The blog is back after a summer break. I’ve had an incredible few wks at the Open championship in Portrush, Villamoura in Portugal and London for the Community Shield final.
Talk like Ted
Before I headed off on my holidays I took part in ‘Talk like Ted’. An event created to help young people from across N.I. build confidence and learn to express themselves in the form of a Ted talk which they would present at Parliament buildings, Stormont. I had the opportunity to present my journey from shy schoolboy to radio presenter, the challenges, the opportunities and the roller coaster ride. I really enjoyed it and hopefully those in attendance got a bit of inspiration.
The Open Championship
I waxed lyrical about it on the build up to the event. It delivered massively for the country, those who attended and for the golfers. I may be biased, but this was without question ‘the’ best Open Championship I have ever been at. The atmosphere, rain or shine was sensational. The course was a true test for the worlds very best and the pictures that beamed around the world sold Northern Ireland as a tourist destination more than anything that has come before. Word has it, the Championship will be back as soon as 6 years from now. I certainly hope so. Shane Lowrys win will live on in the memory for some time to come.
Portugal
We have been going to Portugal for quite a few years now. A family holiday to mainland Europe generally comprises of pool, beach, a water park and out for dinner at night. We believe if you find somewhere you love that gives you that, then keep going back. We have stayed at the same hotel ‘Crowne Plaza’ Villamoura for the last 4 years. The kids love it as does my Mum who comes along with us. The marina is super at night for food and entertainment but I have to share with you a locals paradise. It’s a restaurant called Marufo. There is Marufo 1 and Marufo 2 on the other side of the road. Both specialise in chicken and it’s a short cab ride from the marina. It isn’t anything really to look at but serves amazing food and is gentle on the pocket. 50 Euro will feed the family. My advice, order garlic prawns for starters, loads of chicken, chips and tomato salad. A bottle of rose goes down well in the heat. Trust me you won’t be disappointed.
London
I was invited to the community shield final at Wembley this year and I couldn’t not make the effort to go. This was my first football match at England’s national stadium. The last time I was here I was covering the announcement of ‘One Directions’ world tour. It wasn’t to be Liverpool’s day having been defeated by Man City on Penalties, but Julia and I had great fun. The atmosphere created by the 77000 people there was super and I even bumped into an old Liverpool hero of mine Danny Murphy. Pat Jennings was also in attendance and as always was the perfect gentleman. Judging by both teams performances I find it difficult to see how any other team except the reds and city will challenge for the Premier League this season. We ate at Zuma Japanese restaurant in Knightsbridge which was phenomenal, stayed at the Hilton at Wembley (great deal on lastminute.com) and ate breakfast the following day at ‘Bills’ in Soho. It was incredible.
Listening to:
Mabel – High Expectations 4/5
Reading:
James Cordon interview in this months GQ magazine. What a guy!!
Until next time, thanks for reading
Pete #PS27
