Cardiff to Paris
Dec 28th, 2008 | 10:45 PM
#1
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Joined: May 2008
Posts: 142
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Cardiff to Paris
These are my copies of my e mails to friends in UK
Sunday 28th December
left Cardiff at 8.55am Saturday 27th December and arrived at Paddington London around 11am.Got the underground from Paddington on the Bakerloo line direct to Charing Cross.The trian to Dover Priory departed at 11.53 and arrived at Doer Priory at 1.30.It was nice travelling through the Kent countryside and along the south coast from Folkestone to Dover the weather was beautiful with a clear bkus sky.
Having arrived at the Ferry terminal I tried to travel with Sea France so as to start soaking up the continental flavour but alas the earliest Ferry available was P and O Ferries.The cost was 14.50 GBP single.On booarding went straight to Langans Brasserie and had a delightful meal which was far more delectable than the food offered in the self service and the cost not that more expensive.
Arrived at Calais at 5.30 French time and got a taxi to Hotel called LA SOLE MEUNIERE where I spent the night in a room above a restaurant of the same name.The room is no great shakes but apparently the restaurant is quite famous for it,s gastronomique delights.It has a TROIS COCOTTES rating in Gastronomic circles.The specialities of the restaurant are LA PLATEAU DE FRUIT DE MER,LES MOULES MARINIERES,POISSONS GRILLES DE NOS COTES.
It is now midday on Sunday 28th and Coco is attempting to win the sleeping championship of Calais and that is the reason I,m writing all this inane nonsense to kill time until the awakening of that person who without doubt will be the undisputed sleeping champion of Calais
Monday 29th December
Didnt leave the Hotel until 2 pm yesterday afternoon after Coco finally awoke.Had very late breakfast in hotel made in room with bread,cheese and cakes bought in Calais.Also brought portable kettle essential for"morning cuppa the most important drink of the day.
Ventured out after breakfast and had intended to get a train to Boulogne but alas the times of the trains were very few and far between.Nevertheless bought tickets for train to Paris.|The cost for two was 84 euros by TGV which was cheaper then by the normal train.
It was very quite in Calais it was like the German occupation had returned and all the residents stayed indoors.Very cold wind apparently coming from Siberia was the cause of absence of afternoon strollers in the boulevards of Calais.
Went to see the famous statue by RODIN "the burghers of Calais" which is just in front of the Town Hall.The old MONOPRIX shop which for years was situate in the main high street had gone as had several other traders.I had never seen Calais so quite.Because of the drop in the pound and the economic crisis the English trippers have abandoned Calais as the cost of goods is the same in UK altough the quality may not be so good.
The train for Paris leaves Calais Ville station at 12.35 and now it is 08.20 and guess what Coco is doing right now....you,ve guessed it she is sleeping to her hearts content.
Last night went for a nice meal in a restaurant across the road from the Hotel and had skate cooked with butter capers and herbs with veg.My starter was onion soup and Coco had Scallop St Jacques.We also had ten different types of oysters arranged on a bed of ice in the order they are listed on the menu.It was explained by the head waiter "this first oyster is such and such etc etc and went round in a circle from a starting point marked by two empty oyster shells in an upright position".The food was ok.
Sunday 28th December
left Cardiff at 8.55am Saturday 27th December and arrived at Paddington London around 11am.Got the underground from Paddington on the Bakerloo line direct to Charing Cross.The trian to Dover Priory departed at 11.53 and arrived at Doer Priory at 1.30.It was nice travelling through the Kent countryside and along the south coast from Folkestone to Dover the weather was beautiful with a clear bkus sky.
Having arrived at the Ferry terminal I tried to travel with Sea France so as to start soaking up the continental flavour but alas the earliest Ferry available was P and O Ferries.The cost was 14.50 GBP single.On booarding went straight to Langans Brasserie and had a delightful meal which was far more delectable than the food offered in the self service and the cost not that more expensive.
Arrived at Calais at 5.30 French time and got a taxi to Hotel called LA SOLE MEUNIERE where I spent the night in a room above a restaurant of the same name.The room is no great shakes but apparently the restaurant is quite famous for it,s gastronomique delights.It has a TROIS COCOTTES rating in Gastronomic circles.The specialities of the restaurant are LA PLATEAU DE FRUIT DE MER,LES MOULES MARINIERES,POISSONS GRILLES DE NOS COTES.
It is now midday on Sunday 28th and Coco is attempting to win the sleeping championship of Calais and that is the reason I,m writing all this inane nonsense to kill time until the awakening of that person who without doubt will be the undisputed sleeping champion of Calais
Monday 29th December
Didnt leave the Hotel until 2 pm yesterday afternoon after Coco finally awoke.Had very late breakfast in hotel made in room with bread,cheese and cakes bought in Calais.Also brought portable kettle essential for"morning cuppa the most important drink of the day.
Ventured out after breakfast and had intended to get a train to Boulogne but alas the times of the trains were very few and far between.Nevertheless bought tickets for train to Paris.|The cost for two was 84 euros by TGV which was cheaper then by the normal train.
It was very quite in Calais it was like the German occupation had returned and all the residents stayed indoors.Very cold wind apparently coming from Siberia was the cause of absence of afternoon strollers in the boulevards of Calais.
Went to see the famous statue by RODIN "the burghers of Calais" which is just in front of the Town Hall.The old MONOPRIX shop which for years was situate in the main high street had gone as had several other traders.I had never seen Calais so quite.Because of the drop in the pound and the economic crisis the English trippers have abandoned Calais as the cost of goods is the same in UK altough the quality may not be so good.
The train for Paris leaves Calais Ville station at 12.35 and now it is 08.20 and guess what Coco is doing right now....you,ve guessed it she is sleeping to her hearts content.
Last night went for a nice meal in a restaurant across the road from the Hotel and had skate cooked with butter capers and herbs with veg.My starter was onion soup and Coco had Scallop St Jacques.We also had ten different types of oysters arranged on a bed of ice in the order they are listed on the menu.It was explained by the head waiter "this first oyster is such and such etc etc and went round in a circle from a starting point marked by two empty oyster shells in an upright position".The food was ok.
Dec 29th, 2008 | 08:27 AM
#3
Original Poster
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 142
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Tuesday evening 29th December--sober in Marais
BRASS MONKEYS and MEN WHO DRINK BEER WITH GLOVES ON
It is without doubt brass monkey weather here in France.This morning in Calais the streets were covered with frost and walking was akin to the principal dancer at the ballet performing a intricate movement.Lots of shops were closed as were banks which may be due to seasonal holidays,I need to get somE hair oil and a comb as I am beginning to look like the wild man of Borneo.I can feel a haircut coming on its below my shoulders now and my yearly cut is due.I shall have a cut in France hopefully not too trendy.
Coco eventually got up at 11pm had some brekky and we proceededto check out.Chatting to the receptionist he said the economy in France was not good and that Calais was particularly effected due to its dependence on trade and cross channel trippers.He said many shops and restaurants had closed.
Caught a strange vehicle outside the Hptel calles a "Baladin" it was like a small bus but it was free and took us to the station. The TVG duly arrived and departed on time 12.35 stopping at Calais Fruthin and Lille Europe.
Arrived at Gare du Nord 2.30 pm and having metro tickets from a previuos journey got the metro to St Paul changing at Chatelet.Crowded trains.Found our Hotel in Rue Malher and checked in.Hotel seems ok beds a bit on the narrow side so I have to be careful when turning over.Stocked up with grub at Monoprix across the road in rue San Antoine.The food prices seemed on the pricey side but that was most probably due to recent collapse of the GBP and after conversation.Also had to visit a launderette as bottle of milk broke in my case and had to wash all my clothes.Getting the machines to work were more intricate than a Freemasons initiation.
Beer drinkers with gloves was a pharase I learnt from a man years ago who was a friend of the solicitor who acted for Lord Alfred Douglas.He,the solicitor, frequented a pub in the Strand where it was said "it was the type of place men drank with their gloves on".I did not know exactly what he meant but in time the penny dropped and I was awakened.If my memory serves me well the name of the pub was "Coal Hole"The Marais is an area where this sort of practice would not be out of place?
Tomorrow Tuesday 30th I have tickets for the ballet at the Paris Garnier.Maria Alexandrova of the Bolshi is guesting in the production of Raymonda.
I am gasping for a drink,as you do on holiday but my records are none too good at that game.One drink leads to two and before you can say "Jack Robinson" you have had ten which leads to a week long bender for which a week of recovery is required.I must not succomb to temptation.
BRASS MONKEYS and MEN WHO DRINK BEER WITH GLOVES ON
It is without doubt brass monkey weather here in France.This morning in Calais the streets were covered with frost and walking was akin to the principal dancer at the ballet performing a intricate movement.Lots of shops were closed as were banks which may be due to seasonal holidays,I need to get somE hair oil and a comb as I am beginning to look like the wild man of Borneo.I can feel a haircut coming on its below my shoulders now and my yearly cut is due.I shall have a cut in France hopefully not too trendy.
Coco eventually got up at 11pm had some brekky and we proceededto check out.Chatting to the receptionist he said the economy in France was not good and that Calais was particularly effected due to its dependence on trade and cross channel trippers.He said many shops and restaurants had closed.
Caught a strange vehicle outside the Hptel calles a "Baladin" it was like a small bus but it was free and took us to the station. The TVG duly arrived and departed on time 12.35 stopping at Calais Fruthin and Lille Europe.
Arrived at Gare du Nord 2.30 pm and having metro tickets from a previuos journey got the metro to St Paul changing at Chatelet.Crowded trains.Found our Hotel in Rue Malher and checked in.Hotel seems ok beds a bit on the narrow side so I have to be careful when turning over.Stocked up with grub at Monoprix across the road in rue San Antoine.The food prices seemed on the pricey side but that was most probably due to recent collapse of the GBP and after conversation.Also had to visit a launderette as bottle of milk broke in my case and had to wash all my clothes.Getting the machines to work were more intricate than a Freemasons initiation.
Beer drinkers with gloves was a pharase I learnt from a man years ago who was a friend of the solicitor who acted for Lord Alfred Douglas.He,the solicitor, frequented a pub in the Strand where it was said "it was the type of place men drank with their gloves on".I did not know exactly what he meant but in time the penny dropped and I was awakened.If my memory serves me well the name of the pub was "Coal Hole"The Marais is an area where this sort of practice would not be out of place?
Tomorrow Tuesday 30th I have tickets for the ballet at the Paris Garnier.Maria Alexandrova of the Bolshi is guesting in the production of Raymonda.
I am gasping for a drink,as you do on holiday but my records are none too good at that game.One drink leads to two and before you can say "Jack Robinson" you have had ten which leads to a week long bender for which a week of recovery is required.I must not succomb to temptation.
Dec 30th, 2008 | 03:14 PM
#4
Original Poster
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 142
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BALLET AND BOOZE
Having settled in at the Hotel ventured out around the Marais a bit further and discovered lots of Jewish eateries.Coco loves bagels and I love chopped liver which stems from my days when in my youth I worked for a firm of Jewish solicitors called Kaufman and Seigal.Mr Kaufman acted for Leon Uris in the liable action brought by Dr Dering.It was very sad for me as a 17 year old to to photocopying the medical register of Auswitch.I could not believe what I read and was told.In the High Courts of Justice in London I met the witnessess and survivors of the death camp and asked them did it really happen and they they all said it happened.In court there were tears as people recounted whet had happened to them`with regard to experiments relating to sterilizing them. sorry I have drifted from my thread.
We had a meal near Place Voges cant remember the name of the restaurant but the food was ok.Beef Bourgenione and Tagelitellie.
Went to bed around midnight ,I woke up at 3.00am and tuned into the BBC home service now known as BBC world.
Morning of 30th Dec found me going to Marche D,lagree to the antique market near Marais.It was raining so traders were under cover whigh didnt stop West africans approaching me to sell their wares heavy duty ccarrier bags.I declined all offers.
coco evventually got up arounf 2.00pm and decided dhe wanted a haircut and shampoo etc.the receptionist guided us to a hairdresser near St Paul metro,An appointment has been made for tomorrow at midday.I was egged on to have a cut but I am still considering the situation,
had to go to my bank at Place Opera and arraange some financial matters and then a quick visit to Galleries Lafaylettie.Had a drink so spellig not so good,
Returned to hotel and Coco dressed in her new costume which she purchased in saltzburg,It was needed for the Ballet at the garnier.
The ballet was not to my liking altough the female lead dancer was outstanding.
Missed all the restaurants due to Coco wanting to get dancers autograph so back at base and about to crash,
Got some wine at a store and following the course....to be continued
Having settled in at the Hotel ventured out around the Marais a bit further and discovered lots of Jewish eateries.Coco loves bagels and I love chopped liver which stems from my days when in my youth I worked for a firm of Jewish solicitors called Kaufman and Seigal.Mr Kaufman acted for Leon Uris in the liable action brought by Dr Dering.It was very sad for me as a 17 year old to to photocopying the medical register of Auswitch.I could not believe what I read and was told.In the High Courts of Justice in London I met the witnessess and survivors of the death camp and asked them did it really happen and they they all said it happened.In court there were tears as people recounted whet had happened to them`with regard to experiments relating to sterilizing them. sorry I have drifted from my thread.
We had a meal near Place Voges cant remember the name of the restaurant but the food was ok.Beef Bourgenione and Tagelitellie.
Went to bed around midnight ,I woke up at 3.00am and tuned into the BBC home service now known as BBC world.
Morning of 30th Dec found me going to Marche D,lagree to the antique market near Marais.It was raining so traders were under cover whigh didnt stop West africans approaching me to sell their wares heavy duty ccarrier bags.I declined all offers.
coco evventually got up arounf 2.00pm and decided dhe wanted a haircut and shampoo etc.the receptionist guided us to a hairdresser near St Paul metro,An appointment has been made for tomorrow at midday.I was egged on to have a cut but I am still considering the situation,
had to go to my bank at Place Opera and arraange some financial matters and then a quick visit to Galleries Lafaylettie.Had a drink so spellig not so good,
Returned to hotel and Coco dressed in her new costume which she purchased in saltzburg,It was needed for the Ballet at the garnier.
The ballet was not to my liking altough the female lead dancer was outstanding.
Missed all the restaurants due to Coco wanting to get dancers autograph so back at base and about to crash,
Got some wine at a store and following the course....to be continued
Dec 31st, 2008 | 11:08 AM
#5
Original Poster
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 142
Likes: 0
NEW YEARS EVE PARIS
Awoke quite early and had a nice cup of tea.Brought some fresh milk yesterday and it made all the difference.Breakfast in Hotel romm consisting of bread ham cheese and olives.
Went to a supermarket called G20 and the prices seemmed more favourable than Monoprix.Bought some fruit bread and three bottles of Sancerre wine.
Coco had her hair done but I didnt notice any difference.I told her it looked good.
Wandered around Marais bougrht Bagels sweets and cake
.The food has been disappointing onion soups were just onions dipped in water,Not what I have had in the past.STILL THATS THE WAY IT GOES.
Back in thr Hotel now 9.00pm just relaxing and watching SISSI which for some reason or other is always on during the holiday season.When I was a child in Ireland in the 40s 50s the person I loved most of all was a elderly lady called Sissi"GOD BLESS HER SOUL.She was a cat lover and like her I love cats......Happy new year to anybody who reads my rambling nonsense and may the new year bring you all of hearts desire......................
Awoke quite early and had a nice cup of tea.Brought some fresh milk yesterday and it made all the difference.Breakfast in Hotel romm consisting of bread ham cheese and olives.
Went to a supermarket called G20 and the prices seemmed more favourable than Monoprix.Bought some fruit bread and three bottles of Sancerre wine.
Coco had her hair done but I didnt notice any difference.I told her it looked good.
Wandered around Marais bougrht Bagels sweets and cake
.The food has been disappointing onion soups were just onions dipped in water,Not what I have had in the past.STILL THATS THE WAY IT GOES.
Back in thr Hotel now 9.00pm just relaxing and watching SISSI which for some reason or other is always on during the holiday season.When I was a child in Ireland in the 40s 50s the person I loved most of all was a elderly lady called Sissi"GOD BLESS HER SOUL.She was a cat lover and like her I love cats......Happy new year to anybody who reads my rambling nonsense and may the new year bring you all of hearts desire......................
Jan 2nd, 2009 | 11:26 AM
#6
Original Poster
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 142
Likes: 0
THE DAY AFTER NEW YEARS DAY
Late awakening,Metro to Champs Elysee to look for a shop selling perfume called "CREED".Found the shop but it was closed.Had a coffee next to Pont Alma.Passed by the CRAZY HORSE SALOON whichh I went to with my brother in the sixties.We stood at the back and were given two cans of beer.The show was fantastic.All the girls looked the same and were of the same height.Couldnt figure it out for a while but they had adjustments made to their shoes.sad to think those dancers are now pensioners like me.
Got a taxi to Montmarte but it was very busy,Didnt stay long.Went to Sacre Coure and lit a few candles.
Taxi back to St Paul and asked receptionist for info on good resttaurants.The restaurants I have been to were no great shakes and if I dont mind saying my home cooking is ten times better.The receptionist recommended A cafe not far away but on arrival at said cafe had to make a booking for ten o clock tonight .Came back to Hotel and am having wine and sandwich.My usual wine SANCERRE was sold out and I have bought some really sweety stuff GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR...on the road to Calais and dOVER TOMORROWRYING TO GET USED TIHIS NEW TINY ASUS COMPUTEr
Late awakening,Metro to Champs Elysee to look for a shop selling perfume called "CREED".Found the shop but it was closed.Had a coffee next to Pont Alma.Passed by the CRAZY HORSE SALOON whichh I went to with my brother in the sixties.We stood at the back and were given two cans of beer.The show was fantastic.All the girls looked the same and were of the same height.Couldnt figure it out for a while but they had adjustments made to their shoes.sad to think those dancers are now pensioners like me.
Got a taxi to Montmarte but it was very busy,Didnt stay long.Went to Sacre Coure and lit a few candles.
Taxi back to St Paul and asked receptionist for info on good resttaurants.The restaurants I have been to were no great shakes and if I dont mind saying my home cooking is ten times better.The receptionist recommended A cafe not far away but on arrival at said cafe had to make a booking for ten o clock tonight .Came back to Hotel and am having wine and sandwich.My usual wine SANCERRE was sold out and I have bought some really sweety stuff GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR...on the road to Calais and dOVER TOMORROWRYING TO GET USED TIHIS NEW TINY ASUS COMPUTEr
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