2007

Making holiday plans for 2007. In 2003 Mum and I went to Switzerland and Mum said she enjoyed that travelling holiday the most. Had a good look at my map of Switzerland and those Swiss Rail Journeys Videos made me look to the Northern corner of the country. It can be very expensive so the first thing to do is to get acccomodation in advance. Luckily the Swiss have several websites including www.bnb.ch, which lists inexpensive accomodation on a interactive map. After sending few emails I got a reply from Zurich of 2 rooms with Breakfast for less than 35 euros per night. Also made sure it was easy to get from the railway station. In fact Zurich Trams go right in front on the B and B so no long walks back after excoursions. Zurich itself is supposed to be boring but I will make my own mind of that, its at the very least well located and its built on a lake with several boat trips to other towns. Also its within an hour of Lucerne, St Gallen, Lake Constance and other less well known places. Booked the Airplane tickets already to get a good price, 150.00 return. I used to work for The Red Cross and the fare to Switzerland used to be 600 pounds. That was until Ryanair kicked Aer Lingus into reality. havnt booked them yet but buying a 'Swiss Pass' for 200 euro gives a weeks travel on all Trains, Buses, trams, funiculars and even Boats all over Switzerland. Food can be very expensive so as last time will do our own snacks and for example in Lucerne we found a roof Top Cafe-Restaurant that was more than adequate and still less than about 10 euro for a lunch time meal. I must post some more photos of the last visit to Switzerland.

Porto Traditional Boats

Cafe World

The Majestic Cafe was opened in the 1920's and hasn't changed much since. The dark red leather seats are well worn but still perfectly comfortable, The tables also seemed original, unlike the famous Bewleys Cafes in Dublin the tables dont wobble!. There are a number of similar cafes in Porto. For those looking for Bars or Public Houses, Porto doesn't have many. Parts of Porto are very run down, some Shops/Offices are in a ruinous state and in need of renovation. Much of the roads, and footpaths have been replaced and perhaps the many ruined buildings will be next. Much of the inner city is a Unesco World Heritage site and perhaps property has to be restored using traditional building and perhaps individuals cant afford expensive renovation or restoration. More to follow