Bish's debrief or Smithington's reflections

So in simple terms the fun bus has undertaken a round trip of c.1000 miles. We stayed at Les Sables-d'Olonne (the home of the Vendee Globe) and spent time boarding at two beaches; cycled around the local area; drank in local bars and had a blast. so here are some observations:

Les Sables D'olonne. ...in short it was closed! So quiet, even McDonalds was shut. there was obviously a 7 pm cufew for anyone under 60. Lots of old people wandering aimlessly around but I have to say they were on the whole rather jolly and spritely. Clubs were non-existent and restaurants few and far between. Bars that were open however were the real macoy - frequented by locals jabbering in French and quaffing Ricard and cafe - we felt right at home except for speaking french of course. Prices were expensive with 'pression' 25ml at anywhere from 2.50 to 3.50 Euros. Coffee was spectacular.

The campsite was interesting...top tip you need to take your own toilet paper and the communual shower block is exactly that - communual. Led to overhearing some interesting conversations in French as couples were obviously saving water and showering in pairs! Varied types availing themselves of the facilities - notable being the chapter of Honda Gold Wing bikers who were all over 85 and quiet by 10.30! The swimming pool and bar were closed but we are certain you could spend 5 euros and have a goood time (especially if glasses were included!). The receptionist was friendly once she got off her mobile and relaxed enough not to worry about paying until we left - cool. Nice boulangerie within 100 metres, a clean supermarket within 500 metres and a hospital within 200 metres.

Highlight was the 'Le Rucking bar' - 10 minutes bike ride from the camp site and owned by rugger fanatics. check out the twitters from funbusamigo for details...good times.

Obviously we spent time at the hallowed land and spiritual home of the funbus the la Terriere beach and were not disappointed. The only concern being that the burger/chi chi bar had gone !!
The other beach visited was La Tanchet - compact and bijou and book ended with a plethora of rock pools. Waves were good especially as it got close to high tide but volume of humans trying to have fun made life difficult.

So thats the end of the season for the fun bus. With the beautiful ones off to Las Vegas in October the opportunity will be taken to stem the onset of rust bubbles and 'pimp our wagon'....