Blogs and News

13/12/2025

REC (l5) Travel & Expedition First Aid

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December 11th/12th - 9 very experienced outdoor professionAls attended this course delivered by helen Menhinick (ML) and Alan Ward (IML).

The course content complied with the BAIML requirements for First Aid training.

Feedback from simon ogunlana of mountaineerin ltd.
Join Simon on Mt Toubkal or Kilimanjaro in 2026: visit www.mountaineerin.com for details

"We recently attended my 4th 1st Aid course which was delivered by Helen Menhinick and Alan Ward.
On this occasion we attended our 3rd REC L5 which, includes refreshing the basics but also a more in-depth delivery around overseas travel and issues relating to altitude. The course was delivered well at a good pace but keeping things relaxed with lots of practical elements.
Most people could learn to be a 1st aid trainer but the one thing you can’t learn is the vast amount of experience that Alan brings to his courses. This experience means Alan not only gives possible scenarios and examples of potential issues but has also experienced a lot of them in real life from his extensive leading career. This makes the course all the more interesting as the stories shared are potentially situations we may encounter as leaders in the future.
The knowledge and experience Alan has passed on to us over the years of courses we’ve completed has underpinned some of the decisions we have made whilst leading our own groups.
Alan’s wealth of knowledge and experience has defiantly made us more competent leaders especially when it comes to dealing with 1st Aid and risk type situations."
Simon Ogunlana - Company Director

Course GENERAL feedback

Greatest strengths:

1. I enjoyed working as a team on the practical areas and enjoyed the course.
2. Great information and shared experiences.
3. Practical experiences.
4. Useful to experience other members' experiences.
5. Enjoyable and informative - Thank you.
6. Experience from both participants and instructors.
7. Adequate equipment.
8. Knowledgeable instructors.
9. Great course - Thanks!
10. Huge amount of experience shared by the teachers.
11. Relaxed and at a good pace.
12. Instructors.
13. Experiences shared between instructors and candidates.
14. Training materials.
The course could be improved by:
1. Talisker Whisky

GALLERY

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14/11/2025

REC Outdoor First Aid (16hrs) & REC HSE FAW (18hrs) by bryn walking

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November 11th/12th (outdoor first aid) & 11th/12th/13th (HSE FAW) - Priest WesTon Village Hall

6 participants completed these courses to a very high standard.
Course tutors were Helen Menhinick (ml) and alan ward (iml).
Courses are available on request.

course feedback

1. Excellent refresher
2. Personal accounts & experiences - invaluable
3. Great group of course delegates - all keen to learn
4. Great teachers, very engaging
5. Interactive and class participation made absorbing information easier
6. Realistic scenarios using realistic equipment
7. Friendly instructors
8. No pressure in achieving perfection
9. Small/medium group size
10. Practical skills outside - real examples
11. Delivery - mixture of methods made learning and retention easy
12. Knowledgable and experienced tutors
13. Practical and relevent content
14. Clear and easy to understand explanations and scenarios
15. Great interaction and opportunity to discuss thoughts and experiences to reinforce learning
16. Opportunity to contribute and practice skills

gallery

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2/11/2025

Military training: High altitude first aid by bryn walking

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october 30th and 31st - REC High Altitude first aid to prepare for a trek to very high altitude in nepal

This 4hr REC High Altitude First Aid course consists of two, two hour sessions comprising:

Part 1: Basic Life Support (BLS) and how this basic training, which the soldiers receive yearly, is applied to trekking in the mountains and more remote areas of Nepal at very high altitude.
Part 2: High Altitude First Aid and the Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC)

This Bryn Walking course was delivered by Helen Menhinick (ML) and Alan Ward (IML).

october 30th gallery: 9 participants

COURSE FEEDBACK:

Great information on trekking at altitude
Very knowledgable and helpful - looking forward to going
Lots of good information and clear direction on planning the journey
Great course
Super informative
Good course
Practical PAC

october 31st gallery: 7 participants

COURSE FEEDBACK:

Useful practical knowledge
Very attention to detail with everything
Informative
Well delivered and informative

Session 1: 2hrs

Introductions and course content
Definition of First Aid
Basic Life Support (BLS): D*RS ABC DEF
Principles of First Aid: 3P’s
SAMPLE questions for a conscious casualty
First Aid Kits
Vital Signs – Monitoring (Pulse – O2 – Temperature – Blood Pressure)
Recovery Position + Log Roll
Choking
Medical evacuation – Transportation – Communications
Question session

Session 2: 2hrs

Definitions of High Altitude
What is High Altitude Sickness
Forms of High Altitude Sickness
High Altitude Headache (HAH)
Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS)
High Altitude Pulmonary Edema (HAPE)
High Altitude Cerebral Edema (HACE)
Drugs for high altitude travel
Altitude Oxygen
Hyperbaric Chamber (PAC or Gamow Bag)
Other issues relating to high altitude travel
Question session

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23/9/2025

memories of irian jaya from 1984/1985

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photograpic album of my work in irian jaya back in 1984/1985

Towards the end of being employed by Conoco Inc for ten years as an expatriate in Dubai, Singapore and Jakarta with my family, the company decided to drill two wells in Irian Jaya.

After my family repatriated to the UK, I remained behind as a Marine Adviser for the Giant 4 Project and I believe the cost of logistics exceeded the actual costs of drilling the two wells.

I converted a giant submersible barge into a logistics base for three Puma Helicopters and all associated staff.

During this and earlier similar projects up the coast I pioneered the use of submersible barges to load smaller vessels for a much faster demobilisation back to Singapore. I lived on the large Japanese salvage tug illustrated above and used the large and comfortable owners suite which had been generously supplied with Black Label Whisky and Tiger Beer for my voyage up the coast to Sorong.

The first few images illustrate an earlier drilling project and marine demobilisation, and then the marine survey I undertook into the area to establish if the planned marine project using the Giant 4 would be achievable. The last batch of images illustrate my 6 months with the Giant 4 Project.

The main Giant 4 Project was a fascinating 6 months in my life with a midway leave back to the UK generously approved by my boss!

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11/9/2025

Cagliari city break - September 2025

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A 10-night city break at the centrally located Hotel Baylle overlooking Piazza Yenne in cagliari, Sardinia

september 10th - lgw to cag with ba

Leaving Hindhead after a couple of nights with our friends we headed up the A3 to Guildford to join the M25 which proved to be a big mistake as the M23 south to LGW was closed due to an accident. We left the M25 for the A22 and on to LGW but it was a stressful journey for Yolande who was driving.

The LGW Valet Parking was easy to locate and we were soon checked in and found our way through security to the BA lounge for drinks and a light lunch.

The A320 took off late but the flight was uneventful and after descending through slighty turbulent cloud we landed hard but were soon through formalities and with our luggage, headed for the Airport Railway Station.

Our tickets were Euro 1.30 each and it didn't take long before we were off the train in Cagliari and hauling our trolley bags up Largo Carlo Felice to the Hotel Baylle. The hotel had told us it was a 7 minute walked but it took us longer as the uphill cobbles made for hard work and we were feeling quite tired by then.

A warm welcome into the Hotel Baylle and Room 31 proved to be very nice, spacious and overlooked Piazza Yenne. After unpacking, it was an early night as it had been a long day. The owner, Andrea, proved to be charming and helpful throughout our stay.

september 11th - a day in in cagLiari

The Hotel Baylle doesn't offer breakfast but I went down to bring some hot drinks up to our room from the first floor lounge and then we went over to a nearby cafe that Andrea had recommended for breakfast. There was nothing GF for Yolande so we had coffee and an orange juice each before calling into the adjacent supermarket to pick up some things for breakfast in our hotel room.

Our walking tour of Cagliari took us up to the Bastione di Saint Remy, dating back to 1902, for great views over Cagliari, the Salt Pans and, beyond, to the 10Km long Poetto Beach. Continuing onwards we visited the Santa Maria Cathedral and the Palazzo Regio to arrive at the Museo Archeologico Nazionale which we decided to save for another day.

We walked under the Porta Cristina, one of the highest points in Cagliari to find the Bar Al Buon Cammino where we both enjoyed a leisurely Aperol Spritz served by friendly bar staff with views over towards the harbour area.

We walked down to the lower town for lunch at the Eclipse - To the food and back Restaurant which proved to be very good. I'd messaged here from home to see if they could provide GF food which they could and Yolande had a fabulous pasta meal served with GF crisp bread. I had a steak salad and we shared a portion of fries. We enjoyed a nice white wine with lunch served by very friendly staff.

We visited the Railway Station to plan for tomorrows trip to Inglesias and the Customer Care Desk provided all the information we needed. We returned to the hotel for a siesta break where I started writing this illustrated blog.

Post-siesta time we popped over to the supermarket to pick up some sushi for tea and took it up to our room fridge for later. Heading out for a sunset cocktail as suggested by the hotel owner, Andrea, we found the lift to higher up on the city walls was closed due to the heat so we legged it up many steps to pass through the 14th century limestone Torre dell'Elefante city gate and turned left along cobbled streets to the Libarium Nostrum terrace restaurant which sits upon the Bastione di Santa Croce for a sunset cocktail. It was a pleasant evening experience as the sun set over the western hills.

An easy walk took us back to the hotel for supermarket sushi (not great!), Uno cards and a nightcap before lights out.

september 12th - iglesias & san giovanni's cave

We'd planned on a visit to this cave system which with it's 850m of internal road is classed as the longest driveable cave in the world although cars are no longer to drive through the cave system.

After I did the 0700 trip to the coffee lounge on the first floor, I popped over, at 0800, to the supermarket for fresh orange juice and cheese and ham for a continental breakfast.

We were down at Cagliari Station for the 0950 towards Iglesias but at Decimomannu transferred to the rail replacement bus to Inglesias.

Iglesias (Population 27,000) has a history of 3,000 years of mining and this small city has been the centre of Sardinia's metal industry. Silver extraction and smelting was followed by lead, zinc and copper mining.

Iglesias means church in Spanish and the town spent many years under Spanish rule.

Iglesias is famed for its pretty narrow streets shaded by multicoloured suspended umbrellas and we located the Tourism Office where the staff were very helpful in finding us transport to San Giovanni's Cave and also for our planned trip to Porto Flavia on Sunday.

Piazza Lamarmora in the centre of Iglesias is where seven streets merge at the "Su Maimoni" statue in front of the Art Noveau building which is highly decorated with images of drinks, sweets and liquers.

The drive out to the cave didn't take long and we were soon walking through the 850m long cave system where we saw some very spectacuar stalagtites and rock formations before reaching the far end. We returned along the same route and after handing in our safety helmets, we returned to Iglesias.

It was too early to catch our rail replacement bus back to Decimomannu so we found a lovely little bar and enjoyed an Aperol Spritz and shared a bag of crisps.

Before long we were back at the Hotel Baylle for a siesta before going out for dinner.

Dinner was at the nearby Sa Schironada Restaurant which filled up quickly but it wasn't really to our liking as it was all a bit rushed and we'd hoped for a more leisurely dinner. Our starters were OK but mains were a real let down so it was back to our room for a nightcap.

september 13th - a visit to the hilltop town of mandas to the south of cagliari by Sardegna Trenino Verde

lt was an eary start with a taxi to the Monserrato Station for the tour:

"The train is about to leave! From the San Gottardo station in Monserrato (Cagliari), you can travel comfortably on the brand new Stadler trains. through the territories of the lower Campidano to Mandas, on a journey to rediscover Sardinia, in the footsteps of David Herbert Lawrence and his book "Mare e Sardegna" (1921).
We will meet Settimo S. Pietro, Soleminis, Dolianova, Donori, Barrali, Senorbì, Suelli and Gesico, before our journey through time and territory leads us to Mandas. Here, we will find ourselves in the presence of a railway station that is undoubtedly small and not very busy in today's eyes, but at the time it was one of the largest and by some, considered a majestic testimony of the technological progress achieved, the nerve center of a great movement of people and novelties. Through the old locomotives, the rusty wagons, the monumental locomotives, we will discover its nodal importance of that time, Walking away from the station, along the narrow streets of the historic stone center, we will reach the Ethnographic Museum "Is Lollas de Is Aiaius", full of objects, known and very curious. "Footprints" of women and men, left as a testimony and memory of their experience A few steps later, we will arrive in the "MAHMU" Archaeological Museum which houses important Nuragic, Phoenician and Roman finds, Fragments of history, from which to start to better understand who our ancestors have become today. For lunchtime we will be in the nearby farmhouse. where, comfortably seated and served, we will savor the succulent dishes at km 0 and relax in a serene moment of conviviality. After coffee, in the dining room we will attend the show cooking made by a very skilled Mandari housewife and we will be able to try our hand at these techniques or simply admire the mastery and steal some skills to replicate at home. In the late afternoon, a few minutes walk and we will arrive in the presence of the nineteenth-century district of San Francesco, with the Convent founded by the friars in 1610. The church of the same name now houses the library and the one dedicated to St. Christopher collects the treasures of the area in the Museum of Sacred Art "Peregrinatio Fidei". Spectacular jewels and statues will make us question iconographic symbolism, between sacred and profane. A few steps and the imposing parish church of St. James (Santu Jacu), connects the present with the last 200 years of religious life of these places. We start again by completing the ring route in the historic center, up to the railway station. and..... all in carriage!! The return in total relaxation, on the comfortable Stadler train, along those same tracks laid over 150 years ago. which will take us to Monserrato (Gotthard Station), with many images and many news, new things to tell and if desired, a few more friends."

This was a long day's tour but was a great way to see the countryside in southern Sardinia and with two museum visits in Mandas we learnt about the rural way of life in the area.

Lunch at Le Vigne Ducali Vineyard was a real treat as they were fully prepared with GF food for Yolande and their estate produce wine was very good and in endless supply.

Throughout the day, our Guide Mauro was very informative and helpful to the extent that he even gave us a lift back to our hotel that evening.

september 14th - a visit to porto flavia

We were on the 0940 train out of Cagliari for Iglesias via train and rail bus replacement service and our driver Jessica was there to meet us as we arrived at about 1110.

Leaving Iglesias behind we soon joined a narrow and twisting coastal road, eventually arriving at the Porto Flavia Ticket Office by 1145 ready for our 1200 tour. We were issued with nets and helmets and were soon entering the long tunnel compex which once had small rail trucks taking minerals to the loading terrace which was 27m above the sea. From there the minerals to be exported were lowered into the holds of waiting cargo ships.

The Porto Flavia port and adjacent mining site is located near Inglesias on the southwestern coast of Sardinia and was built in 1924.

The tunnel wasn't particularly well lit but the surface was flat and level and the guides had torches. Where the tunnel ended, there was an option to descend to a lower level but we decided against this as there were lots of people on the narrow and steep steps. We then walked back through the tunnel to the main entrance and walked a short distance to meet our driver and headed back to Iglesias.

On the way back we passed Nebida where abandoned zinc and lead works overlook the sea but we didn't have time to visit this site.

Porta Flavia had been a very interesting visit and had recently hosted a world extreme diving event.

Back in Iglesias we caught an earlier rail replacement bus back to Decimomannu and waited for the next train back into Cagliari and we were soon back in our hotel room for a Gin & Tonic. Room 31 and the hotel generally were excellent but it would have been nice if there had been an ice machine in the lounge.

Dinner was to treat Yolande to a GF Pizza at the Man.Gia GF Restaurant which was about a twenty minute walk away. On the way we saw a kitchen shop and were able to buy a cheap kettle as our room didn't have one and this will save me my 0700 visits down to the coffee lounge on the first floor.

The GF Pizza experience was excellent and a real treat for Yolande!

september 15th - the poetto beach walk

A taxi took us to the eastern end of the Poetto Beach for our 8Km walk back to the Marina Piccola where we planned on having lunch.

The first section was all sand and quite hard work but then a much better path was used for the majority of the walk. An old abandoned watch tower lay in the water just off the beach and a group of cormorants were sat on the top. The Tower of Carcangiolas was buit during the Spanish period and dates back to 1591 but it now lies on its side in the shallow warm waters I was wading through.

We crossed over the road to see a flamingo but it wasn't very pink! We were using sun cream as it was very hot but a coastal breeze helped to keep us cool.

Morning coffee at the Jinny Beach Club Resort and then Aperol Spritz cocktails further along at the Twist Beach Club.

Reaching the Marina Piccola we found the Villa Elysium Restaurant which proved to be very good. We sat on the upper terrace overlooking the marina and the Poetto Beach we just walked along. The restaurant was predominently seafood but they made a nice creamy mushroom pasta (GF) dish for Yolande whilst I enjoyed a sardine starter followed by a mixed fish dish with chips and then a lemon sorbet which was very refreshing. The staff arranged a taxi back to the hotel for our late afternoon siesta.

We enjoyed an evening walk down to the waterfront where we saw some very expensive motor yachts and looked across at the very large Grimaldi RoRo ferry as it was about to sail. An enjoyable part of the walk was to stop off at the Gelateria Peter Pan where Yolande enjoyed a GF cone and strawberry ice cream. I went overboard and ordered a Banana Split which was excellent.

september 16th - a day in cagliari

It's so much better waking up with a kettle in the room with no early shower and getting dressed to go down to the coffee lounge. The trip over to the supermarket was then easy enough to pick up items for our in-room continental breakfast with the wonderful fresh orange juice.

After breakfast we took a taxi up to the Museo Archaeologico Nazionale which was very interesting and a very well laid out museum. From there we walked across to the Bar Al Buon Cammino for our Aperol Spritz morning cocktails before descending into town.

Our route took us passed the Cagliari Amphitheatre which had once sat 10,000 spectators keen to watch fights between men and animals, the execution of death sentences and gladitorial fights. The site was carved out of the Hill of Buon Cammino between the 1st and 2nd Century AD and not built from the ground up like most amphitheatres.

From there we walked into Corso Vittorio Emanuee 11 which is a paved street lined with food outlets and we had a simple lunch at the Su Stampu Pizzeria.

After lunch we walked down to the Bus Station to buy tickets to get to Pula tomorrow morning to visit the ancient city of Nora, chosen by the Phoenicians as their main base in the area.

Dinner was back to the Eclipse - To the food and back Restaurant but my choices really didn't suit me that much but Yolande had a nice main course. I enjoyed a Sambuca before we walked back to the hotel.

september 17th - day trip to the roman-Phoenician port of nora

We boarded the 0915 bus to Pula and it was quite full. Heading westwards on SS195 we saw many pelicans on the wetlands to the north. We passed the large oil refinery where a number of tankers were moored on the jetties which extended out into the sea.

After 50 minutes we arrived in Pula and offloaded in the high street next to the Buddha Cafe which we visited for a coffee and to use the facilities. The staff kindly arranged for a taxi to take us down to Nora. Alighting from the taxi I popped into the Rada Restaurant to book a table for lunch at 1230 and then we purchased our entry tickets for the Nora site.

Pula lies 35 kilometres from Cagliari, in South Sardinia. It has fascinating origins and is today the gateway to Nora, one of the most famous tourist destinations in Sardinia. Inhabited by just over 7000 people, Pula once was mainly an agricultural town.

It was the first Phoenician city in Sardinia (8th century BC), an important commercial crosswords and port of enviable location, in the isthmus of Capo Pula, from which it was possible to set sail in any weather. Nora, which developed fully in the 4th century BC under Punic rule, was conquered by the Romans in 238 BC and became a municipium in the 1st century AC. During the two following centuries, it lived its maximum splendour: urban growth and eight thousand inhabitants, in addition to being caput viae, the starting point of all of the roads on the islands.

We enjoyed our walk around this fascinating site before returning to the Rada Restaurant for drinks and lunch on the verandas which overlooked the surrounding areas. Apertol Spritz cocktails before lunch of course. Yolande ordered a chicken salad whist I chose pasta with lobster - we both enjoyed our chosen meals in such a fabulous setting.

After lunch I phoned the taxi driver we'd used earlier and he came to collect us and dropped us off at the bus stop for the 1426 back to Cagliari Bus Station from where we walked up to our supermarket and then returned to our room for an afternoon siesta.

Dinner was to the nearby Tandoori Restaurant which was very nicely furnished. The food was quite reasonable overall.

september 18th - a day trip by train to oristano

We'd both woken up early sadly, possibly due to noise outside in Piazza Yenne which our room overlooked but generally we didn't hear much to disturb us. After our breakfast we walked down to the station and caught the 0922 train to Oristano where we arrived at about 1045.

We walked into town and enjoyed a coffee in Piazza Mariano and then walked in the central part of Oristano with a brief stop to buy a few gifts to take home. We passed the medieval Tower of Portixedda which had been part of the old city walls which were pulled down in the 19th century.

We explored the central area around the 13th century Torre di Mariano 11 Tower in Piazza Roma which is surrounded by narrow alleyways and up in Piazza Eleonara d'Arbora found a nice place to enjoy lunch. The Barber Cafe menu didn't have much for Yolande to eat but they prepared a nice mushroom GF pasta dish for her which she enjoyed - made to order!

We caught the 1437 train back to Cagliari and enjoyed a siesta. Walking back up to the hotel we stopped in the Sardissimo delicatesen where we enjoyed a glass of wine in this fabulous shop in the nearby Piazzetta Savoia square. Also in the square was a tapas type bar offering GF food so we went there for our evening meal which was very good - Taccas Anni 60.

september 19th - a day in cagliari

Wherever we visit on our travels we always like to visit a market so after breakfast we walked (2Km) to the Mercati Civici San Benedetto and just before arriving there stopped for a coffee at a small but very local bar.

Once in the market there were lots of photographic opportunities and whenever I asked a stall holder if I could take photographs I always received a positive response.

From the market we had a longer walk (4Km) across to the other side of Cagliari to the Old Wild West Restaurant. This was well worth the effort as it was decorated in real wild western fashion and we sat in a mocked up Chuck Wagon for drinks and lunch. Suprisingly they didn't offer a margarita which we'd have enjoyed but the food was very good and after lunch we walked (2Km) back to the hotel for a siesta.

We enjoyed our last Gin and Tonics before walking to the Man.Gia GF Pizzeria for our last dinner in Cagliari.

september 20th - CAG to lgw with ba

Awake at 0700 to finish packing we left the Hotel Baylle at 0830 with a taxi to the airport where we had to wait a short while before checking in and passing through security and enjoying one last Aperol Spritz, made by me, in the lounge.

We purchased three bottles of Pallini Limoncello which is Yolande's favourite.

The flight back was just over 2hrs but at LGW we had to wait over half an hour for our luggage before picking up the car for us to share the drive home.

We'd both enjoyed Cagliari and our trips out of town into the countryside and we can both highly recommend the Hotel Baylle.

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8/6/2025

IML 30th anniversary

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June 20th 1995 - I received confirmation of passing the European Mountain Leader Award which became the international Mountain Leader Award.

Highlights of my career as an International Mountain Leader include:

25 Himalayan treks and expeditions
5 Mt Toubkal treks
Recce treks to Kilimanjaro, Peru and Nepal
Travels through 80 countries
3 UIAA Hill Mountain Skills courses delivered at the Kasbah du Toubkal and 1 for Climb Indonesia in the Central Highlands of Java, Indonesia
Hill & Moorland Leader Award in Wales as one of the most frequent provider of this course as Bigfoot Services Limited
Additional qualifications achieved include IEMA Associate Certificate, NEBOSH General Certificate and ISO Auditor
Training Provider for Rescue Emergency Care (REC) for all courses up to L5, Royal Geographical Society (RGS) Off Site Safety Management (OSSM), the National Navigation Award Scheme (NNAS) for all courses and the Institute of Occupational Safety and health (IOSH) for Working Safely and Managing Safely
Meeting and working with a wide range of people from many countries and cultures from across the world

1995 - 2016 gallery of faces encountered during my travels

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15/4/2025

2025 - the ww2 escape route from singapore

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iNTRODUCTION

On February 13th 1942, my father escaped from Singapore during the night, before the surrender on February 15th and now, in 2025, we're following in his footsteps. February 13th was called "Black Friday" by the British High Command as it was the day they finally realised that the battle for Singapore would be lost to the Japanese. History tells an interesting story about the fall of Singapore when 130,000 British and Commonwealth troops were beaten by 60,000 Japanese troops.

My November 11th 2024 Blog on this page tells his story.

April 28th: LH915 to FRAnkfurt for LH780 to SINgapore

Our VIP Connections Travel transfer picked us up at 1030 for our journey to LHR T2 and driver Carl dropped us off at about 1300 and we were soon checked in and through formalities and into the Lufthansa lounge. The lounge wasn't that good for Yolande as there was little provision for GF food.

LH915 took off half an hour late but time was made up on the way to Frankfurt. The crew were friendly but Lufthansa had made a mess of the special meal requests for Yolande which would be a recurring theme on both outward and homeward 12hr B747-400 flights.

In Frankfurt it took us half an hour to get to Gate Z58 for our B747-400 direct to Singapore.

I was disappointed with Lufthansa as one of the main reasons we chose these flights was to experience the newish B747-8 but sadly for operational requirements our aircraft was replaced by an elderly B747-400. We sat on the upper deck for the 12.5 hour long haul sector and for much of the flight the aircraft rattled its way over Central Asia and India. Once again, Lufthansa failed to provide appropriate special meals for Yolande.

Having spent so much time pre-Covid using Emirates, Garuda Indonesia and Qatar Airways, the Lufthansa in-flight experience was quite poor and akin to flights we'd made many many years ago. The fare however was 50% of what Qatar quoted us so we opted for it as a cost saving exercise.

april 29th: Arrive sINGAPORE

The final two hours of the flight were fairly calm and we ate breakfast which was served with good coffee and landed more or less on time at 1625 for the long walk to Arrivals/Immigration. We'd filled in our SGAC online immigration forms at home so we passed straight through immigration to meet our bags arriving as we got there.

We passed through the Green Lane to meet our Lufthansa arranged hotel transfer and the driver took us to our hotel for the next four nights. The vehicle was tacky to say the least but we arrived at the hotel around 1800 and after a rapid check in we were soon up in the Executive Lounge for a Gin & Tonic followed by a glass of very pleasant Chilean red wine. The lounge stopped serving complimentary drinks at 1830 so we went to our Room 908 where our bags were already there and waiting for us.

As we were on a full board package we dined in and really had food however, the choices for Yolande were quite limited.......

Overnight: Novotel Singapore on Stephens Road

April 30th: Singapore sightseeing walk - 10km

Our plans for the morning, after breakfast were to visit the Botanical Gardens and the Singapore Orchid Gardens, followed by a visit to the Kranji War Memorial using the MRT.

Breakfast was fairly adequate and our walk to the Botanical Gardens was along Upper Stephens Road before turning left along Dalvey Road which was, in effect, a Millionaire's Road of desirable properties.

The entrance fee to the National Orchid Gardens was S$3 each but it's such a special place to visit with orchids of all colours and sizes. The site houses a collection of more than 1,000 species with different environments for each group of orchids.

We then walked to the MRT station but stopped for a coffee on the way. Staff at the MRT station were very helpful and advised against the 3-day Tourist MRT pass so we decided to simply purchase one-way tickets as we needed them.

We walked to the Kranji War Memorial from Kranji MRT and it was about 10-15 minutes each way. The War Memorial was a peaceful and very well maintained site to commemorate those lost in the area during WW2. The memorial stands over the graves of more than 4,000 Allied servicemen whilst the pillars list the names of 24,000 others whose bodies were not found.

Back on the MRT we alighted at Newton for a simple lunch at the Newton Food Centre and then walked back to the hotel arriving there at about 1600 with 10km recorded walking during the day. The Newton Food Centre was much better in the days when we lived here but it provided a simple meal of chicken satay for us before we walked back to the hotel.

We enjoyed the Executive Lounge again before before dining in the hotel restaurant but the size of the lounge was woefully small really so it suffered from overcrowding this evening.

Overnight: Novotel Singapore on Stephens Road

SINGAPORE ORCHID GARDEN

KRANJI WAR MEMORIAL

may 1st: Singapore

Our 0930 Grab picked us up for our visit to the Changi Chapel and Museum with pre-purchased tickets.

The newly revamped Changi Chapel and Museum (CCM) featured new content and artefacts presented in an intimate and engaging format to tell the story of the prisoners of war and civilians interned in Changi Prison Camp during the Japanese Occupation. Replicas of the famous Changi Murals can be seen in the museum.

The museum’s narrative is centred on remembrance and reflection, encouraging visitors to contemplate both the hardships that the internees underwent, as well as their courage and resilience in the face of difficulties.

In the 1920s, the Changi area was just a small village with a police station, a couple of bungalows and oddly enough, a small Japanese Hotel which offered the services of prostitutes. As far back as 1604, Changi was originally referred to as Tanjong Rusa, becoming known as Tanjong Changi in the early 1800s and later just ‘Changi’. The name itself most likely derived from the Chengai tree; an especially tall tree which was indigenous to the area.

Leaving the museum we caught the No. 2 bus into Changi Village where we'd planned on lunch so after a walk around the ferry area we had a coffee in the Village Hotel and used another Grab to the YMCA on Orchard Road which was where Dad had stayed in February 1942 before he left Singapore.

From the YMCA we walked to the Funan Mall to buy a charging lead for my laptop as mine must have been left at home. From there we walked over Fort Canning Park to the Battlebox to use our free but online ordered tickets. Raffles built his bungalow here but in 1859, it was replaced by a military base and renamed Fort Canning. The park features very old and quite majestic trees with Singapore's most diverse spice garden at this hilltop park full of history and heritage.

Built in 1936 and completed in 1939, the Battlebox served as the bombproof command headquarters for the defending Allied forces against the invading Japanese army in the final days of the Malayan Campaign (8 Dec 1941 — 15 Feb 1942). It was here that Lieutenant-General Arthur Percival and 11 other commanders made the decision to surrender Singapore to the Japanese, resulting in possibly the greatest defeat of a British army ever in battle and the beginning of 3 ½ years of the Japanese Occupation of Singapore.

Dad's evacuation order dated February 13th 1942 would have been approved at this site in the days just prior to the surrender which was on February 15th 1942.

Leaving Fort Canning Park we took a taxi back to the hotel.

When we lived in Singapore in 1978/1979 we often visited Pete's Place (in the Grand Hyatt Hotel) for Italian food so we headed there for dinner. We used Grab transfers both ways because of the rain which was most common during the early evenings on most nights. I didn't think Pete's Place was as good as it used to be......

I realised the charging lead I'd purchased didn't actually work so we'd go back to the Funan Mall the following morning.

Overnight: Novotel Singapore on Stephens Road

changi chapel & museum

the battlebox bunker

may 2nd: singapore

Disrupted sleep patterns were still happening after our long flight here but each night it is getting better. I've often thought that it can take up to a week to recover from a long (12hr +) overnight flight.

Breakfasts here are quite adequate and over breakfast we agreed our morning plan of what we'd do which would be to take a Grab to the Marina Bay Barrage, walk to Funan Mall before visiting Chinatown.

The walk up alongside Marina Bay was hot and sweaty to say the least. Back at the Funan Mall we found a Dell shop where the staff sold us exactly what we needed. We received a full refund for the lead which hadn't worked from the shop nearby where we'd purchased it.

A twenty minute walk along South Bridge Road took us into Chinatown which wasn't too busy and we visited the Buddha Tooth Relic Temple and Museum (Completed in 2007 at a cost of S$53 million) which was very grand inside but we didn't notice the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha. The nearby Sri Mariamman Temple established in 1827 was as colourful as I can remember it over many years and across the road from it there were some great street paintings of how life in Singapore would have been many years ago.

Leaving Chinatown we walked to the fabulous Lau Pa Sat Hawker Festival Market, one of our favourite places in Singapore. Lau Pa Sat is located in the heart of the banking district and this hawker centre features Victorian cast-iron architecture with a wide range of food stalls. Being lunchtime it was quite crowded and whilst I found a table, Yolande went off and returned with two trays of really good Indian food which was very cost effective.

Considered a historic building, this market-turned-food-centre is a must-visit whenever we’re in the CBD area. Aside from its stunning architecture, this hawker centre is fully loaded with scrumptious local food. But unlike your typical hawker centre, each stall is clearly labeled with the specialty it serves, from North Indian to Vietnamese. Plus, it’s not just menus that are synonymous with Singapore’s national dishes, it includes other Asian cuisines and Western delights including a Costa Rican favourite, Mamacitas. Come night-time, the Boon Tat Street side of Lau Pa Sat makes way for satay, the perfect spot for after-work nosh.

From there we took a taxi back to the hotel for a lazy afternoon.

Overnight: Novotel Singapore on Stephens Road

marina barrage to china town walk - 7.5km

lau pa sat hawker food centre

may 3rd: GA195 to JAKARTA for GA134 to jambi

The motor yacht Cecilia with my father on board passed through the Berhala Straights and into the delta of the Batang Hari River which was known as the Djambi River in 1942 and was the Dutch run escape route. The river banks were lined with mangrove swamps in the journey upriver to Jambi. once in Jambi, the Dutch administration transferred them to smaller, flat-bottomed boats upstream to Muaratebo from where trucks transported them to Sawah Lunto and on by train down to Padang.

We were awake before our alarms went off so we were down in the lobby by 0600 with Yolande checking us out whilst I booked a Grab for the airport transfer. Checking in for our Garuda Indonesia flights GA195 to Jakarta for the connecting GA134 to Jambi was effortless and we were soon in the SIA Silver Kris lounge to relax until our 0930 flight departure was ready.

GA195 was boarding ahead of schedule and we were warmly greeted by name and shown to 6A and 6C. After take off we were served an enjoyable breakfast and landed early into Sukaerno-Hatta International Airport in Jakarta. Visas cost us £30 each on arrival which was a surprise and after completing electronic customs declarations we went through security into the domestic terminal and the Garuda Executive Lounge which was comfortable but lacking in appropriate offerings for food and drink.

GA134 boarded on time for Jambi and the 1hr 2min flight was adequate and we landed on time. Our luggage arrived and our Aston Hotel transfer service delivered us to the hotel where our room was upgraded to a junior suite which was a pleasant suprise. Dinner was good with our choices of Indonesian food working out well.

Overnight: Aston Jambi Hotel

TRAVEL DAY; SINGAPORE TO JAMBI

may 4th: jambi

After our first full night sleep after the long flight we woke feeling good and enjoyed a good breakfast.

Reception staff arranged for a car and driver for a sightseeing tour which took us to the following:

The local Eiger Adventure outdoor shop to buy a few items for Helen which she'd asked for. There are over 300 Eiger Adventure shops across Indonesia and the layout was very well set out with friendly staff on hand to help.
Jembatan Gentala Arasy is the curved pedestrian bridge across the Batang Hari River which brought my Dad into Jambi in 1942 after his escape from Singapore. We walked across to the other side before returning to the Mall WTC Batanghari for a coffee.
Muaro Jambi Temple Complex.

Muaro Jambi (Indonesian: Candi Muaro Jambi) is a Buddhist temple complex, in Muaro Jambi Regency, Jambi province, Sumatra, Indonesia. It is situated 26 kilometres (16 miles) east from the city of Jambi. The temple complex was built by the Melayu Kingdom, with its surviving temples and other archaeological remains estimated to date from the 7th to 13th century CE. The archaeological site includes eight excavated temple sanctuaries and covers about 12 square kilometres (4.6 sq mi), stretches 7.5 kilometres (4.7 mi) along the Batang Hari River, 80 menapos or mounds of temple ruins, are not yet restored. It is one of the largest and best-preserved ancient temple complexes in South East Asia.

We enjoyed our sightseeing day out and were back at our hotel room by about 1500 for a refreshing Gin & Tonic with the rest of the afternoon at leisure.

More good Indonesian food at dinner but it was an early night for me at 2130 after a drop of Talisker Dark Storm.

Overnight: Aston Jambi Hotel

may 5th: Jambi

I think we both slept well and we went down for breakfast not long after 0800. The Restaurant Manager Suhendra talked to us at length and was interested in knowing all about our time in Indonesia. Suhendra advised us that local Jambi Batik shops were close by so after breakfast we went out for a short walk. Interestingly the morning markets had set up next to the hotel and were selling all sorts of food items including fresh fish.

The Batik shops were next for a few purchases but the shop staff were just so friendly it was an interesting and enjoyable experience in the shops we visited.

Back at the hotel we booked a car and driver to take us to the Museum and shopping malls for lunch.

The Siginjei Jambi Museum is a museum that stores various collections of historical objects, traditional art objects and a number of other cultural heritage educational installations. It was worth the hour spent viewing the exhibits and I hadn't realised that in ancient times that Jambi was the Indonesian centre for maritime trade with China, India and the Middle East.

We enjoyed sushi in the Mall WTC Batanghari and shopped in the supermarket before returning to the hotel for a leisurely afternoon.

As usual we were the only diners in the hotel restaurant but enjoyed our last dinner in Jambi.

Overnight: Aston Jambi Hotel

may 6th: Drive to Muara bungo via MUARA TEBO

We were up by about 0700 to finish our packing and breakfasted at around 0800 before meeting our driver Rendi and leaving the hotel by about 0900.

Leaving the sprawled out city of Jambi took about an hour before we were out in the countryside on the road west which loosely followed the Batang Hari River westwards for hours until we finally reached Muara Tebo where Dad had landed after using shallow draft boats from Jambi. Every small village we passed through had elaborately coloured mosques and casual roadblocks where voluntary donations could be left for mosque maintenance.

During the drive we passed through a countryside full of palm oil plantations and woud see farmers on the road with their vehices full of palm oil fruit taking them to palm oil processing factories. We also passed a couple of rubber plantations and processing factories but the need for rubber these days is in decline.

In Muara Tebo we found the jetty where Dad had probably landed and today there is a ceremonial arch for VIP visitors arriving by river transport.

We ate a late lunch on the western outskirts of Muara Tebo in a Masakan Padang restaurant where the table is swamped with a mulitude of all kinds of dishes and rice is served. In simple terms, you choose what you like the look of and just pay for what you've eaten. Our bill for the three of us came to about £10.

Continuing on westwards to Muara Bungo we arrived there at about 1700 and found the Amaris Hotel for our overnight stay. The hotel was modern and our room comfortable with good air conditioning. I dined alone in the hotel restaurant as Yolande wasn't feeling well due to a bite on her arm which caused her pain and discomfort.

Overnight: Hotel Amaris

may 7th: drive to sawalunto: world heritage site

Having slept reasonably well, driver Rendi arrived late but after loading the car we were on the road northwards towards Sahahlunto on Jl. Lintas Sumatera, the Trans Sumatra Highway.

Leaving Muara Bungo we noticed another Eiger Adventure shop but still couldn't find what we were looking for.

Small scale farmers had been active collecting date palm fruit and we saw many small vans transporting these to larger date palm processing factories. We were in far more comfort than Dad would have experienced in our air-conditioned vehicle some 80 years later.

We passed a few more rubber plantations and one processing factory which had a bright yellow steam roller by the main gate but the factory didn't look very operational. Village after village were passed each with more small mosques than we could count and eventually we stopped at a large service station complex with buses stopped there from afar afield as Medan which is about 1000km away. In the other direction buses were headed for Jakarta which would involve crossing the Sunda Strait between Java and Sumatra.

We stopped for a late lunch on the other side of the mountains and then began our descent towards Solok, finally reaching Sawahlunto and our hotel for three nights in a Legacy Room which was quite comfortable.

KHAS Ombilin Hotel with it's Dutch Colonial and Minangkabau architectural style is strategically located in the city center of Sawahlunto and right in the Ombilin Coal Mining Heritage area of Sawahlunto. It is close to the office area and historical attractions such as Ombilin Coal Mining Museum, Lubang Mbah Suro Mining Site Museum, Goedang Ransoem Museum, Sawahlunto Railway Museum, and Sawahlunto's cultural centre building. The hotel was built in 1917 to accommodate guests and company officials of the Ombilin Coal Mining Company and has since served as army accommodation and a police station.

Enjoying a beer at Rp 150,000 I suggested to the Duty Manager that this was expensive so he reduced the price down to Rp100,000!

The hotel is also close to popular natural attractions in Sawahlunto, such as Blue Lake, Kandih Lake, Cemara Peak, Poland Peak and Runciang Rock.

Overnight KHAS Ombilin Hotel

may 8th: SAWalunto

We slept well and enjoyed breakfast before heading out into town for an exploratory walk. Our main objective was the old railway station where, in 1942, my Dad took the train to Padang with other soldiers with whom he'd traveled from Singapore with.

The Sawahlunto Rail Museum is a former station built by the Dutch Colonial Government in 1894 to exploit coal extraction from the area for transportation to Holland via the Port of Padang which was then known as Emma Haven. The museum showcases a variety of exhibits including modes, photographs and other items of interest. In the Engine Shed was an old steam engine of German origin and a newer diesel engine. The museum is definitely worth a visit.

The Railway Museum is there to explain the history of the trains in West Sumatra. The development of the railway from Sawahlunto to Padang began on July 6th, 1889. The purpose of the development was to effectively transport coal from Sawahlunto to Emmahaven seaport, now called the Teluk Bayur seaport. The railway started its development in 1889 up to 1894, connecting Sawahlunto, Muaro Kalaban, Pulau Aie, Padang Panjang, Bukittinggi, Solok and Padang. But, due to the declining activities in the coal mining industry since the early 2,000s, the train to Sawahlunto ceased operation. In 2005, the local government and the train company agreed to establish a railway museum.

After buying our tickets we were shown around the complex by a member of staff whose English language was very good. We enjoyed the Rail Museum visit before continuing our walk around Sawahlunto and resting in Diana's Cake Shop which was an interesting experience as everyone who came in said hello and waved as they sped off on their motorbikes after buying cakes. Then it was back to the hotel to cool off in our room and think about lunch which, as it turned out, was very disappointing.

Across the road from our hotel, the town's Cultural Center Building was once called the Rumah Bola, or Bowling House as it used to be a place for bowling and play pool during the Dutch era. Built-in 1910, the other name for the building was the "Gluck Auf" or the Societeit. It was a centre for Dutch workers for their leisure activities after a long day working the coal mines but now lies in a sad condition of disrepair.

An afternoon walk found us entrapped in the Vita Mart store for almost an hour which was a bit tedious because of very heavy rain which I'd not seen for many years. Eventually, a bread delivery van driver gave us a lift back to the hotel.

Dinner was a bit more to our liking in the evening with our Sate Ayam being served with Nasih Putih instead of the dreaded Lompok lumps of cold congealed rice.

Overnight KHAS Ombilin Hotel

may 9th: sawAHlunto

After a good night's sleep our 0800 breakfast was served in our room becaue of too few overnight guests to warrant the hotel breakfast buffet being set up. At least the Nasi Goreng was served hot which I'd asked for.

A hotel car took us to the longest railway tunnel in Sumatra at the southern end of Sawahlunto and is 828m in length and which Dad had passed through when he left here for Padang.

After seeing the tunnel our car dropped us off at the Goedang Ransoem Museum, the Mining Central Kitchen dating back to 1918. Once the heart of this historic mining town, this impressive and well maintained complex once fed over 7000 coal miners and their families three times a day. We both enjoyed our visit and then walked back to the hotel.

Overnight KHAS Ombilin Hotel

may 10th: drive to bukittinggi & the minang highlands

Jaka from the Padi Ecolodge arrived for our 0900 departure from Sawahlunto and we're ready to move on having visited the routes and places where Dad spent time on his escape from Singapore.

From Sawahlunto our first objective on the road to Bukittinggi would be the Istano Basa Pagaruyung, the istana (royal palace, of the former Pagaruyung Kingdom) is located in the Tanjung Emas subdistrict just south of Batusangkar.

This first part of the day's journey was very interesting with lots of agricutural activity in the rice padi fields and giant water wheels impressively irrigated the fields from the river. We stopped by one such giant water wheel and even saw two groups of men panning for gold!

North of Batusangkar was a real treat waiting for us which we'd not expected although we knew such activities existed.

Bull racing and the opening day of the season was such an amazing experience to witness and we stayed about an hour with Yolande getting spashed by bulls racing too close to the raised embankment we were watching from. This was an amazing photographic opportunity for me!

Continuing on we reached the Padi Ecolodge at about 1600 and were soon settled into our balcony room overlooking rice padi field which were about to be harvested. The room was spacious and comfortable. We dined in and were impressed that staff could understand about GF dietry requirements. There was no room airconditioning but two fans kept us cool.

Overnight Padi Eco Lodge

NOTE: Bukittinggi - meaning High Hill - is one of the most attractive towns in Sumatra with many places of interest in the immediate vicinity. The town is situated at 1000m, encircled by volcanoes with a cool and enjoyable climate. LIke the Minang people in the surrounding areas, the inhabitants of Bukittinggi are friendly and welcoming.

may 11th: bukitinnggi - maninjau lake TOUR

Apart from its unique culture, the Minangkabau region is a picturesque area with mountains, hills, canyons, and lakes scattered throughout. Our Maninjau Lake tour provided us an opportunity to experience the stunning landscapes of the region.

Our first stop in the morning was the Sianok Valley and Jaka drove us up to a spectacular viewpoint. Continuing on we drove through areas of rice padi fields and into more upland areas, eventually reaching 1250m on the Maninaju Lake crater rim. Along the crater rim were several strawberry plantations and coffee was also growing there.

We visited an area of sugar plantations and observed the process of brown sugar-making which was very interesting. Neither of us had ever seen this before so it really was interesting and we made a purchase to take home.

Continuing on, our journey was brought abruptly to a halt because the road was closed for a wedding procession. We jumped out and observed these colourful proceedings which were a pleasure to watch and the people greeted us warmly. Some of them were more interested in taking our photographs than that of the wedding proceedings and accompanying dancing and music routines. We were even invited into the wedding ceremony but didn't have time for this.

Sadly the panoramic view of Maninjau Lake from the top of Puncak Lawang was obscured by rain and mist but we were soon down at the Bagoes Cafe on the shores of the lake for lunch. It was probably our best meal to date this trip, in Indonesia: Veggie Curry and rice with a piece of chicken for me as well. We both had fruit juice drinks and I finished off with a fantastic banana pancake as I didn't think I was going to get any birthday cake today! We watched a fisherman closeby who smiled as I took photographs.

Our total lunch bill came to approximately £5.60 - what terrific value!

Overnight Padi Eco Lodge

may 12th - Minangkabau TOUR

After a reasonable night's sleep and a good breakfast, Jaka collected us at the car park which was a 3 minute walk away through the rice padi fields. We enjoyed a walk through the Bukittinggi Market and then walked over to the Clock Tower which features in amost every photo I've ever seen of Bukittinggi,

Leaving Bukittinggi we stopped briefy at the Eiger Adventure shop but there wasn't much in there really as it was one of their smaller stores.

West Sumatra is home to the Minangkabau tribe, who practice a matriarchal system. Our tour organized by Jaka provided us a closer look at their way of life. We saw farmers working in rice paddies throughout the day and stopped to see local weavers making Sonket fabrics which was interesting and highly intricate production of wedding dress materials.

Continuing on to Padang Panjang we stopped for a coffee before heading east aongside the long abandoned railway line from Sawahlunto to Padang, which my father had used in 1942.

Lake Singkarak came into view but we turned off down a minor road to Kamuang Minang Nagari Sunpu for a walk through this ancient Minang settlement. Some of the buildings were well preserved but others were rather dilapadated and Jaka advised that the old ways of life and traditiona habitations were fast disappearing sadly.

Back in the car and returning westwards to Padang Panjang, we stopped several times to photograph the spectacular scenery with colourful rice paddies as far as we could see.

We stopped at a Nasi Padang restaurant for a wonderul lunch which for the thre of us cost approximatey £ 6.80 - it was great to see Yolande really tucking in! The food was amazing!

We were back at the Padi Ecolodge by about 1600 and enjoyed a Gin & Tonic before dinner. We dined in that evening and had a local Chicken Curry which I thought was great!

After dinner back in the room, the usual Uno and nightcaps before lights out to the accompaniment of our whirring fans!

Overnight Padi Eco Lodge

may 13th: drive to padang

Up and packed for the usual excellent breakfast, paid our bill and checked out to walk over to meet Jaka at the parking area. The farmers who'd been harvesting the rice padi fields brought in a threshing machine so we had entertainment until our last minutes at the Padi Ecolodge. We enjoyed our three nights stay, made more enjoyable by the tours we'd booked with Jaka.

Our drive to Padang proved to be very interesting, around the southern slopes of the volcano Mount Singgalang (2877m) with lots of agricutural activity everywhere including huge areas of strawberry plantations up at the pass. Descending from the pass, there were rice mats everwhere in the sun for the rice to dry on including on the roadside Also drying were cinamon sticks so we purchased a bundle.

For about the last hour, we followed the railway into Padang which in 1942 brought Dad into Padang from Sawahlunto.

Our stay in the Minang Highlands had been very enjoyable.

We arrived at the Mercure Padang around 1230 and were allocated Room 602 which was quite spacious and well equipped. Then it was time for lunch and we both ordered just one course but these were separated by over half an hour so my Club Sandwhich had long since disappeared by the time Yolande's Corn Soup arrived which she very much enjoyed.

I thought I'd booked an ocean view room thinking our Junior Suite woud face the sea but this wasn't the case.

I enjoyed a Bir Bintang whilst Yolande ordered a Balinese Red Wine for half the price of anything foreign. There was even an offer to purchase two and receive a bottle of Balinese Sparkling wine. Then it was back to the room for a leisurely afternoon.

For some reason I wasn't feeling that great so had an early night.

Overnight: Mercure Hotel

may 14th: padang

I woke after a long night's sleep (16hrs!) feeling much better and we enjoyed a good breakfast.

Today we decided to have an easy day with visits in the morning to the Eiger Adventure Shop and the Grand Mosque. We hired a Bluebird Taxi for two hours to achieve these two visits and were back at the hotel for lunch.

After lunch we went for a walk along the seafront looking out at the Indian Ocean and shopped for a few items we'd been looking for before going back to our hotel.

For dinner, we dined outside at the swimming pool area and had a pleasant evening after been told we were having a complimentary room upgrade to one with a full ocean view. The staff at the Mercure were all very friendly and helpful throughout our stay.

Overnight: Mercure Hotel

may 15th: padang

We'd booked a car and driver for 0900 to tour the WW2 sites used by my Dad and have a good look around Padang. I was pleased to see a hotel car and driver arrive for us and the driver, Apridho, spoke very good English and was really helpful with our tour.

Firstly we headed south to the Teluk Bayur Photo Spot where we could look back at the port where Dad had sailed to Colombo from although I'm sure in 1942, the port would have been tiny to what it is today. The view over to the Port of Teluk Bayar were good and we watched the pilot boat go alongside a small container vessel before two tugs assisted it to berth. Back in 1942, the port was called Emma Haven.

On the way back into Padang we stopped several times to look at the views over a beautiful blue sea. The Padang Creek was interesting with some old local cargo vessels alongside and after walking over the main bridge we drove down to look at these vessels which trade all across the Indonesian Archipelego without so much as a radar on board to help with their navigation.

Chinatown was next with a coffee break at the Kopigo Cafe which was located in an interesting old building dating back to who knows when but the staff had no idea when it had been built. We visited the colourful and ornate Padang See Hin Kiong Chinese Temple before stopping at a traditional type of Chinese store to buy some Bir Bintang.

On the edge of Chinatown was the Station Pulau Au Aie where Dad had arrived from Sawahlunto in 1942. The line no longer goes as far as Sawahlunto but just serves a more local area and the international airport. Dad was required to stay in Padang for a while before he was allowed to board the Tinombo for Colombo - he remained in India until the end of the war I believe.

Lunch was next to Padang's best Nasi Padang restaurant, Ruma Makan Lamun Ombak. This was a great experience and we had Apridho join us which he thanked us for. We enjoyed the busy and noisy restaurant which was amost full to capacity. What we ate worked out at about £13 for the three of us.

After lunch we popped back to the Eiger Adventure shop to buy a new kitbag for Harri and then drove over to the Padang Museum. The museum was small but interesting and we returned to the hotel from there as we were wilting fast!

Dinner by the pool with the complimentary bottle of sparkling thanks to Yolande purchasing two bottles of red previously. Bali wines are very drinkable by the poolside!

Overnight: Mercure Hotel

may 16th: padang

We'd agreed to have a leisurely day today which is exactly what we achieved and as it happened it rained nearly all day. After breakfast Yolande read for the morning whilst I typed up the blog and edited images.

We had drinks in our room before going down for lunch by the pool. We'd met the Marketing Manager Risma who was friendly and charming and helped me with a few questions I was asking. After lunch I helped her with some photography for a new room layout she was trying to promote.

Our afternoon was a lazy one back in our Room 518.

Dinner this evenening was the Poolside BBQ and Risma had reserved a table for us. Yolande still had supplies of red wine from the hotel Wine Special Offer. The food was really good but there weren't many diners considering the amount of food available. It was very well done!

Overnight: Mercure Hotel

may 17th: padang

After a good night's sleep we enjoyed breakfast and Driver Apridho took us on a 3hr morning tour of two markets, the Chinatown Kopigo Cafe for morning coffee and the Telok Bayur fishing boat harbour which was very colourful.

Heading back into town we looked at the old cargo vessels in Padang Creek, visited a coffee store but they'd run out of coffee beans. At a railway crossing we stopped to let the train to Pariaman go by and returned to the hotel for lunch by the pool.

An admin. afternoon to organise our Singapore visas, update the blog and save images to the laptop. We enjoyed our last poolside dinner which was Pasta Carbonara but because we supplied the GF pasta we weren't charged at all, or for my Banana Split which only had four tiny slices of banana so a cheap dinner with our compimentary Moscato de Bali 2018 which was enjoyable.

Overnight: Mercure Hotel

may 18th: GA149 to jakarta for ga836 to singapore

I was downstairs early to complete some more photography for Risma before Yolande and I had our last breakfast there. Driver Apridho was ready before our scheduled 0900 airport transfer so we were out at the airport early and had to wait until 1000 to check in. The lounge was basic so we went down to Gate 1 via a shop to buy some coffee beans and Starbucks for a coffee.

We boarded early for the uneventful flight to Jakarta where there was only enough time for a couple of glasses of another very enjoyable Bali red wine, Two Islands, before we realised Jakarta was on a different time zone to Padang and made a dash for Gate 10.

We were offered champagne before takeoff and throughout the flight to Singapore although Yolande switched to the Two Islands red.

We'd completed online immigration for Singapore and with our bags arriving fast, we changed money and got a Grab to our hotel, the Novotel on Stephens. We'd missed out on the lounge Happy Hour so had a light meal and returned to Room 909.

Overnight: Novotel Singapore on Stephens Road

may 19th: singapore

We'd both slept well and enjoyed bacon sandwiches for breakfast before getting a Grab into town. Our morning was in and around Orchard Road and was fairly leisurely with a few purchases at CK Tangs and then looked at the colourful and traditional properties on Emerald Hill Road before lunch and heading back to the hotel by about 1400.

With the rest of the afternoon at leisure we went up to the lounge where Yolande read and I edited photos. Not many images taken today, only of Emerald Hill Road. Happy Hour was again enjoyed between 1700 and 1830.

Our evening treat was at the famous Raffles Hotel in the Tiffin Room, in service since 1892 and which specialises in North Indian cuisine. Leaving the Tiffin Room, the hotel Concierge invited us into the main lobby and reception area which was a stunning area for this luxury hotel. We then walked over to the Merlion, bought two souvenir mugs in Starbucks and got a taxi back to the hotel.

Overnight: Novotel Singapore on Stephens Road

may 20th: singapore

We'd planned on a day visit to Batam but scrapped the idea in favour of a lie in and a leisurely breakfast before catching the MRT to Khatib and the shuttle bus to the Bird Paradise. The Bird Paradise used to be in a different location and was known as the Jurong Bird Park.

The Bird Paradise was a great morning with lunch in the Penguin Cafe and more to see before we got the MRT back to Orchard and the Outside outdoor shop to look at outdoor equipment. We then walked up Orchard Road and turned right onto Orange Grove Road and Anderson Road to peep into Ardmore Park where we used to live although out apartment block has long been replaced by even higher apartment blocks.

A brief siesta in Room 909 and then Happy Hour cocktails in the lounge before a Grab delivered us down to Boat Quay for dinner at the Three Amigos Mexican Restaurant which was really good with a table next to the Singapore River. Margeritas, Nachos and Tacos made for a great final night in Singapore before we walked down to the waterfront and got a taxi back to the hotel.

Overnight: Novotel Singapore on Stephens Road

may 21st: lh781 to Frankfurt for lh900 to lhr

After a good night's sleep, I woke around 0500 and completed the LH check in online then fell asleep until after 0700. We breakfasted and sorted out packing before heading out.

Our morning visit, by Grab, was to the Former Ford Factory which housed a very good WW2 Singapore museum. The museum was well worth a visit. Occupying the former car factory where in 1942, British forces surrended to the Japanese, this war museum is run by Singapore's National Archives.

Then it was the MRT to Bugis for a walk up the iconic Bugis Street, far changed from how it was when we lived here in 1978 - 1980. We bought some gifts to take home before finding Fatty's for lunch which we both enjoyed Wing Seong Fatty's (Albert) Restaurant. Because my navigation was a bit slow, they'd run out of crab for their renowned Chilli Crab but that saved us Singapore $80 and in the end, our total lunch bill was less than that. Fatty's even offered Yolande GF Soy Sauce which rather took us by suprise.

We got a Grab from the nearby Albert Court and enjoyed a 2hr leisurely afternoon before checking out at 1600 and moving up to the Executive Lounge for one last Happy Hour where the staff made us feel most welcome.

Our final Grab was to the airport at around 1900.

Check in to T2 and the Lufthansa desk was effortless and we were soon up in the SIA Silver Kris lounge until boarding time. I'd changed our upper deck seats to 4A/4C so we could disembark quicker in Frankfurt with a relatively short transfer time.

may 22nd: arrive lhr

It was a long flight of just over 12hrs overnight flying which I didn't enjoy. Lufthansa again got Yolande's special meal order wrong!

We landed more or less on time but our crew had given us the wrong transfer details but we eventually found B27 for the A320 1hr 5mins flight over to LHR T2 with the correct meal for Yolande on board.

LHR T2 was slightly slow at the immigration control but once through we didn't have to wait long for our bags and we soon found Carl our driver to take us home to Cardiff.

B747-400: the Queen of the Skies

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10/4/2025

REC L5 Travel & expedition first aid with bryn walking

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Candidate No.9 is inside the PAC!

April 8th/9th Cwmcarn - 9 candidates completed this course to a very high standard and were a pleasure to work with.

REC extended First Aid skills for isolated locations with the inclusion of travel illness and prevention training.

day 1 gallery

day 2 gallery

the REC L5 course content was compliant with the 2024 uimla standard

Further development of L2 skills including casualty assessment, choking, CPR/AED etc.

Management of casualties in a range of travel environments and scenarios based on more serious injuries which might be experienced on treks and expeditions in all seasons.
Identify the appropriate contents of a First Aid kit for individual extended travel (eg TMB) and for a group leader on a high altitide trek or expedition (eg EBC).
Enhanced awareness of recognition and treatment for heat illness prevention and cold injury prevention.
Enhanced awareness of the issues concerned with high altitude travel including: HAH - AMS - HAPE - HACE. Practical use of Portable Altitude chambers (PAC)
Management of burns
Management of animal bites and stings
Management of rescue options and the use of rotary wing aircraft for medical evacuations from remote and high altitude locations
Awareness of appropriate communication methods
Casualty Record Cards in a foreign language for a proposed trek or expedition with a group

The training included theory and practical scenarios with appropriate forms of assessment being utilised as well.

candidate feedback

The greatest strengths of this course are:

1. Alan's experience across the globe - Alan's sense of humour - The venue was excellent
2. Experience of the Instructors - Immense amount of training aids, visual aids etc and Post-course support - Breadth of topics covered
3. Personal experience of the Instructors - Time in the industry and changes over time have been understood by the Instructors
4. Sharing stories and ideas of medical incidents and travel - Networking & cameraderie - The weather, thanks for arranging
5. Anecdotes to reinforce lessons - Participants personal stories brought into lessons - Great level of instruction
6. Fantastic experience of the Instructors - Offering lots of advice and guidance to take away - Great location, well delivered and well worth a trip from the north
7. Detailed knowledge - Great examples - Clear scenarios
8. Experience, humour and calmness of the Instructors - Many examples of incidents
9. Method of presentation - Practical instruction - Excellent demonstrations

The course could be improved by:

1. Possibly less BLS/AED?
2. More practice?
3. More scenarios?
4. Nothing - Keep it simple!

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10/2/2025

2025 morocco: ait ben haddou

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Ait Ben Haddou is a historic ighrem or ksar along the former caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakech in Morocco - a UNESCO World heritage Site since 1987.

February 8th: Travel to Ait ben haddou from the kasbah du toubkal

I was packed for departure and after breakfast we had one last one hour training session on the LifeVac equipment for the hotel staff - they were unanimous in praising this new equipment. After saying farewells I walked down to the Kasbah du Toubkal office in Imlil. A mule transported my luggage and it soon arrived so Rashid, my driver, and I set off in the Mercedes Vito Minivan.

The 4hr journey was interesting and from Tahanaoute we headed east to join the very well surfaced N9 highway to the south. A stunning drive into the snow capped mountains reached a height of 2260m at the Col du Tichka where we stopped briefly for a photo opportunity. Only two weeks previously this mountain highway had been closed due to heavy snowfall.

Reaching Ait Ben Haddou, Rashid soon found the Dar Mouna Hotel for my 3 night stay. The welcome was warm and after a room viewing, I was upgraded to their best suite No. 17 with fabulous views over to the Ksar Ait Ben Haddou.

After briefly unpacking I headed over to the UNESCO World Heritage site which has featured in epic movies such as Lawrence of Arabia, The Man Who Would be King, Game of Thrones and, of course, Gladiator. I paid my MAD 20 entrance fee, valid for my entire stay and at the ancient gateway met a local guide, Nabil, and arranged for a tour the following morning. He is from one of the five families who reside in the site and who are fortunate to receive high incomes from film companies.

Back at the Dar Mouna I opted to dine in and enjoyed dinner there of cabbage soup, roast chicken followed by crepes. This was accompanied by my own gin and the hotel supplied tonic in this alcohol free town.

I enjoyed a very good night's sleep in my suite.

THE DAR MOUNA HOTEL - AIT BEN HADDOU

february 9th: in ait ben haddou

After a very good night's sleep I woke at around 0700 with the room feeling cold. When the Manager last night asked me if I'd like the air conditioning on, I hadn't realised the unit was also a heater. I drew my curtains to the most amazing view of the Ksar Ait Ben Haddou. It could only have been a better experience if I'd had an early morning tea but there are no brew kits here.

The shower was hot but the heat didn't last for long but I managed to do some washing and now have enough to get me home.

Breakfast was good with a nice hot omlette and plentiful other things to eat and ample supplies of hot coffee and hot milk.

Heading over to the Ksar I met Nabil for a very comprehensive tour of the site and his home for traditional tea where I met his mother. His English was fluent and knowledge of the site excellent. Being with him for almost two hours enabled excellent photographic opportunities and his fee of £20 was very much worth it. Towards the end of the tour I did some shopping for a few gifts to take back home.

Between my hotel and the main gateway there were a couple of camels available to ride. Their handler was very friendly and allowed me to photograph his two camels which were obviously very well cared for.

Back on this side of the river I opted for a pizza lunch at the La Terazza Italian restaurant which was run by a chef from Rome and his wife from Cassablanca. My Parma Ham Pizza was outstanding and one of the best pizzas I've ever enjoyed. A small ice cream followed which would be my one and ony ice cream in Morocco but a real treat!

Returning to Dar Mouna I wrote my blog and edited some images before going for a late afternoon walk. On the town minaret I noticed a huge nest but there was no sign of the storks. Mohammed, the hotel manager, told me there used to be many in the area but ony one pair are still to be seen in the area. I later saw them down by the river. I hope to photograph them in the morning before they fly off for the day to look for food.

Several gin and tonics on the terrace below my suite completed the day for me before I came upstairs to relax in my room. No dinner for me as I'm still quite full from my pizza lunch!

february 10th: in ait ben haddou

After a good night's sleep I went down for breakfast of the standard Moroccan fare but the very good coffee was a bonus with enough left over to fill my travel mug.

With my camera equipment I walked back to the minaret where one stork was already perched on the nest. Across the road was a three storey cafe so I went in for a coffee and went up to the roof terrace to set up my tripod and long lens. For a long time there was only one stork visible but the partner eventually appeared for a good photo opportunity.

Back at the Dar Mouna I edited some picture and wrote my blog and then phoned Helen to discuss future work programmes. I think my call took her by suprise but with exchanging messages I thought it easiest to just phone her.

I walked across to the Ksar for one last walk and saw that a giant fabricated horse was being installed at a Greek looking temple which was under construction for a film production. Crossing the river I went into La Terrazza for an iced coffee and around 1230 ordered lunch of spaghetti bolognese which was very good. Several tables were occupied by film crew construction personnel from the UK.

I spent the afternoon on my blog and editing pictures.

The last pair of Storks at Ait Ben Haddou

february 11th: travel to marrakech

The breakfast crew seemed slow to start but I was fed eventually and ready to depart, as planned, at 0900. I'd wanted to travel back on an alternative route to the Col du Titchka but for some reason the driver preferred to use the main N9 highway. The 4hr drive was spectacular through the mountains and we briefly stopped at the Col du Titchka for a photo and, at around the halfway point for a comfort stop.

Before leaving Ait Ben Haddou I'd asked Omar my driver if he knew where my riad was located in Marrakech and received a positive answer. Approaching the medina in Marrakech it was clear he was lost. At one point, quite some distance from the Riad Les Yeux Bleu he wanted to stop and get me a barrow boy for the rest of my journey. I connected my data roaming and navigated him for the rest of the journey.

I was warmly welcomed by Aminata the front desk manager at the Riad Les Yeux Bleu and allocated my favourite Room 12 where I'd stayed twice previously. I'd emailed her to ask for Room 12. It's a smaller room next to the swimming pool and once used to be a kitchen. The bed linen is always wonderful to get into and the en-suite has a fabulous shower.

I ordered lunch of a chicken sandwich and a couple of Casablanca Beers for a great lunchtime experience. Later on I walked through the souks into the main Jemaa el-Fnaa where market stalls and local street performers were hard at work trying to earn a living.

Aminata back at my riad had recommended an Indian restaurant in the Hotel Les Jardins de La Koutoubia so I went there for an early evening curry! Les Jardins de Bala provided "Cuisines d'Indie et d'Asie" and my meal was quite good but it generally lacked ambiance with waiters who weren't particularly professional.

Back at my poolside room I ordered a very large tonic and finished off my gin before relaxing back in my room for a good night's sleep in a wonderfully comfortable bed.

february 12th: fly to lhr t2 via lis with TAP air portugal

Up for a cold morning breakfast on the rooftop but it was good, with great coffee, whilst sitting wrapped up against the cool morning air.

My transfer which the Kasbah had arranged and confirmed never arrived so the very efficient Aminata arranged for another one, a large Skoda complete with WiFi. I was soon checked in for my TP1453 and TP1358 flights to Lisbon and on to LHR T2 where Yolande was waiting for me at the Hilton Garden Inn and an overnight stay due to my late flight arrival.

From Marrakech the flight service was excellent and I was soon enjoying a gin and tonic and a light pasta meal. The steward laughed when I said it was the same meal that Helen and I had had last December. In Lisbon I had several hours to wait but the TAP lounge was very comfortable with a wide range of food to choose from including the Portugese custard tarts I like. The well stocked bar was quite comprehensive.

I flew TAP Air Portugal because BA couldn't offer return flights from LHR on the days I needed to travel. Flying out of LHR but back into LGW with BA wasn't an option I considered for very long!

The onward flight was good and after two hours or so the A320 Neo landed and I was soon through formalities and into Room 8009 in the Hilton Garden Inn which is a very nice hotel and which is directly connected to LHR T2.

Breakfast the following morning was good and we were home in Cardiff by midday.

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31/1/2025

2025 Morocco: berber mountain guide training WITH BRYN WALKING

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Feb 2nd: Travel from LHR T2 via LISbon to marrakech and onto the Kasbah du Toubkal

We were on the road by 0630 for an easy drive to LHR T2 with a couple of stops on the M4. I drove as Yolande would drive home from T2. I was soon checked in and having breakfast in the Lufthansa Lounge.

Flight boarding was on time on the relatively new A321XLR Neo which was very comfortable with very good entertainment systems on a large screen and free WiFi for an hour. The 2.5hr flight was smooth and a very good lunch was served with fine wines followed by port. My transit in Lisbon was just over an hour before we bussed out to a waiting Embraer 195 aircraft for the fight to Marrakech. Again, the service was excellent.

Landing at Marrakech was 25mins ahead of schedule and after immigration, money changing and security I met Helen as she was arriving with our driver Ahmed. Helen had been in Morocco for a Bryn Walking for Women trekking event from the Kasbah du Toubkal.

The drive to Imlil was as expected but rather than being dropped off at the Kasbah du Toubkal we continued up the road to a road head above the Kasbah du Toubkal. This was great as instead of the usual uphill trudge we actuay only had a short walk down to the Kasbah by the light of my petzl headtorch. We arrived there at about 2100hrs.

Our rooms were allocated and we were soon enjoying a late dinner. After some unpacking we turned in before midnight as I'd been keen to hear how Helen's trek had gone. I was in my favourite room Tikhalinen whilst Helen was in Ouggoug in the tower block close by.

HELEN'S COMMENTS:
It was very exciting meeting Alan at RAK. He had landed 25mins early so we only just got there as he was coming out of the foyer. Like Alan I was very pleased that Ahmed took us higher on the road - the path up through the walnut trees was so muddy and possibly icy at 2100.
My trek had gone very well with no hitches or glitches, a fantastic group. So now, looking forward to the training ahead.

FEB 3rd: At the Kasbah du Toubkal

It was good to see how much rebuilding progress had been achieved and Mike McHugo, the owner, had asked me to bring my photographic equipment to record the progress. I liked the new dining room and the new reception are was good too. Some wall hangings and exterior work to complete and everything will be ready for the March grand opening post-earthquake.

During the morning we finished unpacking the 50kg of training equipment we'd brought with us and set up the Conference Room ready for tomorrow.

After lunch we went for a walk for a photoshoot as per Mike's request and, on our return, he expressed satisfaction with my efforts.

HELEN'S COMMENTS:
A nice relaxed day and good fun trying to get the right angle for the photographs of the Kasbah from a distance. I had sent Alan lots of photographs of the progress here; It's incredible what they've done. They work very hard.

feb 4th: At the kasbah du toubkal - REC trekking first aid for 4 berber mountain guides

l had designed the REC Trekking First Aid course as either a 6hr or 8hr course dependent on who the candidates were. Disappointingly there were ony 4 mountain guides attending and one of those didn't show much interest all day. I'd though Hassan the receptionist and the new assistant receptionist might grasp the opportunity to be First Aid trained but this wasn't to be.

The morning course content was Basic Life Support for 3hrs with Travel & Expedition First Aid for 3hrs in the afternoon.

The course went well generally with several outdoor scenario sessions and the Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC) demonstration up by the new tower on the raised rooftop balcony. All of the 20 mountain guides we've trained over the last two years for UIAA Mountain Skills think there shoud be a PAC up at the high lodges (3200m). Interestingly, the IML's I've asked don't think there should be - I wonder who knows best?

My concluding thoughts for the day were that being only able to train 4 mountain guides was a poor result after travelling all this way for today.........

HELEN'S COMMENTS:
Always good fun to deliver the training here. Alan and I aim to make a good dynamic team and deliver in a style for the guides to achieve maximum learning.

feb 5th: at the kasbah du toubkal - REC life saver first aid for 7 housemothers from the education for all (EFa) charity which the kasbah du toubkal supports

We'd trained 12 EFA Housemothers back in December and they were all a pleasure to work with, such a fun bunch of ladies who were very grateful for this learning opportunity.

The Life Saver First Aid was a 4hr REC certificated course.

After lunch Helen, Latifa and I walked down into Imil for another photoshoot opportunity and used Dar Imlil rooftop for this before climbing back up to the Kasbah du Toubkal.

Helen purchased a carpet from her favourite shop in Imlil for her son who lives in Liverpool.

HELEN'S COMMENTS:
The housemothers are great fun and enjoy this course which is packed with basic life support skills and some injury/bleeding management.

feb 6th: at the kasbah du toubkal day - photography

Today should have been another Life Saver First Aid course but no candidates from the hotel staff appeared for this so Helen and I spent the morning on administrative tasks and photo editing.

The afternoon was at leisure for me whist Helen and Latifa went for a walk but only after purchasing a second carpet which I was given to carry back up to the Kasbah.

HELEN'S COMMENTS:
Great photographs Alan. I could fill a lorry with all the gorgeous carpets. Latifa and I walked to Arghen and passed the Imlil bakery on the way. I hadn't seen it before so Latifa introduced me and I bought a fresh hot bap for MAD 1 (8p) that Latifa and I enjoyed.
Thank you for carrying the carpet Alan!

feb 7th: at the kasbah du toubkal - Helen & latifa depart

lWe were all up bright and early for breakfast with Helen almost packed and ready for her evening BA669 at 1800. Latifa and her were departing for Marrakech after an early lunch.

At Mike's suggestion we headed down into Imlil for an eary coffee and final photoshop opportunities from Dar Imlil Lodge and several other rooftop cafes which provided a new classic view looking up at the Kasbah du Toubkal. Unfortunately the frontage presented unfinished areas but Mike was confident that Photoshop could resolve these issues.

Heading back up for lunch, Helen stopped for a jilleba she'd been admiring. (Tasdrite might be another name for it as it doesn't have a hood and is made in the Rif mountains of northern Morocco.)

Helen and Latifa left after lunch and I enjoyed an afternoon nap! Helen was met at LHR by husband James and dog Cooper.

I spent the rest of the day photo editing and transferring images to Mike's portable hard drive.

With everything finished I decided to head to Ait Ben Haddou the following morning and Mike very kindly provided transport for me.

HELEN'S COMMENTS:
I always leave Imlil saying 'til next time. If it ever was the last time I would feel very sad. We have a lot to offer to the Kasbah and the mountain guides. Everyone is so welcoming and look after us very well. Thank you Mike for all the opportunities you've given us to come to this wonderful community, deliver our training programmes and make so many friends in doing so.

concluding thoughts

The February 2025 training draws to an end a two year UIAA Mountain Skills training programme with 20 Berber mountain guides achieving completion certification. This training was delivered by myself and Helen Menhinick of Bryn Walking. Throughout the training we were assisted by Latifa Asselouf one of the area's most qualified and experienced mountain guides.

Many thanks to Helen and Latifa for their valuable contributions to the training program.

uiaa mountain skills feedback from the kasbah du toubkal

Q1. Did the course provide the knowledge to help you as a Mountain Guide in the High Atlas Mountains? Yes, the course offered comprehensive knowledge and practical skills that are directly applicable to guiding in the High Atlas Mountains. We learned about the terrain, and safety measures necessary for guiding in this specific region. The course’s focus on real-world situations, including navigation, first aid, and decision-making under pressure, gave us confidence in my ability to lead and manage groups in the mountains.

Q2. Did the two instructors help you to learn this information? Absolutely. The two instructors Alan & Helen were highly knowledgeable and experienced. They provided clear explanations, demonstrated techniques, and answered all of our questions. They encouraged active participation and offered valuable insights from their own experiences as mountain guides. Their feedback during practice sessions was constructive and helped us improve our skills and confidence.

Q3. Was the training equipment good for you to practice on? Yes, the training equipment was top-notch and well-suited for the tasks we were practicing. From technical climbing gear to maps and compasses, everything was high-quality and appropriate for the terrain we were working on. The equipment was well-maintained and allowed for safe and effective practice.

Q4. Do you have any more comments about the course? Overall, We found the course to be an excellent learning experience. The combination of theory, hands-on practice, and immersion in the High Atlas environment gave us a well-rounded understanding of mountain guiding. I especially appreciated the focus on sustainable and respectful practices when working with local communities. The course exceeded our expectations, and we feel more prepared for our future role as a mountain guides.

Q5. Was the Kasbah du Toubkal a good learning venue experience for you? Yes, the Kasbah du Toubkal was an ideal venue for this course. Its location in the heart of the High Atlas Mountains provided an authentic and immersive learning environment. The facilities were comfortable and well-equipped, and the stunning surroundings gave us the opportunity to practice in a real-world mountain setting. The Kasbah’s close proximity to the trails and mountains made it easy to explore the region, and the atmosphere was perfect for both learning and relaxation.

Hope this makes sense & let us know how we can help you & hope you are enjoying your time in Ait Ben Hadou .

Lahcen & Team & Guides - Best regards

rec first aid feedback from the kasbah du toubkal

First Aid Elements: The inclusion of the Portable Altitude Chamber (PAC) and the LifeVac anti-choking device in the course was particularly valuable. The PAC is a crucial tool for dealing with altitude sickness in remote areas, and it was great to see it in action during the training. Knowing how to use it could be a lifesaver in the event of a high-altitude emergency, and it gave me a sense of reassurance about handling these critical situations effectively.
The LifeVac device is a new and innovative piece of equipment that addresses choking emergencies. It was a useful addition to the training, especially in remote mountain settings where quick medical help may not always be available. Learning how to use this device gave us another layer of confidence in managing emergencies that could arise on the trails.

REC FIRST AID FEEDBACK FROM THE EFA HOUSEMOTHERS

Hello I hope you are doing well.

The training it was beneficial, and the theoretical content studied was perfectly with the practical application.

The trainers' approach was effective because we applied the information and discussed in the workshop. As for the skills, they were of a high standard, and most importantly, there was effective communication between us and the trainers.

The workshop was of a high level, thanks to the use of equipment and the provision of examples that helped us understand the material.

The practical aspect was crucial for applying the information, and I understood the content more clearly.

Kaltoum Hammouche
Assistant House Mother

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BLOG

December 11th/12th - 9 very experienced outdoor professionAls attended this course delivered by helen Menhinick (ML) and Alan Ward (IML).​​The course content complied with the BAIML requirements for First Aid training.

Feedback from simon ogunlana of mountaineerin ltd.Join Simon on Mt Toubkal or Kilimanjaro in 2026: visit www.mountaineerin.com for details

Course GENERAL feedback

GALLERY

November 11th/12th (outdoor first aid) & 11th/12th/13th (HSE FAW) - Priest WesTon Village Hall

6 participants completed these courses to a very high standard. Course tutors were Helen Menhinick (ml) and alan ward (iml).​Courses are available on request.

course feedback

gallery

october 30th and 31st - REC High Altitude first aid to prepare for a trek to very high altitude in nepal

october 30th gallery: 9 participants

october 31st gallery: 7 participants

photograpic album of my work in irian jaya back in 1984/1985

A 10-night city break at the centrally located Hotel Baylle overlooking Piazza Yenne in cagliari, Sardinia

september 10th - lgw to cag with ba

september 11th - a day in in cagLiari

september 12th - iglesias & san giovanni's cave

september 13th - a visit to the hilltop town of mandas to the south of cagliari by Sardegna Trenino Verde

september 14th - a visit to porto flavia

september 15th - the poetto beach walk

september 16th - a day in cagliari

september 17th - day trip to the roman-Phoenician port of nora

september 18th - a day trip by train to oristano

september 19th - a day in cagliari

september 20th - CAG to lgw with ba

June 20th 1995 - I received confirmation of passing the European Mountain Leader Award which became the international Mountain Leader Award.

1995 - 2016 gallery of faces encountered during my travels

iNTRODUCTION

April 28th: LH915 to FRAnkfurt for LH780 to SINgapore

april 29th: Arrive sINGAPORE

April 30th: Singapore sightseeing walk - 10km

SINGAPORE ORCHID GARDEN

KRANJI WAR MEMORIAL

may 1st: Singapore

changi chapel & museum

the battlebox bunker

may 2nd: singapore

marina barrage to china town walk - 7.5km

lau pa sat hawker food centre

may 3rd: GA195 to JAKARTA for GA134 to jambi

TRAVEL DAY; SINGAPORE TO JAMBI

may 4th: jambi

may 5th: Jambi

may 6th: Drive to Muara bungo via MUARA TEBO

may 7th: drive to sawalunto: world heritage site

may 8th: SAWalunto

may 9th: sawAHlunto

may 10th: drive to bukittinggi & the minang highlands

may 11th: bukitinnggi - ​maninjau lake TOUR

may 12th - ​Minangkabau TOUR

may 13th: drive to padang

may 14th: padang

may 15th: padang

may 16th: padang

may 17th: padang

may 18th: GA149 to jakarta for ga836 to singapore

may 19th: singapore

may 20th: singapore

may 21st: lh781 to Frankfurt for lh900 to lhr

may 22nd: arrive lhr

April 8th/9th Cwmcarn - 9 candidates completed this course to a very high standard and were a pleasure to work with.

REC extended First Aid skills for isolated locations with the inclusion of travel illness and prevention training.

day 1 gallery

day 2 gallery

the REC L5 course content was compliant with the 2024 uimla standard

candidate feedback

February 8th: Travel to Ait ben haddou from the kasbah du toubkal

THE DAR MOUNA HOTEL - AIT BEN HADDOU

february 9th: in ait ben haddou

february 10th: in ait ben haddou

february 11th: travel to marrakech

february 12th: fly to lhr t2 via lis with TAP air portugal

Feb 2nd: Travel from LHR T2 via LISbon to marrakech and onto the Kasbah du Toubkal

FEB 3rd: At the Kasbah du Toubkal

feb 4th: At the kasbah du toubkal - REC trekking first aid for 4 berber mountain guides

feb 5th: at the kasbah du toubkal - REC life saver first aid for 7 housemothers from the education for all (EFa) charity which the kasbah du toubkal supports

feb 6th: at the kasbah du toubkal day - photography

feb 7th: at the kasbah du toubkal - Helen & latifa depart

concluding thoughts

uiaa mountain skills feedback from the kasbah du toubkal

December 11th/12th - 9 very experienced outdoor professionAls attended this course delivered by helen Menhinick (ML) and Alan Ward (IML).

The course content complied with the BAIML requirements for First Aid training.

Feedback from simon ogunlana of mountaineerin ltd.
Join Simon on Mt Toubkal or Kilimanjaro in 2026: visit www.mountaineerin.com for details

6 participants completed these courses to a very high standard.
Course tutors were Helen Menhinick (ml) and alan ward (iml).
Courses are available on request.

may 11th: bukitinnggi - maninjau lake TOUR

may 12th - Minangkabau TOUR