Monday, September 01, 2008

Pre-Holibob Limbo

Here I am, slightly fazed after a jam-packed weekend, not knowing what to do with myself. Barcelona is only three sleeps away and I'm in a pre-holibob limbo, desperately trying to remember absolutely everything that we need.

I've been entertained with tales of common scams and pick-pocket methods in the city. Well scratch 'entertained' and replace with 'freaked out' - the thought of having my cards, travel documents and brand new gadgets lopped off my shoulder with a well-placed razor blade was enough to send me on a quest for the bag-that-shall-never-be-nicked (across the body, thick shoulder strap, zip AND flap). After visiting every store on Grafton and Henry Street, my back and feet aching and several flare ups of 'pavement rage' still pounding in my ears, I found this. Pick-pocketers just you try and rob me now! (Actually please don't.)

Another issue that has been playing on my mind is what happens when my glowing white hide is exposed to the rays from that burning rock in the sky. Apparently there isn't a huge call for factor 30 by the locals so a trip to Boots is required. I was reading up on safe tanning and was shocked to discover that sun tan lotion must be reapplied every 30 minutes! Sounds like a lot of effort to me - might just get one of those massive parasols and drink cocktails under it.

20 comments:

Lane Mathias said...

That certainly looks like a good strong bag! Aah Barcelona! *sigh, sigh*:-)

Pat Posner said...

Oh, Lane, I'm not stalking you, honest!
I've got a bag like that Yvonne. It isn't only hard for pickpockets to get into. Keep change need for the loo in your pocket.
Have a great time.

Yvonne said...

Lane, never been there, can't wait!

Pat, the bag is just one part of my anti-robbery obsession - every ID we own has been photocopied, bank phone numbers have been recorded...instead of enjoying the scenery I'll probably be gripping the bag with both hands and giving the evil eye at anyone who dares to come near me! Cheers!

Amanda said...

That bag is so cool - I may just have to have one. :-)

CL Taylor said...

Oooh! I'm hoping to go to Barcelona this year too and, like you, have seen TV programmes about the theft/robbery problems over there. Have bookmarked that bag so I can get one before my trip. Cheers :o)

Yvonne said...

Annie, I love the way it falls too - very nice.

Cal, congratulations again on finding an agent and I'm still dying to know what the big secret is!

Anonymous said...

Nice bag. I didn't know that about sun tan lotion I put it on in the morning and that's it when I'm sightseeing, very 30 mins seems excessive!

Anonymous said...

Sounds like you've got the right bag :-)And I'd be the same with the factor 30+. I burn as soon as I look at the sunshine. No freckling, no inbetweeny stage, just burn!

Have a fantastic time in Barcelona :-)

Tamsyn Murray said...

Barcelona is great and I didn't catch a sniff of crime when we were there. Enjoy!

Yvonne said...

M&T, by the time you've finished applying it, it's nearly time to reapply! ;)

Jen, sounds like me, I'm desperate not to sport the lobster look this time.

Tam, yay! Can't wait.

Deborah Carr (Debs) said...

I'm sure you'll have a ball and that there will be plenty of parasols and cocktail bars to keep too much sun from hurting you.

Can't wait to hear all about it.

Angie said...

Love the bag.

If you're just walking around, you won't need to reapply that often, it's more for beach wear (sweat, water, etc all rub it off). I recommend getting the spray-on sunscreen, which is perfect for reapplying and for hard to reach spots.

Yvonne said...

Debs, thanks! I'm such a wimp when it comes to the sun but I'm determined to get a tan.

Angie, the spray on stuff is a great idea thanks. I'll probably be walking around most of the time anyway as I tend to get bored at the beach.

HelenMWalters said...

As long as you're drinking cocktails, I'm not sure the rest matters too much xxx

Angie said...

p.s. There is also translucent sunscreen powder for your face, it might be a good option...

p.p.s. There's a little something for you over at mine.

xx

Yvonne said...

Helen, I second that. One cocktail and all your worries just float away...

Angie, have never heard of that, brilliant! Thank you so much for the award you are a sweetheart.

Jenny Beattie said...

Oh bugger. Just lost my post.

I've been to B twice and both times someone in our party got pick pocketed ... BUT they were the dozy dreamy types... If you are aware of it (and clearly you are) you should be fine. Wear your bag on your front!

HAVE FUN and try not to spoil your holiday by worrying. Just be alert and aware.

Fionnuala said...

Have a fab holiday! I just got back from Spain and needed factor 50! yes 50! Be careful, we've had such a shitty Summer that as soon as those rays hit...Have fun! x

Yvonne said...

JJ, good to know that just some awareness can do the trick. I'm sure I'll be too busy soaking in the atmosphere to worry in the end!

Fionnuala, wow wish I'd got some Factor 50 now, that's amazing!

Liane Spicer said...

I don't remember if I already invited you to the party on my blog to launch Cafe au Lait (where's that ginko!) so forgive me if I'm repeating myself. You're invited!