Flew out from Gatwick on 13 March. Have to say that after all I have heard I was not looking forward to flying with Monach but I have no complaints and the level of service was very good. The plane left almost on time and yes the seats are a bit narrow but I am a bit taller than average and the leg room was ok.

Landed early in the morning and had the usual scrum at the airport. Then onto the courtesy bus and off to the Nazri hotel which we loved, will do a separate hotel report. We have stayed at the Marinha Dourada the last two visits but it was coming up too expensive this year so took a chance on this new hotel. Have to say I'm glad we did. The position of the hotel (opposite East Meets West) is spot on and we could walk or take the bus to lots of places. We spent a fraction of what we usually do on cabs and took the bus, which passed by the front of the hotel, everywhere.

Went to see Blues on our first night and were lucky to find that his daughter Emily was also singing. Believe all you hear they are fantastic.

Finally managed to visit the South. Set off after breakfast one morning on the second week of our three week holiday. Just packed a couple of bags and 4 buses and 4 hours later got off the bus in Patnem what an adventure! We had not booked anything so after going up and down the beach looking at huts finally settled on the Goyam Bungalows. We got a very good price of 1000rps a night and booked in for 2 nights but ended up staying 3. We were very impressed with the Goyam we had a mossie net which covered the whole bed. Clean towels and soap were provided and at night they lit a coil and sticks outside the door to keep insects away.

Our favourite shack this year was Fishermans at Empire Beach. We would get the bus to Calangute and walk along the beach - it was about 30 shacks along towards Candolim. It's very popular and we were often lucky to get a bed.

Favourite bar was Cape Town Cafe in Titos Lane. This was new this year and they had happy hour all day 50rps for 2 Kingfishers.

Soynemans Kitchen was excellent as usual, I had prawns in a dark rum and lemon sauce as a starter one night and I am still dreaming about them. I must also give a special mention to Thalassa, Mariketty's Place, Greek Taverna at Small Vagator Beach. This restaurant is beautiful, its on the top of the cliff and the food is wonderful. Other places that stand out are Le Jardine and Jamies Place but really never had a bad meal.

Went to one of the HT meets at the Carvery. Lovely to see Mike Richardson who we met last year when Bob had a game of football for Mike's team. Also met Chilli and Mike, the Dragons, Gemma 33 and OH, Irish Noel and OH and another couple who had just had a grandchild but I did not catch their names. Everyone makes you feel so welcome.

Thoroughly enjoyed our 3rd visit and going for 3 weeks was a bonus. This was our best holiday yet and I am already looking for next year!!