SUNDAY IN NORTH WALES

Our day was rather slow getting started but under threat of rain forecast for most of the coming week, we finally got ourselves moving  for an exploration of the local scene.  Our first stop a local grocery store where we found most of the items similarly priced to the U.S. except in pounds as opposed to our dollar.

After the grocery, we ventured up the coast for a "touristy look around" (Ken's daily dose

of water related sights).  We considered a visit to the local aquarium but our timing was off and I didn't feel like waiting around an hour to look at fish!  (Perhaps I am culturally challenged.)  After a walk along the waterfront in Rhyl (a summer resort coastal town approximately 50 miles east of Liverpool) we proceeded up (or down as the case may be)  the coast to  Colwyn Bay  for another walk about in the picturesque village of Rhos on Sea.  Ken checked out the local fishing excursions (just in case a fishing outing loomed possible) and we visited briefly with a local shop keeper who provided us a brief history of the area and charmed us with his friendly hospitality. Ken had seen a  castle on a hill overlooking the city and an inquiry revealed that it was indeed a beautiful Castle but that it is abandoned.  We were told that an American bought the Castle with the intent of turning it into a 5 star hotel but shortly after its purchase, some kids broke in and sat fire to it.  The local fire brigade arrived to put out the fire but the iron gates were locked and they could not get inside the complex.  The wooden structures inside were destroyed.  It has now been sold (apparently to another American) and plans to restore it are under way.  Ken wanted to get closer to get a picture but alas, the best view is from the busy highway which is too far for a photo op.  After our visit and update, we had lunch at a local tavern which according to its menu is located in a converted monastery.  A charming fire in the fireplace, the pub like atmosphere and a friendly welcome by the "inn keeper" provided a nice respite to our Sunday afternoon outing. 

After lunch we "pressed" on along the Coast and though the day was dreary, overcast and hinting of rain, the quaint residences provided an interesting prospective to what appears to be a comfortable lifestyle.  We were told that the livelihood is seasonal and that the winters are "lean" for the citizenry.  Nevertheless, the homes appeared to be above average" ample in size and well maintained..  As we approached the pier at Lladundo, (reported to be the longest pier in all of Wales), we were greeted by another charming seaside community of quaint beauty.  Many hotels located along the seaside heralded tourism as the prime source of revenue.  A walk on the pier completed our days outing as the weather was distinctly cooler as the afternoon proceeded. 

Back to our lodge, (and a nap while watching television – at least what passed as television) and a quiet evening "en residence".  Our evening was capped off by a television movie "GOODWILL HUNTING" that we had not previously seen and enjoyed.  That is how we spent our first full day in North Wales – where the local "Welch" is absolutely undetectable as any form of English that I have ever heard. What strange words they have here! 

Rain is in the forecast so tomorrow we will make the most of whatever the weather offers.  There is a mine that Ken wants to explore as well as a Castle that he feels needs his photographing expertise.  We will see.

Ken and Pat Burns from the road and/or the sea
just as happy as can be