English Countryside Walk Brings Surprises

Travels in England took us to many friends and family members. We enjoyed visits with some folks we had not seen for 15 years including a lovely lady who arranged the flowers at our wedding in Rhodesia 44 years ago!

We enjoyed the company of Peter's South African niece, Tina , for a week in Cornwall. Tina and I enjoyed seeing the Eden Project where an old clay pit has been transformed into an amazing botanical garden which features a steamy rainforest biome, Mediterranean biome and outdoor features such as a decorative edible garden. We also trekked over sections of the Cornwall Coast Walk for delightful views of rocky coast, sandy beaches and a riot of wildflowers.

Back in London, a friend guided me through a walk in the Chiltern Hills, northwest of London. I was amazed during the hike to be walking through the Chequers estate--the Prime Minister's country residence. I couldn't imagine the secret service allowing hikers to wander past Camp David!

For more photos go to http://picasaweb.google.com/norma.wightman/UK2010

Swiss Rail Top Way to Travel

A Swiss Rail Pass allowed Peter and Norma to fully focus on the fantastic scenery in this mountainous country. We revisted Lauterbrunnen after a 38 year absence--the waterfalls are as fantastic as ever. A funicular and gondola took us up the Shilthorn, but not on the clearest of days. A highlight of our rail travels was taking the Bernina Express from Chur, Switzerland to Ticano, Italy and then by bus to Lugano. No tunnels on this track, just breath-taking stone viaducts over rushing mountain streams 300-400' below the tracks! The bus trip was also hairy as our driver skillfully maneuvered through narrow streets with the bus side mirrors inches away from buildings. Yes, this is the most expensive country in Europe, but the scenery is hard to beat!

Look at more photos at http://picasaweb.google.com/norma.wightman/Switzerland2010

Keeping Fit Abroad

The Wightmans spent six weeks in Ireland, England and Switzerland recently. Norma continued her mountain hiking in Ireland with son, Glen and daughter-in-law, Elaine. We hiked one of the 12 Bens in Connemara National Park, County Galway, and also Croagh Patrick, Ireland's holy mountain in County Mayo. Neither is very high, but Croagh Patrick had the stoniest trail ever and some pilgrims do it barefoot! My sturdy walking shoes and hiking staff were very welcome, thank you!

See more photos http://picasaweb.google.com/norma.wightman/Ireland2010