Monday 14th April 2014

Before continuing with a clip from my book, I'm an Alien... I should like to outline and pin-point the highlights of a marvellous short vacation I have just had. It too was so good because it revolved around good planning: tight where necessary, with room for change of direction if needed. It was with the Holiday Property Bond (HPB) an organisation I have been part of since 1985. This time it was at Merlewood, Grange-Over-Sands, just to the north of Morecambe and on the edge of the Lake District.

Sea, mountains, lakes, steam trains, the Windermere steamers Swan and Tern, wonderful views, car museums, good food and good company. [See if you can spot the owl]

Swimming, snooker, a magnificent old house dating back to 1853, all in impressive, well-kept grounds. All in all, a splendid five day break.

 

 

More Features from the 1991 and 2003 Visits to 'The Good Old US of A'
In the course of our first vacation in 1991 and again in 2003 (I will deal with 2002 in a bit) we journeyed further into the Deep South, to Florida. The first expedition went: Boston, Detroit, Washington, Tampa; the second: Washington, Boston, Tampa; and both return trips were via Dulles airport, Washington. Air travel was like being on a bus back home in Scotland: people were queuing to get off, almost before the plane landed. Boston was cold on the second visit; the 'Big Dig' was in progress; and although most of the sights were taken in (even had a drink in 'Cheers' bar) we seemed to go everywhere walking under glass cover.

In Florida, St. Pete's and Clearwater elicited admiration; as did the pelicans, the very impressive Skyway Bridge over Tampa Bay—on our way to Saratoga; playing golf—what a clubhouse! However, I think it strikes most visitors, right away, that Florida's marvellous climate and out of this world tourist atractions, make it quite different from other states. All of the Orlando attractions are certainly a must for a first visit: Disney World, Epcot, the film studios; but for me, not places to go back to, apart, perhaps, for Seaworld. Kissimmee, with its beautiful houses, gave a feel of the luxury and ostentation that a great many Americans enjoy—but the number of gated communities also gave a glimpse of the security needed. A visit to the Kennedy Space station to view NASA's achievements, followed by a run down the east coast towards Miami was a journey I wish everyone could make. Cocoa beach—we love you.

By this time, I was well-used to the massive shopping malls, overhead traffic signals; storms and lightning appearing from nowhere—I am told I am lucky to be alive, just missing one earth-bound strike in the St Pete's region. The Everglades, the birds, snakes, reptiles— especially 'gators lying in the bunkers on the golf courses; heat and the 'vital' air-conditioners—all this has to be experienced. It was also awesome being held in awe because I had played St Andrews golf course, Muirfield, Gleneagles, Turnberry, and so on. (Why does everyone say 'awesome' and 'Oh My God' over there—and now here?) As far as golf is concerned, in the good old USA it is all so...so...democratic...if you have the money. Not so in Scotland; yes, you will pay plenty to play a few, but the majority are priced for the ordinary player - ladies and gentlemen.
More later
Cheers, George