Santa

This story was on my mind for a year and inspired by a documentation I saw about a man who plays Santa and has a real white beard. Hope you have fun with it.

 Shortly before their Christmas visit to their step grandparents Tina and Roscoe O'Malley had an argument. "Is not!" Roscoe said. "Is!" Tina replied heated. "I'll show you!" Roscoe glared at Tina and put for the moment a stop to their disagreement.

Roscoe was seven, Tina a year younger. She believed still in Santa, while Roscoe had his doubts. He had heard rumors at school that Santa didn't exist. Their baby sister Alyssa was two and began to grasp the concept of Christmas.

Roscoe's chance to proof to Tina Santa wasn't real, came when the family went to a shopping mall. There was a Santa's grotto with all the shebang. Tina and Roscoe begged their parents to let them visit Santa. Alyssa chimed in she wanted to see Santa too. Normally their mother Hue and stepfather Sam were no nonsense, so Tina and Roscoe weren't sure if they would agree. Jack and Madeleine, Sam's parents were with them and said they would take them. Seeing the pleading looks of the kids and the grandparents, Hue and Sam gave their okay.
So while Jack, Madeleine, Roscoe, Tina and Alyssa queued for their turn, Sam and Hue used the time to browse in the nearby bookstore undisturbed. The wait wasn't too long, but seemed endless for Alyssa. She asked every few minutes: "Is it our turn yet?" The grandparents were patient, having experience with six children of their own and 15 other grandchildren.
Finally it was their turn. "Ho, ho, ho!" Santa greeted them. He had a long grey beard and sparkling green eyes. Alyssa went first and was given a little present. Madeleine took photographs.
Jack, who had a very good relationship with Roscoe, noticed his grandson was nervous and fidgeting with his collar. He hoped Roscoe hadn't planned any mischief.
Roscoe and Tina were invited to sit on Santa's lap together. Santa asked them if they had been good. Of course Madeleine was shooting away with her camera and got more than she bargained for.
Tina was a bit shy and nodded. Roscoe replied: "Until now, yes." Roscoe suddenly grabbed Santa's beard and said: "Look, Tina, the beard is faked." Then he pulled, but the beard wouldn't go off. "Ow!" Santa protested, when Roscoe pulled a second time. The beard was still in place. "Roscoe!" Madeleine chided. Jack had problems keeping from laughing. He thought the situation was funny. Roscoe still couldn't believe the beard was real and lifted it up to check, if it was stitched on or something like that. "Young man, stop this immediately!" Santa was loosing his composure. "Roscoe, what has gotten into you?" Jack asked. "I didn't believe that Santa exists, but he's real! Sorry, if I hurt you, Santa." The holy man was forgiving. Tina celebrated. She gave a little whoop. "See, I was right!" "Okay, okay." Roscoe admitted his defeat. It didn't have any further implications for Roscoe. Hue put a stop to Tina's gloating by remembering her daughter about Christian principles and that she wouldn't like it, if Roscoe would do the same to her. A year later or so Roscoe and Tina stopped finally believing in Santa.

©2012

Travel Log: Holiday Inn Express Swiss Cottage London, United Kingdom

Having a busy month in December with various stays in Sintra, Dublin and London, we didn't have a very high budget for our trip to London.
 After some consideration we chose the Holiday Inn Express Swiss Cottage.

We arrived at London Gatwick late morning and had bought our Gatwick Express train return tickets online. They were
59.10 GBP (ca. 77 Euro or ca. 96 USD). The journey takes only around 30 minutes, so we didn't book first class, which would have doubled the costs. The train can sometimes get very crowded, so first class is maybe worth it, if you want to travel more comfortable and have as perk refreshments included. The train terminates at Victoria Station. It was really humming with people. From Victoria we used the Tube, taking the Victoria Line to Green Park and changing to the Jubilee line. We got off at Finchley Road, which is the nearest stop from the hotel, and you can see it as soon as you leave the tube station.

The Holiday Inn Express Swiss Cottage is opposite the O2 Centre, a shopping mall. It opened in 2005 and has a modern facade. The entrance is small. There is a big public space, used for the bar, breakfast area, internet access and the reception.

Our check in was quick and the member of staff friendly. We were offered as Intercontinental Hotel Group's Priority Club Platinum holders a late check out until 14.00 hours instead of 11.00 a.m. We accepted and took the elevator to the 6th floor.

As Platinums we also received a welcome letter and two bottles of still water. Would we have stayed during the week a newspaper would have been also included.

Our room was overlooking the O2.
It was medium in size and had the typical Holiday Inn Express colors in red and brown. There was a writing desk, flat screen TV with regional channels (To our surprise over 50), a larger than usual bed and a chair. The bathroom was small with shower, sink and bathtub. There was no safe or mini bar, but we didn't expect this.
The room was overall very comfortable. Even though the room was on the highest possible floor the traffic noise was fairly loud. It didn't inconvenience us, but light sleepers should consider requesting a room at the back of the hotel.

Breakfast is served until 11.00 am on weekends and consisted of coffee/tea, milk, juice, plain yogurt, fruits, pastries, scrambled eggs, cold cuts and much more.
The quality was good and the variety okay, so we were happy.

Check out was efficient.

We liked the location and used the time to explore the neighborhood. There is a Sainsbury's, Waitrose, Iceland and some restaurants like Weatherspoon's, Pizza Express, KFC, Yo Sushi, Indian and Chinese, nearby.

The location is also suitable for sightseeing. Thanks to the tube Green Park station and with it Buckingham Palace is only three stops away.

Our purpose was different, though.
We went to see the Sigmund Freud sculpture in front of the Tavistock Clinic, the Swiss Cottage - after which the area is named - and St. Thomas More Presbytery. We didn't manage to go the Freud Museum, but there is going to be a next time.

©2012

Travel Log: Penha Longa, Sintra, Portugal

Sorry, if I haven't published for a longer time not, but it was very important to have this review as correct and detailed as possible for you. Hope you enjoy the review and Happy Travels.

Introduction
Fulfilling another of our dreams, we returned to Lisbon to stay at the Penha Longa, a Ritz Carlton Hotel, for two nights.
We had contact with the hotel before, because I was inquiring how much limousine transfer from the hotel to the airport was. The question was dealt with efficient and in a friendly manner. It left a good impression and eased some of my unease. We had a very bad experience at the Arts, Barcelona, the sister hotel of the Penha Longa. Tripadvisor reviews and Flyer Talk (very few information) were positive, so we hoped our experience was going to turn out better than at the Arts. I didn't have had to worry.


How to get there / Arrival / Check in

Arriving at Lisbon Portelas Airport we made our way to the Tourism Information Desk and asked for a taxi voucher to Penha Longa. It cost 59 Euro / ca. 78 USD. Our taxi was a Mercedes E-Class and our driver an older gentleman, who was chatty and educated us about the history of the area, mythology, soccer and fauna and flora of the Sintra Mountains. The ca. 30 minute ride passed quickly.

The Penha Longa is a huge estate with two golf courses (the Monastery and Atlantic with 9 and 18 holes respectively). There is a security gate with a guard. Only guests, golf club members, residents or visitors, who have a reservation at one of the restaurants, can enter.
The Christmas tree and we arrived at the same time.
The door man was opening the car doors for us, and two members of staff were waiting in the lobby with refreshing hot towels. We were checked in the semi private area of the B-Lounge and offered a glass of water. We sipped on it while we waited for the return of our passports and my credit card. It was a pleasant experience. All formalities done, we were accompanied to our room. We had booked an Executive Suite. We were explained the features and then left in peace.

At time of check in we were also handed a list with restaurant on site, opening hours, what kind of cuisine they serve and a 20 Euro off voucher, should we use the Six Senses Spa. We were also offered to join the Ritz Carlton loyalty program.


The room

When entering our room, there was a long hallway. A door to the left led off to the guest toilet.

Our suite consisted of one large living room with a huge Samsung flat screen TV with regional and international channels, large sofa, coffee table and a chair with ottoman. There was another small table with interesting books about architecture and photography - just our taste!

In a separate area were a big, antique writing desk and a seating area with two chairs and a table.

Another door led to the bed room and the walk in closet. The bed room was medium in size. In front of the king bed was a bench and in one corner another flat screen TV.

The walk in closet offered enough space to for long staying guests. The safe and umbrella were also located there.

Last but not least there was the large marble bath room with separate bath tub and shower, double sink and a separate small room for the toilet and bidet. The amenities were from Bulgari.

Before I mention to forget it, we also had a large balcony overlooking the Monastery Golf Course and the forest, offering a 180 degree view. There was also a large seating area and beautiful tiles. Our suite was located in one of the corners.

The floor to ceiling windows allowed natural day light to flood the room.

The color scheme was neutral, mostly in brown, black, beige and white. We loved our room, because it was a mix between contemporary and classic design, detailed, quiet - even though it was located immediately beside the lift - and comfortable. It felt like a home.

There were also a 24 hour in room dining menu and magazines on the coffee table. Postcards, writing paper and general hotel information as well as the spa menu where located in the drawers of the writing desk.

When we had settled in, there was a knock at the door. Before I could manage to get there it opened and another member of staff entered with a welcome letter from the Guest Recognition Team. As a welcome gift we received a large bottle of still local water and local pastries. They were delicious and exotic.

Normally we would have also received turn down service. Since we had the "Do not disturb" sign outside each evening, we weren't disturbed, but still received a note about the missed turn down, the weather forecast and a Portuguese legend.

 
More about the hotel.

The estate started out as a Jeronomite monastery in the 14th century - hence the name of one of the golf courses - and a summer palace for the Portuguese Royal family in the 16th century.

The estate was acquired by Caesar Park, a South American hotel chain, which was recently bought by Accor. Caesar Park added a new building, where the guest rooms are located, as well as villas. Later Caesar Park sold Penha Longa to Ritz Carlton.

Of course no monks are living here any longer. The monastery has been changed into a convention center. There is also a chapel, which can be used for weddings.

The Six Senses Spa is also located in one of the older buildings.

The fitness center and one indoor and outdoor pool are located at the Golf Course Wing of the main building.
The outdoor pool with its sala is especially famous and beautiful. The wellness area felt inviting and warm. The staff there was helpful too.

There is even a playground and parts of the extensive gardens date from the 16th century, when the Royal family stayed here. Guests interested in cooking can check out the chef's garden too.

The hotel offers also two jogging/walking tracks. One is slightly over 2 km long, the other over 8. Parts of the tracks are along the golf courses, which were designed by Robert Trent Jones junior.

 
The restaurants and bars.


Arola, the restaurant of Michelin stared chef Sergi Arola, is located in the Club House. It offers Atlantic cuisine and Sergi Arola holds 2 Michelin stars.

Il Mercato is an Italian restaurant and is like Midori, the Japanese restaurant, located on the first floor of the hotel building.

The B-Lounge is on the ground level and serves a huge variety of burgers and cocktails.

Aqua is the pool restaurant and serves Mediterranean cuisine. It has open during the summer months.

We used the B-Lounge and in room dining.

At in room dining we chose chicken consommé, spaghetti Bolognese, pizza with Iberian ham, brie and arugula, Chimichurri chicken, red fruit salad with orange juice and maple syrup and tasting of petit pots de crème, French Toast, omelets and porridge. We were very happy. The portions were big, delicious, healthy, light and creative. Breakfast and dinner came in, depending what we ordered between 65 and 80 Euro or ca. 85 USD to 104 USD, including juices and hot chocolate or coffee.


The B-Lounge is the heart of the hotel. It is contemporary Asian with dark furniture and reminded us of the lounge at the Ritz Carlton Hong Kong.
We had a slightly unusual lunch there. I wasn't very hungry, so I thought, I order dessert, when my better half had eaten his Japanese Burger, so each of us could have something sweet. We both had cocktails - I a non alcoholic fruit punch, he a laboratory creation, called Pearl Martini. The martini was served with pineapple foam.
His burger came with fries in a rolled up "newspaper" (It was the burger menu printed on newspaper paper) and a side salad. The dish was served on a slate.
When it was time for dessert, he wasn't up to it, so I ordered rice pudding for myself. Unfortunately it wasn't available, so I took the other dessert I had been intrigued with. It was cheese with honey. I wasn't sure what to expect, but wanted to try it. I found out it was a bowl of cottage cheese mixed with honey and topped with strawberries. To my surprise I liked it. The tanginess of the cheese went well with the sweetness of the honey and the strawberries. My better half tried as well, but didn't like the texture.
We enjoyed lunch and the atmosphere. For some reason we didn't have to pay for the burger, so our bill came in at 36.50 Euro, ca. 47.30 USD.

Generally we didn't get charged for some of the things we ordered. For example on one morning we were told the juices were for free.


The staff

The staff found the right balance between being warm and personal, but not too much, attentive and leaving us alone.
Everyone encountered was helpful, efficient, knew their stuff and would have done much more for us, if we had asked for it. They did everything to make our stay smooth running and memorable for the right reason, even trying to anticipate our needs. We felt very much valued and welcome.
All members including housekeeping are an asset to the resort.

 
Check out / Limousine transfer

The day before our check out we requested the limousine service to the airport. For the first time ever we didn't have to provide our room number or name to receive the service. The receptionist didn't mention my name, but knew my fiancé’s. The pronunciation wasn't correct - making out of a Polish origin name, an Irish sounding, but the goodwill counted.
She promised to have a car and driver ready for us, if possible the hotels own limousine. The cost was 84 Euro, ca. 109 USD. We assumed it would be a Mercedes E-Class, as told by the concierge when I called.

The check out was quick. Before we left we were given a good bye present - Portuguese cookies - from the receptionist and accompanied to the waiting car by him, the second receptionist and the door man. The young driver welcomed us and gave us bonbons as a leaving gift. The car was to our pleasant surprise from the newest BMW 7 sports series. We had discussed the two BMW (a 7 and a 5 series model) parking in front of the hotel.
Even more food provisions were waiting for us in the limousine, like apples, water and napkins.
During the smooth ride we talked a bit with our driver, who is a Sporting Lisbon fan. The journey took around 35 minutes, and we arrived with ample time for our flight.

 
Verdict

It was the perfect retreat for us - leaving all the stress and worries of everyday life behind. It was made easy by the staff and the flawless experience.

Besides this we liked the art work - different sculptures -, antique furniture and books and the creativity of the public spaces. In our opinion it was aesthetic.
Mentioned earlier, the Christmas Tree was standing and fully decorated, when we checked the next day. It looked gorgeous and fitted the surroundings. It replaces at the moment the flower display.

I'm already missing the property and wish I could go back yesterday...

©2012

Trapdoor

Here is the next adventure of Chastity as promised.


Chastity and Giovanni were looking forward to a romantic weekend in Sao Paulo. It turned out slightly more adventurous than planned.

The hotel they were staying at had an old fashioned revolving door. Giovanni had his doubts Chastity would fit through - not because she was overweight, but because of her balloon sized breasts. Chastity, as ever the optimist, thought she wouldn't have any problems. "Okay, let’s give it a try." Chastity said enthusiastic. She couldn't wait to see their room. Before the door man was able to help, Chastity was in the door. Of course her breasts were too large. One of them was uncomfortable trapped between the door and the wall. Chastity couldn't move forward or backward. "Umh ... Oh shit! Gio, get me out of here!" Chastity shouted. Giovanni couldn't help himself. He burst out laughing. "You idiot. Stop that immediately and help me!" Chastity lost her composure. Giovanni tried to stop, but just seeing his wife in that position made him chortle again. "Wait until I'm free, you fucking bastard, and I'll show ya!" Chastity's threats made Giovanni laugh even harder. "I'm so sorry." He spluttered and finally was able to stop laughing. The door man had trouble to keep his face straight, but tried his utmost to free Chastity - unfortunately unsuccessful. He went in search of a colleague to discuss the situation with. While Giovanni waited for the men to return some passers by stopped, enthralled by the views offered to them. They wanted to help. Some used the chance to touch Chastity's huge breast. She didn't like it a bit. Normally she wasn't prude, but now she was helpless and the attention unwanted. Chastity swore at them. They took it with humor. The hotel staff returned and shooed the helpers away. One member of staff cordoned off the entrance and security made sure no unauthorized persons came near, while the rest tried to find a solution. Nothing seemed to work, so the hotel called the fire department. The crowd had grown considerable by the time the fire truck arrived, including the press. Finally after more than an hour Chastity was released. Her breast hurt, and she later developed a bruise. When she was back in the US Chastity made a doctor's appointment to check, if her implants were okay. As a thank you to the hotel staff and fire fighters Chastity bared her balloons for them, who were delighted. Chastity didn't leave it to that. Each one was allowed to play a bit with her mega tits. When she was dressed again, she dealt with Giovanni, chasing him. To the laughter and amusement of the bystanders Chastity didn't manage to catch her husband. Somehow it was erotic, seeing her big boobs wobbling, when Chastity ran in her platform shoes, which were extremely high. After a few more minutes Chastity had to give up. Her breasts were heaving. "You promise you won't harm me?" Giovanni asked from a safe distance. Chastity relaxed and said: "Okay." Giovanni trusted Chastity. She seemed peaceful, when they finally checked in. For all her trouble, Chastity and Giovanni were upgraded to a suite and a bottle of champagne was already waiting for them. Giovanni opened the door to their room and was half way in, when Chastity got her revenge. She kicked him neatly in one buttock, when he least expected it. He fell more through the door than walked. Giovanni took it cool. He dropped the key cards on the nearest table and then turned around facing Chastity. "We're quit, aren't we?" He asked. "Yes, I think so." "Fine, then give me a kiss, darling." The kiss was brutal. Neither of them minded. Soon their clothing was strewn on the floor all the way to the bedroom of the suite. Even so Giovanni was smaller than Chastity; he was strong and could heave her up the bed. He was soon biting into her nipples. Because it turned her on immensely, she dug her nails deep into his back and scratched it. Giovanni's scream was muffled by Chastity's boobs. He didn't mind that much. He had already scars from their past passionate love making. Giovanna started kneading Chastity's tits. His free hand went exploring Chastity's skin, abdomen and genitals. His fingers found their way into Chastity's anus. She bit him in the shoulder, leaving marks. Chastity was more than ready for intercourse and shouted at Giovanni: "Fuck me! Now!" Giovanni needn't be told twice. Within a second Chastity was lying flat on her back and her legs were spread wide. He was in charge and thrust deep, making Chastity moan in pleasure. Giovanni was at first slow and took his time, then sped things up, collapsing on top of Chastity. She had climaxed slightly earlier than he. They cuddled briefly before exploring their room stark naked.

©2012

Nurse Chastity

Here is another story for Chastity fans. It's slightly different, but hope you like it. :)
I'm planning to publish another one soon. 


Coldham Fintan "Fin" Noose III was asleep. Suddenly he woke up with a start, because the door to his room opened and light flooded in. He saw a figure in a nurse's uniform. The door closed behind her, leaving the room dark again. The nurse came nearer. She switched on the night light. "Now, Mr. Noose, how are we doing?" She asked brisk. "My head is feeling like it's going to explode ..." "I will see if I can help ease your pain a bit." The nurse pulled away the blanket. Fin had had an accident and the doctors in ER wanted to keep him in for observation because of a light concussion. The nurse wasn't concerned with Fin's head and stared intently at Fin's midsection. Her left hand was pushing the gown the hospital had provided, up. Of course Fin wasn't wearing anything underneath. His penis was reacting to the huge breasts of the nurse. She was very dark skinned, tall and wore a ring studded with rubies and diamonds. Her hair was short. She bent down and gave Fin a blow job. Fin had to bite his hand to keep quiet. They didn't want to get caught. Fin forgot his headache. Before he could ejaculate, the nurse stopped, lifted her uniform, revealing more than just long legs and climbed onto the bed to straddle Fin. She dictated the speed and rhythm. Fin wanted to touch her balloons. They were enticing bouncing in front of him. Feeling them through the fabric wasn't enough. He tried to open the buttons. Since the nurse was moving quite fast, it was impossible for him to do it neatly. Being impatient, Fin simple tore at the uniform. The buttons sprang off in all directions. It gave Fin access to the woman's bare boobs. She liked the squeezing and demanded in a loud voice he'd do it harder. Fin obliged. He liked the heavy weight of the boobs and the smoothness of the nurse's skin. They were forgetting where they were and started to make loud noises. The door burst open, when they both climaxed. The light was switched on and the dragon, as Fin liked to call the head nurse, stared at them. "What is going on here?" she roared, taking in the scene. Fin had a bite mark on his throat. He wore the standard hospital gown, while the nurse was partly undressed. Head nurse Alexandria Franz didn't accept sex between patients and staff. She had never seen this nurse. On the other side she had just returned from a vacation. Some new nurses had started during her absence.
To her question Fin replied cheekily: "Sex. Want to join us?" At first Nurse Franz gaped at the two and then exploded. "Sir, this is outrageous! I'm going to deal with you later! Nurse, follow me." Fin smirked at Alexandria and winked at the nurse. It fueled Alexandria's fire further. With a sigh the nurse got up, smoothed down her dress and followed Head Nurse Franz. It outraged Alexandria even more that the nurse didn't bother to cover herself up.
Head Nurse Franz closed the door of her office with a bang. She looked for the name tag and found it dangling precariously on the shredded top. It read Betty Anderson. "Nurse Anderson, what were you thinking?! Haven't you read our handbook with all the rules in it? It clearly states sex between patients and staff isn't allowed. I am very ashamed you let yourself and the hospital down!" She watched Nurse Anderson's reaction closely. Nurse Anderson had her eyelids lowered, but seemed to study Alexandria. "I'm going to complain officially about you and make sure you are getting fired!" For a second Alexandria Franz believed she saw an amused flicker on Betty Anderson's face. "Please, Nurse..." Betty was squinting at Alexandria's own name tag. Alexandria drew herself up. "I am Head Nurse Franz." "I am really sorry, Head Nurse. I'm doing everything, but please don't fire me." Betty pleaded.
Head Nurse Franz had always dreamed about touching big breasts. She wasn't a lesbian, just fascinated. Still she behaved as if she wasn't interested in a deal. "Missy, I'm not bribable." "Please, Ma'am. My husband would be very disappointed..." "Your husband?!" Betty nodded ashamed. "You don't have any morals! I don't know how you got employed here, but your behavior has to improve!" "So you're giving me a chance?" Head Nurse Franz stared Betty down. After a long silence she said: "Okay, but I want something in return." "Anything, Miss." "Show me your breasts." Nurse Betty didn't have any problems with it and let the top fall off her shoulders. Alexandria was surprised how huge Betty's breasts really were. She guessed they weighed 6 kg each. "You can touch them if you like. They don't bite." Betty suggested. Alexandria hesitated only for a moment. She had expected that Betty's breasts felt rubbery, but they didn't. In fact they felt quite natural, but were over quelling from Alexandria's hands. "It took me thirteen operations to get them so large." "Did it hurt?" "Yes, but it was what I wanted, so it was worth it." Alexandria was curious. "Where are the scars?" Betty lifted one breast. There was a very thin, nearly invisible scar at the swell. "You had a very good surgeon." Alexandria was still handling Betty's boobs. "I had a few. My first was based in the US. It was hard to find a surgeon who was willing to enlarge my breasts further in the US, so I had to look elsewhere. I went to Caracas for the last eight operations. They have a lot of experience there, and the treatment was costing less. I'm very happy with the result and don't look back." "Interesting." With a sigh Alexandria let go of Betty's chest. "Okay. I'll suggest you go home and change. Come back afterwards." "Yes, ma'am." Betty replied demurely. Again Alexandria couldn't help it. She thought Betty was smirking at her.
When Nurse Anderson had left, Alexandria went to her patient’s room. The lecture she gave Mr. Noose fell on deaf ears. He was very amused and laughing, when Alexandria told him Betty was married. "Sorry. I know she's married. Her husband doesn't mind. They have an open relationship." It left Alexandria stunned. The next few hours Alexandria waited for Nurse Anderson's return. She never showed up. Getting suspicious Head Nurse Franz checked the personal files. There were in fact two new employees, but they were male. Inquiries at other departments didn't bear any fruits.
Puzzled who the mystery lady was, she went in the morning to Mr. Noose's room. He was fully dressed and ready to leave. There was a couple with him. She recognized the faked nurse. "Who the hell are you?" Alexandria asked indignant. "I'm Chastity Shelton. This is my husband Giovanni Fabini." She introduced the slim, small man. Giovanni gave Chastity and Fin a questioning look. "Sorry for the little charade yesterday. I couldn't help myself." Chastity apologized, smiling. "Where did you steal the uniform from?" "It belongs to me. My husband and I are producing movies. We used the uniform for one of the scenes, playing in a hospital. It was especially made for me." "Honey, what's going on?" Giovanni, who looked the same age as Fin and much younger than Chastity, asked. "Well, I tried to take off Fin's mind from his headache, so I visited him during the night. Since those uniforms look quite similar to the one I had, I thought I might be able to sneak in and ..." "You don't have to go on. I can imagine the rest. Did it work?" Giovanni addressed Fin. "For a while." Giovanni was amused about Chastity's escapade. "I apologize for my wife's behavior. Sometimes she is quite spontaneous... I hope she didn't destroy anything? If that's the case, we'll pay of course." "Nothing has been damaged. Now tell me what kind of movies you produce." Alexandria said. "Porn." That explained the disproportionate huge breasts and Chastity's behavior, like having no problems with letting other people touch her boobs. At first Alexandria was disappointed and angry, but her humor won the upper hand. In the end all four laughed about it.

©2012

Murder

I'd like to say thank you to my friend and work colleague Dinesh. He gave me the name of Coldham's friend and choose the beer Scott Hillier is drinking.

If you want to read more stories about Robertson "Flanky" Brutus, please check out  The Pick Pocket's Pick Pocket and The Train Conductor.

Coldham Fintan Noose II hated his son and name sake, whom the family had nick named Fin. Coldham's pulse started racing, when he thought about what Fin had done. In Coldham's opinion Fin was a failure, cold hearted, egoistic and a total bastard. Fin had always been a trouble maker and hadn't lived up to the expectation of Beverly, Coldham's wife, and himself. They had tried to mold Fin. It had never worked out. To Beverly's and his dismay Fin turned criminal. He was a burglar as far as they knew. The worst thing was, though, that he had turned their other son, his brother Mike, against them. It hurt so much loosing Mike, Coldham wanted to get rid of Fin.

Coldham was meeting with a friend at a bar in downtown to watch a football game and to drown his sorrow.
They were having a beer. Scott Hillier, Coldham's friend, nursed a San Miguel, while Coldham was on his second Budweiser. Scott was surprised how fast Coldham was guzzling his drink. Coldham wasn't the type to get drunk. "What's wrong?" Scott asked. "Fin has told Mike a bunch of lies! He believed them, caused a scene, has moved out and isn't talking to us."
Scott knew all about Fin and how - after another disappointment and one too many arguments - Coldham and Beverly had thrown out Fin. He was aghast Fin would try to alienate Mike and his parents. "Don't worry, Coldham. I'm sure Mike is coming to his senses soon."
The situation had been going on for months. Originally Coldham had hoped the same, but unfortunately Mike still refused any contact. He believed his parents were perverts and sadists, based on the video tapes Fin had played into his hands. Fin hadn't provided faked information. The video tapes had been made by Coldham and Beverly.
Neither Fin nor Mike minded the little sex games their parents liked to play. They were both very much shocked, angry and felt sick, when they realized their parents had recorded some of their spankings without their knowledge and gleefully discussed Fin's and Mike's reactions to the punishment.
Of course Coldham had never told Scott the full truth. When Beverly and he threw out Fin, he claimed they had a bust up, because Fin hadn't attended his college classes they paid for. It was only part of the truth. They found out he had lied to them for over half a year and pursuit his criminal career.
Scott tried to cheer his friend up. Coldham was inconsolable, though, and got hopelessly drunk. He slurred: "I want to get rid of him!" "Oh, come on, Coldham, you can't be serious!" Scott chided. "I am and I'm finding a way!" "Sh!" Scott was concerned. Coldham couldn't go around making threats. What was going to happen, if really something happened to Fin and an investigation was started? Coldham would be immediately a suspect. Coldham reacted to Scott's reprimands and didn't mention then or in the future he wanted to murder his son.
Scott left the table at some stage. Coldham downed another big gulp of beer, when he was approached by a dark haired man in his early thirties. "Hey, I heard you want to get rid of your son. I might be able to facilitate you..." Coldham had problems getting the man into focus. His mind wasn't working as quick as usual too.  "What?!" He slurred. The man sighed. He came nearer and whispered into Coldham's ear: "I can kill your son. Against payment of course." For a moment Coldham was taken aback, then his blue grey eyes glinted. "Okay, how do we set it up?" The stranger studied the man for a moment. He seemed familiar, but didn't know where from. Coldham was light ash blond and in his late forties. "Give me your cell phone number and we'll arrange a meeting to discuss it further." Coldham agreed. The killer was gone by the time Scott was back.

Two days later the stranger from the bar contacted Coldham. He had completely forgotten about it. Sober again, Coldham wasn't so sure anymore if he really wanted to go ahead. Still Coldham went to the meeting in an alleyway in Little Cuba. He brought a photograph of Fin.  He was nervous. Maybe it was a set up.
The profi killer was already waiting. He was alone.
After a little small talk, they discussed their business. Coldham showed the man the photograph. A shadow crossed over the man's face, before it was gone. "Everything alright?" Coldham asked Henry Sanchez. It was the name the killer had given him, but Coldham doubted it was his real name. "Yes, everything's fine." Henry Sanchez confirmed. "Do you know where your son lives?" "No. We haven't been in contact for about three years..." "What are his favorite hang outs, any friends I should know of?" "Not that I'm aware of. Wait a second. Fin has a favorite beach, where he likes to wind surf. Let me think... Oh, yes! It's called Windsurfer Beach." Henry didn't have a clue where that was. Not a problem, though. "Okay, I'll keep the photograph, so that I can identify your son. I'm charging 8000 USD. 4000 now, the other half, when I've done the job."
Coldham was struggling with his conscience. Could he really do it? He thought so. Coldham justified his actions by believing he was making the world a better place without Fin. Of course he didn't have 4000 USD with him. Mr. Sanchez wanted the cash before starting the project. They arranged for another meeting, when Coldham had the amount ready.

After handing over the money, Coldham didn't hear for weeks from Mr. Sanchez. He had nearly forgotten about the whole incident. An envelope was sent to him by courier. The black and white photographs were gruesome. It showed a dead man. The blond hair and body shape did fit Fin. The victim had been shot in the head. Thank goodness the face wasn't visible, but a big black puddle surrounding the head, indicated a massive blood loss. Suddenly Coldham felt guilty instead of vindicated. What had he done?!
He was withdrawn, unconcentrated and suffered from insomnia. Coldham was beating himself up. His friends and wife were worried when the symptoms lasted longer, and there was no explanation for his behavior.

To take off his mind, Beverly planned a trip to The Shops at Bal Harbour. It was their favorite mall. They loved the Koi Ponds and tropical gardens, the architecture and the luxury shops, of course.
Beverly and Coldham were leaving the Chanel shop - she had bought sneakers - when Coldham stopped dead in his tracks. His face was flushed, and it looked as if he had seen a ghost. Coldham's eyes rolled uncontrollable, he fell to the ground - unconscious. It didn't take him long to regain his conscious. Coldham tried to jump up. He was unbelievable angry and wanted to get Henry Sanchez! Still feeling dizzy and having banged his head, he had to lie down again. Beverly was concerned and wanted Coldham to go to E&A. He was stubborn and refused. He sat up, rubbing the bump on his head. "Have you seen Fin?" He asked his wife. "Fin?! No!" After a short pause she added: "No way!" Beverly always believed burglars were small time criminals, totally oblivious to the fact that some cat burglars could earn millions per heist. When Fin's mentor Reggie Smith retired he had a nest egg of roughly 119 million USD. Coldham was 1000 % sure he had seen his son. Coldham and Beverly devised a plan.

They went to one of the information desks and asked to have their son called over the public announcement system. They claimed Fin and they had arrived together, but gone their separate ways. They had agreed to meet at the fountain in front of Chanel at a certain time, but he hadn't come. The lady at the information desk complied and commented on how unreliable kids these days were. Beverly, who worked as a school administrator, couldn't agree more.
After waiting what seemed like ages, Fin approached. He hadn't spied his parents yet, so they thanked the information desk staff, claimed to have seen him and walked away in the other direction.
Coldham had his confirmation Fin wasn't dead. He had mixed feelings. Coldham was glad he wasn't a murderer, but was upset and angry Henry Sanchez had cheated him. If he should ever get his fingers on Mr. Sanchez...

Robertson Brutus a.k.a. Henry Sanchez was laughing all the way to the bank. He was a pick pocket and his job had brought him to the bar. When he overheard Coldham's conversation, he thought he might be able to make a quick buck without doing a lot. Somehow Coldham seemed familiar, but Robertson didn't know from where. The photograph Coldham provided made it clear. Fin and he had met earlier. Robertson had realized Fin had been stealing from him and beat Fin up for it. Later Robertson found out Fin was influential and was lucky his enemy didn't want revenge.
Robertson assumed since Coldham and Fin hadn't been in contact for years, he could easily trick Coldham and Fin wouldn't mind at all.
Robertson had a good memory, so he knew roughly what Fin's body looked like. Based on this and the photograph he had received from Coldham he created his own crime scene. He knew somebody with a similar figure than Fin. The hair color and facial features were different, but with some manipulations Robertson thought he was able to trick Coldham into believing his son had really been shot. It took a little bit of cajoling and bribery to get the other person to play Fin. In the end it paid off.
After his success Robertson avoided all the places he thought both Nooses might went to. He could imagine the older Noose would want to kill him, if he realized his son was still alive, and he didn't want to run into the younger one, because even though Fin had promised not to take revenge, you never knew...

©2012

Travel Log: Holiday Inn Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom

Dreaming about going to Cardiff, we were finally able to fulfill our wish, but had only a certain budget to our disposal, so we booked the Holiday Inn for two nights.

To get from Cardiff International Airport to the hotel we had different options available: Take the train, the bus or a taxi. We decided to take bus X91, which left at 11.34 (The interval is every two hours) in front of Cardiff International Airport to the Central Bus Station. The journey took around 20 minutes, and the cost per person for a single ticket was 3.90 GBP, ca. 5 Euro or 6.25 USD. We walked from the station around fifteen to twenty minutes to the Holiday Inn.

The location of the hotel is excellent. It's opposite the West Gate of Cardiff Castle and Bute Park.
Shopping, Museum, the river cruise/water taxi and the Millennium Stadium are just a short walk away.

We arrived early. Reception wasn't busy, so we could check in immediately. The check in itself was quick and all important features like restaurant / bar location, was explained to us. Still I couldn't help myself thinking, that the receptionist was disinterested and disengaged.

Our room was located on the 5th floor and overlooked the castle and the river Taff.

The room was medium in size with a small wardrobe, a wall mounted flat screen TV with regional channels, a queen sized bed, a small writing desk, chair, a standing lamp and a small coffee table.

There was also an iron and ironing board and tea / coffee making facilities. The color scheme was brown and blue. The room didn't have a mini bar or a safe. The minibar wasn't a big problem, but we were really surprised and slightly taken aback that there was no safe. Security is very important and a safe a necessity. We managed without it.

The comfort of the room, especially the bed, was great. We enjoyed both sitting together on it and watching TV. A good nights rest was guaranteed. It was very difficult to get up.

The room was a bit cramped, but I understand the reason behind it. The building is from the sixties and belonged originally to Trusthouse Forte. It was then a two star property. The hotel has to make the best out of the situation and meant it good by adding more furniture for the guest's comfort.
The work area of the writing desk was compromised by the tea/coffee making facility, taking away around half of the space, so spreading some documents or placing a larger lap top on the desk wouldn't be possible without moving the tea/coffee making facilities. Having used the desk, though, it was comfortable to sit there and work for a bit.

There was also a 24 hours in room dining menu and an extensive wine list, , a city map, a book called "This is Cardiff" and information about the benefits of joining Priority Club, Intercontinental Hotel Group's loyalty program.

The air conditioning was functioning properly and heating up the chilly room after our return quickly.

Traffic noise was clearly audible from our room. Since we aren't light sleepers it wasn't a problem.

The hair dryer was in the drawer of the writing desk.

The bathroom was small with a sink, bath and shower combination and a toilet. The water pressure was excellent. There were no problems with fluctuations in the temperature or that it was either too hot or too cold.
The bathtub was very comfortable, and even I took long baths.
The amenities were by Duke & Lyle and replaced regularly.

House keeping was attentive, never intruding and respecting the "Do not disturb sign".
We had a very positive experience. We left our room for the last time to check out. On our floor we met the maid, greeted her and she asked if we were checking out. We replied yes, not thinking further about it. We were already in the elevator, when the door opened again. The maid had chased after us, because she thought we had forgotten a brochure, which we didn't need any longer. We were impressed about her thoughtfulness.

As Priority Club Gold members we received a voucher for a free local beer called Brain at the Junction Bar, late check out until 2 PM and a free newspaper, which never materialized.

The late check out was granted without quibble.

The voucher was a good idea. Unfortunately we aren't beer drinkers, so we hadn't any use for it.

The first wake up call requested from the disengaged receptionist didn't arrive either. The second via TV arrived on time.

We didn't use the Junction restaurant and bar or Callaghan's sports pub, but had room service twice. Both, quality and value, were good. We had hot chocolate, toast over baked with cheese, a sandwich made from regional ham and cheese and a "Maggie" pizza. Very tasty indeed. We paid for the first meal ca. 21 GBP (ca. 27.30 Euro or 33.60 USD), for the pizza ca. 14 GBP (ca. 18.20 Euro / 22.40 USD) including tray charge.

The hotel has meeting facilities called The Academy, a business center and an ATM.

Another small note: We followed Tripadvisor reviews the months leading up to our stay and read around two weeks before that one of the two elevators didn't work. It was still not repaired when our stay was over. Sometimes it meant waiting and queuing for the elevator. Not a big issue for us.

Our days in Cardiff flew by and soon it was time for the check out. It went smooth and efficient.

My verdict: Considering this is Cardiff and even though there were a few glitches, we would stay here again, based on the excellent location, comfort of the room, good food and excellent housekeeping.

©2012