Christine's bit Had only been in Cardiff a day and headed back to Bristol (left Huw behind in Cardiff to have time with his family) to fly out to join Marg in her holiday home at Le Castellet, between Toulon and Marseille - an absolutely beautiful part of the world. Had 5 days of touring and kicking back, with Marg driving me to medieval villages through stunning scenery. Provence must be one of the most beautiful areas of France. Weather was hot 33 degrees or...

Huw's Bit Awesome! Public transport amazing so managed to pack in heaps in 3 days but still have to go back! Difficult to understand the transformation that Berlin has gone through in the last 100 years. Very challenging experiences as well: 'Topography of Terror' and the villa at Wannsee where the 'Final Solution' was designed were galling but a must to try and get at least some understanding. The 'Stasi' HQ museum was also chilling - couldn't get ov...

Huw's Bit Last day in StP. Spent morning/lunch running around seeing the remaining sites. Very moving to see Romanov family resting place in St Peter and Paul's Cathedral having seen where their 'graves' were found in Yekaterinburg. Part of complex is the prison where the Tsar and later the Revolution where political prisoners were held - doesn't sound like rehabilitaion was part of the brief! Lots executed, and very quickly after being arrested. National ho...

Huw's Bit Spent 2 hrs+ in The Hermitage first thing - wow! Amazing collection but you need at least a week in there! Russian sub and battle ships on the river with crew on deck in full dress uniform, music playing and whistles going - engines on - all very exciting - its a national holiday tmorrow: Navy Day. Found an adapter for my Mac - yeay - back in business! Highlight of day though was the ballet! Yes, correct I said the ballet - it was outstanding! Al...

Huw's Bit Morning swim and spa! This is more like it! SAPSAN high speed train to St Petersburg is fantastic! Not only high speed but outstanding 3 course meal (with vodka) served in our very comfortable, reclining leather seats! Good wifi speed as well. They've clearly been learning off British Rail(nt)! Does BR even exist anymore? Hotel smack in the middle of town - not as good as Moscow though! Different feel to Moscow - feels much more touristy! ...