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October 05, 2009
Bognor, Rhodes
Sometimes a day trip, is a really good day out. And sometimes it's like our 'Scenic South' adventure.
Our 'Scenic South' coach trip started well, with blue skies above and a good tour guide promised. But soon clouds are above us, promising rain, and the tour guide is getting a few things sorted out from the off. As we settle into our seats, we are told that we're going to a place where we can swim, but that we cannot get back into the coach with wet clothes. 'All right?!' Anyone getting back in the coach with any wet clothing will be sent back in a taxi, 'which will set you back sixty euros, at least - so think about it. Michael the coach driver can spot wet clothes at 60m so don't try it!'
Well, there's nothing like a welcome at the outset of a journey, and this was nothing like a welcome.
We eventually got to the beach on our 'Scenic South' trip, and by this time the rain was heavy. But of course the beach had no facilities other than beach, sea, two restaurants and a small shop selling tourist shit. It was like a wet weekend in Bognor, only without a fish and chip shop; and a dull knowing that if a drop of rain fell on you at any point, then it was the taxi - and two days spending money lost - for you.
While most were reluctantly ordering their third cup of coffee, or drowning their sorrows in wine, I thought 'Fuck it' and went for a swim. The huge beach was mine and mine alone, as was the mediterranean. I have to say, I did feel a little lonely, bobbing on the rain-thrashed briny without another soul in view.
On another day it all would have been quite spectacular, as this 100 metre wide beach at the most southerly tip of Rhodes has the Aegean on one side and the Med on the other. It's a sort of fame. Today, however, it was Bognor in November, without the melancholy charm.
On the way back in the coach - not a happy group - the tour guide scores nil points again. Our 'Scenic South' trip has been something of a nightmare, but our guide is finding the good in it - for her. 'The rain might not be good for you lot, here on holiday,' she says. 'But to be honest, for those of us who live here, it's great. We're delighted to see it. Its really good.'
She wasn't lynched, as I remember; but neither was she widely tipped.
Posted by Mr Bojangles at October 5, 2009 01:21 PM