Lightening the Load
A few weeks ago I invested in my first full-size backpack in five decades. A couple of weeks later we set off with our luggage on our backs. We do, of course, enjoy our creature comforts so, comfortable hotels booked, the aim, in otherwise Race Across the World style, was simply to travel light from one destination to another using public transport and the occasional taxi.
We were only away eight nights and, passing through London, obviously spent two of those with the grandchildren. Otherwise our destination was across the Channel at Saint Malo with time too at Mont St Michel. Although there was a period in our lives when Saint Malo and Brittany featured frequently in our sailing adventures, Mont St Michel had always eluded us and as purportedly the most visited attraction in France outside of Paris, its allure beckoned. Despite the crowds, it did not disappoint.
We also spent two nights in Portsmouth, primarily so that we could return to the Historic Navy Dockyards. On the occasion of our last visit back in 1992, Henry VIII's recovered warship, the Mary Rose, was still being constantly sprayed following the lifting of her remains from the seabed. She now, of course, has an amazing museum built around her showcasing the 1,900 objects salvaged from within or around the wreck and so retelling the story of Tudor England.
A little like retirement itself, sometimes the pleasure, however, is derived from the journey rather than the destination. Being confronted by an animal rights protest at the ferry port whilst emerging like pack horses ourselves; negotiating our way on foot; conversing in long forgotten A-level French with the assistance of a Duolingo refresher; chatting with fellow foot passengers; these are the things we shall remember.
Packing belongings into a rucksack certainly forces choices and there is something liberating about being freed from the burden of too many possessions. I made sure my load was contained at 8 kilos and returning with a pair of both shorts and trousers unworn, I even experienced a feeling of triumph!
Mission accomplished or practice run? We are now planning a trip with double the number of nights!
Comments
I have never seen the Mary Rose, it’s on my list of things to do one day. One of the few real regrets in my life is that I turned down an opportunity to dive on the ship before it was brought to the surface. I was a member of a sub aqua club and an invitation came from BSAC for the club to send a small team to take part in some conservation work. I had all the necessary experience and qualifications but had just started a new job and was concerned my new boss would take a dim view of me asking for time off so I declined. Looking back it would have been the chance of a lifetime and I would have got another job soon enough. Big mistake!
I can only assume you have a capsule wardrobe and spatial awareness.