Poland? Why not!

I'm 36, and until two weeks ago, had never ventured beyond our fair shores. Well, that's not quite correct. I have been to Australia. At least four times.

This trip though, was to be a big one. 24 hours flying time, that's just about exactly halfway around the world (think about it, if I'd gone any further, it would have taken less time).

So, why? Why this trip? Why England, France and Poland? Why not Cuba?

Not a silly question, I mean, Cuba was on the list. And was closer.

It all started when I thought, buggar it, it is time I met Barb somewhere. Barb is a friend from way back. 18 years back in fact. We've done Sydney, we've done Perth. She lives in Canada - a more recent thing (he was looking for a nice girl in Hamilton, she responded. He meant Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; she was in Hamilton New Zealand. She's now living in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada).

Barb and Paul were planning a trip to Cuba to celebrate her 50th birthday. In April. (April sun in Cuba). I suggested we meet halfway, somewhere. Her brother asked if she would be godmother, to her new niece, born in England. England or Cuba. I left it with her to decide.

England it was. 12 days in England. What to see? What to do? Until one night. When a message was left on my answerphone. Poland. We are going to Poland. The christening is in Poland. Do you want to go to Poland?

Poland??? What's in Poland? Sure, why not.

Then France. I arrived at work one morning to find an email... 'We've been thinking'... do you fancy a day trip to Paris? Let me think about that...

So, England, Poland and France. All within 12 days. Possible? Of course!