November Chronicles: From Schengen Blues to Camel Races and Christmas Tide Adventures
I pondered what impression November would leave, as it invariably arrives with its characteristic dampness and cold, marking the onset of a sombre period bereft of the sun's warmth. If I'm honest, I'd rather be in Spain, but the intricacies of the post-Brexit Schengen arrangements didn't permit it. To simplify, UK citizens now have a 90-day limit in the European Travel Zone within any rolling 180 days, and, well, we've run out of those days.
Cromer Pier
However, the truth is that November swept in like a high-speed steam train, an intercity locomotive attempting a land speed record, rushing through the calendar until suddenly we found ourselves at the station named December. Surprisingly, there was no van trip in November—a rare occurrence. Instead, we focused on domestic tasks, winterising and storing our cherished van.
A new camera arrived, prompting the sale of the previous gear, boxing up the old equipment, and dispatching it to MPB. They not only outbid WEX but also exhibited remarkable efficiency. Hours were spent watching YouTube videos, and of course, ordering the necessary accessories to make the camera operational.
Norwich, a city about a 40-minute drive away, became the perfect setting to test the new camera. There's a certain charm to Norwich, an ancient city often mentioned in the same breath as Chester and York. The Roman conquest saw the Celtic Iceni tribe in East Anglia, with Boudicca leading a failed uprising against the Romans. The market area, adorned with Christmas lights, is a favourite spot for street photography. For more images from this month in Norwich click this link https://www.behance.net/gallery/184033651/Norwich-UK-in-November
Cromer, another coastal favourite, offered a pleasant day out, always on the lookout for deer during the sunset drive home. Childhood memories were revisited at Cromer Pier, where crab fishing was a cherished activity, and the World Championships are still held annually. For more images from Cromer Click here https://www.behance.net/gallery/185018909/Cromer-England-UK-November-2023
As the Bonfire Night festivities concluded, Norfolk County geared up for Christmas. Holt's early light switch-on was a spectacle not to be missed. We attended on November 17th, enjoying camel races of the pantomime variety, accompanied by amazing street and live music that bore a striking resemblance to the Beatles. The evening culminated in a spectacular fireworks display. For more images from Holt click here https://www.behance.net/gallery/184802729/Christmas-Lights-Holt-Norfolk-UK-Nov-2023
Wells Next The Sea hosted Christmas Tide, with Santa arriving by boat. The streets were teeming with vendors selling food and drinks, and various musicians entertained the crowds, including pub singers, marching drum bands, Shanty Men, and the beloved Fakenham Ukes. Despite missing the fireworks this time, Poppy thoroughly enjoyed the day. For more images from Wells Next The Sea click here https://www.behance.net/gallery/185384391/Wells-Next-The-Sea-Norfolk-UK-December-2023
Our coastal explorations in November extended beyond Wells Next The Sea to Morston Quay, a National Trust-managed gem of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This idyllic spot offers the opportunity for scenic walks, seasonal boat trips to observe seal colonies, and the simple pleasure of admiring boats stranded daily by the changing tides. Checking the tide times is crucial, as the risk of being marooned and requiring rescue by the RNLI is a genuine concern. From here you can join the Coastal Path and walk as far as you choose. For more images from Morston Quay click here https://www.behance.net/gallery/185634981/Morston-Quay
Being at home for us involves immersing ourselves in Parkrun, a fantastic community-run/walk event held every Saturday morning across the UK and beyond. Both of us actively participate by running and volunteering, and our commitment has grown to the point where we now serve as Run Directors. Our passion for this event runs deep.
We have also of course, published videos to our YouTube channel, the links of which are at the top and bottom of the page , if you have watched them and enjoyed them please like and subscribe to the YouTube Channel it helps us grow.
Lastly, we booked our next motorhome trip to Europe, but you'll have to wait to hear about that but the clock is ticking , November has been quite a ride.
