back at Birling Gap and the Visitor Centre for South Downs NP (in the clump of trees), just after we climbed over the stone fence and made our way into the Friston Forest.

It was a nice walk through the trees, country lanes, and meadows on our way back to East Dean to catch the bus back to Eastbourne:

A few pictures of some of the plants we passed on our hike:

What an amazing day! This hike was definitely one of our favorite things that we have done on our trip. Of course, we finished the day off with an adult beverage at The Lamb pub in Eastbourne:

Cheers from Eastbourne!

[lindsaywesker]

Good morning!  I hope you slept well and feel rested?  Currently sitting at my desk, in my study, attired only in my blue towelling robe, enjoying my first cuppa of the day. 

Welcome to Too Much Information Tuesday.

It is illegal to be drunk in a UK pub.

We forget 80% of what we learn every day.

HP Printer black ink is more expensive than human blood.

Strawberries actually contain more vitamin C than oranges.

60% of the alcohol in America is drunk by 10% of the people.

American plumbers refer to the day after Thanksgiving as Brown Friday.

In 2021, the investor community on Reddit adopted 3,500 gorillas in a week.

By 2050, 3.3% of the world’s population will be millionaires (in US dollars.)

In general, the more time you spend with someone, the more you will like them.

Rats emit ultrasonic squeaks of happiness when they get to hang out with another rat.

A cyberchondriac is someone who scours the internet looking for details of their illnesses.

The presence of CCTV cameras increases the fear of crime but doesn’t reduce crime rates.

Not one but two cross-country skiers suffered from a frozen penis during a recent world cup race.

If you keep going North, you will eventually go South, but if you keep going East, you will never go West.

Coffee drunk from a white mug tastes more intense and less sweet than coffee drunk from a clear mug.

Stomach rumblings are caused by air moving through your digestive tract and doesn’t always mean you are hungry.

AI can guess your age, location, gender and income with up to 85% accuracy by analysing your social media posts.

A sophomaniac is a person who’s under the delusion that they are extremely intelligent.  Too many of them about!

Memorizing the lyrics to songs can help strengthen your brain and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s.  Do more karaoke!

King Harold didn't die at the battle of Hastings from an arrow in the eye, he was hacked apart by four Norman knights.

Listening to loud music interferes with your vision.  This is why we usually turn the car radio down when looking for somewhere to park.

Negaholics are people who become addicted to self-doubt and negativity.  They find the bad in most things and are hardly ever satisfied.

The directors of ‘Despicable Me’ actually wrote a language for the gibberish the minions speak throughout the film.  Each word has a meaning!

The company that made the modelling clay for Wallace & Gromit has gone out of business.  There is currently only enough clay for one more film.

The first BBC radio presenter with a Northern accent was hired in the second world war to make it harder for the Germans to produce fake news bulletins.

The peanut is not a nut, it is actually a legume.  A legume refers to any plant from the Fabaceae family that would include its leaves, stems and pods.

It’s a myth that you only use 10% of your brain.  Most of your brain is active almost all of the time.  The problem is: some people don’t have much in there!

An American on the national average salary would have to work for 21,000 years before they became a billionaire, assuming that they spent none of their money.

A Crook County, Wyoming, judge has dismissed property destruction charges against a pair of ranchers accused of bleaching penis shapes and other markings on their neighbour’s cows.

In 2011, a 25-year-old Spanish man sued his parents for refusing to give him money unless he tried to find a job.  The court denied his claim and ordered him to leave his parents’ house and find a job.

The Sound of Music was so popular in South Korea when it was first released that one cinema owner decided to shorten the film by cutting all the musical pieces from it so they could show it more often.

In 1962, Brendon Grimshaw purchased Moyenne Island in the Seychelles for £8000.  He planted 16,000 trees on the island, brought and bred giant tortoises, and introduced a variety of bird life.  He was the sole inhabitant of the island until his death in 2012.  Instead of selling it, he declared the island a national park.

‘Malleus Maleficarum’, a 15th century witch-hunting manual, described how witches kept ‘live’ wriggling penises as pets.  The witches were said to have kept the penises in nests in trees and to have fed them oats.  Written by Catholic clergyman Heinrich Kramer, ‘Malleus Maleficarum’ is of course today regarded as misogynistic nonsense.  However, centuries ago, such books would have resulted in the gruesome murders of women accused of being witches.

Okay, that’s enough information for one day.  Have a tremendous and tumultuous Tuesday!  I love you all.

[my-chaos-radio]

Release: July 20, 2016

Lyrics:

So if I stand in front of a speeding car

Would you tell me who you are, what you like?

What's on your mind, if I'd get it right?

How I love that no one knows

And these secrets all that we've got so far

The demons in the dark, lie again

Play pretends like it never ends

This way no one has to know

Even the half smile would have slowed down the time

If I could call you half mine

Maybe this is the safest way to go

We're singing

Heya heya heya heya

Heya, heya heya

This is the safest way to go nobody gets hurt

We're singing

Heya heya heya heya

Heya, heya heya

You go back to him and then I'll go back to her

So if I stand in front of a speeding car

Would you give your little heart?

Say the word?

Due to just me and you

This way everyone will know

'Cause these secrets all that we've got so far

The demons in the dark, lie again

Play pretends like it never ends

This way no one has to know

Even the half smile would have slowed down the time

If I could call you half mine

Maybe this is the safest way to go

We're singing

Heya heya heya heya

Heya, heya heya

This is the safest way to go nobody gets hurt

We're singing

Heya heya heya heya

Heya, heya heya

You go back to him and then I'll go back to her

So if I stand in front of a speeding car

Would you tell me who you are, what you like?

What's on your mind, if I'd get it right?

How I love that no one knows

These secrets all that we've got so far

The demons in the dark, lie again

Play pretends like it never ends

How I love that no one knows

Advertise my secret

I don't really need it

I know you can feel this

So advertise my secret

I don't really need it

I know you can feel this

So advertise my

Advertise my secret

We're singing

Heya heya heya heya

Heya, heya heya

This is the safest way to go nobody gets hurt

We're singing

Heya heya heya heya

Heya, heya heya

You go back to him and then I'll go back to her

Songwriter:

If I stand in front of a speeding car

Don't know who you are

Don't know who you are

Heya heya heya heya

Heya, heya heya

You go back to him and then I'll go back to her

Dan Devane / Sorcha Durham / Paul Flannery

SongFacts:

Walking on Cars were a four-piece Irish alternative rock band from Dingle, Ireland.

The band was formed in 2010 by five school friends. The group started out performing in small pubs and clubs in their hometown of Dingle, County Kerry. In order to fully focus on their musical careers, the five rented and locked themselves in a house on the Dingle Peninsula. There they wrote their first pieces and immediately recorded demos. "The house we rented was a pretty old cottage where we had no TV, cell phone, internet or outside connectivity," says Sorcha, "We lived there for 6 months - just our equipment and we. It was a wonderful time, the ideas literally flew to us.”

The band released their first EP As We Fly South in 2013. It was recorded at Attica Studios, Donegal and produced by Tom McFall (R.E.M., Snow Patrol, Bloc Party).

Walking on Cars at Rock im Park 2016

In 2012, Walking on Cars won the Redbull Bedroom Jam 2012 Competition. As a result, her debut single Catch Me If You Can was played on many radio stations. The song then entered the Irish charts at number 27 and stayed there for over 20 weeks. This brought the band national fame for the first time. Catch Me If You Can reached #1 on the Irish iTunes chart, and quickly garnered over 450,000 views on YouTube. The band's second single, Two Stones, peaked at number 12 on the Irish Singles Chart and well over 1 million views on YouTube.

[wanderella-w]

A snowy adventure (day 1-3)

It all started out well, when the three of us (Sofia, Rosa and I) left our Airbnb in Dunster in time to catch the 8:41 bus taking us to the start of the trail, Minehead. After buying our instant mac and cheese for dinner and some lunch snacks we were ready to go. Sofia joined us for the day, unfortunately she couldn't hike with us longer because her foot (previously broken) started to hurt again. We took a picture by the start of the trail and off we went into the woods. Thanks to the brochure "Did you know XX fact about Exmoore National Park?" in our Airbnb, we now knew that this was the only wooded coastline in England. And it was stunning. The forest looked lush with lots of branching tree stems, evergreen climbing plants and ferns covering the ground. As we climbed higher, the views we got of the sea to our right got better and better. We left the forest and took a break on a hill covered in red withered fern, green grass, and yellow goarse bushes. When I threw away my apple core into the goarse I got a criticizing look from Rosa with the words "leave no trace". Right: From now on this will be our life motto while we wild camp on the South West Coast Path (next to "pitch late leave early").

We said goodbye to Sofia after a break on the beach in Porlock Weir and made our way back into the forest onto the next hill, where we started to look for a camping spot. We found a perfect spot about one hour too early (see picture) but we enjoyed the view of the coastline, to where the trail would still lead us, from there. Our actual camp was directly next to the path and we were afraid somebody might pass but nobody did. Actually, we had seen almost no people on the path so far. Rosa waved me over and said "wow, look at the setting sun", "wow, beautiful!" I said, looking at the red ball hovering just over the horizon. Two minutes later, I looked again in awe. Then two minutes later again... wait.. the sun had moved up, not down. It wasn't the sun it was the rising moon!

The next mornig our tent was wet and had a little bit of snow on it of which I proudly took a picture. It was raining, so we were expecting the snow to disappear soon, but as we got higher and higher the rain turned into snow and soon the trees, bushes, and paths were covered in a thin layer of snow. We got to an area without trees and the wind picked up, luckily it was in our backs. Then, however, we had to take a turn to the left, and now we had to fight really hard against the wind, coming from the front left. The sea, which had been hidden from our sight before, appeared from beind a mountain to our right. It was foggy, and the snowy ground, the sea, and the grey sky melted together to one. To the left there was a way mark and a low wall (typical for an animal fence), to the right the path continued around a hill, as far as we could see right along the cliff. We communicated with handsigns that we would shelter behind the wall and talk. Puh.. we had a moment of rest to eat a muesli bar, and take a look on the map. We decided not to follow the path along the cliff bit to take an alternative path along the wall (sheltered but with deep snow) and over the hill.

"We have to go to the church!" Rosa shouted and pointed at it, when we were past the top of the hill. The snow was deeper here, and through goarse bushes we were making our way there. Unfortunately, the snow got into our shoes at this point. At the church we saw that the coast path continued further along the cliff. On the map, a pub was indicated somewhere to the left, but only a few houses were to be seen. We tried to reach it anyways, as we desperately needed it. Would it be open or not? We approached the "Blue Ball Inn", it did exist - that was great - but no smoke came from the chimneys. "Open all day" it read on a sign, but the windows were dark. The door opened, all tables were empty, "What can I get you?", the receptionist and bartender asked? "Tea, please", I said relieved, and Rosa said "For me too, please". Wohoo! We attempted to dry our shoes by the fire which the bartender lit soon after our arrival but it had little use. The bartender said that all tables for lunch had been canceled due to the weather exept for one, but soon some other guests arrived, seemingly locals. We also ordered some food and ended up staying for 2,5 hours. The Blue Ball Inn saved us!

In the meanwhile we had checked the map and saw that there were several alternative ways to get to Lynton, our goal of that day. We asked a friendly old couple at the table next to us which path they would recommend and they said that the one along the river Lyn would be lovely. We walked through the windless and actually beautiful valley relieved. We learned from signs along the way that the Lyn is protected by law!

In Lynmouth it was still raining and we were looking for a supermarket. Somebody walking past us said "You are not really camping out there with this whether, are you?". "Yes, we are" Rosa said. "Well, really adventurous you are then", the man said. "Yes yes", Rosa said smiling nervously.

We started walking into the woods again and after a while started looking for a camping spot. The spot where we ended up was far from ideal, it was again right next to the path and quite close to a couple of houses, but our legs (at least mine) were too tired to keep looking. Setting up the tent and eating dinner in the rain was not a lot of fun. I also found out that my sleeping bag got wet despite three layers of presumed waterproof fabric around it. We decided that we needed a BnB to dry evenything and also to recover from this slightly horrible day. The night was okay after all, and quite warm.

The next morning after we woke up at 5:30 we wanted to go to a public bathroom we had seen on the map. "Let's go", we both said and started walking into different directions. "Huh, I thought we have to walk back, we already passed it" "No I think we have to go straight, it still has to come". A look on the map clarified the situation and we could laugh about it. In the bathroom we filled up our water bottles, reordered our backpacks sheltered from the rain (yes, it was still raining) and called the BnB.

It was good that we got up so early because it turned out we would have the hardest day on the entire path in front of us with 800 ascension meters is total. Why did those rivers have to decide to flow into the ocean right were we walking?? This meant we had to go up and down and up and down again. Anyhow, the views form up the cliffs were beautiful and my personal highlight was that we saw five wild exmoor ponies that day. It was also only raining half the time, just enough to still keep our rain-pants on all the time.

Exhausted we arrived at the BnB in Combe Martin. We hung out all our stuff to dry, took a shower and even did some washing. The next day was going to be a sunny day so the clothes could dry on our backpacks. That night we slept really well.

[the-hindu-times]

WYCOMBE v CAMBRIDGE 21/9/24

ASTON VILLA PREVIEW (24/9/24)

Today was our first visit to Adams Park Stadium - the home of Wycombe Wonderers FC. Last night I was gigging in O'Neill's in High Wycombe (my main job is singing/playing guitar), and with tonight's gig being just a 20 minute train ride away from here, in Denham, it made sense to stay over and catch the game against bottom-of-the-table, Cambridge United, this afternoon. With the visitors still yet to win a game, there was certainly more excitement about hosting Champions League outfit, Aston Villa, in the EFL Cup on Tuesday evening, where almost double the amount of tickets have already been sold.

No relation to Wycombe's former kit manufacturer or their manager, Martin O'Neill (who was in charge from 1990-95, once The Chairboys joined the National League [before eventually becoming the boss at Aston Villa in 2006]), last night's namesake pub previously announced that they will be a pre-match drinking establishment for the away fans before the Caraboa Cup clash.

Upon arrival today, we were met by Hearing Dogs For Deaf People - a great cause close to me as I lost my hearing nearly 2 months ago, which needed to be treated within the first week with steroids but is just not possible under the NHS in this country; they're not even allowed to sell antibiotics to fight the infection for sudden loss of hearing, unless the sufferer is bellow the age of 18. This organisation really helps those who have been neglected due to the politics of the health service.

We sheilded from the rain inside the Club Shop, where they were advertising "Match Worn Shirts" behind the counter. With no other information other than the player and the price, "Young" was the cheapest at £80 so, I bought that one - a red third shirt, complete with a Bristol Street Motors Trophy patch. Therefore, the shirt must have been used in their 1-0 defeat at AFC Wimbledon, where Jack Young (currently on loan to Wealdstone) didn't come off the bench so, the shirt is actually only Match Prepared.

We didn't get a chance to check out the food and drinks on offer around the ground but saw the pies, in the press lounge, had the club's badge on, which was a nice touch. Unfortunately, they weren't vegan - we'd be better off at Forest Green for that.

photo by Mittal Patel

With just over 4,000 in attendance today, we were situated in the Origin [North] Stand, which was a lovely position to be in for the sun's direct rays (once the grey clouds cleared), along with a view of the impressive Frank Adams stand, accompanied by the picturesque forest skyline surrounding the south side of the stadium. Sightings of birds and butterflies to this beautiful backdrop made this Mittal's favourite English football ground, which makes it surprising the games aren't filmed from this angle instead.

It was good to see that an all-standing behind-the-goal terrace still existed at League 1 level, with half of the opposite away stand having been sectioned off due to the low numbers of visiting supporters, who then didn't even half fill their already reduced area - yet, still chanting loud enough that even I could hear them!

On Tuesday, that whole stand will be completely sold out with travelling Aston Villa fans, where we'll be.

At the start of today, Stevenage were level on points with Wycombe but after The Boro's early kick off loss against Aston Villa's Ollie Watkins' former club, Exeter, the blues beating Cambridge here have now placed The Wonderers firmly 3 points above.

Who can forget Stevenage's last minute winner at Villa Park, the season before last; knocking the Aston boys out of the FA Cup? In a better position, Wycombe could be even more up for Tuesday's fixture; ready to take revenge for the Villans reclaiming their manager, John Gregory, whilst he was still under contract at Wycombe, scoring success with the Claret & Blues, whilst the lower league club, he'd abandoned, spiralled down to the verge of non league, only staying up by goal difference in 2014.

Of course, Wycombe also had their FA Cup day at Villa Park, back in 2001, whilst Gregory was at Villa, when the stadium was used to host the competition's semi-final, where they narrowly lost 2-1 to Liverpool (the same scoreline Stevenage beat Villa by [and the same scoreline Wycombe beat Cambridge by today). That was 15 years before Wycombe held Villa to a 1-1 draw in the FA Cup at Adams Park, before loosing in the replay at Villa Park to the home side.

So, Tuesday isn't just another game but it is anyone's game! Come down to enjoy the football and support the lads in all the cups and the league, as they look to get back into the Championship, where they worked all the way up to for the 2020-2021 season.

Nic Bennett

[dsandrvk]

Monday, July 29 - Sydney

After three extremely active days we decided to slow it down a bit and catch up on a few places in Sydney we wanted to explore. We are staying out by the airport tonight because of an early flight to Broome tomorrow, so checked out of our downtown hotel and had them hold our bags. We walked past and through the large cathedral here, as well as a sports complex (they were playing pickleball down below on indoor courts) before getting to the park land referred to as The Domain. This was once all the Governor's property (his domain), but in the late 1800's it was donated to the city for the Botanic Garden and surrounding parks, including Mrs. MacQuarie's point (now also named for one of the aboriginal people who originally called this land home).

Because of its age, the Botanic Garden has many old trees and specimen plants, many of which we had missed when we hurried through on Friday. Since it was quite chilly and windy, it made sense to be in among the gardens and walls. One of the highlights here is their succulent garden, which has sections for both Old World and New World succulents. The variety of aloes alone was amazing. There is also a great deal of bird life - this Cockatoo had figured out how to drink from the top of the fountain. There was also a timeline exhibit of the aboriginal story, and just how relatively recently they were given voting rights and included in censuses. Australia does seem to be making an effort to recognize a lot of the First Nations peoples by renaming places, and acknowledging the wrongs of the past. But there is still resistance in some political factions, so it's a slow process.

We also passed this fancy "folly" in a corner of Hyde Park - it was sheltering a drinking fountain (probably not the original use). Further on was another folly dedicated to one of the mayors. It does seem like the later Victorian era is when the major push of building occurred here in Sydney, and many structures from that time have been repurposed into museums. And there are also the requisite memorials to war dead, as well as a large statue of Captain Cook, the "discoverer" of Australia. As the aboriginal response goes, "we didn't know we were lost".

We walked out further under the Harbor Bridge and found a nice exhibit about the fort that had been there originally. When it was decided to build the bridge, the defensive structures were pretty much razed, although they still have a few guns there. It doesn't seem like an area very many people visit, but then there are so many other places to explore around the Harbor, since it is so vast.

We eventually wound up for a late lunch at the Fortune of War pub, where we were able to sit outside, sheltered from the wind and with a propane heater to keep us company. We missed the delightful weather from last week, but the food and beer were excellent. Originally we had thought to take some additional ferries around the Harbor, but the wind, cold temperatures and mostly cloudy skies made it less than appealing, so we headed back to our hotel, stopping along the way to pick up some food for breakfast and a salad for a light dinner.

We got our bags, walked to the train, and got to our airport hotel just before dark - perfect timing. From here it will be a short walk to our terminal tomorrow morning, and we are planning an early bedtime. When we were originally thinking about our stay in Sydney, we were worried that we wouldn't find enough to do for four days, but we barely scratched the surface. For a big city, it is extremely manageable with plentiful, frequent trains, ferries, buses, etc. and lots of museums, parks and walks. We could easily spend another four days, but will be moving on.

Tomorrow we take two flights to get to Broome and we will be able to pack away our gloves and fleece hats until we get back to the states. It will be dry, warm, and sunny in Broome, which will be a change from the New South Wales winter.

[robertleechestateagents]

What’s to love about Oxted?

There’s so much to love about Oxted! This pretty, historic town famed for its large Arts & Crafts houses, timber framed stucco buildings and bustling high street, is situated at the foot of the North Downs in the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Beauty (AONB).

Known as a wealthy commuter or “stockbroker belt” town, it was listed in the top twenty richest towns in Britain by the Daily Telegraph in 2011, but has been a favourite of city workers since the railway arrived in 1884 and linked the growing settlement to London and the South Coast. Oxted offers great transport links to the M25, by rail to London Bridge (33 minute direct train) and London Victoria (39 minutes), by Thameslink to St Pancras or Ashford for the Eurostar and direct train services to London Luton and easy access by car to both Gatwick (42 minutes) and Heathrow airports.

Historically, Oxted has always been a convenient stop-off between London and the South Coast, being the site of Roman Roads and ancient routes. Consequently, it also has a good number of lovely old pubs dotted through the old town and nearby settlements of Tandridge, Hurst Green, Limpsfield and Limpsfield Chart.

Mentioned in the Doomsday Book, the ancient Oxted settlement of “Oakstead” (place where oak trees grow) has been around since well before the Middle Ages, with remnants of a Roman Villa at Titsey Place to the east of the town. It is surrounded by beautiful countryside dotted with historic manor houses, farms and many large mansions that have been schools and hospitals or convalescent homes in their past, but have now been converted into fabulous apartments.

Oxted town centre straddles two sides of the railway line – Station Road East and West. It features lovely stucco wood framed buildings and is full of great shops, restaurants and bars, including Cucina Italian, Cattle & Cocktail, Toast Cafe, The Deli and The Ginistry Bar. There’s also a beautifully renovated art deco cinema with cocktail bar and a very popular theatre.

Berkeley Inspiration, Oxted, The Ginstry

There are all the shops and services you need with plenty of excellent hair and beauty salons, clothes boutiques, homes & interiors and several high street banks. For food shopping, there’s also a huge Morrisons and smaller Sainsbury’s, Waitrose and Co-op.

If you want to go further afield, then just take a 15-20 minute drive to the lovely shopping towns of Reigate and Sevenoaks as well as being only 35 minutes to Bluewater.

For those of the sporty persuasion, then there are many leisure facilities to keep you in shape, including the Tandridge Leisure Centre with its pool, sauna, gym and fitness classes, football, cricket and hockey clubs. You’ll also find the Limpsfield Club (tennis/squash) and Tandridge and Limpsfield Chart Golf Clubs as well as Oxted’s beautiful Master Park which is home to football, cricket and a small tennis club. Other local amenities include a livery yard and riding stables for equestrians and the local leisure centre with its pool, sauna, steam rooms and gym.

Berkeley Inspiration, Oxted, The Cricket Grounds

It’s also the home of the annual Oxted Beer Festival, a very popular event held every July that allows the locals to sample all the craft beers and ciders brewed in the area and attracts very well-known bands for its live music offering.

Much of the land that surrounds Oxted is National Trust or farmland, and sitting within a designated Green Belt area. It’s a beautiful place to live, with incredible views from many of its higher points, plenty of opportunity for outdoor recreation – walks, riding, cycling and running routes, with lots of very active clubs for both adults and children including the Oxted & Limpsfield Cricket Club that has children’s cricket every Friday evening, Holland Sports and Raw Skills football club.

If you’ve got children or grandchildren, there are some great schools, both state and private together with several outstanding child care and pre-schools.

There’s also lots of clubs and parks to keep the kids entertained, and in the neighbouring area of Limpsfield Chart, you’ll discover a wonderful area – the National Trust’s Homes for Woodland Creatures – created and maintained by volunteers who have made the most amazing circuit of beautifully crafted wooden animal houses, such as Hedgehog Hall and Badgers Run. It’s a superb place for all the family to enjoy.

Berkeley Inspiration, Oxted, The High Street

Constantly changing and developing, while retaining its special character, the town is now home to some beautiful apartments and developments, including Courtyard Gardens in the centre of the town.

Courtyard Gardens offers contemporary living in the historic town, enquire through our website or visit us at Robert Leech office to find out more.

Content source: https://www.robertleech.com/whats-to-love-about-oxted/

[naturecoaster]

Escape the Holiday Hustle and Bustle with a Nature Break

A rush of traffic dodges the messy construction zones on US Highway 19/98 on Florida’s Nature Coast. Every red light brings another pour of cars onto the already crowded road. A minivan, a red jeep, a truck laden with lumber. Ahead, more orange cones and a giant illuminated arrow funnels the traffic into a more compact road. Thanksgiving has passed and Christmas looms ahead, with it comes the holiday bustle. Visitors fill the gaps between the locals with colorful license plates and luggage-packed vehicles. Noise. Traffic. Congestion - and not just from that sinus infection you picked up at the last family gathering. You may feel like you’ve reached the end of your tether. Now is the time to distance yourself from the stressors, take a detour off that busy highway, and immerse yourself in nature. Nature Break at Salt Marsh Trails in the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge The noisy traffic of 19 begins to fade as you drive down West Yulee Drive. By the time you reach South Mason Creek Road, the tension begins to seep away from your shoulders. The space between houses gets wider, the trees and bushes taller, and then you are there, sliding into one of the parking spaces on either side of the big metal gate at the Salt Marsh Trails. Salt Marsh Trails is a hiking area in the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge. This 31,000-acre wildlife refuge along Florida’s west coast stretches from the Homosassa River in the north to 12 miles south of the Chassahowitzka River, past Chassahowitzka Bay to Raccoon Point.  76% of this NWR is a designated wilderness area, preserved and protected from development. The Salt Marsh Trails area is located in the northern portion of the NWR. Salt Marsh Trails Entrance. Photo by Sally White Comprised of three trails, each a portion of a mile, this green space makes the perfect place for a brief holiday nature escape. Hiking the Salt Trails by Mason Creek in Homosassa At the entrance, there are three trails, the Salt Marsh Birding Trail to the left, the Red Cedar Trail to the right, and the main trail, the widest, cutting through the center to Lastinger Tower. You choose the ¼ mile Lastinger Tower Trail, a wide flat path through a maritime hammock. Palmetto fronds and oaks flank the trail, infusing the air with fresh oxygen. Trailhead marker for the Salt Marsh Trails in the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge. Photo by Sally White  It’s a quarter mile to the tower. Only a quarter mile, but you find yourself surrounded by nature. You pause to look up through the thick canopy. Wiry air plants, tinged with tiny purple and red flowering tips cling to the crooks of the live oaks, like 70’s rockstars with punk hairdos. These healthy giant air plants are bromeliads and related to the pineapple. Resurrection ferns adorn the thicker oak branches, covering them like a living blanket, their delicate fronds basking in the rays of sun that find their way through the canopy. During times of drought, these ferns turn brown and curl up, lying dormant until the wetter season, when they emerge, forming a lush green covering - thus giving them their unique name. You spot a structure through the trees to the left. The Knudsen Pavilion. Picnic tables beneath a newly constructed pavilion with a shiny tin roof. It makes you wish you had grabbed a pub-sub at the Homosassa Publix on your way here. Maybe next time. You start planning the perfect picnic in your head and then stop as the trail opens up. Sunlight. Blue skies. Miles and miles of salt marshes. Ahead a muddy track leads directly to Mason Creek. A rustic paddle launch entrance. And beside it, a two-story wooden observation tower beckons. Lastinger Observation Tower Lastinger Tower, a two-story observation deck overlooks the salt marshes in the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge. Photo by Sally White Lastinger Tower overlooks Mason Creek and the salt marshes. You bound up the steps to drink in the view. Tidal creeks cut winding paths through the greying islands of spiny rushes, leading out towards the Gulf of Mexico. The whirr of a loud motor interrupts your thoughts, making you cringe, until you see an airboat whip through the creek, gliding across the water. The captain waves at you as he drives past the tower, ferrying his passengers out to explore the wetter regions of the wildlife refuge. The majority of the Chassahowitzka NWR is wetlands - brackish marshes, estuaries, and saltwater bays only accessible by boat. The noise of the airboat fades, and you are left again with the twitter of birds and the chatter of crickets.  View from Lastinger Tower in the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge. Photo by Sally White. Salt Marsh Birding Trail & Animal Tracks You breathe in the view and descend the tower. At the base, a sign directs the way to the Birding Trail, promising a ½ mile hike looping back to the entrance. You enter the swampy area that parallels the salt marsh, with views of the empty nesting tower among the grasses, awaiting occupants. This trail takes you past hefty golden leather ferns, aka swamp ferns, and cabbage palms. Some of the palm tree tops look bare, twisted off from storms. The trail is dark and slick. Crabs dart into their holes near the marsh and an uprooted red cedar tree tells signs of a recent storm. The path gets muddier. You notice tracks in the mud. Deer. Raccoon. Is that one an alligator? And another - much larger paw print, which you think might be a dog-friendly lab on an afternoon walk, maybe? Or a coyote? There are no shoe prints. You decide to tackle this trail on a drier day and turn back to the tower. Wild animal tracks in the mud on the Birding Trail at Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge. How many different animal tracks can you find? Photo by Sally White. Red Cedar Trail On the opposite side of the tower, by the kayak launch is Red Cedar Trail, a 1/3-mile path that also loops back to the trailhead entrance. This trail edges along Mason Creek before pivoting into the hammock. The ground gets muddy there as well. An impromptu nature escape, you aren’t prepared for a mud hike, so you head back to Lastinger Trail. Brazilian Peppertree in Florida A Florida invasive plant, the Brazilian Pepper can cause the same allergic reactions in people as the poison ivy. Photo by Sally White. A tree filled with red berries catches your eye. Birds love berries, but these are Brazilian Peppers, an invasive plant in Florida (there’s a sign, that’s how you know). The Brazilian Pepper was introduced to Florida as an ornamental plant from South America in the 1840s. With rapid growth- it can reach heights of 30 feet. It forms a thick canopy that shades out the native plants, essentially ‘taking over”. A relative to poison ivy & sumac, it can be poisonous to humans. People allergic to poison ivy can have the same allergic reaction to the Brazilian Peppertree. The Salt Marsh Birding Trail is a half-mile hiking trail from the Salt Marsh Trailhead to Lastinger Tower, and can be extremely muddy. Photo by Sally White. Back to the World The ¼ mile hike back to your car goes easily. Birds. Salt marsh. Wild animal tracks. Cool plants. Somehow you feel a little lighter as you slide back behind the wheel of your car. Happier. Heck, maybe even healthier. It WAS exercise after all, wasn’t it? And with your nature break, you feel able to tackle your world again. Immerse yourself in nature this holiday season with a short hike or nature break on Florida’s Nature Coast. Red mangroves frame the rustic paddle launch site at Salt Marsh Trails in the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge. Photo by Sally White Things to Know Before You Go to the Salt Marsh Trails: - The Salt Marsh Trails Trailhead can be found at 6112 S Mason Creek Road in Homosassa, Florida. - This is a fee-free area with limited parking. - Bring bug spray - Visitors can hike, fish, and launch their paddle crafts (canoes, kayaks, SUP) from the launch point at Lastinger Tower (1/4-mile trek to launch point!) - Don’t park in front of the gate or you will get towed. Sources: - https://www.fws.gov/refuge/chassahowitzka - https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/habitat/invasive-plants/weed-alerts/brazillian-pepper/ Read the full article

[kingjamesroystonpub]

Christmas Celebration in Royston | Christmas Traditions from Around the Globe

Christmas is a season of cheer, community, and celebration, celebrated in myriad extraordinary ways worldwide. While we've all seen Santa Claus and Christmas lights before, it's intriguing to learn about how other cultures celebrate this time of year. This blog will take you on a tour of some of the most interesting Christmas traditions worldwide, illustrating how Christmas celebrations in different nations weave together a diverse and beautiful tapestry of cultural practices and beliefs. Let us rejoice in the rich variety of Christmas traditions that span the globe, from the United States and the United Kingdom to South America and Australia. Plan your Christmas celebration in Royston at King James Royston Pub by pre booking the venue.

Christmas Pre Bookings in Royston:

America: A Seasonal Extravaganza

The Christmas celebration in the United States is a spectacular event. On the evening before Christmas, families get together to open presents and eat a special supper. The masses sing carols, and towns are decked out in lights and decorations. For many American kids, Christmas wouldn't be the same without the jolly old elf known as Santa Claus.

The United Kingdom: Where Modernity Meets History

Traditional and contemporary celebrations coexist in the United Kingdom throughout the Christmas season. Families exchange gifts on Christmas morning and have a wonderful meal with turkey, roast potatoes, and all the fixings. Carol services and philanthropic events are held to celebrate the Queen's Christmas Message.

Australia: A Sunny Christmas Down Under

Since Christmas in Australia occurs in the middle of summer, the holiday is celebrated in a very particular way. Many families gather for a picnic in the park or on the beach to celebrate. Homes are lit up with Christmas lights and decorations, and carol-singing events take place in the streets. Australians are known for exhibiting the country's stunning natural landscapes by decorating with native flora and animals.

Germany: Markets and Traditions

The German Christmas market, or Christkindlmarkt, is world-famous for its festive atmosphere. These fairs have a wide selection of handmade items, seasonal delicacies, and tasty delights. Advent customs such as the calendar and wreath originate in German culture, as does the Christmas tree (Tannenbaum).

Mexico: Las Posadas and Nativity Scenes

Reenacting Mary and Joseph's search for a place to stay in Bethlehem, Las Posadas is a treasured Mexican ritual. Families sing and pray as they travel from home to home, searching for "posada" (shelter). El Nacimiento, the nativity scene, is a centrepiece of Mexican Christmas celebrations, frequently boasting exquisite displays.

Ethiopia: A One-of-a-Kind Occasion for Joy

Christmas in Ethiopia is celebrated on January 7 because the country uses the Julian calendar. After attending morning worship, the community gathers for a traditional breakfast of injera and wat. The occasion draws districts together for spiritual meditation and joyful activities.

Sweden: St. Lucia's Day

St. Lucia's Day, observed annually on December 13, holds a special place in Swedish culture. To play the part of St. Lucia, a little girl dons a white gown and a crown of candles. She leads a group of girls dressed the same way as her, bringing cheer to people's homes.

Japan: KFC and Illuminations

Christmas is frequently celebrated despite not being a traditional holiday in Japan. As a result of a clever advertising effort in the 1970s, many people now enjoy a meal of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) on Christmas Eve. Cities like Tokyo and Osaka also have impressive lighting displays that add to the holiday spirit.

Ethiopia: Ganna - A Solemn Celebration

In Ethiopia, the holiday of Christmas (known as Ganna) is observed on January 7. Traditional delicacies like injera and wat are served at the feast that follows the morning church service. It is a time for people to unite and focus on their faith.

Philippines: Simbang Gabi

Beginning on December 16 and concluding on Christmas Eve, the Philippines observe a novena of dawn Masses known as the Simbang Gabi or Misa de Gallo. This custom is a distinctive manner of celebrating Christmas and a reflection of the profound Catholic influence in the Philippines.

Greece: The Feast of St. Basil

"Christougenna" is the Greek word for Christmas, celebrated enthusiastically. Vasilopita is a traditional New Year's Eve bread or cake in which a coin is buried and shared among family members. Whoever discovers the cash will be blessed with good fortune for the coming year.

Best Pub Grub Food in Royston

Christmas Culinary Delights: Recipes for Festive Feasting

This collection of mouthwatering recipes will add a touch of culinary magic to your celebrations, whether you're hosting a festive brunch, a grand dinner, or just looking for delightful desserts. From traditional favourites to modern takes, these recipes will delight your guests and leave them wanting more.

Brunch Delights-

Eggnog French Toast:

Ingredients:

Slices of brioche bread

Eggnog

Eggs

Cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract

Butter for frying

Instructions:

Whisk together eggnog, eggs, and spices.

Soak slices of brioche in the mixture and cook in a buttered skillet until golden brown.

Dinner Delights-

Herb-Roasted Prime Rib:

Ingredients:

Prime rib roast

Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme)

Garlic cloves

Olive oil, salt, and pepper

Instructions:

Rub the roast with herbs, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Roast until the desired level of doneness is achieved.

Wild Mushroom Risotto:

Ingredients:

Arborio rice

Assorted wild mushrooms (such as shiitake, oyster, and chanterelle)

Shallots, garlic, and white wine

Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley

Instructions:

Sauté shallots and garlic, add rice and wine, then slowly add broth while stirring until creamy.

Dessert Delights-

Gingerbread Cheesecake:

Ingredients:

Gingerbread cookie crust

Cream cheese, sugar, and eggs

Molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg

Instructions:

Prepare the gingerbread crust, then mix cream cheese, sugar, eggs, and spices. Bake until set.

Chocolate Peppermint Yule Log:

Ingredients:

Chocolate sponge cake

Peppermint buttercream filling

Chocolate ganache and candy canes for decoration

Instructions:

Roll the sponge cake with peppermint buttercream, frost with ganache, and decorate.

This Christmas will be a culinary delight with these delicious recipes. Everything at this holiday meal, from the tender prime rib to the spicy gingerbread cheesecake, has been carefully curated to work together in harmony. Get the family together, make your way to the kitchen, and start the holiday feasting! I hope this Christmas brings you all the happiness, love, and enchantment of delicious cuisine you deserve.

King James Royston Christmas:

A Christmas party at the King James Royston Pub is a great way to get the holiday season started. From November 25 through December 24, our venue will be transformed into a winter wonderland, making it the perfect setting for your most spectacular events. When you reserve the King James Royston Pub for your Christmas party and enjoy our specially designed Canape menu. You will receive complimentary entertainment like Karaoke, Disco or DJ when you reserve your venue..

[discovericelandtours]

Must-See Locations in Iceland during Your Private Tour Iceland In 2023

If you want to add an extra feather to your crown as a tourist in 2023, choose Iceland as your preferable destination. It is a marvelous country that has lots of things to offer. It is important to prepare a list of tourist-interest places you want to visit. You can seek expert help from a renowned travel agency. The professionals have many years of experience and they plan everything for you – from custom travel package to accommodation bookings. Here is a list of interesting locations in Iceland where you can visit.

Reykjavik

No individual can overlook the charm of the capital city, Reykjavik. When Discover, a renowned travel agency, arranges the Private Tour Iceland for you, exploration of Reykjavik in included in the itinerary. You don’t have to worry about it. You can visit pubs and eateries. There are lovely public gardens and museums where you can spend quality time. Don’t forget to click photos to chronicle the sweet experience.

The Golden Circle

Private Tour Iceland remains incomplete if you don’t visit the scintillating Golden Circle. It is regarded as one of the most popular and attractive tourist destinations in the nation. You can conveniently visit the Geysir Geothermal area. The Strokkur Geyser is located in the region. You can witness it erupt. Moreover, you can visit the amazing Thingvellir National Park and get mesmerized with the beautiful colors of the terrains. It is a UNESCO Heritage Site.

The Blue Lagoon

Who can really forget visiting Blue Lagoon when one tours Iceland? It is an expansive geothermal spa where you can experience a few dips. The water is said to be rich in useful minerals. You would feel rejuvenated bathing in it. Also, the facility has arrangements of spa services. Health-conscious tourists are said to flock the place. The sight of azure, crystal clear waters is truly fascinating. You would certainly love exploring the Blue Lagoon.

Witnessing the Northern Lights

Northern Lights are hands down the most gripping attraction of Iceland. The dance of solar dust in the horizon is something you can’t afford to miss at any cost. A professional guide would take you to a spot from where you can comfortably watch it. Keep in mind that the sky should be clear to witness the magic. Also, it is more clearly visible in the winter months. You need to plan the tour accordingly.

The Westfjords

If you are fond of roaming in a terrain marked with cliffs and fjords, visiting the Westfjords is an excellent decision. You can also see the beautiful Dynjandi Waterfall at the location.

The South Coast

Iceland has some of the most amazingly iconic landscapes in the South Coast. The black beaches of Reynisfjara are particularly captivating. There is also the imposingly lovely Seljalandsfoss Waterfall.

Have clear ideas about the itinerary

It is crucial to have clear ideas about the itinerary when you plan to visit Iceland. Talk to experienced travel experts and fasten your belts for a rollickingly memorable tour!

To get the latest updates visit our blog and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube channel.

Blog source: https://discover.is/must-see-locations-in-iceland-during-your-private-tour-iceland-in-2023/

[dougrobyngoold]

I Thought There Was An Ocean Around Here? - Eastbourne, England

We got an early start today, hoping to make our way to the Seven Sisters, a coastal hike with amazing views of white cliffs. The skies were a bit gray and foggy, but we had hopes that it would burn off. We had to hike almost two miles just to get to the trail head. We found the hiking easy, but the mist/fog was heavy and even though it wasn't raining, we quickly became very wet.

We hiked for about 90 minutes, the fog got thicker and wetter. We reached Beachy Head, found a couple of stone monuments and took a couple of pictures. We wandered across the road, hoping that we were going to at least see a bit of coastline.

At this point, we were feeling pretty miserable and the weather did not look like it was going to clear. Since the purpose of the hike was to see the coastline and we couldn't even see across the road....we decided to pack it in and head back. We would try again tomorrow, if the weather cooperated.

Making our way back to Eastbourne, the trail was just a mowed strip through the meadows.....still hoping for a view of that ocean!

There were still a few flowers blooming:

We made it back to town, wandered through the streets back to our Airbnb. We had to stop and check out the action at the local croquet club:

We spent the early afternoon doing laundry and just hanging out at our Airbnb. Around 4:00, we decided to wander out and find ourselves a pub to have a bit of dinner at. The first place we stopped at was not serving food, but we decided to enjoy an ale and chat with the locals. We met a group of guys, they definitely had been friends for a long time, they were hilarious to listen to - totally giving each other a hard time while they were hanging out and shooting some pool. We had a great time visiting with them.

We might have to come back and visit this little pub again during our time here in Eastbourne. However, we needed food so we moved on. By this time, it was raining quite steady. We broke down and stopped at the Waitrose and purchased umbrellas. We couldn't locate the umbrellas while we were in the store, so we asked a clerk to help us. He not only helped us, he chatted us up about where we were from and how long we were visiting for, he then apologized for the weather! I had to laugh, people are so polite here!

We headed out with our umbrellas, much drier and much happier! Just around the corner from the store, we found a nice little pub that was serving dinner.

We had a lovely meal, lots of vegan and vegetarian options on the menu - a pleasant surprise! We met a nice couple from a small town just outside of Eastbourne and visited with them for a bit. When we left the pub, the weather was clearing and the sky was beautiful.

[robinhoodsbay]

This fishing village sits on the coast of the North York Moors National Park: six miles south of Whitby and 15 miles north of Scarborough. Narrow cobbled streets wind down to a sandy beach with rock pools to splash in. Wander into the pubs, shops and cafés on your way back up. Robin Hood’s Bay has a long history, and you can see it represented in the mosaic on the parapet wall. If you’re feeling energetic (and have a week or two to spare), it’s the eastern starting point for Alfred Wainwright’s 190 mile Coast to Coast walk.

[alisoncarr90]

Watching the footie in pubs in the South Downs National Park is a total pleasure.

[juliemoorenadmore]

Can the fine dining Brighton offers help to cheer me up in the coming days?

We all feel a little down every once in a while, and that’s just how I feel at the moment. I don’t have anything particular that’s causing this issue, just a combination of small molehills that are gradually turning into a mountain. My sister has asked me to go out for a meal with her this weekend, so I’m hoping the type of fine dining Sussex people love will help to get me out of my blue period. I always like catching up with her, so I know this will be a pleasant experience.

http://shepherdanddogpub.co.uk/

We all have our own way of cheering ourselves up, and while mine involves a meal in one of my favourite pubs in the South Downs National Park others choose something a little different. For my next-door neighbour, a round of golf always seems to put a smile on his face. He always says the sight of a lush green fairway and an impeccable selection of bunkers and water hazards cheers him up every time. They say variety is the spice of life, and I hope this will always be the case.

[ericgrantseo-blog]

The best pubs in the South Downs National Park provide the perfect end to a day at the races

[withabackpackandcamera]

July 2nd, 2021

Day 7: Seeing New Things and Old Things on the Way to Vik

This morning, I definitely woke up super lethargic and fatigued. Mostly because of the late night last night but probably due to all the late nights and lack of sleep finally taking a little toll on me. Anyhow, I woke up, less refreshed than I had hoped, and joined my family for a simple breakfast spread in the communal dining area just outside of our guest cabin. 

After breakfast, the late-nighters quickly washed up before packing the car. Goodbye nice, simple cabin with very little amenities. We left the cabin and drove off to visit our first stop of the day: the nearby Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. As expected, when we arrived, the parking lot was full of cars and tour buses and people were already on their way exploring the area and taking boat tours into the lagoon. We walked along the lagoon and took in the views with our eyes and with our cameras. It was great to finally introduce Cynthia and my parents to this really cool and unique lagoon. When we finished up, we drove over to Diamond Beach/Breiðamerkursandur to take a look over there as well. 

The first thing I noticed when we arrived at Diamond Beach/Breiðamerkursandur was how there were a lot less ice chunks lining the shore and in the shallow waters of the beach this visit compared to the last time I stopped by. I wonder if that was a result of global warming or just the fact that this visit, I came during the summer and not the winter. Anyhow, we walked along Breiðamerkursandur and looked at all the ice chunks on the beach and took photos. Minh was also nice enough to grab the camera from me and take some informal engagement photos of me and Cynthia on the black sand. We didn’t need any crazy, cool photos given how impromptu this was so we just took some photos while walking up and down the beach before we headed back to the car. 

Our next stop after Diamond Beach and Breiðamerkursandur was Skaftafell in Vatnajokull National Park, a park that I hadn’t yet visited on my previous trips to Iceland due to time and weather condition constraints. But before making it there, we tried to make a stop at Múlagljúfur Canyon, a cool, lesser known canyon in south Iceland, but ended up aborting because of how difficult it was to get to the canyon and how involved the hike through the canyon would be once we got there. So we continued on to Skaftafell.

Because of how beautifully sunny and warm the weather was today, the park was crowded with local and international tourists alike. The goal of our short visit to Skaftafell was to hike to and finally see Svartifoss, a small but beautiful waterfall that cascades over basalt columns, sort of like Aldeyjarfoss but more different than similar. Since it was looking pretty warm out, I decided to change into a T-shirt and shorts and thank goodness I did that! Because the hike was way longer and way steeper than any of us had imagined. And conditions were way hotter than anticipated. As a result, the hike was way warmer and way more sweat-inducing than we had expected. And I definitely felt the heat, the exhaustion, and the pain of hiking up an incline with a bum heel and a heavy camera bag (because I forgot to empty out the non-essentials).. And for my mom, her bum knee made it much harder to hike up to see Svartifoss. 

But we all (except mom) eventually made it to the end of the 1-1.5 mile climb. My dad didn’t actually hike all the way to the waterfall and, instead, just viewed the waterfall from afar. As for me, Cynthia, and Minh, we hiked down to the waterfall from where we left my dad and spent some time there viewing and photographing the waterfall. Because I wanted to try to capture some decent photos of Svartifoss, I took a little longer and was the last one to start the hike back. I eventually caught up with the family at the Visitor Center, where we took a short break to cool off before we headed back out on the road. 

Before making our way to our evening’s lodging in Vik, we made one last detour to see Fjaðrárgljúfur Canyon. This detour required a much shorter drive than the one we would have made out to Múlagljúfur Canyon but it still involved some F road driving to get there. Luckily, it was short and before we knew it, we were strolling down to the canyon on a short, sort-of-paved path. The canyon was pretty cool to look at from the observation decks (that were built there for safety) but its beauty was really difficult to capture on camera. Because of that, as well as the midges that were flying around us in full force, we only stayed there briefly before hiking back to the car and driving off to Vik.

Once in Vik, the plan was to meet up with Ben and Maggie, great friends of ours who were flying in from Denver for their honeymoon. Because they had arrived earlier than originally expected, we mutually decided to grab dinner together and to move up our planned hangout instead of waiting until later in the evening. As a result, I dropped off most of my family at the restaurant so that they could find a table for the group as I took my dad to check into our accommodations at the Black Beach Suites, located a bit past Vik, so that he could watch a Euro 2020 soccer game he really wanted to watch. 

After I had checked into our much-snazzier-than-expected suite (much more spacious with many more amenities/cooking space than expected) and dropped my dad off to watch soccer, I drove back to Vik to meet up with Ben, Maggie, and the family for dinner. Our first restaurant option, however, had closed by the time everyone had arrived so we had to pivot and find a new place to eat. Luckily, Strondin Pub was located right around the corner and had plenty of space to accommodate everyone. So that’s where we went. Cynthia and I ordered fish and chips and double cheeseburger, and both were scrumptious! We had a fantastic dinner while catching up with Ben and Maggie. It’s always so nice to eat good food as well as see good friends while traveling abroad! 

To end the day, the youngsters in our group decided to visit an attraction with Ben and Maggie so that we could say we explored and briefly traveled together. After dropping off my mom at home, we drove out with Ben and Maggie to see Skógafoss, one of the beautiful and highly visited waterfalls in South Iceland. We arrived at the waterfall as the typically afternoon skies became evening skies (in appearance, as it was actually late evening by the time we got there) and most crowds had left. We walked around the waterfall and took some group photos before climbing up the steep staircase to the top of Skógafoss, where we took in the beautiful sunset blanketing the surrounding areas. What a beautiful evening to see Skógafoss with good friends! 

Once we had completed our visit at Skógafoss, we drove back and, after chatting for a bit longer, dropped Maggie and Ben off at their yurt ground. So nice to briefly catch up with them in Iceland! We headed back home as it was getting late but not before making a roadside stop to hang out with and pet some Icelandic horses who were hanging out behind some fencing located right off the road. Cynthia and Minh had a grand time petting and talking with the horses as the sun set overhead. Because the sun was quickly setting by the time we had arrived at the horses, we didn’t stay too long and soon enough, drove home and washed up for bed. Tomorrow, Cynthia and I have to wake up early for our impromptu Icelandic horse adventure on the black sand beaches of Vik (more to say about that on tomorrow’s post) before continuing on through a heavily-packed last-Saturday itinerary! 

5 Things I Learned/Observed Today:

1. Just in case you didn’t know, the hike to Svartifoss is not as easy as a little stroll on a level, flat sidewalk. In actuality, it’s a 1-1.5 mile hike straight up a canyon or mountain with very few parts that are flat to catch your breath. So if you’re hiking to the waterfall, especially on a hot day, definitely expect some sweating and a little bit of a workout depending on how fit or healthy you are, how hot it is or what you’re wearing, and how much you’re carrying uphill with you. 

2. According to some info placards near Svartifoss, there is a natural reason why columnar jointed basalt forms in hexagonal columns. Supposedly, when lava or magma cools, the process of contraction causes the new rock to split into six-sided columns. These columns always form at right-angles to the cooling surface, where heat loss is the greatest. The reason why these columns are hexagonal is because the fracture pattern with 120 degree corners is most efficient for stress release. Nature, so natural at engineering. 

3. Supposedly, Justin Bieber did some really stupid stuff (by being disrespectful to Iceland’s beautiful nature) in some music video of his that he was essentially banned from Iceland. Good riddance. 

4. Lupines are purple wildflowers that thrive and grow in colder, harsher climates like on mountains and in Iceland. Of all the places in Iceland we drove through, south Iceland definitely had the most impressive lupine fields. You literally drive through a sea of lupines when driving through south Iceland. Everywhere you look, you see lupines blanketing the field all the way to the foot of the mountains and glaciers. So gorgeous!

5. The town of Vik in south Iceland has changed a ton since the first time I visited back in 2013. Not only is it much more developed with more housing options, like hostels and suites (like the Black Beach Suites), but there are also a lot more grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants, especially ones that are open until later in the evening. A much better stop for tourists now that tourism has changed the landscape in Vik compared to what it was 8-10 years ago. Again, amazing how tourism drives change!