Christmas comes early at City Church

Christmas comes early at City Church

Gorgeous decorations on sale at Fair Do's

For some it's the John Lewis advert. For other's it's the Coca-Cola truck. But for me, the Christmas countdown well and truly starts with the annual City Church festive evening at Fair Do's.

Now, before you raise your eyebrows and mutter "Christmas is not about adverts and consumerism" I am, of course, joking! I'm a traditionalist when it comes to Crimbo...erm, I mean Christmas. Decorations go up 12 days before and come down 12 days after. Discussions about Christmas begin in my house the same the first advent calendar door is opened. And I rarely watch live television so I easily avoid the emotionally manipulative spend-money-you-don't-really-have-and-show-your-loved-ones-you-care Christmas adverts.

Which one you forgot the festive cheer?

Having said that, I do allow myself a spot of early Xmas Christmas shopping at the annual fair trade festive knees up at Fair Do's. 

Between 1700 and 2000, members of City Church pop along to the fair trade shop in Canton for an evening of shopping and socialising. It's always a very pleasant evening that often include wine. Although, this year someone forgot to bring the booze! I suspect they won't be given that particular task next year!

I'm delighted to report that a booze-free evening didn't impact on the good times. As always, it's lovely to catch up with people you only see once a week in the pews. Which is why it is important to make the effort and attend. A church community is more than once a week worship and at City Church, we strive to be a community community throughout the week. 

I did manage to purchase a few Christmas presents on the evening but perhaps not as many as previous years when a drop of the good stuff was readily available! I also discovered that fair trade quinoa is much cheaper at Fair Do's than it is at a nearby Asda! Just goes to show that shopping locally can save you money as well as supporting small businesses! 

I'll be doing more of that this Christmas.

Until next time,

Best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Ps - apologies for so few blog posts recently. Normal service shall now resume. 

Matt the Elder... one year on

Matt the Swinger

At our last church meeting we were asked to vote for a new elder. Alas, we didn't manage to get a majority vote for the two elders who were up for election and so the elders will need to discuss how we proceed. Disappointing, I'm sure, for the two elders awaiting the news. I remember feeling rather anxious last year at the vote when my name was put forward. I had no expectation that I'd be elected.... 

12 months later and here I am writing about being an elder over the past year. So, how has it been? Was it everything I expected? Has it lived up to my expectations? Have I lived up to their expectations?

The last question is the easiest for me to answer. I can't honestly say I have contributed a great deal. I've missed a number of meeting through illness and work (I travel quite a lot with my job) and during meetings I rarely feel as if I have much to say. Much of the items at the elder's meetings require agreement and some discussion. The ongoing debate about the changes to the current refectory into a modern church cafe is finally developing and I feel strongly that pushing ahead with this is the right thing to do. Some disagree. I feel frustrated that it's developing slower than I anticipated but I am hopeful that things will continue to develop apace. Overall, monthly meetings with the elders is quite enjoyable.

I've also yet to really get to know everyone on my pastoral list. Most of the people on my list are elders who I see regularly or follow on Facebook and Twitter. I suppose that's a contemporary way of keeping up to date with church members!

Being and elder is no walk in the park. It requires commitment and dedication. I am constantly amazed at how hard working the elders are. They work incredibly hard to keep the church going and to keep everyone engaged in the life of City Church. Soup Lunches... Easter and Christmas events... open and closing the church - none of these would happen without the support of the elders. I'm in awe at how hard they all work. I feel sure I don't come close to contributing as much as the rest of the team do!

In many ways being an elder has exceeded my expectations.I feel closer to the life of City Church and I feel privileged to be part of running a church. I think The Minister is pretty awesome and a great leader. Honestly, I am constantly amazed at how good his services are! A lot of effort goes into engaging the congregation. It can't be an easy gig!

A year ago I decided to start this blog to document life as an elder and give a glimpse into City Church community. I enjoy writing it and I hope others enjoy reading it. I certainly wouldn't have started this blog if I hadn't become an elder. I do hope this blog has been a worthy - and welcome - contribution to City Church.

Looking ahead, I hope to contribute more in meetings and to be a lot more available for elder duties. Having said that I have just swapped two duties in June as I'm away at various events. Whoops! I will also do my very best to update this blog every week. It's been sporadic over the last few months.

I'm happy to hear back from City Church members and elders - how do you think I've done? Be kind, yeah?!

Until next time.

Best wishes

Matt the Elder

Easter at Manchester

I hope you had a wonderful Easter. I spent Easter weekend in Manchester and visiting family in North Wales. It was a bust couple of days and I wasn't sure whether we would have time to attend a church service. However, we were able to make time to attend the Easter Vigil service at Manchester Cathedral. And I'm very pleased we did. 

Manchester Cathedral

The cathedral is a magnificent building. Considering I've been to Manchester countless times (we've been attending Manchester Pride every year for the past 14 years) I have never visited the cathedral. 

We were blessed with gorgeous sunny weather (if a little cold) and the blossom trees beautifully framed the outside of the cathedral. Inside staff and volunteers were busy preparing for the evenings Easter Vigil. 

Given that my day job involves enhancing customer experience I'm always aware of the customer service I receive. I'm delighted to report that everyone I spoke to or overheard speaking with others were incredibly friendly and helpful. 

We spent an hour inside the cathedral exploring and sitting in contemplation. It was the ideal respite from the bustling city centre minutes away. In fact, we enjoyed our visit so much we decided to return in the evening to take part in the Easter Vigil. This proved to be a very moving 90 minutes with a most wonderful choir and cantor. The readers were also superb and made we consider whether I should prepare more for when I read at City Church!

Again, everyone was very welcoming and friendly. Lots of people were keen to offer the sign of peace and I particularly like the how the clergy enjoyed sprinkling water over the congregation. The kids loved it... and so did I!

Manchester Jewish Museum

Because of Sabbath, the Manchester Jewish Museum was closed on Saturday so we decided to pay a visit on Easter Sunday. I am so pleased we went as it was AWESOME! 

Honestly, it was hugely informative and we were completely engrossed in finding out about the history of Jewish life in Manchester. 

The curator gave a great 30 minute tour and we had a chance to hear audio recordings of Jewish people who had lived in Manchester. The exhibits also brought Jewish life in Manchester to life. It was utterly fascinating!

I'll admit though that I love an interactive museum so imagine my delight to discover that visitors are encouraged to get involved... I wasted no time transforming myself into Matt the rabbi (albeit temporary)!

We received a very warm welcome and excellent customer service from the curator and front of house staff which means we will be paying another visit when we're next in Manchester.

I'm already thinking about Easter weekend 2015. Recommendations of places to visit gratefully received!

Until next time.
Best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Ps - don't forget to LIKE us on Facebook!

Good Friday in pictures

Good Friday in pictures

This is where Jesus Christ Superstar was filmed

Good Friday is a time for contemplation so here are thirteen pictures of Jesus' crucifixion to help you focus your mind.

And as a bonus treat, here are a few photos from my pilgrimage to Israel four years ago. A wonderful time and if you ever get the chance to go I would highly recommend it!

In fact, in May 2015, our Minister is leading a pilgrimage to Israel. So if anyone fancies it then let him know!

Where in the world is Matt the Elder?!

Jerusalem is steeped in history and is a fantastic city to visit. Here's me looking over the Dome on the Rock. 

Anyway, have a very peaceful and happy Easter. 

Until next time,

With best wishes,

Matt the Elder

Adventures of a Duty Elder

Adventures of a Duty Elder

Palm Sunday excitement!

Sunday 13 April 2014

0745: Alarm goes off. Think I'll have a little snooze this morning...

0830: Thoroughly enjoying my Sunday morning snooze. Pull duvet over my head... it's not like I've got much on today...

0831: Heck! I'm Duty Elder this morning. The church won't open itself... I've got so much to do before the crowds arrive! 

0832: Hits snooze button. Just another ten minutes...

0856: GAH! I turned the alarm off... I'm totally running late... must shower... eat breakfast... but first let me update Facebook and Twitter...

0920: Coffee... breakfast...coffee... three Facebook comments. Best check those before I leave, yeah?

0932: Where are the car keys?! I'm completely running late! How did this happen?! 

0936: Keep calm. The Minister will never know. Pretty sure he rocks up with seconds to spare usually...

0945: Church door won't open. Oh for crying out loud... give me a break... Maybe I just need to give the door a shove... "Hello! Who's banging the door?" Oh heck, it's The Minister....

0947: Delighted to notice that The Minister has kindly turned on the lights, unlocked the doors, placed the service sheets on the table...Check list. Not much else I need to do except fetch a glass of water for His Nibs The Minister. Honestly, this Duty Elder thing is a doddle! 

0955: The Minister calls a Strategy Meeting #1

The Minister: "Matthew. With hundreds of possible worshippers attending this morning we need this service to run like clockwork. I need you to be positioned by Door #1 at 1045 while I send the Palm Carrier to lead the congregation out of the church into the street and then I need you at Door #2 at precisely 1048 to guide said carrier... Matthew, are you listening?

Me: Yeah, but why are we going outside with palms....?"

The Minister: "Oh just a little event called Palm Sunday!"

Me: "Oh of course... yes, completely on message now. Yes, Palm Sunday... totally understand. Palms. Yes. Brilliant. 

The Minister: [outlining each stage in much detail] "Are we all clear?"

The Minister's Wife: "Are we sure the congregation knows where to go when they're outside? Have we conducted a vigorous risk assessment? Have we any Hi-Viz jackets for the crowd martial..."

1004: Veto the practice run through. 

1008: Hi-Viz jackets vetoed. 

1015: The crowds arrive... if we all sit together we could probably pass as a 'crowd!'

1021: The Minister calls a Strategy Meeting #2

The Minister: "Where's Beth? Who's doing The Reading? Who's reading the notices? Do you know what your doing re: the Palm Sunday Crowd Maneuver? Did you buy milk for post-service light refreshments?"

Me: [rubs The Minister's back] There, there... it's all fine. All under control..." Darn it! Totally forgot the milk!

1033: Service starts. Take my seat in the foyer. Best check in on Facebook....

Practically a stampede!

1045: Crikey! I haven't opened the doors! The Palm Carrier is making her way towards the door. I dash to the door. Phew! Made it! The Palm hymn is sounding lovely!

1047: Blimey! That was quick! They are making their way to the pews having completed the Palm Sunday procession in record time!

1056: Patiently wait for the stragglers to take their seats! Noticed that The Minister is the only person left singing the hymn; everyone else gave up ages ago! 

1106: Aha, The Minister starts his sermon. On past experience I should be able to pop to the supermarket for milk (and do my weekly shop) before the sermon finishes.

1122: Milk sorted... sermon still going strong!

1135: It's over! I praise myself on a job well done. Honestly, it's a breeze! Although, maybe I should have arrived 20 minutes earlier!

1140: Just been reminded that I also need to lock up. Walk back to church.

A warm welcome from Lumen URC

A warm welcome from Lumen URC

The name's Elder. Matt the Elder. 

I've just returned from a wonderful weekend in London to celebrate the Big Fella's birthday (my OH). We managed to see Stephen Ward, the new Andrew Lloyd Weber musical (loved it), From Here To Eternity, Tim Rice's new musical (loved it also), Ghost Stories (scary) and an off-beat musical called UrineTown (hilarious)! We also managed to squeeze in a visit to Bond in Motion, the cars of 007 at London Film Museum. I was in 007 heaven!


Whenever I'm away on a Sunday I like to seek out a local United Reformed Church and attend a service. A quick Google search pointed me towards Lumen URC in Bloomsbury.

Lumen URC, Bloomsbury, London

Wow! What a delightful space. I was really impressed with the fresh and modern feel to the building! I loved the use of glass at the front of the church so that you could see in - very welcoming. The guy who greeted me at the door was very helpful and explained where the church entrance was and pointed me in the direction of the two people handing out orders of service and hymn books. Both of whom were also friendly and seemed pleased to welcome a visitor. 

The service was a bit different from what I'm used to at City Church. Notices were read. One reading given (delivered by two enthusiastic members), sermon received (all about how Jesus breaks down barriers) and Communion taken. Bread was broken and served to us as we sat and Wine was taken from a shared cup and served by an elder. At City Church we always have Family Time where the Minister talks to junior church about today's readings and what that means for us today. Communion wine is served individually from small glasses

The Minister recognised me, and I him, but neither of us could remember where we met before! I wish I had time to stay for a coffee at their wonderful cafe but I had tickets to see a show and a lunch date to keep. From what I saw of their cafe looked hugely inviting. Free WiFi, breakfast, lunch and snacks served in a large open space. A perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the busy streets. I will definitely stop by next time I'm in the area. There is also an art gallery and meeting rooms - quite a busy venue from what I could tell!

The cafe, the building and the people really embodied an open and welcoming ethos. I am so pleased I attended and I'll definitely be returning when I'm next in the area.

Until next time.

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder

What are you reading during Lent?

What are you reading during Lent?

My reading for Lent

I love Lent. It's my absolute favourite time of the year. I prefer Lent and Easter to Advent and Christmas. There's no stress involved; rather the opposite. Lent is a time for reflection, contemplation and giving up alcohol... well, for me anyway! It's Week Three and so far I am not craving a splash of the good stuff! 

In fact, I'm doing extremely well! Could this be the year I stop drinking altogether? I doubt it... I love a Vesper Martini and a drop of Chianti. But this could be there year that I seriously limit and reduce my alcohol intake!

But I digress. What I really wanted to know was what are you all reading during Lent? I always choose a suitable religious book to focus my mind and this year I decided to re-read Easter by Michael Arditti. It's a wonderful novel set in the fictional parish of St Mary-in-the-Vale during Holy Week. Arditti's novel explores what it means to be Christian for ordinary church goers in a society dominated by consumerism, suffering and cynicism. 

The parish of St Mary-in-the-Vale, Hampstead, is preparing for Easter. In his Palm Sunday sermon, the Vicar explains that Christ's crucifixion and redemption are taking place every day. He little suspects that, before the week is out, he and his entire congregation will be caught up in a latter-day Passion story which will tear apart their lives.

Doesn't it sound great? I'll write a fuller review once I've finished it.

So, what are you reading this Lent? Have your read Easter? if so, what did you think of it?

Until next time.

With best wishes
Matt the Elder

"You look like you've been scuba diving, Matt!"

"You look like you've been scuba diving, Matt!"

This morning was the first time in over two months that I have been to church. I can't quite believe it's been that long. In my defence I have a good reason. I've been struck down with an illness that just wouldn't shift. Three lots of antibiotics later and Matt the Elder is back and feeling seven shades of fine!

I've missed City Church. I really have! I've missed two Elders' meetings and a knee's-up at the pub next door to the church. I must have been ill to have missed a night out - goodness knows I love a social event! 

And while I was feeling miffed that I couldn't shake this illness off along come some friendly and supportive emails from a few of the Elders (and a couple of hilarious Facebook messages from The Minister). These messages really cheered me up and made me realise why I feel so at home at City Church. We care about our church members. I've never been on the receiving end of pastoral care at City Church until now and I can honestly say it was a great comfort. It was also lovely to be in contact with the Elders and The Minister even if that meant not seeing them in person. 

Thank you

So, I would like to say a big THANK YOU to Adrian, Shelagh, Alison T and Alison M for the e-thoughts! They were very much appreciated.

If Matt the Elder went scuba diving this would happen!

I would also like to give a shout-out (are the kids still using that phrase?) to Mario for his very funny comment as I walked into church. You see, I cycled in and had come straight from the gym so my rucksack was full to bursting with my gear. As I walked in (late as usual), he commented "You look like you've been scuba diving, Matt!" I caught a glimpse of my reflection in the glass I did look like I was carrying an awful lot of stuff for a morning at church! I've been chuckling at Mario's comment all day. Such a warm and funny welcome!

It's great being back and feeling fit and healthy! I have really missed blogging about the wonderful world of City Church. Expect plenty more blog posts as I keep you up to date with the latest goings-on at City Church!

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder 

Carry on giving at your convenience

"Are we all in agreement that we would like to twin our newly refurbished toilets with a latrine in a poor community?"

I nearly choked on my herbal tea when The Minister brought up the idea of toilet twinning! I've heard of town twinning but toilet twinning?! How on earth would that work? Is toilet twinning even a thing?

Apparently it is. And what an utterly splendid idea! The idea is that for a mere £60 you can twin your loo with and raise money for poor communities all over the world. According to the charity Toilet Twinning 40% of the world's population do not have anywhere safe, clean and hygienic to go to the toilet. That's 2.5 BILLION people who are at risk of disease or being attacked while searching for a private place to do their business. So a hole in the ground could really be a life saver for vulnerable people in poor communities.

I am delighted that City Church has decided to twin the three newly refurbished toilets with toilets in Gatonda, Burundi; Amboula, Barisal, Baghda, Bangladesh and Sabola, Ezha, Ethiopia! What better way to celebrate our wonderful new latrines by helping those in need of better facilities oversees. Once all the details are finalised we will receive a certificate, a picture and the GPS location of our sponsored toilet so we can look it up on Google maps! I am really thrilled about this - it's such a brilliant and fun way to raise money.

As soon as I have the GPS and picture I shall share our loo!

Toilet Twinning - just another example of how wonderful City Church is.

Have you twinned your toilets? Do let us know - we could be latrine neighbours!

Until next time.
With best wishes
Matt the Elder

Remembrance Sunday at City Sunday

It was an absolute privilege to read The Roll of Honour during Remembrance Sunday service. Myself and Beth, a fellow Elder, read out the names of people who attended City Church and other Cardiff city centre churches and who gave their lives for our freedom. We owe so much to these brave men and women.

It was a very moving service and gave us an opportunity to pay our respects to those who have fallen in previous wars and to pray for those who continue to serve in the Armed Forces. I have a family member who starts his basic Army training on Monday so this was particularly poignant.

The Act of Remembrance consisted of a few introductory words from the Minister, The Roll of Honour, two minutes' silence and concluding words. The Minister then chose a wonderful song to play during pause for reflection. It was called Remembrance Day by Mark Knopfler. Here's a snippet of the lyrics from the middle verse:

When November brings
The poppies on Remembrance Day
When the vicar comes to say
May God bless them everyone
Lest we forget our sons

We will remember them.

After service a few people remained behind to attend Table Talk. This month the discussion focused on what it means to wear, or not wear, the poppy. What followed was a very mature and respectful discussion and gave the small the group an opportunity to share what Remembrance Sunday means to them.

It's services like this that makes me very proud to be a member of City United Reform Church. It really was a very special morning.

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Random acts of kindness

Random acts of kindness

Happy times on holiday!

It's the little things in life that bring the most pleasure. As trite as that sounds I believe it to be the absolute truth. Take the simple act of sending postcards...

As you know, I was recently on holiday (did I mention I had a wonderful time?) and decided this year to send a few postcards to friends at City Church. I rarely send postcards, apart from the obligitory Wish you were here to my parents.

I was quite taken aback at how well received the postcards were. When they eventually landed on the doorsteps I had texts and tweets thanking me for sending a postcard. Then, when I was in church, people came up to me to thank me and to say how delightful it was to receive something in the post that wasn't a bill! People seemed genuinely pleased that I thought to send a postcard.

Perhaps it was the surprise of receiving a postcard - very few people send them anymore - or maybe it was sheer pleasure to receive a little something from Matt the Elder? Whatever it was it was lovely to see such a small thing be so well received. It certainly put a smile on my face!

It encouraged me to do more random acts of kindness. This evening, for example, I went to the gym. On the way I saw my new Spin instructor so I told him how much I enjoyed his class last week and that I would make it a regular class. He seemed really happy and thanked me for the feedback. Then I saw the manager of the gym and I told him that the new timetable works well as it means I can come to the gym more often. Again, he seemed pleased to hear that.

Honestly, I've been handing out random acts of happiness like some kind of Pez Dispenser!

Such simple things really can cheer people up. Why not give it try? A postcard, a text or a pleasant word... you could be making someone feel very happy!

Have you any examples of random acts of kindess?What have you done lately that made someone's day?

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Amran Pillars and sunset in the desert

Eilat is very much a popular holiday resort in Israel. Parts of it remind me of some of those popular Spanish resorts. However, Eilat is not a cheap package holiday destination. Yes, the beach side bars are lively and the body-beautiful take their sunbathing and preening seriously but there is an abundance of high end restaurants and shops. We've dined like kings on this holiday!

Eilat is a great base for exploring the surrounding deserts and mountains. The views across to Jordan are wonderful.

I was feeling much better after my recent bout of 'travellers' belly' and decided to join a jeep tour of the Eilat Mountains.

Our guide was good fun and clearly had a passion for nature. We drove through the nature reserve and spotted flamingos, gazelle and the desert dragon - a desert lizard. I was glad that we didn't see any snakes as I have an unhealthy fear of these reptiles!

We took a short hike to the Amran Pillars which I was surprised to discover that they were natural formations caused by wind erosion! A truly magnificent sight!

We carried on our tour through the desert and passed hikers, hitchhikers, a family pitching their tent and a random man laying on an air bed!

Watching the sunset in the desert was such a beautiful experience. As we sat in silence watching the sun set I couldn't help but think how fortunate I am that I can have such fantastic holidays.

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Biblical theme park adventure

I'll spare you the details but we've had to alter our plans somewhat due to a surprise bout of 'travellers' belly!'

So, the Timna Park desert hike to see Solomon's towers was replaced with a visit to Kings City Biblical Theme Park! The latter having an abundance of modern toilet facilities!

Ok, Kings City is aimed at kids but so what?! We're on holiday and we love a tourist attraction! Edited highlights of The Old Testament in the Bible Cave... Illusions and mind bending puzzles in the Caves of Illusion... King Solomon's Waterfall ride! It was great fun!

I'm hoping a rest and a few more rehydration sachets will sort me out for the rest of the holiday!

Pray for a speedy recovery!
Matt the Elder

Shabbat shalom

It's Friday sunset which means it must be Shabbat in Eilat.

Our hotel lobby is full of friends and families on their way to celebrate Shabbat. I suspect the restaurants will do a roaring trade this evening! Shabbat isn't so strictly observed here in Eilat compared to, say, Jerusalem. In fact, I noticed a number of signs in cafes saying "Open on Shabbat." Plus the bus service runs on Saturday and all the major tourist sites are also open! Great news - Underwater Marine Park here we come!

However, imagine our delight when we returned to our hotel and found Shabbat cake in our room. What a lovely surprise. It will go rather nicely with our kosher wine this evening!

Shabbat shalom,
Matt the Elder

Goodbye Tel Aviv... Hello Eilat

We said a cheery goodbye to a very hot (32 degrees) Tel Aviv but not before a little jaunt to Ersatz Israel museum. Lots of artefacts from Israel's past and all telling the history of life in The Promised Land!

Anyway, I'm using the fee Wi-Fi at Ben Gurion airport while I wait for my flight to sunny Eilat!

Until next time!
Matt the Elder

Petra after dark

While I'm feeling generous (and also have free Wi-Fi), have another photo of Petra.

This was the view from my hotel balcony which overlooked Petra.

I feel very humble that I have been able too visit this amazing place.

With next wishes,
Matt the Elder

A glimpse of Petra

Here's a little treat for you; a photo of me at Petra!

I promise to write a longer blog post about this wondrous city when I return home. In the meantime, here I am reading Agatha Christie's Appointment with Death. A Poirot whodunit set in Petra!

I think I may be a little bit enchanted by this lost city!

With best wishes,
Matt the Elder

Ps the butler didn't do it!

Next stop: Jordan!

For the last two days we have been an hour late for everything. Breakfast. Dinner. Tea. We didn't know this, of course. We were blissfully going about our holiday completely unaware that we hadn't set our clocks correctly.

The first we knew of it was when the hotel receptionist called our room at what our clock said was 0500 to inform us that our coach for the Jordan Highlights Tour was waiting outside! Turns out it was really 0600!

After a frantic wash and pack we were on the bus and on our way to Jordan.

Getting there

The excitement started at Israel and Jordan boarder control. Visas, taxes and two different currency later we were through!

I've never experienced land boarder control, only at airport and Eurostar. This this was completely new to me. It took up to 2 hours to cross the boarder into Jordan. Sadly we didn't have time to pick up a few bargains in the duty free shop!

I've really struggled to find anywhere with inclusive Wi-Fi and the price our hotels are asking for even one hour is surprisingly expensive. Quite frankly, 5 Jordanian Dinars for an hour is a rip off.

So I'm afraid I'll be giving you edited highlights of our tour and I'll wait to upload until we are in Tel Aviv for the free Wi-Fi!

Jordan Day 1

We traveled through Jordan to the Greco Roman remains at Jerash. Wow! The remains were incredibly well preserved and among the best I have ever seen. We spent about 3 hours here but you could easily spend a day exploring.

Our hotel was in downtown Amman. I was quite surprised at how modern Jordan's capital was. The tour guide informed us that it was very safe and we could explore Amman by night without any hassle. Considering we were up at 0600 and traveling all day we had food, some local wine and went to bed.

Jordan Day 2

Petra. Lonely Planet and Rough Guide could sum up Petra more eloquently than I. However, here's my opinion.

OMG! WHAT AN AMAZING PLACE!

I was overwhelmed with the beauty of Petra. Everywhere you turn you are confronted with such beautiful structures. Nothing could have prepared me for The Treasury or the Monastery. Wonderful sights!

Petra deserves a blog all of its own so I shall wait until I get home and share this trip in more detail.

Jordan Day 3

Our tour guide informs us that Day 3 is a Holy Day because we are visiting two holy sites. First up was St George's Church in Madaba, famous for the oldest mosaic map of The Holy Land. This was followed by a visit to Mount Nebo, resting place of Moses. The views of the Promised Land were breathtaking! 

I absolutely loved our three days in Jordan. But three days is not enough. I think you would need about a week or so to truly do this country justice.

Until next time,
Matt the Elder

Ps I'm blogging from my smartphone. Excuse the brevity of writing!

Beach Day at Tel Aviv!

Not wanting to make you jealous our anything but I'm currently on the beach drinking a delicious glass of cold white wine while reading Rhyming Life and Death by Israeli author Amos Oz.

It's also about 27 degrees. It's hot. It's gorgeous weather here.

Lekhayim!
Matt the Elder.

Tel Aviv: Day One

Two years after our first visit, I have fallen in love with Tel Aviv all over again! 

The arrival

When we left Cardiff and arrived at London Heathrow for our El Al flight to Tel Aviv, it was cold and wet. When we arrived at our destination it was 22 degrees! The best time to visit Israel is between October and April. Neither too hot nor too cold. Just perfect sightseeing weather.

We actually flew on my birthday. I was delighted to receive a Happy Birthday Tweet from El Al airlines. I had tweeted them previously to say how excited I was to be flying with them.

If you have flown with El Al before you will know how thorough their check in is. You can expect lots of security questions and, personally speaking, I find this very reassuring. They take passenger safety seriously.

The check in staff at Heathrow were so friendly! The one guy offered us some tourist advice about what to see and do on our travels. So, a wonderful start to the holiday.

The hotel

A very friendly taxi driver took us to our hotel. Base Camp is Herod Hotel, a 1930's inspired hotel which overlooks the beach and promenade. The hotel receptionist was lovely.

Our room is spacious and even has a balcony! However, we arrived late and all we wanted to do was go to bed!

The next day

The first thing I did upon waking up was phone reception. I had no idea what the time was. Neither myself nor The Big Fella (aka the other half) could remember the time difference. It was 0740 local time which meant it was 0540 back home! It seemed far too early to be awake while on holiday! But we were far too excited to go back to bed and both eager to start sightseeing.

Admittedly, we've been to Tel Aviv before. Two years ago we did a pilgrimage tour of Israel. It was one of our favorite holidays. And memories of Tel Aviv have stayed with us.

We have such a fondness for this city. Could it be the laid back atmosphere? Or the energetic nightlife? The gorgeous beaches teaming with water sport activities, sun bathers and people just kicking back and relaxing? Perhaps it the food?

Oh, it is most certainly the food!

The food

Speaking as a vegan who follows a gluten and wheat free diet, I am spoilt for choice! The vegetarian and vegan restaurants here are among the the best I have ever eaten at. Take Mezze, for example. The owner clearly has a passion for good healthy and tasty food. And the staff do all they can to ensure you have a great time.

Exploring Jaffa

We spent the morning walking along the beach side promenade to Jaffa. This historic port is a must-see. With its sea views, cafes and galleries - not too mention St Peter's Church, which houses The Vatican Consulate, this is a pleasant area to spend a few hours.

We decided to splash out on the exciting sounding multi sensory tour of Old Jaffa. Honestly, at 30 NIS, it was holiday money well spent!

The English speaking tour guide with charming. Upon hearing we were from Cardiff, she delighted in telling us of her love of Doctor Who and plans on visiting the Doctor Who Experience!

The tour was indeed multi sensory. Hilarious and well acted videos told the history of Jaffa while the tour guide showed us excavations and exhibits of the old port. The tour guide clearly loved her job; she was entertaining - and hugely knowledgeable about Jaffa past and present - throughout the 45 minute tour.

Not only was it audio and visual, it was also wet and windy! During the story of Jonah the audience was treated to gusts of wind and sea spray much to our surprise! A multi sensory experience indeed!

The delights of Carmel Market

We then headed to the wonderful Carmel Market. I love this place. It's endlessly fascinating and packed with shoppers, bargain hunters and tourists all coming to experience the frenetic atmosphere. It's worth visiting just to hear the traders banter with customers and each other! Much of it in Hebrew, granted, but who needs translation when everyone is having this much fun?!

Once again, it's all about the food! Name a fruit or vegetable and you'll find it here, looking nothing like the uniform produce of Britain's boring supermarkets. It really has inspired me to shop at my local market.

Friday evening - Sabbath

It's Sabbath. The streets may be quiet but the beach and promenade are still busy. Families and friends are enjoying spending time with each other. The beach-side cafes and restaurants are bustling and still people are playing sport or relaxing on the beach.

I'm sat on my hotel balcony, sipping the local wine and writing my blog. It's warm. I feel blessed. And it's only the first day.

Shalom, my friends.
Matt the Elder.