I spent almost six weeks in the UK from August 3, 2006
until September 11, yes September 11. It didn't ring a bell when I made
the reservation and I am not spooky about things like that, but it turned out to
be a very bad day to fly because of the intensity of security. The
recent terrorist activities with liquids didn't help either, but I made it back
although it took almost 26 hours from bed to bed to do it.
I took over 500 photos, but only selected about 100 to
publish. Even that number is too many for most folks so I have broken the
trip down to seven segments:
The week of arrival
The week I arrived, Rachel and her family were there to meet me. Rachel
was a Rotary Youth Exchange student who came to stay with us for a while in
1984. We have been friends ever since and through her, I have become
friends with her family and friends in South Yorkshire. Pictures include
Rachel and her family, my hosts, an outing to York
Around the Vicarage, my hosts
I thought some might like to see the Vicarage, its gardens, the church and
church yard.
Around Doncaster, my home base
I am intrigued by the contrast between old and new so there are some pictures
to contemplate. Also, we think of our country as a melting pot, but
viewing the pictures at the Doncaster market you will see a great diversity of
people and cultures. A sub segment of this is the tour of the Mansion
House, which is one of only three built in England as the home and seat of
government for the Lord Mayor of the city.
Ireland
Nine days in Ireland in four different bed and breakfast accommodations.
I met some nice people and spent the major part of four days in constant
contact with them. I toured the Ring of Kerry, The Dingle Peninsula, and
the Burren to name a few. There are pictures of people and scenery.
Wales
A land of enchantment. My host, Eve, drove me over to Wales where we
spent three days and two nights. One of those nights was with Rachel's
Uncle David and Aunt Ingrid in a beautiful B&B and lovely location. A
highlight of the trip was a visit to the Centre for Alternative Technology.
You may be surprised as I was that Wales was concerned about respecting the
environment many years ago and built a small village of exhibits to teach
people how to minimize their "ecofootprint."
Churches and Castles
What is the UK without Cathedrals and Castles? Some of the pictures
didn't turn out as well as I would have liked, but hope they give an idea of
the grandeur and majesty.
Travels around England These are pictures taken on day trips and
overnights around England.