Tuesday, October 28, 2008

ISLE OF WIGHT






Traveling alone is not that bad, but of course if there is companion, it would be better. Last Sunday I went to Isle of Wight alone. As usual, I took train to the Southampton Airport and transit with Unilink bus service to Town Quay. First time going to Town Quay, everybody has got off at West Quay. So, just seek assistance from the driver to remind me to get off at the Town Quay bus stop. Following his direction to the ferry station. The waiting time was in the vicinity of 50 minutes. Mean while waiting for the ferry, I managed to read up some tourism information at the counter. The Red Funnel ferry is quite huge, bigger than the Butterworth ferry. It's a three tiers ferry with main deck located at the 2nd floor. The spacious cafe offers wide selection of western food on board.
When arrived at the Isle, it was around 1.50p.m. Simply bought a pulp from Somerfield, I walked up to the main street. Without any guiding map, I was aimlessly strolling around while taking my simple lunch. It was drizzling in the cold weather. Luckily I brought my umbrella. I didn't care about people's perspective on me. I just enjoyed my own style of taking photos or video recording with my N95 mobile phone. Passengers laughing at me, I just responded with my happy smile.
My luck was good that day. Even though I was directionless, but the street brought me to the Osborne House, which was the Queen Victoria's family holiday house or we called it Palace. I supposed to pay for 10 pounds admission fees, but the counter lady just offered me the children ticket with 5 pounds only. See, can save 5 pounds already! The Palace is pretty spacious and decorated with splendid golden chandelier, huge lifelike vivid portraits, and noble furniture, etc. I visited a magnificent palace! Amazing and lovely trip!