Big Tin Bus » People

Travel confusion.

Keith — Sun, 04 Jul 2010 18:36:17 +0000

We took the train from Baden into Vienna having purchased a ticket that allowed us unlimited travel for a period of twenty four hours at the extortionate price of €19 20 for both of us. To start with we could not figure out how to verify our tickets, something you are required to do. We had been on the train for some time and were convinced something was not right, Jan asked a man if he spoke English? he did, and was more than pleased to help, he was very helpful.

Onlookers, the plain nosey and the interested.

Keith — Sat, 05 Jun 2010 06:23:44 +0000

Since we started our travels, at least since we have been towing a trailer with a car on we seem to generate some interest, at times we feel like a spectacle.

Some examples, a site in Somerset. We had literally just pulled onto the site when we were approached by an excited man who stopped us. It turned out he had the same model of van and wanted to exchange views.

Spain, an English couple taking great interest in the car and trailer, when approached he came out with the statement, “that’s illegal, that trailer, it’s not twin axle”. He was advised and sent on his way.

Germany, motor way services. We were parked next to a coach and the source of interest to many of its passenger, one lady walking around the outside with no attempt to hide the fact that she was being nosey. Keith then noticed a couple walking from the rear to the front pacing out the length, to much, they were challenged, shown the dimensions, in writing, and left.

We have, on several occasion noticed people taking photos. The latest one was quite funny. The guy was trying to be discreet, unfortunately, the tree he decided to hide behind was a very slim sapling. Silly man.

Dutch people

Keith — Sat, 24 Apr 2010 17:02:49 +0000

We have heard several times about Dutch hospitality, it cannot be overstated how welcoming and friendly they are.

The man in the next camper who loaded directions to campsites, Aldis, liddll and LPG points across Europe on to our tom tom.

The bus driver who welcomed us on his bus, got off at the stop and showed us in which direction to walk. Parking and the bus were free.

Keith bought a fleece, it was 20 euros cheaper if you belonged to a club run by the shop. The man behind us offered us his discount. As it turned out I got cheaper because I am English.

The farmers wife who, when Keith was birdwatching, stopped her car and showed real interest in what was about, even offering to get her husband to show Keith around. It was nice that Keith was able to help her identify a bird they had seen on the farm.

It is almost embarrassing that they speak such good English.

Don’t panic

Keith — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 06:59:22 +0000

Back to Sunday the 13th. Anybody who is hooked or, relies on a computer will understand this. The charger for the laptop failed and, because we rely on it for lots of things panic ensued.

Having imagened all the worst type scenarios and having calmed down, on Monday morning we sought help. We were given the name of a shop and a man in a town a short drive away. We made the journey in the rain and found the shop. The man, exactly as we had been told spoke perfect English, was very helpful and not expensive. Not only did he have a charger, he tested it to make sure it was suitable and that the price was agreeable.

Thank you, Miguel Angel Cano. BEEP in Mazarron, Murcia. What a nice man

Meet Louis

Keith — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 20:12:45 +0000

Louis is the owner of the Mon- Cafe in Alicante. The story, Jan, Pam, Ray and Keith decided to spend some time in Alicante, the girls went their way, Ray and Keith headed for the castle. On our way to the castle Ray spotted this small cafe/stroke bar in a back street. When we rejoined the girls it was decided we would have lunch at Mon – Cafe. It all started when we entered and could not find a table for four, well, Louis moved a customer, mid lunch, with a degree of comedy, from a table to make room for us. From there on in it got funnier and funnier. Louis is a clown and a great host, we were in stitches. An example, Ray asked for the bill, something was said in Spanish to which Ray agreed, next thing we new everybody in the bar was offered a drink on our bill. The bill was printed off, two foot long. I really wish that I had the skill to put into words the events of that afternoon, I don’t. We cried with laughter and our sides ached, no one was safe and all done without offence. It made a good day truly memorable.

Canada

Keith — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 05:23:16 +0000

We have family and friends in Canada who we know follow our journey on the web. We have added some photos taken at a military cemetery in Normandy. We find these places peaceful and thought provoking. We are sure they will understand the significance when they see these pictures.

Bigtinbus gets a lift

Keith — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 12:51:02 +0000

Because the bus had a saggy bottom we decided to arrange some extra support, poor girl. This is by means of adjustable air assisted suspension, the bus said it was a pain free exercise.

It has not only lifted her back end it has also improved the ride, no puns please.

Fitted by those nice people at www.as-airsuspension.co.uk

A touch of sadness.

Keith — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 11:19:25 +0000

We visited Dorset recently, unfortunately not for pleasure. We were there to attend the funeral of Keiths brother in law Micheal Hiscock. Micheal was not a young man, however, that did not make his passing any easier. Those who knew Micheal spoke of a man who was kind, helpful, tolerant and a good friend. In the years we had the pleasure of his company we saw laughter and love. In short he never said a bad word about anyone, and never took more than he gave.

We miss him.

Thank you from Keith

Keith — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 07:18:29 +0000

I had a problem when trying to use my generator with the van, it came up on the electrics as a reverse polarity fault and would not charge the liesure battery. Despite some ideas from other motor homers I was unable to solve the problem.

Took the generator to LLoyds of Carlisle who put me in touch with thier expert, who explained the possible solutions. The following day I sought the advice of my son Phillip and nephew Martin to make sure that I was on the right track. Using the information they gave me I was able work through the problem and solve it, yippee it now works.

A big thank you all three of them.

Keith

Hoy and Albert

Keith — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 06:27:07 +0000

Albert is a resident and crofter on Hoy who also takes visitors on guided tours of the island. A man with the a sense of humour, understanding and knowledge of local wildlife and history. We benefited from a one to one experience and an enjoyable day despite the rain.