NikonGear'23
Travelogues => Future NG Events - and Location Reveries => Topic started by: dgpno2 on February 19, 2022, 16:45:05
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17th March - More new info involving the Scottish May get-together.
Suddenly - everything has changed.
My wife pointed out that we are building a situation which makes infection easily transmissible, if just one person is carrying covid-19 or any other version. One of our members has admitted that he is suffering from just such an infection, and - who knows - there may be others who have not yet told us. We would have to take every precaution - testing; vaccination history; voluntary isolation; contact tracing . . . .
I have asked the lodge-owner if they have a policy, and what sort of precautions they take. I have not had a reply.
I am sorry and ashamed to be letting people down, but my poor health dictates - if plannng the meet-up continues, it will be managed by someone else. I am no longer capable of doing this.
Today, 17th March, the list of members who intended to go to the meet-up was -
Birna, Bruno + 1, Frank, Hans, Hugh, Myself, Rosko - just 8, after weeks of trying to raise interest in the project. Compare this with the 2019 meet-up here in Killin, when we had to limit the no. of participants at 18.
So - sorry again - I am leaving the project and I hope another organiser will emerge.
So many happy times with NG Revival - thank you all.
Dave
Quite honestly, I feel out of my depth, and if the plan is to go ahead, I need to hand over the remaining bits of organisation to someone else. This 3rd Scottish event was my idea so I have only myself to blame, but the stress of trying to get everything sorted has opened the door to my Parkinsons, which is much worse than it was only 6 weeks or so ago. I won't go foo far into detail, but all my symptoms are reaching distress-level, and I have problems with bladder, bowel, digestion, swallowing, sleeping . . . . can't drive, can't walk . . . . strength, energy, stamina - all reduced to a fraction.
13th March 2022 - information concerning the planned Scottish get-together.
I have tried to keep everything public, so that actual and possible participants know what is happening and there are no unwelcome surprises. The most recent worry about the event is that not enough NG members are coming forward to join the get-together. If I include myself when counting, we have just 7. The lodge becomes more expensive per person, as there are fewer to share the cost, and the event is in social terms, more lively and productive if we have a dozen or so people.
It is understandable that there is no rush to grab a place in the get-together; we have European war going on, and a very nasty pandemic - news of its most recent variation was announced just yesterday. I hope a few more NG members will decide to come in from the cold - private travel around western Europe is not yet in any danger, and we are heading for one of the most remote and under-populated parts of the entire continent, so the danger of being infected by covid-19 or its variations is as low as you can get.
We are rapidly approaching the time (mid-April) when we will have to decide - continue with the booking, or cancel. The cost of the lodge - £1300 per week - shared between 7 members is £186 each. 10 members - £130 each; 12 members - £108. The advantage of s full house is clear. (And the rental includes electricity and fuel for cooking, heating and lighting - no surprises.)
If there is something you would like to know, and which I haven't covered, please reply to this post or PM me.
Happy holidays!
David
7th Feb '22 - MAJOR CHANGES TO THE SUGGESTED SCOTTISH GET-TOGETHER IN MAY THIS YEAR.
A few years ago we had a couple of enjoyable meet-ups in Scotland - one in the southern Highlands, centred on the village of Killin, in Strath Tay. The other was further north, based in the archetypal Highland landscape of lochs and mountains - Kintail. i think the participants in those meet-ups would agree that they enjoyed their time in the HIghlands and got some good images. Some had their eyes opened for the first time to the photographic potential of the Scottish Highlands.
I offered to organise a third Scottish NG Meet-up, and initially suggested locations at Portree on Skye, or Ullapool in the Northern Highlands. Finding suitable accommodation was extremely difficult this year - we want a nice, well-equipped lodge, cottage or house, catering for 12 or so individual members (no bed-sharing!), set in grand Highland scenery, with other scenic areas within easy reach - and all at a very affordable price. (I did find a really great place wth fabulous equipment and furnishings, set in fantastic surroundings and available from 21st May, as we wanted. But it was over £18,000.00 per week. Yes 18 thousand).
The search for accommodation led me eventually to an excellent lodge in Glenelg. "Larach Sithe" is £1300 per 7 days; sleeps up to a max. of 14, and is a modern, well-equipped lodge near Glenelg on the west coast of the Scottish mainland - one of the most remote parts of Scotland yet still reached by road. There is a local ferry service to Skye (in addition to the Skye bridge and the big CalMac ferry which operates out of Mallaig); a village store, and a hotel/pub/restaurant with an excellent reputation. Also some of the best surviving pieces of Scotland's neolithic pre-history.
I recommend you to Google both Larach Sithe, and Glenelg, to get tons more information.
Our week in the Lodge runs from Sat 21st May (check-in 4pm)to Sat 28th (check-out 10am). For non-UK participants, the 7 days must include a drive from Glasgow airport to Glenelg. Edinburgh Airport is slightly further away than Glasgow; Aberdeen is slightly nearer. Below - distances and driving times. UK members will no doubt drive the whole way, and will know or calculate how long it will take. It might make sense for those in the group who can, to "meet up" somewhere en route between the airport they used, and the lodge.
There are still places available in the group. Please PM me if you are interested in joining us. I'll look forward to hearing from you. With best wishes, Dave
Glasgow Airport to Glenelg 170 miles, 4hours 15 mins
Edinburgh to Glenelg 195 " 4 " 50 "
Aberdeen to Glenelg 175 " 4 " 20 "
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Of course I'll be on the list :)
For me 7 May is an excellent starting point, 14 May less optimal. The venue I leave to the majority as I've been to both places and each deserves further visit.
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Airfare prices are almost a toss-up between Glasgow and Edinburgh. The airlines really want us to commence air travels again, apparently, as the prices are very favourable (at present).
Must check whether I now need a visa to the UK? Brexit altered the playing rules.
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Answer: if I don't plan on marrying in the UK, I won't need a visa. Good on me.
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Birna - thanks again for your support.
Now that Putin has set things in motion, who knows what we will be doing in May, or where? For the time being, I'll continue to work on preparations for a May Meet-up. What needs to be done is not difficult and can all be done on the phone or online except for an inspection of the best accomodation.
I'm attaching another Scotland map. This shows Scotland's 3 international airports, our two choices of location (slightly larger type). and a few other points of interest - Inverness, "capital" of the Highlands; the start (Ft. William) and finish points of the Cape Wrath Trail, and the village of Golspie where I spent my school and teenage years (to establish my credentials as a true Scottish Highlander).
All distances Edinburgh and Glasgow are between 210 and 230 miles; and the average travel-time is 3hours 30minutes. Aberdeen to Portree is similar at 215 miles (4h 40min) but Aberdeen to Ullapool - 155 miles, 3 hours 20min).
Apparent discrepancies in the distances/timings are due to roads being wide/narrow, quiet/busy, smooth/bumpy etc. Some roads are fast, some are slow.
In a pm, I gave Birna a rather apocalyptic account of the state of my health, and the daily routine I must stick to. It's not really that bad, and I think I have hit on a good solution. Tell you later.
For quick comparison, here are just a sample of distances to Ullapool -
from Manchester - 430 miles, and Birmingham - 500 miles.
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You forgot the map, Dave :)
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Hi Dave, thanks for starting this up.
I would really like to be on the list. It's just that i can only make it on May 21st and regarding locations, venues and transport i will totally go with the flow.
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I have re-examined my schedule for May and 21st might be an alternate starting point for me as well.
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Thanks, Hans - since you can make it only on 21st, Birna would be ok with that day, and us other retired folk such as Bruno and myself can manage any date, when more members come forward I will start suggesting the 21st as the most-favoured starting date.
I don't understand Gmail and it often does things I don't want or didn't ask for; emails, PMs and replies often go to the wrong recipients, and when attaching files I never know what will happen.
But I'm stuck with it for a while.
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On 22nd Feb 2022 (date in full - 220222) - we have 8 likely members for the May '22 Scottish get-together -
Birna Bruno Hans
Rosko Bent & myself
If all 8 continue with their intention to join in the meet-up, we can only take another 4 or so participants, depending on accommodation.
The other thing to note is that Hans can ONLY make it if the start is 21st May. Birna, Bruno and I am all ok with this.
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Norwegian is not flying I in or out of Edinburgh on Saturdays, so Gunver and I will have to make it Friday to Friday.
Will have to find a small hotel from Friday to Saturday, and leave a day early.
May 21st is ok for us.
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I could easily be in Edinburgh on the 20th to meet you there, Bent.
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We could find a hotel on the way to Ullapool.
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JA and I are not confirmed. Sorry must be a mistake.
Let’s see what is possible,,,
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A roadtrip in the North West Highlands with my own set of wheels is on the bucket list but not for this year I am afraid.
Very tempting trip for sure but the focus is on roadtrips on the mainland for now.
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That list - Birna Bruno Hans Rosko Bent & myself - I omitted 2 of the 8 names I already had - the full list included Erik and Jan Anne. I cheekily added them in, though really I knew they had not made a committment. I just can't imagine a meet-up without those two great guys. They are essential.
I am looking for accommodation now, and it is proving quite difficult. People are going abroad less, because of covid. and taking their holidays in their homelands; so facilities are coming under more pressure than normal.
So - back to the Mac and Google search . . .
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Bent includes Gunver -- can't keep those two apart :)
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Thanks for reminding me - Bent includes Gunver - how could I have forgotten?
The list has been fixed.
D.
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Suitable accommodation for mid/late May is proving difficult. Another "window" for photography, in the Scottish climate, usually opens in the month of September and I'm thinking we could keep that in mind as a Plan B. In May, the position already is that we would have to go where there is accommodation, rather than where we want to be. We need to move fast but don't yet know how many of us will be at the meet-up. Anyone reading this, still undecided - if it's yes, please let me know as soon as you can.
If possible, can we try to make the starting-date the 21at May as it is already the dominant choice.
I have mentioned my poor health, and I would like (need) someone to be my driver and general helper. I have someone who is kind enough to agree to this punishment - a long-time friend; same age as me; a very fine professional photographer (people, journalism, "street", travel . . . ); easy to get along with . . . but not a member of NG. He would come as my guest and I will pay a full share of our group costs for him as well as a share for myself. What do you think? Yes or no? Feel free to say what you really think.
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Any friend of yours automatically qualifies as a friend of us as well. No worries.
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I hope to be able to go up to Loch Borralie for at least one of the days. So Ullapool or thereabouts would be great.
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Any friend of yours automatically qualifies as a friend of us as well. No worries.
I agree, most certainly of course.
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I think I may have found us a place. it is too close to where we stayed for the Kintail meet, but I was despairing of ever finding a place, even in September, and I think we can make this work.
https://holidayhomescotland.com/index.html (https://holidayhomescotland.com/index.html)
Copy this into the type-box at the top of a fresh browser page, and tap "accept" or "return" to go to this property's web-page.
It is called Larach Sithe ("Quiet Place") in Glenelg on the west coast of the mainland, opposite the eastern part of the Isle of Skye.
I need rapid approvals if we are to retain this accommodation. The cost is £1300 per week, and cut 10 ways I think we can all manage that. But we need speed, speed.
D.
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Looks nice, does this: “All the bedrooms have en-suite facilities and wardrobe space” mean toilet and bathroom?
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Bent the owner is supposed to be contacting me tonight with full detail, and I will post them here as soon as.
In the meantime - here's another web-page.
Best wishes,
Dave
https://www.scotland-holiday-cottage.com/highlands/glenelgholiday.htm
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Any friend of yours automatically qualifies as a friend of us as well. No worries.
I am totally agree too.
;)
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I say we should just go for the suggested place. Price is acceptable if we are approx. 10 people.
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Still waiting to hear from the owner, though their "week" has been changed from Fri--Fri to Sat--Sat and I think this suits us better.
So our dates will be what we were expecting - Sat. May21st to May28th
I will make a provisional booking and ask what they require as an advance payment.
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another url, with very full details of the accommodation. Please let me know if you approve, asap. We will lose this booking unless we pay the deposit very soon. I'll take care of it and we'll square up later. Here's the house -
https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#inbox/FMfcgzGmvBrxfdPdzXqsNgxZQLJzJvbZ
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Hi David.
Looks like a link to your mailbox.
Any other way you can share the info?
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We need the correct URL, Dave. and promise not to poke into your mail box, an action which is denied us anyhow :)
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https://www.scotland-holiday-cottage.com/highlands/glenelgholiday.htm
Sorry about the url - I think this one should be ok. If nothing else works you could google "Larach Sithe cottage".
I am getting some pressure to confirm and pay the deposit of £300. I think it would be wise to do so, as this kind of accommodation in the Highlands is now so popular that finding a replacement is far from certain.
The deposit of £300 will be deducted from the total cost of a weeks' accommmodation - £1300.00 which is £162.50
If I reach my target number of 11 participants the cost comes down to £137.50 and includes rent, electricity, gas (for cooking?) and heating.
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There is nothing to wait for - just go ahead and secure us the accommodation :)
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Hi David
I really appreciate all your work, but, and yes there is a but.
Gunver and I will unfortunately not be able to participate, we have been thinking the last couple of days, and we have come to this sad decision. We loved to meet you and Scotland and the NG folks.
We hope there will be a new opportunity somewhere in Europe at a later and more peaceful time.
Sorry
Br Bent and Gunver
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Dave, fine for me. Ok to go ahead.
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Dear Bent and Gunver
I'm so sad that you will not be with us, but the world is full of problems, none of them as terrible and inhuman as the invasion of Ukraine. There are no words to describe the evil that Putin has done and is still doing.
With murder on a vast scale happening in Europe - right this very moment - it does seem not quite right to be planning a holiday. I'll write more about this and post on the forum, but for now I must go - my son and grandsons will be here any moment. How many Ukrainian grandfathers wish they could see their family?
With all best wishes - be safe.
Dave
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...
With murder on a vast scale happening in Europe - right this very moment - it does seem not quite right to be planning a holiday.
...
Dave
It would be a terrible mistake not to maintain a "normal" attitude and not planning daily "normal" things. My father was able to survive Auschwitz by concentrating on "normal" things.
Don't hold yourself accountable of all the evil in the world because you are planning a holiday.
Ciao from Massimo
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Lets not get involved in political discussions on NG please ;)
I agree, I have removed the misplaced post. Erik
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Sorry, Jan Anne - I didn't intend to open the door to political argument, nor want to change the opinions of others - I was just expressing a personal opinion.
And I understand those who say we shouldn't give up the things we do in normal life, because of events like Ukraine.
But I feel that at times of great sadness - a family funeral - a nation at war - some behaviour becomes less appropriate. Just my opinion again.
What advice I've had from NG members is all positive, on the side of continuing to pay the deposit and secure the accommodation. So that is what I will do, and members can join in the meet-up or not, according to their own beliefs and opinions.
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Dear Dave, thanks for arranging all things!
The cottage is very much OK for me!
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I'm also ok with the cottage.
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I still want to attend this get-together.
Francis.
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I really like to join for this third Scotland trip. Is there a place left Form me???
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https://www.scotland-holiday-cottage.com/highlands/glenelgholiday.htm
Sorry about the url - I think this one should be ok. If nothing else works you could google "Larach Sithe cottage".
I am getting some pressure to confirm and pay the deposit of £300. I think it would be wise to do so, as this kind of accommodation in the Highlands is now so popular that finding a replacement is far from certain.
The deposit of £300 will be deducted from the total cost of a weeks' accommmodation - £1300.00 which is £162.50
If I reach my target number of 11 participants the cost comes down to £137.50 and includes rent, electricity, gas (for cooking?) and heating.
count me in
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One of my (many) NG favourites join - great.
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Glad to see you join, Frank. I was starting to think you were trapped in a space-time crack.
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Nice to meet you again, Frank! :)
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Dave, I cannot open the last personal message you sent.
Probably due to poor connection I have here in France.
Will heading back UK around few days.
Francis.
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Dave, I cannot open the last personal message you sent.
Probably due to poor connection I have here in France.
Will heading back UK around few days.
Francis.
Francis - I also have no record of what was in that PM - Gmail does the strangest things, and I often lose data or information.
I will try to deduce what I said in the PM
Dave
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Francis - there we have a perfect example of Gmail doing the wrong thing - "From" says the previous post came from you, but it didn't - it came from me as a reply to your post.
So far I can't find anything helpful concerning the PM you can't open, but just then a few posts/PMs had been mentioning Frank Fremery and his decision to join in the get-together
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No worries, Dave. :)
I am leaving Pyrénées area tomorrow afternoon, travelling from the South of France, to the North Normandy to get Dieppe ferryport before crossing the Channel.
So, no internet connection during this journey.
Francis.
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I hope, though I can't be sure (Gmail!!!), that you got my last two PMs so I will repeat their message here,.
To be blunt, I am quite unwell, getting worse, and need a degree of personal help that I couldn't expect the NG team, on safari in the Highlands, to provide. Most of this new-scale problem is Parkinson's which usually describes a long, slow decline; but in fact, a few weeks ago, I became very much worse very quickly. I have the usual tremor and shuffley walk, plus a huge loss of strength, stamina and dexterity; I have bowel and bladder issues; am no longer permitted to drive, cannot walk more than a few dozen metres, or dress myself without help, can rarely swallow without choking, have muscle-cramps regularly in every major muscle-group in my body - there's more - should I continue?
I couldn't cope with a week in a highland lodge, so I will not be going. I will continue to make the arrangements, will make sure the deposit is paid on time, and give you and the others all the local knowledge I can muster, plus all information I have about the lodge, its owner and his agent. Also I hope I can talk Mayumi into driving me up to Glenelg where I hope we might stay one night, driving home the next day. I will not be at the get-together, except in spirit. Long before our week in Glenelg I will post a short version of what I have just told you. It's not that my presence is needed, I'm being polite and keeping them informed of the basics.
As a separate issue - Killin lies just off the route from Glasgow Airport to Glenelg, and just off a possible route from Edinburgh (though not the most direct, I must admit). We would welcome any of the group who cared to drop in for a visit, either on their way north or when returning.
Last - the Highlands can look very fine at any time. This, from our front garden this morning -
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You took the words out of my mouth, Dave -- just told Ruth about your situation and said I would like to drop by on the way to "talk shop" and reminisce over earlier adventures.
Your spirit is strong and we can only extend our warmest regards and best hopes for any improvement however small.
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David +1, from myself and I am sure from all NG participants including not only those that have been involved with your highland get togethers but also from "bystanders" such as myself that look in on what you guys get up to and the resultant images.
Two of my uncles battled Parkinsons; both had acquired brain injuries as young men. My thoughts are with you and your wife & family.
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Your spirit is strong and we can only extend our warmest regards and best hopes for any improvement however small.
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David. Sad to hear about your situation. Hope you will be able to visit the NG gathering.
Thank you for the effort you put into this arrangement.
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Thanks to everyone for your sympathy and good wishes. However I didn't intend for the state of my health to be broadcast like that.
Gmail does some strange things, and yesterday I sent a PM to Birna which turned up instead as a post on the main thread. I really didn't intend to subject the entire forum to a detailed account of my health and its problems. Sorry.
Dave
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Sorry.
No need to be sorry towards us Dave. I hope you can still enjoy the "small moments". Also, concurring with Birna, we might be able to stop by to (for me for the first time) say hi and thank you for your knowledge and efforts.
I look forward to meeting you very much!
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Thanks, Hans - I also look forward to meeting you and the others, and I am sad that my actual involvement in "Scotland Week #3" will be small.
I do hope a few of the members will call in as they head north (or south at the end of the week). But, looking more carefully at roadmaps, I see that a detour off the shortest route is necessary, coming from either of the main airports. I'll do a little more measuring and post my best guesses.
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Back to the UK.
Dave, I read your last posts with sadness and the only thing I hope is to know you get better soon.
Hopefully we can enjoy your presence among us.
I know how difficult having physical issues : I got a stroke exactly one year ago. I was physically impaired followed few weeks later with covid, but certainly not affected as you are.
Take care of you, Dave.
Francis.
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Dave, what amount should we transfer you to cover the booking cost?
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Bruno - thanks for asking, but there is no hurry. The amount we each pay depends directly on how many NG members actually come to the Glenelg lodge. At the moment we are just seven, and I am hoping that another three or so might join us.
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I thought it time to circulate a brief summary of our current situation in Scotland, to all present participants.
We have booked Larach Sithe (pron. Larah She-ah) Lodge in Glenelg for a week beginning 21/May/2022. This booking has been secured by the payment of a £300 deposit. It is returnable if no damages or other expenses for the owner are caused by us. The cost of the full weeks' rental is £1300 which is due for payment by mid-April. Costs per person - 12 sharing - £108; 10 - £130; 7 - £186.
At present we are just 6 or 7 participants; 9 or 10 would be better and 12 could be managed if a few were willing to room-share. Not bed-share.
All Scotland's 3 major airports handle international flights, but all three are some distance from Glenelg and a longish drive will be necessary to
reach our lodge, as follows -
Glasgow airport to Glenelg - 170 miles,
Edinburgh - 185
Aberdeen - 177
All three drives take about 4 hours if speed-limits are obeyed.
I offered you a little hospitality at Dochart House, and I hope I can deliver on that, when the time comes. My Parkinson's gets worse by the day, and the immediate result is that an ever bigger load falls on Mayumi. She already takes on almost the entire workload of looking after our big, old, 5-bedroom house and our 3.3-acre garden. Now she has to look after me - no small task in itself, which gets bigger as the Parkinson's gets worse. I can't expect her to be hostess to my photographer buddies every time I feel like issuing a few invites, like in the old (pre-Parks) days. She is by nature kind, generous and hospitable, but everyone has their limit and Mayumi has finally reached hers.
I hope some of you might call in here, en route, and come and eat with us. I will be the chef, and under Mayumi's instruction!
Long before then I will post the most sensible routes from all three major airports. Driving north from Glasgow or Edinburgh you can pass close to Killin without much of a diversion. But from Aberdeen there is no good route to Glenelg via Killin; a long detour is necessary.
A lot will happen before May 21, but I look forward to seeing you then.
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Dave, PLS give us an update of the list of participants.
Who would obey speed limits?
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Frank
The list of those who have signed-on for the Scotland in spring event is -
Myself (dgpno2), Birna, Hans, Rosko, Bruno + 1, Frank F, Hugh (8 incl. one new member of NG who is being introduced by Bruno).
- though I will not actually be going, and I am uncertain whether Birna will be there either. This brings us down to six. To have an enjoyable, varied, affordable week, 10 people would be a better number (in 2019, in Killin, we had 18). But the lodge-owner, sensing that all is not well, made an offer. Rather than hold out for the normal high-season rental of £1300, he will charge £130.00 per person, subject to a minimum of six members. In other words, if we only take 6 people to the lodge, we will pay 6 x £130 = £780. If we have more than 6, the rent increases by £130 for each additional person, up to a max. of 10. So we would reach his normal rent of £1300 if we have ten or more participants, and if we have more than 10, the normal fixed charge of £1300 applies.
Please let me know when you have read this.?
I need to hand over the role of organiser to someone on the list who is fitter and more energetic (younger?) than me, and I suggest "the list" chooses my replacement - soon.
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Birna *will* attend. My current Covid-19 illness cannot go on for ever.
I think the new offer from the lodge-owner is very acceptable.We should spring for that.
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That 130 GBP per person is a very good offer if you ask me. Count me in!
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Like Birna and Hans, I think the offer from the lodge owner is very fair. This is the price of 2 nights in any 2 or 3 stars hotel.
Is a great opportunity to enjoy a stay in this fantastic country!
I keep interested. As I already said, we have more than 2 months to get more NG members (or not) to change their mind and join.
Francis. :)
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It is indeed a very fair offer. I’ll inform Karel, the potential additional participant.
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This get-together has been more difficult than some - I'm not sure why - perhaps, the existence of covid, and the Ukraine war. But our number has been growing slowly towards the target of at least 10 members.
At present we have 8 - 6 definite and 2 possible. We also have a new offer from our landlord, who is a very decent guy. The rent for a week was fixed at £1300, but instead we will pay £130 person per week with a minimum of 6 members. 6 would pay a total of £780, 7 - £910, 8 - £1040 and so on until with 10 members the fixed original charge of £1300 is reached.
So far, three of us have seen this offer, and approved it. Plase let me now what you think about this; also what you think about anti-virus precautions. Have your say.
Best,
David
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This get-together has been more difficult than some - I'm not sure why - perhaps, the existence of covid, and the Ukraine war. But our number has been growing slowly towards the target of at least 10 members.
At present we have 8 - 6 definite and 2 possible. We also have a new offer from our landlord, who is a very decent guy. The rent for a week was fixed at £1300, but instead we will pay £130 person per week with a minimum of 6 members. 6 would pay a total of £780, 7 - £910, 8 - £1040 and so on until with 10 members the fixed original charge of £1300 is reached.
So far, three of us have seen this offer, and approved it. Plase let me now what you think about this; also what you think about anti-virus precautions. Have your say.
Best,
David
What about Bez, Mike Selby and Andrea B (Ultravioletta)? Did someone contact them directly? And what about the three folks from Vienna who came last time?
I am quite positive that most of these do not roam online here regularly (I do not too, because I am to busy with my work).
May I book my flight now and Car?
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May I book my flight now and Car?
About a car ... couldn't/wouldn't/shouldn't we share a rental, perhaps a people carrier for this event? I'd be willing to share and also to be a driver.
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I plan to arrive in Edinburgh on 20 May, so I can drop by Dave in Killin later that day. Either stay the night there or on the road, so I can be at the lodge midday on the 21st.
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also what you think about anti-virus precautions. Have your say.
Best,
David
Well, for health reason, I am not vaccinated. ::)
However, I got Covid few months ago, which means I am naturally immune. Also, I get tested very often. before any meeting (family/friends).
I have of course, checked the updated Scottish rules before apply for this new event.
This is my say...
Francis.
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About a car ... couldn't/wouldn't/shouldn't we share a rental, perhaps a people carrier for this event? I'd be willing to share and also to be a driver.
I would rather not like share nor drive a Bus like vehicle. I like a small car which seats 4 to 5 people max to be able to "spontaneouly follow the light".
My plan is to arrive at Glasgow at 20 Mai around midday, but I did not find the right flight yet, so I did not book the flight yet, so I am not sure if anyone will arrive at roughly the same time as myself and is able to share a car. I am positive that I will not spend hours waiting at the airport when I could be on my way to a Hotel in Killin to meet Dave for Dinner.
As David writes:
Glasgow airport to Glenelg - 170 miles,
Edinburgh - 185
Aberdeen - 177
I am even not sure which of these three airports I might choose.
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Plase let me now what you think about this; also what you think about anti-virus precautions. Have your say.
I am happy with the 130 Pond offer if you choose that way to deal with the situation
For Covid I guess it makes sense to bring a pile of self tests for the week (everyone for himself).
Although I am vaccinated three times I am not immune as any person of any vaccination status is not immune and can potentially distribute the virus.
If we are all clean as we arrive we will stay clean during the event I guess.
Simple rule: bring some tests do not carry the virus ;-)
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If you could time your arrival at Edinburgh to around 11:00 on 20 May, we could share a car Frank?
My alternate option is Edinburgh on the 21 around 12:00, however i prefer the 20th if possible.
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I want to make the 20th too and I can drive if I manage to catch a plane to Edinburgh, Birna my dear
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I can drive too ... however at present I only hold a temporary driving permit as my ordinary driver's license got lost a few days ago. (no foul play or police action, just a mishap).
This means (a) I cannot get a valid copy of my license back before mid April as lost licenses have a 4 week quarantine and (b) I cannot hire a car before that date. Booking air flights is easy however I'll hold on a little longer until you have researched possible flight times.
Edinburgh is the only Scottish airport with regular traffic from Norway thus I prefer going there.
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I haven’t made my travel arrangements yet. I’m happy to join a car sharing and will try to accommodate the airport accordingly. Last time I joined Rosko in Glasgow but Edinburgh should possible too. I need to check dates with airlines though.
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I haven’t made my travel arrangements yet. I’m happy to join a car sharing and will try to accommodate the airport accordingly. Last time I joined Rosko in Glasgow but Edinburgh should possible too. I need to check dates with airlines though.
I haven't made my travel arrangements either. So, i'd prefer to share a car, the mini bus was just a proposal to have less drivers and perhaps reduce per person cost a little.
Who else is flying in? Or is it "just" Birna, Frank, Bruno and myself?
For taking holidays off work i prefer to make this a Saturday to Saturday week (21st - 28th).
If Francis is already in the Glasgow area, Both Bruno and i could fly there, rent a car and meet/pick up Francis.
Could that work?
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Dave, PLS give us an update of the list of participants.
Here are the facts of our venture, as known on March 23
Accommodation - Larach Sithe Lodge, Glenelg
Owner - Alasdair Easton
" email - aimeaston@me.com
Check-in 4pm, - Sat.May 21
Check-out 10am - Sat May 28
Cost - £130.00 per person
Signed-up - Birna, Bruno,
-who is introducing Karel to NG
- Hans
- Hugh
- Frank
- Francis (Rosko)
That's 7 members but not me - sorry again, but I won't be there. The trouble with progressive illnesses - they progress.
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Just to be clear - those who have decided to attend the Scotland get-together beginning 21st May are -
- Birna,
- Bruno, who is introducing Karel to NG
- Hans
- Hugh
- Frank
- Francis (Rosko)
So those 6 volunteers please be ready to make a payment of £130.00 per person to the owner of the lodge. I am reminding him in a few minutes from now that we need his bank details, because he prefers to be paid by bank transfer. I know we are depending on him just now, to supply those details, but we must make the all transfers by 21st May, at the very latest. When I hear from him I will post his details on the main thread of the topic (like this one) and pm each member, individually.
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When the payment details are ready, I suggest we agree on a common date to make our payments. For example, 30th April.
I'm planning on arriving in Edinburgh on 20th May, around noon. Frank F hinted he could be there the same day?
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I'm planning on arriving in Edinburgh on 20th May, around noon. Frank F hinted he could be there the same day?
I wanted to go to the travel agent today but I did not make it today. I hope tomorrow
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Awaiting the news, Frank.
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When the payment details are ready, I suggest we agree on a common date to make our payments. For example, 30th April.
I'm planning on arriving in Edinburgh on 20th May, around noon. Frank F hinted he could be there the same day?
Flight data (times are local times)
Flight: 20.05.2022
DEP Departure
08:35 Cologne-Bonn
ARR Arrival
09:25 Edinburgh
Flight: 29.05.2022
DEP Departure
15:10 Edinburgh
ARR Arrival
18:00 Cologne-Bonn
Passenger: MR Frank Fremerey
I did also reserve a Golf-Size car for 90 Euros per day...
... If you have a better deal on cars, I can still cancel the car.
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When the payment details are ready, I suggest we agree on a common date to make our payments. For example, 30th April.
I'm OK with that (regardless of the date).
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I haven't made my travel arrangements either. So, i'd prefer to share a car, the mini bus was just a proposal to have less drivers and perhaps reduce per person cost a little.
Who else is flying in? Or is it "just" Birna, Frank, Bruno and myself?
For taking holidays off work i prefer to make this a Saturday to Saturday week (21st - 28th).
If Francis is already in the Glasgow area, Both Bruno and i could fly there, rent a car and meet/pick up Francis.
Could that work?
Bruno, Francis, would the above work for you? In due time i´d need to start reserving a flight and we´d also need a rental car.
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Arrival EDI 20 May 1150
Departure EDI 29 May 2105
So Frank & I can have plenty of quality time :)
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Flight data (times are local times)
Flight: 20.05.2022
DEP Departure
08:35 Cologne-Bonn
ARR Arrival
09:25 Edinburgh
The idea of synchronising payment is a good one, but the date would have to be 21 May at the latest. That'swhat our agreement from the owner says.
D.
Flight: 29.05.2022
DEP Departure
15:10 Edinburgh
ARR Arrival
18:00 Cologne-Bonn
Passenger: MR Frank Fremerey
I did also reserve a Golf-Size car for 90 Euros per day...
... If you have a better deal on cars, I can still cancel the car.
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Arrival EDI 20 May 1150
Departure EDI 29 May 2105
So Frank & I can have plenty of quality time :)
What about cars?
If I do not pay the 900 in advance now, we will lose this booking (and might have a better deal)
Anyone better car rental deals in EDI?
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Have a look here:
https://www.rentalcars.com/en/
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Have a look here:
https://www.rentalcars.com/en/
Hi - Are you thinking of perhaps joining us for the get-together starting on 20 May? I can recommend the part of Scotland w will be centred in. The lodge looks very nice, and is excellent value - the owner has offered us a deal, which would reduce he weekly rental from £1300 to £680.
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Hi - Are you thinking of perhaps joining us for the get-together starting on 20 May? I can recommend the part of Scotland w will be centred in. The lodge looks very nice, and is excellent value - the owner has offered us a deal, which would reduce he weekly rental from £1300 to £680.
Hello. I’m the photographer for a car racing team, and on the road, all over the world, for close to 200 days per annum. No place, or desire for more. But I know Scotland a bit (west coast, Hebrides, etc). Very enjoyable.
Although I’m a rather social person, I’m a loner when I’m photographing. This is very personal, and I’m sure the whole team will have a great time.
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810€ is the cheapest deal on a Golf size on your recommend site, MFloyd
I go to check out a deal with Sixt and a total waiver with my Sixt business card.
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Hi all,
Here is my plan:
# Will travel driving (an estate car) the same as the last time.
# I can collect 2 passengers (including Bruno) any time at Glasgow airport on 21 may, so we'd be 3 pax + luggages.
That means there's 1 seat available in my car. May be Hans ?
Francis.
NB : Sorry Hans, I have missed your last message...Let me know whether you wish travelling with us (Bruno and I)
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Hi all,
Here is my plan:
# Will travel driving (an estate car) the same as the last time.
# I can collect 2 passengers (including Bruno) any time at Glasgow airport on 21 may, so we'd be 3 pax + luggages.
That means there's 1 seat available in my car. May be Hans ?
Francis.
NB : Sorry Hans, I have missed your last message...Let me know whether you wish travelling with us (Bruno and I)
Hi Francis, most certainly i would like to travel with you (and Bruno). Thank you very much for the offer!
I was under the impression though that there would be a fourth traveler (David made a mention of Karel some posts ago). Would that still fit (meaning, with luggage and all)?
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I won't attempt to become involved in travel arrangements, except for one thing. When I was first trying to get this organised, I mentioned to two members that I might be able to invite them to stay on the night of 20th May. I'm afraid this offer now has to be withdrawn, but what I CAN do is offer an evening's socialising with other NG members who can make it to Killin on the evening of 20May. - some nice (I hope) food; drinks, talk (lots of that), and boredom such as only a 1500-A2 print-archive can create. (my son spent most of last weekend rubbishing my favourite prints - still, what does he know?)
It's still most of 2 months until the event begins, but time whizzes past when you are doing things you like. The rent - I'm still waiting for the owner to send me his bank details; and corvid is rampant is Scotland - record levels of infection and hospital admission. We must all be tested or self-test during the week before we arrive, and strict anti-virus habits must be followed at all times. The lodge will be deep-cleaned before we arrive, and will be left empty (not in use),the week before our booking. Re the 20th May, at my house. Would any Vegetarian or Vegan please let me know a few days in advance, also anyone with special dietary requirements. Getting there - I will be sending our a series of maps in good time for you to study, before getting behind the wheel for an epic drive thro' bonnie Scotland. The maps will be as follows - from Aberdeen, Edinburgh or Glasgow airports to Glenelg (location of the lodge); and a set of maps showing the route from the three airports. to Killin. The maps are ROAD-maps with complete instructions and route-information for a problem-free journey.
Tha that's all I can think of at the moment. Please let me know if you think I've missed thing out.
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810€ is the cheapest deal on a Golf size on your recommend site, MFloyd
I go to check out a deal with Sixt and a total waiver with my Sixt business card.
Definitely not a cheapo renting cars in Scotland :o
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Dear Dave, I plan to book into the hotel in Killin by the waterfalls and bridge downtown for the night 20/21 May.
First I will check the car rental business
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Frank, book a room for me as well, please?
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Frank, book a room for me as well, please?
Ok
You like to share the car???
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Hire Details
From 20 May 2022 10:00
To 29 May 2022 14:00
Number of Days 10
Pickup Location Edinburgh Airport
Vehicle Type MEDIUM CAR
Booking Charges
Rental £785.40
1500 miles allowance
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We need to share a car as I cannot order a rental myself until last week of April at earliest :( a collateral damage from my driver's license being lost and a quarantine period has to elapse before I can get a new copy of it.
I thought we already had agreed on a shared car? If not, the answer is yes. Even split of all expenses of course.
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Unfortunately, Karel will not join. He had a little health incident and is grounded for 3 months. He would only know just before the event if it is possible to join so it is safer to assume not.
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He can make it at the spur of the moment so we all are happy. Or not, and we still do our best to be happy :)
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Birna: there seems to be only one room left at the
https://www.fallsofdochartinn.co.uk/
So I cannot book another room and we have to share the room or book another hotel.
The website did not work well on my phone and they did not answer the phone when I tried to call. Can you check if they manage to have another room or a room with two beds instead of a room with a double bed?
I emailed them now, CC to you, Birna
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There is a double room for £ 140. So that could be used, Frank.
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We have a booking for a family room with two separate beds and a bunk bed additionally (you got mail)
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Excellent.
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I trust you all to manage the rest of whatever needs to be managed as the date of the get-together gets nearer. I'm really unwell, and my email (gmail) is almost unusable. If this has reached you, it will be the first thing I have been able to post for more that 2 hours. I do need to get some updates out to the members who are going to be in Scotland and if posting to the thread doesn't work, I'll try PMs.
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Correction - 24 hours - but at least the message got out.
D.
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Updates - April 5th.
We have lost two people - Hugh and Karel - but have gained Mfloyd; our number in the Scotland group has shrunk to 5, which means that the cost rises to £156 per person. If we can recruit one or two more to the Scotland group, the cost each can easily come down again, to £130 or even lower.
I have the owner' pay-in details, and payment must be made to reach his account by 21st of this month the latest. Bank transfers can be slow - minimum 3 working days for UK bank-to-bank, and 5 working days if a non-UK bank is involved. When you are ready to pay our share, please PM me.
It seems that some or all of you have decided to visit us in Killin - most likely on the 20th?
Excellent! Any vegetarian/vegan or anyone with special dietary needs, please let me know.
D.
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Updates - April 5th.
We have lost two people - Hugh and Karel - but have gained Mfloyd; our number in the Scotland group has shrunk to 5, which means that the cost rises to £156 per person. If we can recruit one or two more to the Scotland group, the cost each can easily come down again, to £130 or even lower.
I have the owner' pay-in details, and payment must be made to reach his account by 21st of this month the latest. Bank transfers can be slow - minimum 3 working days for UK bank-to-bank, and 5 working days if a non-UK bank is involved. When you are ready to pay our share, please PM me.
It seems that some or all of you have decided to visit us in Killin - most likely on the 20th?
Excellent! Any vegetarian/vegan or anyone with special dietary needs, please let me know.
D.
Hello. No, I’m not part of the game; never been. Just gave some car rental info. Hope everything is OK. Take care.
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We shall soldier on. The occasion is simply too good to miss.
Perhaps I'll settle the score with the owner of the cottage and the others reimburse me? In that manner, the conomy is simplified.
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We shall soldier on. The occasion is simply too good to miss.
Perhaps I'll settle the score with the owner of the cottage and the others reimburse me? In that manner, the conomy is simplified.
Yes, let's (soldier on), i'm looking forward to it!
Good suggestion Birna, let us know when and how we can settle the location cost.
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Fine for me, whatever way. We are still at least 5: Birna, Frank, Hans, Rosko and I.
I've not abandonned trying to convince a few photographers friends here, including Martine.
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If I understand the situation correctly, we have to pay a minimum of £ 780 for the cottage -- correct? That is stipulated for 6 participant each paying £130. If we exceed 6 people then the total increases with £130 per person up to the first asking price, of £1300 for 10 people.
I'll contact the owner using Dave's earlier posted details later tonight and negotiate an agreement for a base sum to pay with bank transfer this week. We need to move quickly as the Easter is approaching.
We can work out the exact shares to reimburse me later.
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Breaking news: I now have transferred £780,- to the lodge owner, who appears by the way to be a nice guy. The sum is a ballpark figure as there are banking and transfer charges to cover as well, but I haven't yet an exact figure here.
The salient and main point is that the Third NG Scottish Meet-Up now becomes official. We welcome more NG members to join us.
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Breaking news: I now have transferred £780,- to the lodge owner, who appears by the way to be a nice guy. The sum is a ballpark figure as there are banking and transfer charges to cover as well, but I haven't yet an exact figure here.
The salient and main point is that the Third NG Scottish Meet-Up now becomes official. We welcome more NG members to join us.
Woohoo!
And thank you Birna.
I have also reserved my flight. I'll be picked up in Glasgow by Francis together with Bruno.
Do we already know practical things like need to bring own towels, bedlinen, etc.?
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Not yet, but the lodge owner will assemble an Introduction packet for us. So in due time we know these details.
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Thank you, Hans. And Birna - that is wonderful; thank you so much - I am delighted but not surprised; this is typical of you. I was beginning to panic a little - email software which was malfunctioning and unpredictable, and my own condition close to complete exhaustion.
Suddenly there is wonderful golden light at the end of the tunnel. Thank you again, Birna.
I believe the laundry situation is that the lodge provides everything except personal towels.
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Hello. No, I’m not part of the game; never been. Just gave some car rental info. Hope everything is OK. Take care.
I'm very sorry - mistaking interest for commitment - and feeling rather stupid - having made exactly the same mistake three times, with different NG members. I think I have been over-anxious since the very start because I suggested this project and felt that I had to be sure of its success.
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This *will* be a success, I'm sure of that.
Now, the lodge is paid for, rental cars are in order, and air tickets booked. Yes, there are always room for more people to join in, but we have the required robust foundation for this adventure. And most of us being adults (sort of) we promise to behave nice and not trash up the place so as to forfeit your £300 depost :)
Frank and I both are looking forward to meeting you and Mayumi in Killin on the way up to Glenelg.
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This *will* be a success, I'm sure of that.
Now, the lodge is paid for, rental cars are in order, and air tickets booked.
Success --> most certainly
I do have an inquiry out with a friend of mine to join as well. Can´t promise anything though, he's not usually quick to join such endeavours. One can hope though :D
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Thank you, Hans. And Birna - that is wonderful; thank you so much -
Dear Dave, thank you so much for initiating this!
I am very much looking forward to going.
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This *will* be a success, I'm sure oif that.
Now, the lodge is paid for, rental cars are in order, and air tickets booked. Yes, there are always room for more people to join in, but we have the required robust foundation for this adventure. And most of us being adults (sort of) we promise to behave nice and not trash up the place so as to forfeit your £300 depost :)
Frank and I both are looking forward to meeting you and Mayumi in Killin on the way up to Glenelg.
The feeling is mutual - we also look forward to the 20th of next month. Of course, Scotland in spring can produce a few surprises - the attachment was shot this morning at 7.15am (according to the EXIF - who am I to argue?), and when I "walked the walk" ([pioneered the Cape Wrath Trail) back in the '90s, I had heavy snowfall (6" or 15cm) in the middle of May.
I hope a few more will join in, but - as you say - the formalities have all been attended to, and it only remains to actually make the journey.
Attachment - the Tarmachan Hills this morning, shot from our garden.
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The feeling is mutual - we also look forward to the 20th of next month. Of course, Scotland in spring can produce a few surprises - the attachment was shot this morning at 7.15am (according to the EXIF - who am I to argue?), and when I "walked the walk" ([pioneered the Cape Wrath Trail) back in the '90s, I had heavy snowfall (6" or 15cm) in the middle of May.
I hope a few more will join in, but - as you say - the formalities have all been attended to, and it only remains to actually make the journey.
Attachment - the Tarmachan Hills this morning, shot from our garden.
Eehhh ... wow! What a view.
Thanks for the heads up, i'll make sure to pack for changeable weather :) ... and for the midges as well ;D
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Midges in May? I don't think there will be many- a few, yes, but not enough to be truly troublesome.
(June is worse than May, and peak season is July and August. From Sept onwards, there is likely to be overnight frosts, and te first one will kill all the midges.)
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Midges in May? I don't think there will be many- a few, yes, but not enough to be truly troublesome.
(June is worse than May, and peak season is July and August. From Sept onwards, there is likely to be overnight frosts, and te first one will kill all the midges.)
Thanks Dave!
Let's hope they don't know we'll be there at the end of May ;D
I've been to Scotland once before (even though that indeed was in June/July) and i found out i don't care for those little b@stards :o
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Birna: tell me what I owe you and the money will be at your paypal in an instant afterwards. Money is not my main concern in this case as you know. I desperately seek to see Dave and the others ASAP
What about Bez, Andrea, Mike Selby, the Austrians, the Simones? And what about our Danish and Serbian friends?
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This *will* be a success, I'm sure oif that.
Now, the lodge is paid for, rental cars are in order, and air tickets booked. Yes, there are always room for more people to join in, but we have the required robust foundation for this adventure. And most of us being adults (sort of) we promise to behave nice and not trash up the place so as to forfeit your £300 depost :)
Frank and I both are looking forward to meeting you and Mayumi in Killin on the way up to Glenelg.
I think the rental car is paid for already
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Birna: tell me what I owe you and the money will be at your paypal in an instant afterwards. Money is not my main concern in this case as you know. I desperately seek to see Dave and the others ASAP
What about Bez, Andrea, Mike Selby, the Austrians, the Simones? And what about our Danish and Serbian friends?
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Hi Frank - I replied to you yesterday, quoting from what you had posted, but only the quotation appeared on the thread - the message I had added to the quote has never appeared. It was "I emailed Bez and MikeS as soon as this all got started, and I saw Simone yesterday (here in Killin)."
Unfortunately I'm not able to force members to come to Glenelg, and my powers of persuasion were insufficient. But I hope they will join in, anyway.
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They certainly would be welcomed with open arms :)
As to the splitting of expenses, I prefer we keep a list of what costs are incurred and make the splits at the end of the meet-up. I just paid upfront for the lodge to ensure we had it at our disposal. No problem for me awaiting the final settlement.
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Many thanks, Birna !
I am looking forward to meet up. :)
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I do have an inquiry out with a friend of mine to join as well. Can´t promise anything though, he's not usually quick to join such endeavours. One can hope though :D
Well ... he decided not to join. Too bad ...
Anyone else knows some candidates for joining?
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The very comprehensive Lodge Reference Manual has arrived. You find it attached as a PDF. Please post any questions here so we can work out solutions, if necessary.
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Time is flying - just 3 weeks to go - and major roadworks have just been annnounced for "M-class" (Motorway), roads in the Glasgow region. It's not clear yet exactly where and which roads are affecte, but it seems probable that everyone entering Scotland via Glasgow and possibly Edinburgh airports will be affected. At various times the M8, M80 and M90 have all been mentioned - all three would normally be very useful to us. The best thing for NG members might be to head for Stirling, a town in central/southern Scotland with good connections northwards via non-Motorway roads.
I suggest you keep an eye on the AA Roadwatch Scotland website which will carry the most recently available road/traffic information. Also do a Google-search - at least daily when the time is very close, - on "Glasow Airport to Glenelg by car" or, of course "Edinburgh airport . . . ".
And if you are heading north via Killin, just substitute Killin for Glenelg. Once you are here I know the roads from here to Glenelg very well and will be only too pleased to help.
I will be doing both the above and anything else I can think of, and will post anything helpful.
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Time is flying - just 3 weeks to go - and major roadworks have just been annnounced for "M-class" (Motorway), roads in the Glasgow region. It's not clear yet exactly where and which roads are affecte, but it seems probable that everyone entering Scotland via Glasgow and possibly Edinburgh airports will be affected. At various times the M8, M80 and M90 have all been mentioned - all three would normally be very useful to us. The best thing for NG members might be to head for Stirling, a town in central/southern Scotland with good connections northwards via non-Motorway roads.
I suggest you keep an eye on the AA Roadwatch Scotland website which will carry the most recently available road/traffic information. Also do a Google-search - at least daily when the time is very close, - on "Glasow Airport to Glenelg by car" or, of course "Edinburgh airport . . . ".
And if you are heading north via Killin, just substitute Killin for Glenelg. Once you are here I know the roads from here to Glenelg very well and will be only too pleased to help.
I will be doing both the above and anything else I can think of, and will post anything helpful.
Dear Dave, we will somehow sort this out when I have managed to collect Birna in Edinburgh and got the car I paid in advance delivered for us and all three on the road to Killin.
These traffic interfaces calles "airports" often seem to be full of surprises ... sometimes everything goes smooth, sometimes you get a huge car although you explicitly ordered a small one.
Sometimes everyne arrives in time, sometimes delays.
As soon as I am on the road, the world is my friend!
I am looking forward to meeting you & Mayumi!
All the best of life
Frank
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Neither Long Covid nor a recent bad allergic reaction to Birch pollen will prevent me from going to Scotland. I'm looking forward to meet friends and fellow NG members and will try to have as good time as possible. There is also a hidden treat in a certain Voigtländer Nokton 35mm f/1.2 for my Z fc that UPS promised to deliver at Dave's in advance of our arrival there. To quote a celeb film actor, this will "make my day" :).
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Birna - I'm glad the Voightlander affair got sorted. If I had looked at my messages that day, none of the rest would have happened - sorry! They tend to be objects of desire, are usually very good optically, and have a slight air of exclusivity or rarity.
I once had a 150mm f4.5 which I used on 5x4". Excellent lens and quite rare but didn't project a very large image-circle on the film-plane - enough for 5.4" with some lens-movement, but not a lot.
I hope you got a "good" 35/f2.
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In fact, it's even faster, f/1.2 :) and really nicely made to fit the looks of my Z fc. Just have a look below. The lens even has electronic communication with the Z cameras.
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UPS reports the parcel is delivered. So now I know what is waiting for me in Killin :)
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The combination looks amazing. Very curious about the results!
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UPS reports the parcel is delivered. So now I know what is waiting for me in Killin :)
Yes - it's here, undamaged, and very cute. I have been trying to send an attachment for the past 30-40 minutes but Gmail will NOT play ball.
See you on the 20th?
All the best,
D.
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You, Mayumi, Dochart House, Killin, and that little lens too :) Frank F is the designated driver to take us there.
I must admit that i got the lens primarily for its charms, secondly because a fast 35mm will fit perfectly between the 23/1.4 and 56/1.4 Viltrox lenses on my little Z fc. The Viltrox optics are really great performers given their modest price, but like most modern stuff rather down-to-earth in outer appearance.
Now, what about a future fast 85mm Voigtländer DX lens? f/1.4 will be nice but f/1.8 - f/2 is quite acceptable if it designed like that 35/1.2. The old Norwegian adage-- "there is hope in any dangling fish-bait"-- applies.
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Birna - just wondering - how is our list of participants coming along? Still just the 6 or so?
The landscape around Killin is looking particularly beautiful now. We had two months (March and April) of continuous cold, very dry weather, and a bitter n.e. wind, as a result of which all growth was suppressed. Last week, this pattern was suddenly reversed and we have had a week or more of warmer air, and daily showers of rain, some of them more than just a shower. ALl Killin's chlorophyll-dependent plant-life went crazy; growth was explosive, and the green colours - wonderful, beyond words - certainly the best I have ever seen.
What we DON'T want now is a few prematurely warm early-summer-type days which would dry out those fresh green beauties before the 20th. Inevitably the process of maturing will already have started, but I hope it will proceed rather slowly.
I'm sure all you hi-tech hombres wll have every possible navigation-aid and will not need me. However I said I would post some maps and driving routes, and I will keep my promise.
With best wishes,
Dave
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We are still just 5 men + me. That'll have to do and certainly is more than plenty of minds to create a spirited and adventurous meet-up :)
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Again, I'm not able to participate due to my family situation but am eagerly looking forward to seeing the images of this potentially much inspiring meetup!
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.... certainly more than plenty of minds to create a spirited and adventurous meet-up :)
In addition to the alchemy you'll create just by meeting up, can I recommend you sample some Glendronach during your stay? I do like an occasional malt and my son bought me a trip round their distillery for a landmark birthday. Both the 18 and 21 y.o. worked for me :P
I'm sure you each also have your favourites.
Meanwhile bon voyage and hope you all have a really special time together.
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I know everyone going to Glenelg will be all teched up with navigational aids etc, but here is some steam-age data, just in case.
All the best,
David
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The Aberdeen section of the attachment was repeated by mistake - sorry. I don't think there is any significant defference between the two versions - just delete the second one.
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Friday is not far away - have those who are planning to come through Killin got some idea of when you might get here? We are hoping that you will all be visiting us and we would hope to eat around 7.30pm. But of course the actual dinnertime will be governed by when you get here - late, early - we don't mind - just want to see you guys, is all.
It hurts that I can't be in Glenelg with you, but it's just not possible. Next time, I hope.
All the best,
Dave
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Just finished first attempt at packing :( carry-on might just scrape by within the designated limit of 15 kg .... For checked-in luggage there is no problem, though. It is Constitution Day here in Norway tomorrow so that day is off as far as trip packing and planning are concerned. We have to watch the Childrens' Parade and all other traditional activities of the day. No excuses are possible.
Despite my serious attempts at bringing just a 'small' gear setup, the Z9 adds weight. Oh well. That's the new take for my photographic existence, presumably.
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My gear will be :
# Z6 + 24-70mm f/4.5 S;
# AF-S 500mm f/5.6e PF ED on FTZ adapter;
# Leica APO-MACRO elmarit 100mm f/2.8 or Nikon micro 105mm f/4 AIPed by Erik and Birna.
# Zeiss ultron 50mm f/1.8 (if I get it delivered in time);
# Plus few another vintage lenses.
# Benro tripod (very sturdy Chinese Gitzo copy);
# normal accessories.
Can't wait... 8)
Francis.
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I probably will scout the surroundings with the new Voigtländer 35mm f/1.2 on the Z fc. The main camera will be Z9 however, for which I'll bring a very traditional and well-tested line-up of 24/1.8, 50/1.8, 105/2.8 MC, and 300/4 PF. I decided to forego the small and nifty 23 & 56mm f/1.4 Viltrox lenses and wil let the bigger FX 24 & 50 do double duty on both houses.
There is also the tiny NEX-5NMonochrome with a couple of really old lenses for IR. And the medium-sized travel Sachtler. And sundry small items which add to the overall weight.
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Friday is not far away - have those who are planning to come through Killin got some idea of when you might get here? We are hoping that you will all be visiting us and we would hope to eat around 7.30pm. But of course the actual dinnertime will be governed by when you get here - late, early - we don't mind - just want to see you guys, is all.
It hurts that I can't be in Glenelg with you, but it's just not possible. Next time, I hope.
All the best,
Dave
I will be in Edinburgh by 9 am your time. That is where I will wait for Birna to arrive, collect the car and go to Killin. I guess we will be in Killin in the early afternoon between 3 pm and 4 pm, depending on the arrival time of Birna's
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I post this message here to make sure Bruno and Hans will find it quicker although I posted to them personally.
Hello Hans !
Ready to go tomorrow morning.
A quick question : as Dave want to welcome us at his home, I am wondering about to join them at killin ?
In this case, I have to give a quick response to Dave as he need to know how many people will attend the dinner.
I am going to send this message to bruno as well and also to the forum to make sure you (Bruno+ you) get it.
Sorry, I should have done that earlier. ::)
See you soon,
Francis.
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The forum PM software didn't want to cooperate with me earlier on, but i've replied to your PM
I post this message here to make sure Bruno and Hans will find it quicker although I posted to them personally.
Hello Hans !
Ready to go tomorrow morning.
A quick question : as Dave want to welcome us at his home, I am wondering about to join them at killin ?
In this case, I have to give a quick response to Dave as he need to know how many people will attend the dinner.
I am going to send this message to bruno as well and also to the forum to make sure you (Bruno+ you) get it.
Sorry, I should have done that earlier. ::)
See you soon,
Francis.
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Francis - don't worry about the number eating with us - I think we could adapt quite easily to any number between 4 and 8 - we couldn't all be at the same table ( max. 6) but we would all get some food!
We are looking forward to the evening with you all.
Dave
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Francis - don't worry about the number eating with us - I think we could adapt quite easily to any number between 4 and 8 - we couldn't all be at the same table ( max. 6) but we would all get some food!
Dave, thanks for the advance welcome!
I will be traveling on Saturday, so if this dinner was planned for Friday (that's what i'd gathered), i will not join. If on Saturday, i'd enjoy meeting (and joining) very much, but i'm in the hands (and car) of Francis ;)
But ... i've just checked in to my flight, so Scotland, here i come ;D ;D ;D