Quirky Traveller's Tales

Jutting out into the entrance of the Mediterranean Sea from the Atlantic Ocean, the famous rocky port of Gibraltar has been a haven for many a tired ship for centuries. Greek sailors saw it as the end of their known world, while today’s tourist knows it as a tax haven making its stores really popular.  Gib, as it’s affectionately known, has been British since being captured by British and Dutch Marines in 1704, but has a history of Moorish, Arab, and Spanish occupation, explaining the multicultural society and building styles that prevail today.

Photo by sylvia@intrigue

Top 5 things to do on the Rock

1. Top of the Rock

A trip up to the heights of the rock itself is an absolute must. Local tourist guides in their ubiquitous minibuses will negotiate the roads that go right along the narrow spine of land at the very top, where the rock falls away on one side to the Mediterranean and to the Atlantic on the other. Expect breathtaking views of Morocco and Spain from the summit. 

2. The Barbary Apes

The taxi drivers will know the best places to see groups of the Barbary apes, which roam free on the rock in their hundreds. These are the most entertaining creatures, often seen with young clinging to them, but it should be remembered that they are wild animals and should not be touched or fed. They can cause horrific injuries if provoked!

Photo by Dianne Pike

3. Great Siege Tunnels

Dug out by the British in the late 18^th century when France and Spain held Gibraltar to siege for 4 long years. The tunnels were dug to allow the guns to fire sideways at the forces entrenched too close to be hit from exterior locations. These tunnels were extended in 1940 to create a great fortress under Churchill’s orders. Both sets of tunnels, an amazing 50 km of passages, are now open to the public and audio tours are available.

Photo by woto

4. St Michael’s Cave

These stunning caverns, caused by natural hollowing of the limestone rock by rainwater, with their towering stalactites and stalagmites, an underground lake, and even a concert hall, are an incredible sight.  Photography is allowed so the journey inside the rock can be remembered. Tickets can be purchased as part of the rock tours or at the caves.

Photo by Greenshed

5. Main Street

This is the shopping street stretching from the famous Casemates Square up to the Governors Residence. The street is stacked to the brim with jewellers, liquor stores, souvenir shops, electronics stores and perfumeries. A great place to pick up bargains galore. Taxi drivers will obligingly drop you here after your rock tour if requested!

The 6.5 square kilometres of Gibraltar is a unique experience, which really must be experienced while you travel Europe.  If you are backpacking around Spain don’t forget that car hire comparison sites can offer competitive prices to get from one area to another. This can allow you to get around areas less well served by public transport.

Linda is a freelance writer and bookseller who, following 19 years in IT for a large airline, loves to write about the places she has visited. She also adores her other job as a bookseller in a local bookstore.

Guest blogger Alvina Labsvirs attended one of The Quirky Traveller Blogging Workshops.  As a result she is now pursuing her love of writing and travel on ‘Reasons To Go North‘ site.  In her very first guest post, she shares her enjoyment of one of Europe’s most vibrant and exciting cities.

Where would you choose to meet up with a Texan, a New Yorker, two from the UK and a Berliner?  Berlin is the ideal place! With our friend and guide Linda in charge, we had a weekend packed with interesting history, fantastic entertainment and wonderful food.  Seeing everything in three days was to prove impossible but with little sleep and Linda’s help we packed in a lot of the main tourist attractions and sampled some slightly off the beaten track.

The Wall is high on the agenda for any tourist.  But little remains, with only a line of bricks snaking through the city at ground level. The East side gallery is a stretch of 1.3k along Muhlenstrasse, decorated by artists from around the world.  The images resonate with the message that the division of East and West should never reoccur.

 East – West history is abundant and being of partial Eastern European descent, this was something I was keen to see.  The Topogrphie Des Terrors was the site of the former headquarters of the Secret State Police, now a harrowing information centre on the persecution and terror of the ‘Third Reich’.  The grey sarcophagi of the Holocaust Memorial are a perfect representation of coffins of those who had had their dignity stolen, even in death.

At the Brandenburg Gate, the symbolic end to the cold war when the wall came down, Linda recounted was how scared she was on that day. Two days after the crossing was opened she ventured to the west, but was terrified.  In her world no one had left the East and returned.

So from the sobriety of the SS, Check Point Charlie, an altogether lighter experience.  No longer manned by armed guards willing to shoot at the slightest misdemeanour, actors man the post in somewhat questionable, period uniforms and will invite you to pose with them, for a fee, of course. 

Berlin is a melting pot of cultures and so eating can be as diverse.  If you don’t mind queuing for your supper and enjoy the company of others, the long wooden tables at the Cafe am Neuen See, in the Tiergarten, are a good place to relax and meet other travellers.   After a sobering glimpse into all too recent history of the city, the option of beer and pizza can be a perfect antidote.   Alternatively Oraienburger Strasse is an area of restored communists’ residential blocks.  Previously run down and dilapidated inner city housing; now expensive apartments, with wonderful gardens and seductive restaurants.  We ate in a Turkish cafe, Hasir, which did delicious lamb and not so delicious chardonnay.

Less known are the ‘beach bars’ along the Spree, complete with sand and deckchairs.  A place to linger over a beer on a hot summer’s afternoon, or sample the bohemian nightlife.

A trip out to The Potsdam palaces and gardens, left by the Kissers of Germany, and now the summer playground of Berliners, is worth a day.  Try a bike trip with Fat Bike Tours.  A bike on trains and escalators has its challenges but the charm and beauty of the gardens will overcome that problem, and the hunky guides are adept and carrying a couple of bikes at a time up and down stairs.

Insider knowledge produced an unexpected last night.  The Berlin summer music festival builds a temporary concert hall between the two cathedrals and this was the last night with the London philharmonic playing.  By a stroke of luck, for us, the wind blew the rain off a canopy and caused a table’s occupants to flee and we secured a restaurant table.  A somewhat expensive meal, but with the opera thrown in who could complain?  Even for an uneducated non-opera listener this was an exquisite treat.

The Berlin experience is one of juxtapositions.  Glass bridges across the Spree sit uneasily with communist blocks and magnificent museums.  Outside a brightly lit synagogue you will find hookers legally plying their trade, and on the next street eat the best ice cream in town.  You can dance most of the night on riverside dance floors and drink cocktails till dawn.  Don’t worry too much about your hotel.  You won’t be there for long …

Alvina Labsvirs says, “With my photographs and blog site Reasons to go North developed from my love of The Lakes, walking and travel,  I hope to  inspire visitor and residents to enjoy the Lakes, to get out and appreciate all that it has to offer.”

You can also find Alvina on Face Book

As long-haul travel becomes more popular, an increasing number of adventurous Brits are considering trips to exotic Far Eastern countries such as China. The country’s unfamiliar customs and culture are ideal for any traveller looking to get away from the pressures of the Western world and explore a new way of being.

Most travellers are likely to consider heading to China in the hotter months so they can explore the country in the sun, however visitors that start their adventure when it’s the colder season are able to experience a totally different perspective off the country.  This is due to the colder seasons in China giving the country a clearness and freshness – and it is less crowded thanks to there being fewer tourists.  China is a great destination regardless of age.  However, for older travellers with medical conditions it’s extremely important to make sure you’re covered with travel insurance over 65.

 If you are a fan of travelling off the beaten track, then it is a good idea to enjoy some of the nation’s lesser known wonders.  One example of stunning unspoiled beauty is Sanqingshan National Park, which is situated near the city of Shangrao in the Jiangxi province of China. Known for its overwhelming air of peace and tranquillity, the World Heritage Site is subject to seasonal mists, fogs and breath-taking sunsets. Granite pillars and outcrops are dotted in between natural springs and waterfalls.

Another must-see for tourists is the Silk Road, with tours on offer to showcase the 2,000-year-old route which measures some 7,000km – over half of which is in China. Travellers trekking along the Silk Road will see many main attractions along the way including the famous Terracotta Warriors, China’s largest Reclining Buddah of Zhangye, Yellow River and Bingling Thousand Buddah Caves of Lanzhou.

Fans of scenery should not pass up on a visit to Guilin, which sits by the banks of the Li River. Famed for its stunning scenery, including mountains covered in greenery, unique rockeries, crystal clear water and mysterious caves, the area has a colourful cultural heritage, being home to a number of ethnic minorities.

This article is sponsored by Staysure – the over 50s experts, specialising in travel insurance with pre-existing medical conditions. They also provide comprehensive health and life insurance, as well as car insurance, home insurance and funeral plans.  All of their products are for UK residents, however the same services are available for expats.

Many tourists book their holidays in Cambodia purely because of their desire to visit UNESCO World Heritage Site – Angkor Wat. The awe-inspiring temples were constructed in the 12^th century by the Khmer people and really have to be seen to be believed which explains why each year over a million tourists flock to Siem Reap.

Photo by Dave Perkes

Although Angkor Wat is an incredible and unforgettable experience, the nearby town of Siem Reap is also well worth a few days of your time. Here are a few of our recommendations for more unusual places to visit and things to do in this interesting city.

1 – Balloon Ride over Angkor Wat

If you have never experienced a hot air balloon ride than what better place to start than by silently gliding above these ancient temples. Not only will you escape the crowds of tourists and touts at the site but you will get a fascinating birds eye view which allows you to fully comprehend the size of the site. The views of Angkor Wat and the city beyond will stay with you for some time.

2 – Landmine Museum

From the times of the Khmer Rouge to the Vietnamese occupation – Cambodia has a war torn past. In fact, it wasn’t considered safe for tourists to visit until the 1990’s. The country is littered with millions of unexploded landmines and other objects that were left behind by the decades of conflict. As you explore Siem Reap you will be greeted by sights of injured landmine victims who are a testament to just how dangerous landmines are to this day.

The Landmine Museum was founded by a former child soldier whose parents were killed by the Khmer Rough and is staffed by victims and orphans of landmines. A wander around this fascinating museum will give you a sobering insight in to what life was like in Cambodia only a short time ago.

3 – Kampong Phluk

Photo by Ewen Bel

Just 13 miles from Siem Reap is Kampong Phluk, a fishing village constructed entirely on stilts in the swamps that surround Tonle Sap – the largest lake in Cambodia. This is still somewhat a hidden gem as the majority of tourists are distracted by the charms of Angkor Wat. This means that the village remains an authentic place to go to get a glimpse into Khmer life away from the influence of heavy tourism.

4 – Military Shooting Range

It might not be everyone’s cup of tea but if you have ever wanted to fire a gun, this is the place to go. It will take you 40 minutes to get here from Siem Reap and you will be greeted by ex-soldiers who will talk you through the weapons and how to use them. You can fire AK47’s, throw hand grenades and if you have the money you can try out a Soviet made rocket launcher.

Photo by Matthew Hooper

Although Angkor Wat is undeniably the biggest attraction in Siem Reap, stay a few more days and discover some of its other, more unusual charms.

This article is brought to you by travel writer John Gainer, who’s has enjoyed travelling since he was a young boy when his parents first took him to visit family overseas. Since leaving home, John has tracked down family all over the world and regularly jets off to far away lands to experience new foods and cultures.

Author Barry McCann is a writer and expert on the horror genre, tradition and folk tales.  He appears regularly on BBC Radio sharing quirky tales of mystery and imagination in Cumbria and Lancashire.  Here are some of his favourite stories from the Lake District.

The shires and counties of this country are rich in their local folklores. Legends and superstitions shaped by the local landscape and centuries of colonisation by Teutonic, Scandinavian and Norman settlers with the traditional legends accompanied their cultures. The Lake District is no exception. Its large, imposing landscapes have nurtured stories of giants, while more hidden corners are a breeding ground for sightings of elves and fairies. And the ancient stone circles across the region add a further mystique to local superstitions. Yes, witches and ghosts walk here too.

You can already enjoy a literary tour of the Lake District courtesy of our very own Quirky Traveller, but how about supplementing with a folklore tour of the region. Dare you walk Souter Fell where, in 1774, Daniel Strickland witnessed a ghostly army of Jacobite troops marching north. Or take a libation in Kendal’s Angel Inn where, in 1745, attempts by marauding Scots to kidnap a child were thwarted when an angel appeared between them and their intended victim.

For the really brave, try counting the rocks that make up the stone circle that is Long Meg and her Sisters. Legend hath it that they were originally witches performing an infernal ritual when locals used the power of the saints to turn them into stone. It is said if you count the stones, you will never arrive at the same number twice. But if you do, beware! For that will cancel the spell, releasing Long Meg and the girls to make their mischief again.

On a lighter note, I have enjoyed an expedition to Thirlmere Lake and contemplated the rock known as Clark’s Loup. So called, as this was where the suicidal Clark leapt to his watery grave after his dutiful wife advised him that drowning was far more pleasant than hanging himself. A preferred leap can be enjoyed at Derwentwater, where the sister of the wicked Lord Derwentwater chose death over capture. Known as Lady’s Rake, she is said to have jumped from the precipice after setting fire to her brother’s castle and destroying his ill gotten gains. Either that or she escaped to London, depending which version of events one prefers.

If  traversing the Shap Fells, then be vigilant of the shadowy figure of a giant upon a mighty steed, galloping like the devil. For this is none other than Uther Pendragon, father of King Arthur. Unlike his heroic son, Pendragon was a cannibalistic tyrant who founded his kingdom in Mallerstang. Heaven would not admit his wicked soul, perhaps neither would Hell. For he now rides the Fells, perhaps in search of Pendragon Castle; once the seat of his power but now a scanty ruin. But beneath its foundations there is said to lie a great treasure. The sleeping King Arthur and his Knights awaiting their call to battle, perhaps?

These are but a few of the many legends that colour the Lakes; many more await uncovering. So why not take yourself on a magical mystery tour of this lovely area and discover some for yourself?

This article is sponsored by Barry McCann, writer, editor and broadcaster, specialising in short stories, reviews, features, talks and, more recently, travel writing.  Barry is the editor of Parnassus, MENSA Art & Folklore Correspondant on BBC Radio Cumbria. Follow him on Face Book and read his Blog ‘Writing Without Tears’

If you enjoyed this article you may like to read another of Barry’s quirky posts ‘Going Underground in Seattle’ and ‘The Padstow Obby Oss’

With so many iconic places to visit, holidays in Vietnam can be difficult to plan for. It is a country with deep history and interest; one with such natural beauty that every city and town has a huge amount to offer. However, no trip to Vietnam’s is complete without a visit to its capital city, Hanoi.

Hanoi City by David Conger

Located in the centre of Vietnam, Hanoi is an old city of great cultural importance, growing in popularity with tourists every year. It is one of the most captivating and atmospheric cities in Southeast Asia, with something to entertain and inspire all visitors. The weather is favourable throughout the year, though it is hottest between May and August so it’s best avoided then if you’re not a fan of humid weather. Flights fly directly into Hanoi Airport and it’s easily accessible by rail and road, meaning it’s the perfect gateway to the rest of your journey around Vietnam.

Explore Hanoi’s History

An absolute must-see is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – a tribute and museum to the infamous Communist leader and for many, it’s an important place of pilgrimage to their former leader. The Mausoleum itself is an absolutely remarkable sight and in a similar style to the mausoleums of Lenin and Stalin. Here you’ll learn the history of Ho Chi Minh and can view his body on display in a glass case, a memorable experience in itself as you slowly file past the heavily guarded body.  There is, however, a strict dress and behaviour code so make yourself aware of these before you visit. It’s also worth taking a trip to the Presidential Palace, a stunning example of architecture built by the French colonialists, where Ho Chi Minh refused to stay during his trips to Hanoi. Another place many refused to stay in, though some had no choice, is the infamous Hanoi Hilton. It was here that the American POWs were brought during the Vietnam War and whilst it has been largely demolished, a section still exists and has been preserved as a museum.

Enjoy Hanoi’s Culture

Hanoi Pagoda by David Conger

If you want to kick back and relax, Hanoi also offers many opportunities to do so. There’s the tranquil and serene walks around the many lakes the city has to offer, exploring pagodas and taking in exquisitely built bridges. If you want to experience something far more modern, it’s off to the shops.  Hanoi has been named as one of the top 10 places in Asia for shopping and there’s much here to delight the shopaholic, though you may have to rein it in to ensure you’re still able to carry your backpack!  Hanoi also has a thriving nightlife, with many karaoke bars, theatres and cinemas across the city and also numerous festivals to experience throughout the year.

Hanoi at night by Flipnomad

Top 5 things to do in Hanoi

1) Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

2) Take a trip to the Hanoi Hilton

3) Explore Colonial Hanoi

4) Visit an iconic pagoda

5) Go shopping!

Hanoi Market by Fahara

This article is brought to you by Natalie Likness.  She got her love of travel at an early age due to a trip abroad before she was even born! Having close family and making friends across the world, she has continued to travel ever since.