The cinema of my dreams – Was it just another surveillance job – Episode 49

I’m back home and this story has been sitting on the back burner for a few months, waiting for some more to be written.

The trouble is, there are also other stories to write, and I’m not very good at prioritizing.

But, here we are, a few minutes opened up and it didn’t take long to get back into the groove.

Chasing leads, maybe

Needing to know more about Severin, aka David Westcott trumped talking to Jan. As it stood, it was difficult to know where her allegiances lay, with Dobbin, her handler, or someone else.

I hailed a cab and headed back to the office. I wanted to spend some time on the computer, hoping I had enough clearance to poke around in the departmental records, in particular personnel.

Just as the taxi dropped me outside the anonymous sandstone building, my phone rang. I doubt it would be Severin again.

“Where are you?”

Jan.

“I do actually have a life, despite what you or Dobbin might think. I’m not sure I really want to have anything to do with you after what I saw you people do to Maury. Aside from the fact that you told me he had found the tracker and disposed of it. Once you start telling lies, there’s no going back.”

“I had nothing to do with that.”

“You were holding him for the interrogation squad. That makes you complicit. It also makes me very wary about what Dobbin will do to me if he thinks I know anything, which I don’t.”

“As far as I’m aware, all we have to do is find O’Connell.”

“And what? Torture him too if he doesn’t fess up? I know he doesn’t have it. I had him under surveillance the whole time. I frisked him after he was shot. What do you know that I don’t?”

“No more than you.”

“Not if you’re suggesting that he’s alive.” This was an interesting conversation, especially after O’Connell himself told me that Dobbin’s cleaners had come and rescued him, which meant Dobbin definitely knew he was still alive.

The question was, how many lies was she going to tell me.

“You know where O’Connell had his real residence. When were you going to share that piece in information?”

Silence, then, “How?”

“I saw you there.”

“But…”

I knew what she was going to say, when was I going to share. When I came back, not intending to find a dead body in the hotel room.

“Had you been in the room when I got back, we were going to have a frank conversation about who you’re working for, but I’ve just had that conversation with Dobbin himself. No doubt he called you right after he dropped me off.

“He’s not happy.”

“Then that’s on him not trusting people. You want to have a good hard look at what your options are when we next meet. I’ll admit I haven’t been doing this very long, but one thing I have learned, is not to trust anyone.

“I suggest we meet up later tonight. Bear in mind that it will be in an open space for obvious reasons, and quite frankly, I’m not sure how Dobbin thinks this collaboration is going to work. I’ll text you the place and time.”

It might have been a little unfair to take my concerns about Dobbin out on her. I’m not sure what I had expected would happen when I took this job on, certainly, the instructors had emphasized that being an agent was very dangerous to our health and that we could, ultimately, trust no one, even those closest to us. Our world by its very nature was one of mistrust, lies, and deceit, that we would eventually not know who we really were and be doing things we never thought we could.

O’Connell was in the same situation, most likely because people were trying to kill him. It was a small detail that stuck in the back of my mind.

If Severin and Maury wanted O’Connell alive, and that definitely was the end result of the surveillance operation, to allow the drop then to corral him, why would they have sanctioned his execution in the alley?

In fact, how could they know he would end up in that alley.

The only conclusion I could come up with, Dobbin had put a tracker on him, one that he didn’t know about, and also had surveillance on O’Connell. It made sense because I was sure there were people in that area that didn’t look like they belonged.

So, a tracker on the USB was being tacked by an unidentified as yet party who no doubt wanted the information themselves, not Severin, and not Dobbin.

I shrugged. I’m sure there would be more questions before the day was out.

…

‘The Devil You Don’t’ – A beta reader’s view

It could be said that of all the women one could meet, whether contrived or by sheer luck, what are the odds it would turn out to be the woman who was being paid a very large sum to kill you?

John Pennington is a man who may be lucky in business, but not so lucky in love. He has just broken up with Phillipa Sternhaven, the woman he thought was the one, but relatives and circumstances, and perhaps because she was a ‘princess’, may also have contributed to the end result.

So, what do you do when you are heartbroken?

That is a story that slowly unfolds, from the first meeting with his nemesis on Lake Geneva, all the way to a hotel room in Sorrento, where he learns the shattering truth.

What should have been solace after disappointment turns out to be something else entirely, and from that point, everything goes to hell in a handbasket.

He suddenly realises his so-called friend Sebastian has not exactly told him the truth about a small job he asked him to do, the woman he is falling in love with is not quite who she says she is, and he is caught in the middle of a war between two men who consider people becoming collateral damage as part of their business.

The story paints the characters, cleverly displaying all their flaws and weaknesses. The locations add to the story at times, taking me back down memory lane, especially to Venice, where, in those back streets, I confess it’s not all that hard to get lost.

All in all, a thoroughly entertaining story with, for once, a satisfying end.

…

Available on Amazon here: https://amzn.to/2Xyh1ow

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The 2am Rant: Driving in suburbia

It was one of those beautiful Autumn mornings, blue sky with a smattering of clouds, but a sunny day all the same. It’s Sunday, so there is not as much traffic on the road.

Anyone with any sense would be going to their favourite coffee place and settling down to their choice of coffee and perhaps a toaster or muffin to accompany the conversation.

This is what’s happening at the cafe where we go for coffee. At 9:00 in the morning, it is packed. But great coffee is hard to find, and this is apparently great coffee.

It’s that in-between time before it gets windy, cold and wet, with the sort of chill you can feel in your bones, whether it’s the time when you have a barbecue in the mid-afternoon and get home before the cold sets in or take the kids to the park for some healthy exercise.

Today I have to take a drive from one side of suburbia to the other, taking a network of main roads with rather anonymous names such as North and South

We travel through the older suburbs, those with a collection of red or white bricks and timber dating back to the fifties and sixties. They are not, for the most part, in a good state of repair, and rather than looking ramshackle, it’s more like they are slowly decaying.

Fences are rotting or falling over, extensions are like they have been glued on rather than added by an architect, and paint is either fading or missing. For the most part, people are struggling to keep up with the cost of living and are too busy to worry about maintenance.

Some have been bulldozed and replaced, blocks are cleared awaiting new development, and others are being renovated. Anyway, you look at them, they are still worth a great deal of money, being relatively close to the city. But it’s a double-edged sword, worth a lot, but costing more to keep.

It’s a location we could never afford. Because we were not affluent, we were pushed out to the less expensive outer suburbs. This was, of course, 50 years ago, and now those outer suburbs are the new inner suburbs, and people are buying up to 50 km further out in the new estates. When I was young, these suburbs were farms and open land.

It also surprises me that people would want to live on the main road because, with traffic as it is heading into the city, it would be difficult to leave or return by car. At least for these people, public transport is better than in the outer suburbs.

Because it’s Sunday, my trip takes a lot less time, except for those unpredictable traffic lights, some of which I missed and took a while to cycle through the other traffic before it was our time to move. It’s the only disappointment of the modern era, the fact that roads were never made to handle the traffic, and the fact that they now have to bulldoze homes to make way for roads.

Pity they didn’t lay down the foundations of a proper transport system, much like they have in major European cities.

What I learned about writing – History can come from TV shows and Films

Televison is a great recorder of the past, and most channels, and especially cable tv have great libraries of films that go back more than a hundred years.

And, whilst it’s possible that modern day films and television series can try to recapture the past, the English as an exception being very good at it, often it is impossible to capture it correctly.

But, if you have a film shot in the moment, then you have a visual record of what life, and what was once part of our world before you in all it’s dated glory. The pity of it is that, then, we never appreciated it.

After all, in those particular times, who had the time to figuratively stop and smell the roses. Back then as life was going on, we were all tied up with just trying to get through each day.

Years later, often on reflection, we try to remember the old days, and, maybe, remember some of what it was like, but the chances are that change came far too rapidly, and often too radical, that it erases what we thought we knew existed before.

My grandmothers house is a case in point. In it’s place is a multi lane super highway, and there’s nothing left to remind us, or anyone of it, just some old sepia photographs.

I was reminded of how volatile history really is when watching an old documentary, in black and white, and how the city I grew up in used to look.

Then, even though it seemed large to me then, it was a smaller city, with suburbs that stretched about ten or so miles in every direction, and the outer suburbs were where people moved to get a larger block, and countrified atmosphere.

Now, those outer suburbs are no longer spacious properties, the acreage subdivided and the old owners now much richer for a decision made with profit not being the motivator, and the current suburban sprawl is now out to forty or fifty miles.

The reason for the distance is no longer the thought of open spaces and cleaner air, the reason for moving now is that land further out is cheaper, and can make buying that first house more affordable.

This is where I tip my hat to the writers of historical fiction. I myself am writing a story based in the 1970s, and its difficult to find what is and isn’t time specific.

If only I had a dollar for every time I went to write the character pulling out his or her mobile phone.

What I’ve found is the necessity to research, and this has amounted to finding old films, documentaries of the day, and a more fascinating source of information, the newspapers of the day.

The latter especially has provoked a lot of memories and a lot of stuff I thought I’d forgotten, some of it by choice, but others that were poignant.

Yes, and don’t get me started on the distractions.

If only I’d started this project earlier…

365 Days of Writing, 2026 – 260

Day 260 – Writing to provoke

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If You Can’t Annoy Somebody with What You Write, There’s Little Point in Writing – A Deep Dive into Kingsley Amis’s Provocative Quote

Who Was Kingsley Amis?
The Quote in Context – What Did He Really Mean?
Why “Annoying” Can Be a Good Thing in Writing
- 3.1 The Power of Provocation
- 3.2 Annoyance vs. Engagement
When Annoyance Becomes Counter‑Productive
Real‑World Examples: Writers Who Mastered the Art of Annoyance
Practical Tips: How to Write That Stirs Without Alienating
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Final Takeaway: Embrace the Edge, Not the Offence

1. Who Was Kingsley Amis?

Kingsley Amis (1922‑1995) was a British novelist, poet, and essayist best known for his razor‑sharp wit and satirical eye. He won the Booker Prize for The Old Devils (1986) and penned the cult classic Lucky Jim (1954). Amis was a self‑described “pessimist” who delighted in challenging literary conventions and poking fun at social pretensions.

“I think a lot of people are trying to be too nice. If you can’t annoy somebody with what you write, I think there’s little point in writing.”

The quote sums up his belief that writing’s purpose isn’t comfort—it’s confrontation.

2. The Quote in Context – What Did He Really Mean?

Amis made this remark during a 1962 interview for The Spectator while discussing the role of the modern novelist. He wasn’t encouraging petty irritation; he was championing intellectual provocation—the act of shaking readers out of complacency.

Key takeaways from the original context

Aspect	Explanation
Literary Tradition	Amis aligned himself with authors like Oscar Wilde, George Orwell and James Joyce—writers who deliberately sparked debate.
Audience Expectation	He argued that readers expect to be challenged, not lulled.
Creative Courage	A writer must risk criticism to stay authentic.

In short, Amis believed the value of writing lies in its ability to stir thought, even if it ruffles feathers.

3. Why “Annoying” Can Be a Good Thing in Writing

3.1 The Power of Provocation

Provocation is a deliberate literary technique used to:

Highlight contradictions – A provocative statement forces the reader to confront hidden biases.
Create memorable moments – Controversial lines stay with readers longer than bland prose.
Catalyze cultural conversation – Think of how Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird or Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale sparked nationwide dialogue.

SEO Insight: Articles that explore “how to provoke readers” rank highly for keywords like “provocative writing tips” and “controversial writing examples”.

3.2 Annoyance vs. Engagement

Factor	Annoyance (Negative)	Engagement (Positive)
Reader Reaction	Irritation, dismissal	Curiosity, deeper analysis
Longevity	Forgettable, quickly skimmed	Re‑read, quoted, shared
SEO Impact	High bounce rate	Increased dwell time & backlinks

The sweet spot is controlled annoyance—enough to provoke, but not so much that readers abandon the piece.

4. When Annoyance Becomes Counter‑Productive

Provocation has limits. Below are red flags that indicate you’ve crossed from “thought‑provoking” into “offensive”:

Red Flag	Why It Hurts	How to Fix It
Sweeping Generalisations	Alienates large audiences; looks lazy.	Ground statements in evidence; add nuance.
Personal Attacks	Turns discussion into a fight.	Focus criticism on ideas, not identities.
Misleading “Shock for Shock’s Sake”	Damages credibility; Google penalises low‑quality content.	Keep the shock tied to a clear argument or purpose.
Ignoring Reader Context	Your audience may lack the background needed to understand the provocation.	Provide brief context or a “quick‑read guide.”

Bottom line: Annoyance that adds value ≠ annoyance that creates noise.

5. Real‑World Examples: Writers Who Mastered the Art of Annoyance

Writer	Work	How They Annoy (Productively)
George Orwell	1984	Exposes totalitarian absurdities, disturbing readers with a bleak warning.
Toni Morrison	Beloved	Confronts the trauma of slavery, forcing readers to feel uncomfortable truths.
Brett Easton Ellis	American Psycho	Graphic violence pushes readers to question consumerist culture.
Chuck Palahniuk	Fight Club	Subversive narrative undermines conventional masculinity.
Ta-Nehisi Coates	Between the World and Me	Boldly critiques systemic racism, challenging comfortable narratives.

These authors don’t merely “annoy”; they re‑frame the conversation and inspire social reflection.

6. Practical Tips: How to Write That Stirs Without Alienating

Below is a step‑by‑step cheat sheet you can copy into your writer’s notebook.

6.1 Clarify Your Core Argument

Write a one‑sentence thesis that states the controversial point.
Ask, “Why does this matter?” If the answer isn’t compelling, revisit the thesis.

6.2 Use “Controlled Shock”

Technique	Description	Example
Unexpected Analogy	Pair two unrelated concepts to jolt the brain.	“Voting is less a right and more a subscription you can’t cancel.”
Statistical Bombshell	Drop a little‑known, striking statistic.	“One in three children will never read a book beyond the first grade.”
Narrative Disruption	Begin with a scene that subverts expectations.	“The city’s mayor announced, ‘We’re raising taxes—because we love you.’”

6.3 Back Up the Provocation

Cite reputable sources (academic journals, reputable news outlets).
Add a counter‑argument—show you understand the other side.
Explain the “why” after each provocative claim.

6.4 Word‑Level Tactics

Tactic	Why It Works	Sample
Rhetorical Questions	Forces readers to answer internally.	“If we accept this, what’s left for the next generation?”
Parallelism	Creates rhythm, making the message stick.	“We’re told to listen, we’re told to obey, we’re told to forget.”
Contrast	Highlights disparity, amplifying irritation.	“The richest 1% own more than the bottom 50%, yet they claim meritocracy.”

6.5 Edit for Balance

Read aloud – Does the line sound like a thoughtful jab or a tantrum?
Apply the “5‑Second Rule.” If a reader can skip the sentence within five seconds, consider re‑working it.
Seek a Beta Reader—preferably someone with an opposing perspective.

6.6 SEO Checklist (For Blog Posts)

Primary keyword: Kingsley Amis writing quote (use 2–3 times in headings, intro, and conclusion).
LSI keywords: provocative writing, annoying readers purpose, controversial literature examples, how to write to provoke.
Meta tags (title ≤ 60 chars; description ≤ 155 chars).
Alt text for images – e.g., alt="Kingsley Amis portrait, British novelist" for a photo.
Internal links – Point to related posts: “5 Ways to Write a Strong Argument” and “Why Bad Writing Isn’t Always Bad.”

7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. Does “annoying” mean being rude or hateful?
No. Amis’s concept is about intellectual irritation—challenging ideas, not attacking individuals.

Q2. Can I apply this principle to non‑fiction, like business copy?
Absolutely. Even a marketing email can use a slight edge: “Most CEOs think they’re unstoppable. The data says otherwise.”

Q3. How do I measure if my provocative writing works?

Engagement metrics: longer dwell time, comments, social shares.
Qualitative feedback: readers citing “thought‑provoking” in reviews.

Q4. What if I offend a protected group unintentionally?
Do a quick sensitivity check: research cultural context, use inclusive language, and consider a content warning if needed.

Q5. Should I always aim to annoy?
No. Use annoyance strategically—when the goal is to spark dialogue or highlight injustice. Not every piece needs a shock factor.

8. Final Takeaway: Embrace the Edge, Not the Offence

Kingsley Amis wasn’t encouraging writers to be jerks. He was reminding us that the purpose of good writing is to make readers think, feel, and sometimes squirm. When you master the art of controlled annoyance, you:

Break complacency – Readers stop scrolling and start reflecting.
Boost SEO – Higher dwell time & more backlinks from discussions.
Leave a cultural imprint – Your words join the conversation that shapes society.

Bottom line: If your prose can’t stir at least one mind, ask yourself why you’re writing at all.

Ready to Write Something That Pops?

Pick a controversial stance that aligns with your niche.
Stack it with hard‑data and vivid storytelling.
Polish with the editor’s eye for balance.

Your next post could be the one that annoys—in the best, most purposeful way—making you a writer worth remembering.

“If you can’t annoy somebody with what you write, I think there’s little point in writing.” – Kingsley Amis

Take this as a challenge, not a threat. Start provoking today.

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If I only had one day to stop over in – Prague – what would I do?

One‑Day Stopover in Prague? Spend It All at Prague Castle

If you’ve only got a single day to soak up the magic of the Czech capital, there’s one place that will give you a crash‑course in history, architecture, and breathtaking views—all in one unforgettable stop.

Why Prague Castle is the Ultimate One‑Day Highlight

What you get	How it fits a tight schedule
A panoramic cityscape – From the castle’s highest towers you can see the Vltava River snaking through the red‑tiled roofs, the spires of St. Vitus, and the iconic Charles Bridge.	Compact “must‑see” circuit – The main attractions (St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, Golden Lane) are within a 15‑minute walk of each other.
Layers of history – From a 9th‑century wooden fort to Habsburg‑era palaces, you’ll walk through more than a thousand years of Czech story in a couple of hours.	Flexible timing – Even a 2‑hour “quick tour” feels complete; a deeper dive can stretch to 4‑5 hours if you have the time.
Iconic photo‑ops – Sunset over the city, the gilded Saint George statue, the winding golden lane – Instagram‑ready moments at every turn.	Easy access – A short tram ride (or a 20‑minute walk from the Old Town) drops you right at the main gate; the castle is free to explore the courtyards, and ticketed sections are clearly marked.
Café culture – The castle grounds host charming cafés where you can sip a Czech “kafe” while the city bustles below.	No language barrier – Audio guides in English (and many other languages) are available at the ticket windows, so you won’t miss a thing.

How to Make the Most of Your Castle Visit

1. Start Early – Get the Tram (Line 22) to “Pražský hrad”

The first tram out of Old Town Square (stop “Staroměstská”) arrives at the castle gates by 9 am. Beat the tourist crowds and the midday heat, and you’ll have the terrace of St. Vitus Cathedral all to yourself for that perfect sunrise shot.

2. Grab a Fast‑Pass Ticket (or Skip‑the‑Line App)

If you’re travelling in peak season (May‑September), buy a “Castle Pass” online before you land. It gives you priority entry to the St. Vitus Cathedral, Old Royal Palace, and Golden Lane—the three “must‑see” interiors. The pass costs about €12 and saves you 30‑45 minutes of waiting.

3. Follow the “Three‑Spot Circuit”

Spot	Time Needed	What to Spot
St. Vitus Cathedral	30–45 min	Gothic spires, the stunning Astronomical Clock (different from the one in the Old Town), the royal tombs.
Old Royal Palace & Vladislav Hall	30 min	The grand hall where coronations once took place; a glimpse of medieval frescoes.
Golden Lane	20 min	Colorful tiny houses that once housed castle guards and later Alphonse Mucha’s studio.

Tip: Walk the circuit clockwise. It follows the natural flow of the historic layout and keeps you moving forward without backtracking.

4. Take a Break at Café Mlejnice (or the Castle’s “Cafe Kavárna”)

Around noon, let the castle’s own café treat you to a warm bowl of goulash with dumplings or a simple Czech pastry. Pair it with a mug of locally roasted coffee while you watch the city spread out below.

5. **Don’t Miss the Sunset from Rudolfinum Tower

If your schedule allows, stay until the late afternoon. The Rudolfinum Tower (a short 10‑minute walk from the main gate) offers a 360° view that transforms the city into a golden‑glow canvas—ideal for that final, memory‑making photo.

Quick Logistics Cheat Sheet

Item	Detail
Opening Hours	Castle grounds 24 h; ticketed sites 9 am–5 pm (last entry 4:30 pm).
Entry Fee	Free for the courtyards; €10–€12 for the “combined ticket.”
Getting There	Tram 22 (or 20) from Old Town → “Pražský hrad.” Walking distance from the Charles Bridge (≈20 min).
What to Wear	Comfortable shoes (cobblestones), light rain jacket (prague weather is unpredictable), a small day‑pack (no large bags allowed in some interiors).
Nearby Toilets	Public WC at the “Růžový palác” (Rose Palace) near the main entrance – free with ticket.
Kid‑Friendly	The Golden Lane feels like a storybook; there’s a small kids’ treasure hunt map at the ticket office (free).

The One‑Day Itinerary (All Clock‑Times Approximate)

Time	Activity
08:30	Arrive in Prague (airport or train). Grab a coffee and a quick bite at a bakery near the main station.
09:15	Tram 22 to “Pražský hrad.”
09:45	Enter castle gates, start the Three‑Spot Circuit (St. Vitus → Old Royal Palace → Golden Lane).
12:15	Lunch break at the castle café (or a nearby traditional Czech restaurant in Malá Strana).
13:30	Walk down the historic Lobkowicz Palace gardens (optional, free) toward the Charles Bridge.
14:30	Stroll across the Charles Bridge, snap photos of the statues, and explore the Old Town Square if time permits.
16:00	Return to the castle’s Rudolfinum Tower for sunset views.
17:30	Head back to the airport/train station via tram 22 (or a taxi if you’re in a hurry).

Pro tip: If your flight departs late in the evening, you can swap the sunset view for a twilight walk along the Vltava’s embankment, enjoying the city lights reflecting on the water.

Wrap‑Up: Why One Spot Beats Ten

A bustling city like Prague tempts you to “see it all,” but a single, well‑chosen landmark can give you the essence of the place without the stress of a rushed checklist. Prague Castle packs history, culture, panoramic scenery, and that palpable sense of being at the heart of Europe—all in one compact, walkable area.

So, when your itinerary shrinks to a single day, set your compass for the castle walls, and let the city’s story unfold beneath your feet.

Ready to make your stopover unforgettable?
Book your tram ticket, snag a fast‑pass, and let Prague Castle be the unforgettable centrepiece of your Czech adventure.

Happy travels—and don’t forget to tag your sunrise castle photos with #PragueInADay!

In a word: Rabbit

Have you ever heard of someone rabbiting on, you know, endlessly rattling on about nothing?

That’s just one use of the word rabbit.

The most obvious is the animal, a rabbit. You know, that burrowing, plant-eating, long-eared, short-tailed animal that goes by the name of Bugs Bunny, maybe.

Nearly every child has a stuffed, cuddly one.

Of course, it’s of some significance at the moment because it’s Easter, and there are countless chocolate versions of the so-called Easter bunny.

Then there is that 6-foot-high invisible rabbit called Harvey, or not necessarily a rabbit, but a pookah.

We use the expression rabbit ears to describe those old interior television antennas.

There’s rabbit stew, rabbit pie, and white rabbit beer.

But my favourite is when the magician pulls the proverbial rabbit out of a hat. It’s an expression we also use for someone who pulls off an impossible task.

If I only had one day to stop over in – Ankara – what would I do?

One‑Day Stopover in Ankara? Make It Unforgettable With a Single Stop at Anıtkabir

If your flight itinerary or a road‑trip detour leaves you with just 24 hours in Turkey’s capital, you’ll quickly realise that Ankara isn’t a “quick‑look‑and‑leave” city. Its blend of modern governance, Ottoman‑era streets, and ancient history can feel overwhelming when the clock is ticking.

So, what’s the one place you must visit to turn a fleeting layover into a lasting memory?

The answer: Anıtkabir – the Mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk

The monumental complex dedicated to Turkey’s founding father is more than a tomb; it’s a masterclass in architecture, a museum of the Republic’s birth, and a panoramic viewpoint over the city’s heart. In a single, well‑planned visit, you’ll:

Feel the pulse of modern Turkish identity – Atatürk’s legacy is woven into every corner of contemporary Turkey, and Anıtkabir is the physical embodiment of that narrative.
Enjoy a compact, self‑contained experience – The site fits comfortably into a 2‑hour window, leaving you time to sip Turkish tea, wander a nearby market, or catch a late‑night flight.
Capture iconic photographs – From the grand staircases to the sprawling lawn framed by the Bosphorus‑blue sky, every angle screams “travel‑worthy.”

Below is a practical guide to make that single stop truly unforgettable.

Where Is Anıtkabir?

Address: Anıtkabir, Çankaya, 06570 Ankara, Turkey
Coordinates: 39.9250° N, 32.8624° E
Getting There:
- By Taxi / Ride‑Share: 15‑20 min from Ankara Airport (ESB) or the city centre; cost ≈ 30‑40 TL.
- By Public Transport: Take the EGO bus 301 from the airport to Ulus and then a short 10‑minute walk. The Metro (M1 line) to Kızılay, followed by a 20‑minute bus ride (bus 302) also works.

Pro tip: Purchase a “Anıtkabir 1‑Day Pass” (≈ 25 TL) which includes entry to the mausoleum, the museum, and the Atatürk and War of Independence Hall—all in one ticket.

When to Go?

Season	Weather	Best Time of Day
Spring (Mar‑May)	Mild, blossoms in the nearby Gençlik Park	Early morning – fewer crowds, sunrise light on the columns
Summer (Jun‑Aug)	Hot, but the lawns are shaded by large trees	Late afternoon – cooler temps, dramatic sunset silhouettes
Autumn (Sep‑Nov)	Crisp, golden foliage	Mid‑day – perfect for museum photography
Winter (Dec‑Feb)	Cold, occasional snow – magical on the staircase	Late morning – sunlight hits the marble beautifully

The site opens at 9:00 AM and closes at 7:00 PM (last entry at 6:30 PM). Plan to arrive early to beat the peak tourist wave (typically 11:00 AM‑1:00 PM).

What You’ll See – A Quick Walk‑Through

Section	Highlights	Time Needed
Ceremonial Plaza	33‑meter high towers representing the 33 years of the Turkish War of Independence.	15 min
Road of Lions	A marble avenue lined with 24 lion statues, each symbolising virtues like courage and justice.	10 min
Mausoleum Hall	The sarcophagus of Atatürk rests under a 19-metre-high copper dome; a solemn, reverent atmosphere.	10 min
Museum of Atatürk	Personal items, letters, photographs, and a timeline of his life.	30 min
War of Independence Hall	Weapons, maps, and flags displayed in a dramatic, dim‑lit space.	20 min
Terrace & Views	Panoramic sweep of Ankara’s skyline and the verdant Gençlik Park beyond.	15 min

Total: Roughly 1.5‑2 hours. Add a short coffee break at the on‑site café for a traditional Turkish tea and a bite of simit (sesame‑seed bagel).

Why Anıtkabir Beats All Other Options for a One‑Day Stop

Factor	Anıtkabir	Other Popular Spots (e.g., Museum of Anatolian Civilizations, Ankara Castle)
Time Efficiency	All‑in‑one complex; minimal transit between sections	Requires separate trips, more walking, and potentially longer queues
Cultural Significance	Central to modern Turkish identity; revered national monument	Important, but more niche to archaeology or medieval history
Scenic Value	Grand architecture + sweeping city views	Scenic, but generally lower‑profile backdrops
Accessibility	Wheelchair‑friendly ramps, audio guides in multiple languages	Some areas (castle walls) are steep and less wheelchair‑friendly
Memorability	Iconic photo‑ops (dome, lion road, burial chamber) that instantly signal “Ankara”	Beautiful, yet less instantly recognizable to a global audience

In short, Anıtkabir delivers history, architecture, and visual impact in a compact, visitor‑friendly package—exactly what a short stopover demands.

Snap‑Shot Checklist

“The Lions” Walk – Capture the line of stone lions with the sunrise or sunset casting long shadows.
Dome Detail – A low‑angle shot of the copper dome framed by the marble columns.
Atatürk’s Sarcophagus – Respectful close‑up (no flash) of the simple, dignified stone coffin.
Panorama from the Terrace – Use a wide‑angle lens for the cityscape; the park in the foreground adds depth.
Museum Artifact – A candid of you (or your travel companion) reading Atatürk’s handwritten note.

Tip: Free Wi‑Fi is available in the museum—upload instantly to your travel blog or social feed!

Practical Tips for a Smooth Visit

Tip	Details
Dress Code	Modest attire is required (no shorts, miniskirts, or sleeveless tops). A light scarf can be useful.
Security	Expect metal detectors; large bags are not allowed inside the mausoleum.
Audio Guide	Available in English, Arabic, Russian, and French; rent for 10 TL.
Photography	Allowed in the exterior areas; flash prohibited inside the mausoleum hall.
Food & Drink	No eating inside the complex; there’s a small café just outside offering tea, fresh juice, and light snacks.
Nearby Quick Bite	Walk 5 minutes to Beypazarı Şarküteri for a traditional Turkish kebab or Baklava if you have extra time.

After Your Visit – Making the Most of the Rest of the Day

If you have a few hours left: Stroll through Gençlik Park (just south of Anıtkabir). The lake, flower beds, and mini‑cable car offer a pleasant breather.
For a taste of local life: Head to Kızılay Square (the city’s bustling hub) for a quick coffee at Café Diyar, then browse the nearby boutiques for souvenirs.
Last‑minute transport: Return to the airport via the EGO bus 302 (direct to Esenboğa). The ride takes about 30 minutes and runs every 20‑30 minutes.

Wrap‑Up: One Stop, One Memory

When the clock is ticking, you need a destination that summarises the soul of the city while staying logistically friendly. Anıtkabir does exactly that. It offers a profound glimpse into Turkey’s modern birth, striking architectural grandeur, and photo‑ready vistas—all within a compact venue that respects your limited schedule.

So next time your itinerary hands you a single day in Ankara, skip the maze of museums and head straight for the lion‑lined road. Walk the steps, stand beneath the dome, and let the spirit of Atatürk’s vision linger long after you’ve boarded your next flight.

Enjoy the journey, and may your stopover become a story you’ll share for years to come!

“The Things we do for Love”, the story behind the story

This story has been ongoing since I was seventeen, and just to let you know, I’m 72 this year.

Yes, it’s taken a long time to get it done.

Why, you might ask.

Well, I never gave it much interest because I started writing it after a small incident when I was 17, and working as a book packer for a book distributor in Melbourne

At the end of my first year, at Christmas, the employer had a Christmas party, and that year, it was at a venue in St Kilda.

I wasn’t going to go because at that age, I was an ordinary boy who was very introverted and basically scared of his own shadow and terrified by girls.

Back then, I would cross the street to avoid them

Also, other members of the staff in the shipping department were rough and ready types who were not backwards in telling me what happened, and being naive, perhaps they knew I’d be either shocked or intrigued.

I was both adamant I wasn’t coming and then got roped in on a dare.

Damn!

So, back then, in the early 70s, people looked the other way when it came to drinking, and of course, Dutch courage always takes away the concerns, especially when normally you wouldn’t do half the stuff you wouldn’t in a million years

I made it to the end, not as drunk and stupid as I thought I might be, and St Kilda being a salacious place if you knew where to look, my new friends decided to give me a surprise.

It didn’t take long to realise these men were ‘men about town’ as they kept saying, and we went on an odyssey. Yes, those backstreet brothels where one could, I was told, have anything they could imagine.

Let me tell you, large quantities of alcohol and imagination were a very bad mix.

So, the odyssey in ‘The things we do’ was based on that, and then the encounter with Diana. Well, let’s just say I learned a great deal about girls that night.

Firstly, not all girls are nasty and spiteful, which seemed to be the case whenever I met one. There was a way to approach, greet, talk to, and behave.

It was also true that I could have had anything I wanted, but I decided what was in my imagination could stay there. She was amused that all I wanted was to talk, but it was my money, and I could spend it how I liked.

And like any 17-year-old naive fool, I fell in love with her and had all these foolish notions. Months later, I went back, but she had moved on, to where no one was saying or knew.

Needless to say, I was heartbroken and had to get over that first loss, which, like any 17-year-old, was like the end of the world.

But it was the best hour I’d ever spent in my life and would remain so until I met the woman I have been married to for the last 48 years.

As Henry, he was in part based on a rebel, the son of rich parents who despised them and their wealth, and he used to regale anyone who would listen about how they had messed up his life

If only I’d come from such a background!

And yes, I was only a run away from climbing up the stairs to get on board a ship, acting as a purser.

I worked for a shipping company and they gave their junior staff members an opportunity to spend a year at sea working as a purser on a cargo ship that sailed between Melbourne, Sydney and Hobart in Australia.

One of the other junior staff members’ turn came, and I would visit him on board when he would tell me stories about life on board, the officers, the crew, and other events. These stories, which sounded incredible to someone so impressionable, were a delight to hear.

Alas, by that time, I had tired of office work and moved on to be a tradesman at the place where my father worked.

It proved to be the right move, as that is where I met my wife. Diana had been right; love would find me when I least expected it.

…