The Sands of Le Cap d'Agde Beach

Le Cap d'Agde

We went in May and it was gloriously hot.Staying in a friends apartment at the southern end of the 'Richelieu' harbour.Overlooking the Aqua park,harbour and of course the sea.And just a short enjoyable stroll from all the bars and restaurants.

The beach at this end had lovely pale yellow sand,and it was hopping hot to the shoreline.The water was nice and shallow,so family friendly.You get a 'Count of Monte Cristo' view of the 'Fort de Brescou',just off from the beach.Right on the beach close to the dunes was a little cafe on stilts with sunlougers.We quenched ourselves with 'panache'(shandy) and 'kir'(white wine with cassis).Oh!So very French of us.There's shower points at the gaps through the dunes from the beach.

While at the Northern end it's volcanic black and rocky.Great for Diving and snorkeling.With a Snorkel safari trail guiding you to display all the various little creatures and life around there.Perfect for a safe exploration of the shallow water life.

All the water sports are on offer.Especially Windsurfing.Since this little Cap does get its fair amount of wind.Though not sandblast strength,so it is still good for sunbathing.

Le Cap d'agde is very cycle and walking friendly.As it has cycle and footpaths leading off everywhere,giving you an abundance of choice of many scenic journeys.It is indeed a pleasure just to lazily stroll/cycle around the place.All of this is interlaced with green parks off from the beach.

Despite being much aligned in many books that I have read.We had a relaxing and very enjoyable time here.

Fun in the Cap d'Agde sun

From Sunrise to Sunset,Beachy Head to Birling Gap

A good walk,short drive or bus journey from the centre of Eastbourne is Beachy Head.One of Britain's highest chalk cliff walks,and a National Park to boot.With far reaching views over the sea,and from Eastbourne stretching all the way to Hastings.Which is indeed a sight to see at Sunrise.

You can also reach it by walking along the beach at low tide.Though be careful of the tides!You don't want to be trapped by an oncoming tide.

Beachy Head is so picturesque it has been used as a location for many movies,from James Bond to Harry Potter.

However it is a beauty spot with a dark side.With ghost stories and unfortunately a suicide spot.There's little crosses dotted along the cliffs edge.In memory to these lost souls.

Back to a lighter side.If your in need of refreshment there's a pub next to the main car parks.

If you're up here during Airborne.Which is again the biggest FREE airshow in the country.You will experience the thrill of the planes screeching just overhead.

Walk,cycle,drive or whatever all the way around this lush,windswept tree peninsular.Passing by a lighthouse and Para gliders to Birling Gap.With yes another pub(and Hotel).Down on the beach another natural phenomena.A white rocky reef,visible at low tide.

Time it right for the Sunset,and you will be in for a Sunset spectacular.As the red orange sun sizzles into the icy blue sea.

Blogs about Beachy Head

Some good Beachy Head photos

Heviz Hotel review

Rogner Hotel and spa Lotus Therme

Passing on by the Heviz lake for the time being,coming from Lake Balaton.We entered the Hotels grounds through a security checkpoint(To keep out the riff raff).Alongside the road was a canal brimming with water lillies.With a gardener up to his waist in weeding,wearing chest high fisherman wellies.Passing through the vast car park crammed full of BMW's and Mercedes with German number plates.

I drove straight up the hill,around a little roundabout at the top.Plonking our little red Clio right in front of the large reception glass doors.Then striding into the huge expanse of the welcoming lobby.A fresh cooling contrast to the stickiness outside.

"Guten Tag"(in Hungary!)

Surprised to be greeted in German.This would become a common occurrence,not only in the Hotel,but in this part of Hungary.The Hotel is Austrian owned,so well marketed over there it seemed.As it was overflowing with our Germanic neighbours.I was the only British person,and my wife 1 of only a handful of Hungarians.(Other than the staff,who spoke impeccable German,but were relieved to converse in Hungarian and practice English).

The receptionists face immediately opened up.1st after my feeble attempts at Hungarian,and realising I was English.So she promptly re spun the introduction in English.Then when my wife stepped in,she was overjoyed to speak in Hungarian.

The porter who had helped us with our bags to our room,didn't even wait for a tip.Though I had been fumbling for it in 1 of my bags.Honest!

Our room was larger than our studio flat in Brighton.Complete with a King size bed,white cotton linen and white curtains draped over the French windows leading onto the balcony,overlooking the pool and gardens(the Hotels main focus).We immediately opened up the doors,made ourselves 1 of the complimentary healthy teas.And lounged on the comfy study chairs on the balcony(a lovely warm sun trap)gazing upon the view.Ahh!!!

Since we had arrived late.We decided to forgo the pleasure of the pool for the time being.Instead just to relax here,before showering and getting tarted up for the evening.

Beginning with a complimentary drink in the Cocktail bar(Rude to say "no").Then moving on to the restaurant,with both an inside and outside area.We stayed outside to enjoy the early evening.The warmth of the dying sun on our skin,accompanied with a slight fresh breeze.Sampling the local wines and the 'a la carte'menu.With a wide selection of Continental and Hungarian specialities.I had just missed out on the Balaton fish(carp) soup.Though they reassured me that I would have it tomorrow.And this I surely did.Although the restaurant was almost full to capacity,during our little stay.It never felt crowded and noisy.There was a Hungarian Gypsy band playing.Though not coming around to your table,until you paid them to leave.Like what you might find in some too touristy place in Budapest.

The following morning we were awoken before our alarm.By conversations down by the pool,since we had left our window open.Though we had wanted to wake up early to enjoy our only full to the max.This seemed a bit too extreme.I stared at the time through sleepy eyes.Don't people realise they're on holiday.Dragging myself away from the comfort of the firm bed and warmth of my wife.With a coffee in hand,to force myself awake.To see who these early risers were.Naturally they were middle ages Germans performing their early morning exertions(exercising,dancing in the pool and singing).More energy than me!

Venturing down for Breakfast.With once again a bountiful of provisions on hand.We sat outside in the full heat of the morning sun,dripping with sweat.

This spurred us into the main activity of the day.Enjoying the pool.All the thermal water coming from Heviz itself.We set up station on a couple of sun loungers.My wife went off for more drinks.While I dived in for instant refreshment.The pool was round like a roundabout with a little island in the middle,spruced up with flowers.To one side a swimming channel led off under a footbridge to the indoor pool and spa.Beyond the pool area were the grounds like a country park.Paths leading off,bushes and trees abounded and sun loungers scattered everywhere.

We stayed outside until about midday.Lounging and daydreaming,interspersed with swimming spells.While sipping a few non and alcoholic beverages(were not alcoholics you know!)

Then we swam through to the inside.Entering into a blue tiled pool with a fresher feel.At the head of it,a raised jacuzzi.While to the side,around the corner were 2 more thermal pools.The furthest being the hottest.There were a handful of people enjoying the various sensations in each pool.Behind the jacuzzi,through a series of doors was the sauna section.With a variety on offer(Swedish,aromatherapy,colour therapy and a Turkish steam bath).Through another door,we stumbled upon a nudist colony.Hmmm!Lots of middle aged well fed naked people.We decided to forgo these pleasures,and instead limiting our indulgence with the saunas.

Then swimming back outside to laze by the pool again.Before walking to the Heviz lake.

Back at the Hotel and gorging on another dinner(fish soup).Staying up till quite late enjoying the warm summer air next to the pool.While continuing with our tour of the local wines.The only noisy distraction,believe it or not.Was a loud Japanese group playfully jumping in and out of the pool.But in a very polite wayof course.

We awoke the next day,with that dreaded feeling that our'Escape had come to an end'.And the realities of life have captured us again.So with a longing in us to stay and do it all over again.We had to leave.But until next time!

Trip advisor reviews

Blissful at Heviz

Gently floating around Heviz(healthy water)lake is indeed a blissful feeling.Soaking up the August suns rays while admiring the more than picture perfect surreal 360 degree view as we bobbed along.Accompanying the fine steam rising from the lake(in Winter,thicker more like a fog),hundreds of tiny little birds darting and dive bombing across the lake.

We had eagerly descended down some steps into the lake from the main building.With big black doughnut shaped inflatables.Half expecting a chill from the water(though we had been reassured it was around 28 degrees),but not at all.Instead being greeted with more like a warm and comforting bath.

We lazily swam around.Well as best as you can when you have a big inflatable wrapped around you.After about 20 minutes,we started to feel a lovely warm tingling sensation in our arms and legs.Having begun in our feet 1st.This as well as occasionally feeling little bubbles rising up from the depths.

The lakes surface was densely scattered with many varieties of water Lillie's.Native white,Egyptian and Indian red water Lillie's which had been brought from India in 1898.They have a slight sweet aroma.With their long thick stalks extending deep down.Being very careful not to bump into them,as they are protected.So your not allowed to pick off the flowers and stick them in your hair.As a group of Italians had done.Though they declared that it was already broken.

The main building that spans the lake is more Asian than European looking,with pagoda like spires atop at various junctures and at its extremities.Inside you will find the changing rooms,along with all manner of spa,massage and medicinal treatments available(ours was the floating option).

Around the lakes edge on its grassy banks are holiday chalets,changing rooms and cafes in the same oriental style.

Heviz is near the north western end of Lake Balaton,which is south west from Budapest.It is the largest biologically active natural thermal lake in Europe.The lakes source(spring) is actually a geyser,while the lake is its upside down crater.This water flow completely replenishing itself everyday,and along with its mud is slightly radioactive.But don't worry,you won't glow in the evening.

Its medicinal benefits have been known and used for centuries.At least since the Romans.Rehabilitating and preventing Rheumatism,locomotor,muscle and nervous system disorders.Even Gynaecological problems.

After an hour more or less,we felt tingly,warm and heavy all over.With the sun beginning its fall to night,feeling the warmth of the day fading.Giving way to the Summer evenings slight chill.This was our cue to unfortunately leave and return to our Hotel.We were also bloody hungry.

So if you would like feel at least 10 years younger,but without the TV coverage.Take the plunge!Go and dive into Heviz!You will at least feel blissfully relaxed.And maybe this is the main key to its health giving properties anyway.

Health and happiness at Heviz in Hungary

Review of Heviz

Ghosts in Brighton

As we arrived back,late at night at the 'Iron duke' pub,Where we were staying. We heard an eerie inhuman screech,coming from the dark passageway next to the church,which was opposite the pub.With its clock stuck just before 12.

We decided to have a nervous look into the dark depths.Just to check that nobody was in trouble.Finding nothing and not hearing anything else.

So confused,we went back into the pub.A little while later.Our other 2 mates arrived.Immediately and excitedly repeating exactly the same story as ours.What on earth was it?

The following evening,only 3 out of 4 of us returned.Upon arriving into our shared room of 4 beds.I went to visit the bathroom.

After coming back,my mates said that the light was still on.We could see from outside our window,the bathroom window.As it was diagonally opposite.So I went back and switched the light off again.Only to find out again upon my return,that the light was on again.(This was strange,because there was nobody else staying at the pub at that time).

Getting very suspicious now,but reluctantly venturing back.I also had a little wander around to see if anybody was lurking around.Nothing!Double checking to make really sure that this damn light was off.Yes it definitely was.So confidently strolling back to our room.But surprisingly the light still shone.Well,I'm not going back out there again.

Obviously,this was all very strange indeed.Thinking that somebody might be playing a prank on us or something else.

It was a warm August evening,so our window was open.Just in case somebody/thing tried to enter in through.We lined up a load of empty cans on the window sill.So they would crash off and alert us to this possible attack.

After chatting for a while.We turned off our room's light.But just a short time later,we heard slow creaky footsteps in the hallway,coming from the direction of the bathroom.Creeping along the length of our room and reaching our door.Then the door knob frantically being shook,as somebody trying to get in(we had already locked it,naturally).Eyes wide open and staring at one another.We nervously asked who it was,but no reply.There was just silence and no footsteps away.Nothing!

After a long time waiting for something,anything.But still nothing.We pushed one of the beds up against the door.However with sleep finally catching up with us,we started to drop off.When the cans crashed onto the floor.Phew!It was just the wind?

Once again drifting off.Then waking up with alarm as the door was forcibly pushed open and the bed shoved back into the room.'Women and children 1st,Sacrifice Dave(he was the closest),they're finally coming for us.No valour,out of the window.However it was just the 4th member of our group returning.Bastard!

We explained what had happened to the owners in the morning.They knew nothing about it,and stated again that we were the only people staying there at the moment.We obviously spent our remaining few nights there wearily.However nothing else happened.This though had been a very strange few nights,and to this day we don't know what it was.A ghost?Maybe.

This happened a long time ago.Way before the present owners.As you can see in my photo of the more intact west pier.

Though apparently Brighton and Sussex does have its fair share of ghosts.There is even a ghost walk and ghost hunters.You can even find a very good book on the subject called Haunted Brighton.

The lanes ghost walk review

Northern Cyprus dive

After asking in the hotel about diving.I had been introduced to Tuncay.A well built and friendly ex Turkish special forces,who had just opened his own dive school.So he had all brand new shiny equipment.We had agreed to dive early the following morning,meeting at the the outside pool.

Starting off with a dive into the March Winter cold pool.One way to wake up!Then performing all the regular pre dive checks.I even left on a pair of socks,when I got kitted up as he had recommended due to the cold water.

We strode off down the beach to the waters edge.Fins on and entering in backwards,a short way.Then turning with face mask on and regulator in,swimming straight into the light surf.Gradually sinking as the beach sloped down between the rocky reefs.Practicing controlling my buoyancy with my breath.

We paused next to one of the reefs,as he pointed out an Octopus hiding in a crevice.Finally noticing its bulging eye staring out at me.Then he picked up a clam,what the Octopus was probably waiting for.Showing it to me and then handing it to me.Ooh!That's nice!But with one powerful pulse,off it went.D'oh!

Continuing on and floating over a deep drop,before the next hill.We then descended to the deepest part of the dive at 13 metres.When I started gasping for air.It was getting harder and harder to breath the cold dry air.Fortunately I had a good buddy.He looked back at me,noticing that something was up.After seeing me give the out of air signal.Immediately came over,giving me his spare regulator.While checking on mine.There was plenty of air!After fiddling with it,air started flowing again.Plonking it back in,checking I was and everything okay.We continued on.

After swimming around for awhile,noticing all the little fishes darting around.He suddenly grabbed hold of me,and looked down.What the hell was going on?Something beneath us?While at the same time we were ascending,until finally breaking the surface.My weight belt had fallen off!He went back for it,while I bobbed about.Even my wife had spotted us,wondering what was going on,while having a drink on the hotels terrace.

He arrived back.Not with the belt but a boulder.For me to hold onto,helping to weigh me down.So we could head back,while still underwater.Then once again my air supply started to falter.He was right next to me,so quickly checked and fiddled with it.It started flowing again.So we decided to go for a more direct route back over the rocky reef,with my boulder in hand.

Finally reaching the beach,but leaving the boulder behind.Bloody hell!It was heavy.I couldn't even carry it out of the water.We then trundled back up the beach to the Hotel.

This had definitely been an interesting 1st dive after passing my Padi Open water course.

Our Hotel was the Palm Beach Hotel,an Art deco affair.Which was in Famagusta,on the Turkish part of Cyprus.Right next to the border.Literally here,a barbed wire fence cut along the beach,continuing on into the sea.Just a few 100 metres away from the Hotel.On the other side of the fence 'Varosha'.A ghost(resort)town.An entire long sweeping sandy Hotel lined beach.Out of reach!Not a single soul,apart from a few Turkish officers and patrolling soldiers.While even on this side,we were also next to disused Hotels and apartment blocks.

The best travel guide on North Cyprus I found was from Bradt.As for background reading on Cyprus as a whole you can't beat Lawrence Durrell's 'Bitter Lemons of Cyprus'.

Famagusta-history of a 'prince of walled cities'

Siofok at Lake Balaton

Arriving at the popular resort town of Siofok on Lake Balaton's southern shore.(It's the largest freshwater lake in Europe outside of Scandinavia).Which is about 1 and a half hours drive south west from Budapest.Finding our way easily to the Aranypart(golden beach).After parking(free).We quickly get changed in a most undignified English manner(with no changing room),and hurry off to the lake.Due to our urgent need for total refreshment,after a long hot drive.A dive into the lake.

A wide stone paved promenade runs along the lakes edge,with boulders of various sizes sinking into the water.Interspersed with steps to enter the lake from.To the other side,a grassy park area dotted with trees for sunbathing,picnics and social gathering.

The southern shore is popular for families,because it's shallower and steepens more gradually than its opposite number.Right close to the shore it's only about half a metre deep,and for up to about 500 metres out before you really need to swim.The whole lake itself is not very deep(averaging 3.2 metres),and so often freezes over during the Winter.

The view of the promenade,notwithstanding the blocks of holiday flats(a mixture of modern with communist era).Looks like many Croatian town seafronts(paved promenades lining the shores,with no natural beach).

Hungary has a Mediterranean feel to it.Cafe culture abounds in the cities and towns.While here,a bathing culture,posing along the promenade and people watching.Are the main activities enjoyed by the full spectrum of ages.

Its nicely busy,not overcrowded.For it's only midweek.Though naturally busier and nosier on weekends.When the young folk come in their droves.To not only enjoy the lake but also for Siofoks party scene.While with none of the noise and drunken groups which you would find,say on Brighton beach.

So 1st things 1st.We find our little patch(with shade),next to a tree.Dump our stuff,and ask a nice couple to look after it.And head off to cool down.Striding off(posing!)along the promenade to the closest steps that take us to the warm,shallow and smooth water.Ahhh!!!The water is about 27-28 degrees(Celsius),which is about average through summer.

The waters smoothness is apparently due to its high levels of hydro carbonates,magnesium.calcium and sulphates.It's also drinkably clean.This is because of lengthy and expensive environmental work.Which is checked by experts from outside of the country,and published by the German automobile club(ADAC).It's also for this reason that motorboats are forbidden on the lake.Though water skiing is still possible by a means of electrical traction,available at Siofok.

Naturally all water sports are possible.Including sailing,windsurfing and fishing(carp,catfish and pike-perch).It's also possible to cycle around the entire lake.

After a refreshing swim and a frolic with my wife.We reluctantly head back to our little patch,to dry off.And to indulge in my wife's hobby,sunbathing.While people watching all the beautiful people posing past and daydreaming in the suns rays.

Balaton tourism

Turkey in Europe!

Here comes trouble?

The EU has agreed to open its doors and allow Turkey into its fold.At least in talks with them for to join our club.

However Turkey has already spent a considerable amount of time in EU and non-EU Europe.Though this was way back in the 15Th and 16Th centuries.Turkey under Suleiman the magnificent and Mehmet the II,got as far as pitching their tents up at the gates of Vienna.At this point they had under their domain all of the Balkan countries and a large part of Hungary(The middle third of its territory.However Hungary as we know it now,is a third of its total size at that time).

They ruled over Hungary for almost 160 years.This was of course as an occupying force.Not as it would be now,as a friendly relationship.

You can still find a few remainders left of this earlier Turkey inclusion.Some of them negative.As in the depopulation and deforestation.Especially notable in the Great plain.

At 12 o'clock everyday church bells ring out across the country.In celebration of the victory over the Turks at Nandorfehervar in 1456,today Belgrade in Serbia.Marking the halt of the Muslim advance and the saving of Europe.

For architecture,the best examples remaining are in Pecs(see my previous blog).Plus a couple in Eger,which is in the North-east.Here you will find a minaret and thermal baths from this time(still in use today).The castle bears the scars of 2 sieges.One Hungary won in 1552.The inspiration for the legendary Egri bikaver(Bulls blood wine).Because after downing it and staining their beards.They fought with a renewed strength as if they had drunk the blood of bulls.Also for the popular book Egri csillagok(in English 'The eclipse of the crescent moon').However the sequel in 1596 Turkey won.

They left behind,notably in Budapest a few fine remaining bath houses,which again are still in use.As the Turkish enthusiastically took up the bathing culture from where the Romans had left off.And then the Hungarians after them.

The Paprika,which is one of the popular symbols of Hungary.Was possibly brought to Europe with the Turks.

The biggest impact from Turkey,though in fact the entire western world can thank them for.You can find in every high street,a little Turkish delight,but I'm not talking about the late night kebab shops.Indeed in every household.For its the coffee that we consume in copious amounts and the cafe culture that we love so much,that Turkey introduced us to.

But an old Hungarian saying goes"Jon a fekete leves".Which translates literally into"Here comes the black soup".The black soup being the thick Turkish coffee,but really means "here come the Turks",or rather Trouble.

The effects of Turkish rule in Hungary.

A walk through Pecs and history

Pecs is located in the south-east of Hungary.

It was an Autumn night full of a crisp chill.With a slight atmospheric mist in the air shrouding the baroque street lamps.Giving the place an oldie world romantic feel.With the smell of falling leaves,and the crunching noise as we walked on them,along with little twigs and chestnuts upon the dry cobbled road.

From just above the Szechenyi ter(square).Which is the heart of the Belvaros(inner(old)town),and contains Pecs's 'Turkish' symbol.The big Mosque church
positioned at the top of it.

We started our walk along Kaptalan utca((the street of museums)(Including the work of artists,such as Zsolnay and Vasarely).We followed this little bendy street down and happened upon an old fashioned Borozo(wine drinking house),in other words a rough and ready pub.Unlike in England where you possibly wouldn't enter.Though that would depend upon your interests in extreme sports or not.However this little drinking establishment was rather popular especially with the younger folk.

Pecs has a large youthful population.Due to the presence of the University(which was the 1st in Hungary in 1367),and the University Hospital.

After this interlude.We found ourselves on a pedestrianised chestnut tree lined,almost boulevard wide-like path.Leading to the wide open Dom ter(cathedral square).The Szekesegyhaz(cathedral),a massive light brown stoned,4 towered neo-Romanesque building adorned the top of it.On the left the Bishops palace and on the right the Korsos sirkamra(jug mausoleum).A 4th Century roman tomb site.So called due to the paintings inside of vines and a large drinking cup.

We meandered up to the big iron gates,guarding the cathedrals equally large doors.The gates ironwork was covered in vines,showing the holy importance for wine in this part of the country.We were hesitating about entering,via opening these basketball ring high heavy wooden doors.Because we could hear that there was a service going on and we didn't want to noisily gate crash into the middle of it.When out of nowhere a woman materialised and assured us that it would be okay.This intervention,seemed to be a good sign.So with a renewed faith we boldly opened the squeaky looking doors.Surprisingly not even a single squeak.We then had to gingerly open yet another door and creep into a full house and standing room only.

Standing with our backs against the wall and next to an old man,who also appeared to have sinned and turned up late.Facing the inner expanse and a row of thick white stone columns stretching high up to the ceiling.Where we gazed upon the bright pictures of the apostles,saints and Latin lettering.Upon the ceiling and running along the top of the walls adjoining it.Being Catholic,the place was naturally shiny and full of gold.

Coming from the dark side,I'm a protestant.It was interesting to see after the service finished.Everybody shaking hands with one another,sadly missing in our churches.Then lining up to take the holy bread,and finally exiting but just before at the holy water well.Stopping to cross themselves with it,quickly half kneeling and praying.

After making our prayers,we retired cleansed.To be greeted with a lit up panorama of Pecs from this viewpoint on top of the hill.With nothing blocking our view across the downward sloping expanse of the square.

Our lazy stroll led us to Szent Istvan ter(Saint Stephens square).Tree lined and with a stone fountain in the middle,pouring water into its chain of pools circling it.Complete with criss crossing paths,wooden benches and flower beds.

At the top right hand corner is the remains of a 4th Century Roman Christian tomb site.Including the foundations of a little chapel in the shape of an iron,only with the peak rounded off.At the base,is the entrance to the underground tombs.

Continuing into Ferencesek utcaja.Which is a lovingly restored lightly cobbled pedestrianised street.With old styled buildings full of modern little shop windows and cafe bars.Also little courtyards leading you to other tempting cash depositing enterprises.This being nighttime is my favourite to go shopping,but not my wife's, as the shops were closed.

Passing by the ruins of a little Turkish bath house.Which contained 2 rooms,with stone benches skirting the inside of the walls.In the centre of one of them was the base from where the steam would have come from.While in the other was now a working drinking water fountain.

We strolled up to Jokai Mor ter.Most streets in Hungary are named after famous Hungarians.Namely Kings,writers and poets.The main attraction here is a big American/Mexican bar and restaurant.

Returning back to the Szechenyi ter,but at the bottom of it.Which gives you a panoramic view of the entire square.White baroque buildings,including the magnificent looking county hall and a big cafe bar.Though especially the majestic Mosque church.This was in the Turkish time a mosque,afterwards fortunately not destroyed but converted into a church,which duty it still performs.It was all lit up,illuminating the big light green dome.It still has all the old brown
brickwork and the Islamic geometric designs on its windows.The cherry on top being the Turkish crescent moon on the spire,with a Christian cross plonked on it.

Making our way to the other side,passing the statue celebrating Hunyadi Janos.Looking very heroic upon a proud and graceful horse.He was responsible for thrashing the Turks in 1456 at Nandorfehervar.Then an important city within Hungary,but now Belgrade in Serbia.This was obviously before they came back with a vengeance 70 years later to conquer a big part of Hungary.

A short walk down from this square is the Zsolnay kut(fountain).With golden green bull heads spouting forth water into its pools below.

However we continued along Kiraly utca (Kings street).Another restored pedestrianised street,full of shops and restaurants.Though these tend to be on the larger side,more expensive and appear to have more of an American feel to them.Of course there's the ubiquitous Irish pub.

However we had reached the purpose of our walk and what we had been hungrily searching for.Very good,make that homemade Hungarian food,cheap and within a traditional place.We found Istvan pince(Steve's cellar),on a little street down some steps off Kiraly utca.It's sparsely decorated with stone walls,wooden tables and benches.It was rough,ready and friendly.With a good atmosphere of old men drinking Palinka(a very strong Hungarian spirit),beer and in heated discussions.

My wife going for massive slabs of turkey breast fried in breadcrumbs,complete with an equally sizable portion of chips and veg.Complimented with a glass of local red wine.I however had the Gulyas soup(goulash).In Hungary its a soup not a stew as in England.Which came with doorstep chunks of bread and spicy dry red paprika to squeeze into the soup.This livens it up somewhat.All welcomely washed down with a lovely cold local beer.

Another favourite place of mine is the Dom restaurant and bar.Located at the top of Szechenyi ter.Serving delicious Tejfeles-citromos-tarkonyos borjuleves(creamy lemon tarragon veal ragu soup).

Pecs web site

Reborn in Eastbourne

Eastbourne is not just for old people

It's for younger ones as well.All ages can enjoy Eastbourne.One of the reasons why it does appeal is for the weather.It's the sunniest spot in Britain,and has been a seaside resort since the 19Th century.With many lovely beach chalets,not huts,down on the promenade.

Starting on the west part of the seafront,Holywell.Closest to Beachy Head(Which is a national park right on the doorstep).This is the hilly,lush area.With lots of walking trails,gardens,a little secret park(the Italian gardens),cafes both on top of the cliff and down by the beach.This has the look of the Caribbean,especially when the tide is in and there's a surf over the reef.

The residential area here is called the Meads and the Lower Meads.This is one of the most picturesque parts of town,with its tree lined roads.It has the feel of a village just outside of the town,with its own shops.Along with 2 excellent pubs,'the pilot' and my favourite 'the Ship Inn'.You will find the Hydro hotel here right on top of a hill,on the seafront.

Following the seafront East towards town.It slopes down and gets less hilly.With all the hotels adoring the seafront,and top of the bill.The Grand Hotel,a white wedding cake of a building.

Just before it flattens out,there's the Wish tower.Which is a relic from the Napoleonic times.Also with a cafe with direct sea views.Looking back to Beachy Head from here.Is one of my favourite views.Again reminding me of sunnier climates,for instance the south of France.

This is the busiest part of the beach leading to the Pier.With cafe bars just off the beach and up on the promenade.This is where the beach is less rocky.Whereas on the west part you have to be careful with the sharp reef.This you will see,when the tides out.But also explains why its a well kept surfing secret.

Away from the seafront here,is the town centre.With all the usual suspects in shops,restaurants and bars.Mixing it up with its own local independents.Including the Enterprise centre and the Labyrinth.Also Little Chelsea,which is the business(solicitors,accountants and estate agents abound) part of town.

Back to the seafront.You will find the Carpet gardens and even palm trees.Continue along the promenade which runs along the entire length of the seafront.You will find yourself at the North and South Harbours.A large residential marina.Once again reminding you of the Med.Complete with water features,bridges and pathways.A modern Venice.At the Waterfront is the bar and restaurant area.Where you can relax,wine and dine while enjoying the views of the marina.Naturally with all the boats and yachts you could wish for,along with millionaire homes.There are also Boat trips and Diving from here.

Between the pier and the Harbour you will find the Sailing club and Spray water sports centre which is the Windsurfing center.Just off from here there's the Princess park.

Amazingly you can also go skiing and snowboarding,just a short trip out of town.At Knockhatch.Also a couple of spots nearby where you can go parasailing.

There's wine tasting at the English Wine centre.Next to Drusillas zoo and the old village of Alfriston.Cider tasting amongst all the local shops at Middle farm.

You don't have to go far to enjoy Unspoiled nature.Beachy Head with its iconic white cliffs and lighthouse peering out over the sea.This leads very nicely to Birling gap,one of the best places to watch the sunset.Another beauty spot,the Seven sisters country park.Is one of my favourite natural attractions in England.With it's serpentine river,frequented by kayakers.It's also very popular for families,hikers and cyclists.A great place to eat here is the Golden Gallion.Down on the beach is the famous beach cottage dream scene from the film 'Attonement'.

Amongst the events on offer.Is Airborne,the biggest free airshow in the country.And Tennis.Which is the warm up prior to Wimbledon.This was just the women's,but from 2009,they are being joined by the men.

For history enthusiasts,along with a collection of Napoleonic fortresses dotted along the coast.Just a short trip away from the Harbour is Pevensey castle.It dates from the Roman times.In fact its big walls are from then.It is also the spot of perhaps the most traumatic event in our History.The landing of a certain William the Conqueror in 1066.Plus the 1st Norman church.

So as you can see.Life is to be enjoyed in Eastbourne.No matter your age.

Snorkelling with sharks

On a holiday in Thailand on Koh phi phi.I found myself in a long tail boat(a long rowing boat with an outboard motor at the end of its long rudder).Speeding along the dark but clear and boat free water.In the low light of the early morning,with my local guide.

I'm feeling a little anxious about the upcoming event which I've landed myself in.I'm going snorkelling with black tip reef sharks.And at feeding time!

The boat slows up as we reach the aptly named 'shark point'(a tiny outcrop of rocks barely jutting out from the water).I'm peering into the water,searching for black shapes,and scanning the surface for those famous fins.Nothing yet!

Then,still feeling nervous.I follow the guide in,half expecting another shock to go with the cold water.However I'm fully armed with my disposable underwater camera,so I feel really safe if attacked.My nervousness now changes into a curiosity mixed with increasing confidence.

I'm searching intently all around me,into the hazy,dark blue distance and the dark unknown.Half expecting a shark to come bolting out of it.Of course I'm checking behind as well,just in case,they try and sneak up on me.

Were about 20 feet above the reef,which is unfortunately completely white,and so dead.One of the not so paradisaical features.

Were floating on the surface and occasionally fining around.While both of my hands are firmly on the camera.Held close to my chin,ready to take my action shots.Like a nervous soldier,prepared to let rip with his machine gun at the slightest movement.

Trying not to move too much.As the guide informed me that these sharks are really quite nervous.Not at all like the aggressive beasts we believe them to be.So much so,that if I move my arms suddenly about.They won't bite them off,instead they'll just dart off.

Suddenly the guide points to my left.I'd been staring off to my right.I turn to look.Nothing!Feeling a bit jaded,like being picked last for a school team.Again he points off into another direction.Of course,completely opposite from where I was searching.I quickly turn to look,hoping this time,but again nothing.Is he playing games with me?Pretending,to excuse his fee?Or are the sharks just teasing me,like some sharkey game of hide and seek?

However the next time he points,I do see a glimpse of something gliding off into the eerie distance.Maybe were not alone now and the sharks are getting used to our alien presence within their home.

Finally I do see a shark,and I don't need it to be pointed out to me.Even though it's still in the blurry distance.I'm starting to get used to this game.

Now there's more sharks,seemingly circling us.I guess,checking us out.With a few beginning to get closer.Including creeping up on me from behind and very close.Also from wherever I'm not looking.All the time getting closer but not personal yet.

I'm hoping to get a picture perfect shot of one coming right at me.And here comes my chance as a very brave one is indeed coming straight for me!Surprisingly I'm not frightened,instead just absorbed in and amazed at these wonderful,intriguing animals.Also helped by the fact that I haven't been bitten yet.What a great shot this will b...Git!It veers off just before my finger presses down.

There's even more of them mulling around us now.We've become quite an attraction to them now or just an oddity.However every time I try to get that perfect shot they always veer out of the shot just before I click.Bastards!

Just as it was getting busy.It starts to get lighter and we can hear boats in the distance and arriving here.With that,the sharks promptly disperse.They're not stupid.So we swim back to the boat,which is surprisingly far away.Avoiding the other long tail boats.Which I feel are more dangerous to a swimmer than these sharks.

It's been a great privilege to have had my first encounter with sharks.To experience at first hand that this variety at least,aren't the aggressive man eating beasts we believe them to be.I'm also still hopeful one day to get that perfect picture.

More shark snorkelling encounters.

Thermal spas health benefits

'Sound body,sound mind'

More than just a lovely warm and relaxing experience.

At a thermal spa you are being treated at the same time,
both inside and out,both physically and mentally.

It's one of natures wonder drugs,in that you will feel a' natural high'.Along with a sense
of well-being,being completely relaxed like you've never felt before and re-energized.
It will help to alleviate the modern stresses and strains.Help to turn off the constant
noise and chatter in your head.There's nothing better than just sitting in the lovely silky
warm water,letting your mind drift off into its own world.Away from all your everyday
pressures and problems.

Detox yourself from all the excesses of our modern lifestyle,whatever it may be.

Aids in relaxing muscles,easing aches and pains,relieving strained muscles and torn ligaments.

In Hungary,Thermal spas are a part of the post-operative care.In rehabilitating you back
to health after surgery.Also for sportspeople with their sports injuries.

You could be recommended a course of treatment for these following ailments and more.With
sometimes specific spas for specific problems:

• Skin disorders
• Joint,bone and spinal problems
• Arthritis
• Rheumatism
• Allergies

Even if just to ease the pain naturally,with no scary side effects as with taking drugs.

A very brief History

Hippocrates
The father of modern science stated,'cures effected by water are one of the basis of
medicine','water is still,after all,the best'.

Even longer ago than that in antiquity.Natural springs were revered with a respect normally
given to holy sites.Bathing with religious practices was first seen in a valley beside the Hindus.The most ancient evidence of a bathing culture some 5000 years old.

During the Roman empire throughout Europe.The Romans built baths at these natural
springs.With one of the purposes being for the battle weary Roman soldiers to recuperate
and sooth their aching bodies and even to help heal wounds.

So imagine what it could do for you!

Health and happiness at Heviz in Hungary

The complete guide to:Spa towns

Spas are not just for women and pampering

Hungarian thermal spas

Public spas

In Hungary everyone goes to to the spa.All the family,men and women.All ages from toddlers
through teenagers to pensioners.

It's a great way to relax,recuperate but more importantly for pleasure and to socialize.

It's very cheap,say around £4.Pay that and you can stay for the whole day.

Hungary enjoys long hot summers from may to September.Even out of these times,there's
plenty of sunshine.In fact it's great in winter lounging in the lovely warm water while
there's snow on the ground.

Laze,sunbathe and picnic on the grassy park areas.

Relax further by sinking into the thermal water.There are normally a variety of pools of
differing temperatures.Both inside and outside.

Thermal water is very beneficial for a variety of ailments.Including joint problems,skin
disorders,sports injuries,post operative care and helping to relieve a range of all manner
of aches and pains.My wife's back is never better than after a trip to a spa.A perfect
antidote to the English cold,wet and windy weather.

Also great for a hangover by the way!

Have a good swim in the large swimming pools.Sometimes these are also thermal warm,at
others not(so a little bit cooler).There's often pools inside and outside,of which you can
normally swim between.

Continue rejuvenating by indulging in the saunas and icy cold plunge pools.

All of this is accomplished during a relaxed pace during the course of the day.Not all at
once,but mixing it all up.Also interspersed with strolling(posing) around,going for a drink
(maybe a coffee,wine or even an ice cold beer),or some good hearty food.Naturally great for
people watching,meeting friends or indeed making new ones.

There's also professional and medical facilities for massage,pampering and so on.

After a refreshing day,recharging the batteries.Leaving on a natural high with a refreshed
clear mind.All ready for the evening and life again.