Report Cards

From the ISLE OF MAN, May 24, 2008. . .

• Our discovery of the glorious open spaces of the Isle of Man was surpassed only by having the good fortune to choose Close Taggart Cottages (Ballaugh, Isle of Man, IM7 5BH; phone/fax +44 [0] 1624 897459, e-mail john@closetaggart.co.uk or visit www.closetaggart.co.uk), in the Curraghs, via Internet search.

Owners John and Shirley Kneale have two meticulously clean, beautifully appointed cottages on several acres of gardens and land.

On arrival, we found a basket of food, more food in the fridge and surprises in each room. Their philosophy is to give more than expected. . . and they certainly did!

Washing facilities are there for guests, as is detailed information about sights, walks and places to eat.

Many of the most interesting areas to investigate are in the countryside right around them. The Kneales are involved in conservation and enjoy sharing their knowledge of their island.

As for value, the price is really too low, even at our present exchange rates, at about £350 (near $694) per week (May 17-24). We will return!

— Ann & Dougal Crowe, Kula, Maui, HI

From ST. PETER PORT, Guernsey Island, May 1, 2008. . .

• In St. Peter Port, next to the Credit Suisse bank (Helvetia Court, S. Esplanade Street), is a wonderful 3-D sculpture illustrating the life and journeys of Edler Othen the First (A.D. 1238-1328). He was a Swiss knight and also a friend of the English king.

The sculpture, which includes water flowing through it, shows major episodes in the knight’s life, including battles, accompanying the Holy Shroud to Europe from Cyprus and imprisonment by the Moors.

— Gene E. Krueger, Salisbury, NC