Goslar and the Broken Brothel

Well, that drive took us a little longer than we thought. The people who invented Google maps must all be driving Ferraris or similar. It is a little frustrating being on the German Autobahns and having to cruise along at 55mph. 

Hannover, of course, is the birthplace of Jezebel. After 32 years, she was returning home. Well, we drove past Hannover anyway. She didn't express any interest in popping in to visit relatives. 

It seems the Germans aren't great at diversions. Several times we came across roads closed, including a major motorway junction and were forced to go cross country. Finally at about 4pm we rolled in to Goslar. 

Well, what a beautiful place. Olde Worlde German town with gorgeous town square. Well worth a visit if you are ever in the area. 

Team 12, Mark and Sarah, reported the first proper breakdown of the trip. They were a fair way behind us, parked up on the side of the autobahn awaiting the AA to sort out some sort of fuel related issue. 

Bless her, Sarah had her first night under canvas last night. She survived. Just another 21 nights to try out this new experience to work out if she likes it or not. 

Team Newlywed have also had motoring issues. A short circuit has melted their battery it seems. 

We tipped up at the campsite around 6pm. It's a lot more rustic than last night and the long grass harbours a lot of midges and flies. Lots of trees and wildlife. Certainly hillier than Holland too. 

Gradually all the teams rolled in after a long day on the road. Team Lotus showed up to check in before returning to their hotel. Finally, at 8pm Sarah and Mark tipped up craving food and alcohol to eradicate the memories of a hard day. They have a concave fuel tank it seems and will need to stop for fuel every 100 miles or so. The ultra powerful fuel pump has sucked the tank out of shape, it seems. 

The Swedes also turned up at the camp site. They now have numbers and stickers for their currently characterless vehicle. Action packed Scandinavians to be added to the mix. Excellent. 

The Swannies are also in town it seems. After a long overnighter to catch up with the rest, Richard and his father (a last minute replacement) are in a hotel to recover. We'll link up with them in Prague. 

And so, with some light drizzle falling, we are huddled under the awning supping cider and coffee flavoured vodka, and discussing plans for tomorrow. Bring on Prague !