Ken and I are in a small town called Greymouth in a McDonalds where there is a "cyber cafe". Never thought I would find that in a McDonalds. We have about an hour before our train leaves.

The drive up from Queenstown - Wanaka - Haast Pass was nothing less than spectacular. Probably some of the most fantastic scenery I have ever seen. Past Haast to Franz Josef it was nice but not as spectacular. This is a long drive, about 6 hours and on fairly windy roads but very little traffic. I have always wanted to do this so glad we have done it. Today we left Franz Josef to come to Greymouth to meet the train that will take us back across the island via Arthurs Pass. Another first for me. We get off about halfway and stay in a luxury lodge situated on a farm called Grassmere Lodge. Amazingly in the two hour drive we never had a car in front of us until about 15 minutes outside of Greymouth. So few cars on the road.

In Wanaka I saw a delightful little lodge set on a farm with great scenery. Only five rooms I like these quaint little places. Unless you really like to drive it may be best to stay in Wanaka and just drive part of the road up to Haast and see the scenery than come all the way up the West Coast.

Lee it was the old THC Eichardts which has been turned into a luxury 5 room hotel. Our room was right on the front of the hotel with a balcony overlooking the waterfront and very very nice. The entire room was well thought out with everything you could need. Two TV's, fireplace, huge bathtub, great toiletries, and double sinks. Also a real fur throw on the bed and in room internet access. We did not want to leave. When we can get some internet access in our room we will post some pictures. From our room about 25 parasailers jumped from Coronet Peak and landed on the narrow strip of sand in front of the lake almost directly in front of our window. They looked like a flock of birds as they came down. It was a great sight. There was no wind, sun was shining, the lake was glistening - really incredible. Queenstown is such a special place.

Susan -- sorry your trip home was so rough. That just happens sometimes. It was great to meet you both and so look forward to sailing with you again on PUBS.