Lounging around Łódż part I

Ok, so we are really delving into history now. I have decided to finally get back into some blogging shenanigans. Let's head to the nearest city of repute to Warsaw, Łódż. No folks, I didn't just smash my keyboard in anger, that is the name of the town. It is pronounced Woodch, and actually translates as "boat", odd as the name is it was once a thriving industrial town, making loads of textiles, pre war it was also a third Jewish. It is now shrinking a lot due to people not having work, they are moving to Warsaw (even though it is an hour by train away), or further afield. That said, the movie industry of Poland is based here, and there are some really cool old buildings that would make, and are making, some great loft style apartments.

The new station.

Old school neons, as we were there in the day, I don't know if they work.

a dash of mural art.

A classic example of an old building that with a lick of pain and some love would be imposing.

More crumbling facades. A sight you see throughout Łódż.

Just stretching out the carpal tunnel.

'Tis Grand. To see some the few updated buildings try strolling down Piotrkowska street.

Windows in windows. Microsoft new product.

Eye, eye captain.

Hallway highlights

I'm not sure you should be leading blind people into a pole....

numbered corner.

This just feels heavy to me.

always love a bit of gate work.

Grannies windows reflecting windows.

Cava d'Ispica, Sicilia

The caves of Ispica are actually something pretty darned impressive and cool. Both cool in a literal sense, as they are caves after all, but also more in the impressive sense. There is archaeological evidence that dates back to the prehistoric times, but the majority of the tombs themselves were there up to the late 17th century. They are really impressive, and to be buried in these small permanent coffins must have been some sort of honour. If you are the south of Sicily, go for a poke around the park, it is easy to get around, has some interesting information and for a couple of Euros you won't be able to get something this cool anywhere else in all of Europe (for my mind anyway).

hand carved, this must have taken quite some time!

Budapest. Day two. Journey to Pest.

Budapest, with its beautiful buildings, river and blazing sunshine is indeed a treat for most. Unless you are suffering with fever.... either way it can still be a great time.

Hungarian Yoga?

The entire class

Looking to Pest across the Széchenyi Lánchíd Chain Bridge

Gotta love a horse statue

Rich polarised skies

Taking a well earned sandwich