Monaco Grand Prix 2012

[GregWeld]

First let me say that the hotel internet connection is SLOW... so I'm going to wait until later to post much about this trip/event... it's just taking way too long to do anything internet related and I'm not feeling the love to sit in my room trying to keep you guys "updated". :unibrow:

First -- during lunch today this huge squall line came out of nowhere with thunder and lightning!

http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/230ade98.jpg


Then -- just to show you the turn the hotel is on... (Fairmont Hairpin) here's just a quicky "sequence".


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/562f42e9.jpg



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/aa99ba3a.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/35c9dd63.jpg

http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/feebe56a.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/bb68dec1.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/de3cbf7e.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/f25a77e8.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/f48a2b14.jpg

[Jr]

How did the car sound going through the turn? Greg, what team/driver to you support?

[GregWeld]

And then.... for you exotic car guys -- a walk past the Ferrari dealer here in town....



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/798ecd49.jpg

[bentfab]

You lucky sum beeeaaatttch!:D Keep sendding pics so we can live vicariously thru you!

Go figure one of the wealthiest places on earth and there internet is slow:lol:

Mark

[mdprovee]

That looks amazing Greg. I am sure the sound is incredible too.

[Bucketlist2012]

Damn Greg..

That is a gross display of wealth, haha.:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

I just love it...:D

Enjoy the fruits of your labor, I know I would if I could..:cool:

Maybe next year...Ya right.:rofl:

Don't forget to lay the flowers on the turn for Bob and his Wife like you said you would..:thumbsup:

Yes I remembered. I do listen and read your posts.:cheers:

Enjoy and I am looking forward to more pictures and reviews.

[Sieg]

Possibly the most akward turn in F1, very challenging, but awkward. :yes:

Ferrari..............Monaco's Corvette. :D

[Track Junky]

Simply Awesome :thumbsup: Cant wait to see more. :unibrow:

[sik68]

Keep us posted! :thumbsup:

Here's a few from 2011 to hold you over:

http://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb128/thre11phan/P1010425.jpg

Have you done any shopping yet Greg?
http://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb128/thre11phan/P1010450.jpg

James Bond's Casino:
http://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb128/thre11phan/P1010467.jpg

Greg's humble abode:
http://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb128/thre11phan/P1010485.jpg

[Flash68]

Even just a teaser sound clip from your ipad would be cool. :unibrow:

[Rick Dorion]

What an awesome experience. Brought back memories of being up close at Watkins Glen a long time ago!

[Rybar]

Thanks for posting Greg. I would walk down to the tunnel and just sit there and listen to some real music. :thumbsup:

The V8's sound awesome, but if any of you guys ever heard the V10's in perseon they were just unbelievable.

Ferrari F1 fan here for life :hail:

[Track Junky]

I've raced that track many times.............on Gran Turismo :D

[SuperB70]

Go figure one of the wealthiest places on earth and there internet is slow:lol:
Mark

I bet that there is one of the world fastest networks but there may be somekind of overload and priority to gets to use it.

Not to put you down Greg :thumbsup:

but there are couple race teams that are useing it also...

Nice to see that you are in Old Continent... nice pictures, keep them coming..

[GregWeld]

The 257' Pegasus..... and this is typical but not large here!




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/8cd94a1b.jpg




To the question of whether or not the blue and white yacht in the background was mine.... I show you MINE!




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/4894765b.jpg





While walking to the Marina area from the hotel (Of course we were lost! But who cares!) I saw this "view".





http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/fca1e465.jpg





Came back from dinner - A cute little place called "Mozza"... this was in front of our room!




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/f4078c37.jpg

[GregWeld]

Thanks for posting Greg. I would walk down to the tunnel and just sit there and listen to some real music. :thumbsup:

The V8's sound awesome, but if any of you guys ever heard the V10's in perseon they were just unbelievable.

Ferrari F1 fan here for life :hail:



The sound - as you know - absolutely FILLS this town.... it hurts Gwens ears - but is music to mine!:thumbsup:


We (Isilon Systems - since sold to EMC) used to sponsor Sam Schmidt Motorsports - Indy Lites - and in fact won the championship in 2007...


These cars are SO SO SO SO MUCH BETTER -- as in OMG!! HOLY COW!!


His fatness is just above the drivers helmet in this photo -- and or just right (as in your right arm facing the picture) of Alex's (driver) outstretched arm in this winners circle photo... I've lost weight since then -- HONEST!! :D



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/9c5152e0.jpg

[Track Junky]

Wow thats HUGE!! :woot:

[Bucketlist2012]

Wow thats HUGE!! :woot:

The Yacht or Greg ??? :wow:

[GregWeld]

Wow thats HUGE!! :woot:

You peaked?!!?

[Track Junky]

You peaked?!!?

I dont know....you got more pic's coming right? :lol: That pic of you in the 2007 Champion Circle is going to be tough to top. :thumbsup:

[Blake Foster]

What a S*&t hotel room!!!
how do you sleep in with all the noise :lol: :lol:

looks amazing!!

[HWY Nova]

So Greg, tell us what you are driving as a rental car?... Ferrari? Lambo? Bentley?...... VW?


--Eric

[Rybar]

So Greg, tell us what you are driving as a rental car?... Ferrari? Lambo? Bentley?...... VW?


--Eric

I would put money on a Benz 500. They use them as Taxi cabs in that city lol

[Al Moreno]

i want to do bad things to the umbrella girls...to both of them at the same time....:thumbsup:

Ratman, I guess your into blondes :lol:

[coolwelder62]

Greg,Where the Hell are you at.:willy:

[GregWeld]

Greg,Where the Hell are you at.:willy:

Start a new thread -- Where's Weldo??

I ain't in Kansas anymore!


:lol:

[GregWeld]

So Greg, tell us what you are driving as a rental car?... Ferrari? Lambo? Bentley?...... VW?


--Eric


I'll post up a couple pics later...:unibrow:

[GregWeld]

What a S*&t hotel room!!!
how do you sleep in with all the noise :lol: :lol:

looks amazing!!


She doesn't snore all night....

[Vegas69]

It's good to see you among richer folks than you. Maybe you'll come back to the States grounded. :lol:

[GregWeld]

It's good to see you among richer folks than you. Maybe you'll come back to the States grounded. :lol:

"grounded" ='s poorer?


That's assured!


:cheers:

[GregWeld]

And the obligatory CELL PHONE pics of cars casually parked around....

Here's a SLS -- a 458 -- and in the background a CL65 (V12)



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/8ae96383.jpg



In front of our hotel..... just your basic Lambos and an RSR



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/00c05d73.jpg

[Flash68]

overheard a few meters from GW.... "check out the funny looking American takin crappy cell phone pics.... that poor farmer prolly has no idea what these cars cost and spent all of his savings on his Monaco vacation... oh, and look, he stole some guy's watch while he was here" :D


Love that RSR! :thumbsup:

[GregWeld]

Okay -- this is pretty bad video -- obviously I need to learn the video on my Nikon D7000 (just purchased for this trip -- to replace my D70s)... but here is the first race for GP2 cars today. This gives you a bit of glance into the sounds from the F1 cars which is far louder and higher pitched!


Pzr7ls_ffc4

[GregWeld]

overheard a few meters from GW.... "check out the funny looking American takin crappy cell phone pics.... that poor farmer prolly has no idea what these cars cost and spent all of his savings on his Monaco vacation... oh, and look, he stole some guy's watch while he was here" :D


Love that RSR! :thumbsup:



I will tell you that you think you're doing "okay" until you come to a world class city (principality actually) like this and then you realize you're just a schlepper...

I'm okay with being a schlepper. I'm happy. Life is good.

Talked to a guy at Mozza (we ate dinner there) last night - he's wearing a shirt with a big MBZ emblem on it -- so I say "hey! so which one do have?" and he says "an S65"... ah ha I say -- nice car! Then he tells me about several Ferraris he has - and the Bently GT his wife drives and the Rolls Royce... So I slink back to my table -- and tell my wife what a prick he is. :rofl:

[GregWeld]

So it's fair to post up this yacht in the automotive section (here) because it was originally built for Russell Alger the Chairman of Packard!

Now owned by the Getty family... and it is only a lousy 80 meters or..... 262 FEET...



http://www.mytalitha.com/history.php


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/f4078c37.jpg

[Sieg]

Keep the insight coming! I'm really enjoying my first trip to Monaco. :thumbsup:

[Beegs]

Love the pics....keep them coming!! Loved watching Senna in the rain...makes my hair stand just thinking about it.

[EBMC]

Well, I guess maybe the Monte Carlo in Vegas isnt the same experience:D

[WILWAXU]

I was last in Monaco late 2000, would love to be there for a F1 race!:thumbsup:

[Bucketlist2012]

So If Greg is a "schlepper", then I am poor..:wow:

Damn, I have the itch to be rich.

Then you have Greg.

Then you have the super rich..

"grounded " ? Now I am grounded for sure..:willy:

What a prick he is , hahaha :rofl:

[intocarss]

YUP F1 is totaly awesome live! Enjoy and have fun, thanks for sharing.

[Blake Foster]

Nice of them to install the 54 FOOT tv infront of your balcony so you dont miss one minute of the race.

[Vegas69]

I will tell you that you think you're doing "okay" until you come to a world class city (principality actually) like this and then you realize you're just a schlepper...

I'm okay with being a schlepper. I'm happy. Life is good.

Talked to a guy at Mozza (we ate dinner there) last night - he's wearing a shirt with a big MBZ emblem on it -- so I say "hey! so which one do have?" and he says "an S65"... ah ha I say -- nice car! Then he tells me about several Ferraris he has - and the Bently GT his wife drives and the Rolls Royce... So I slink back to my table -- and tell my wife what a prick he is. :rofl:

:lol:

[ironworks]

I will tell you that you think you're doing "okay" until you come to a world class city (principality actually) like this and then you realize you're just a schlepper...

I'm okay with being a schlepper. I'm happy. Life is good.

Talked to a guy at Mozza (we ate dinner there) last night - he's wearing a shirt with a big MBZ emblem on it -- so I say "hey! so which one do have?" and he says "an S65"... ah ha I say -- nice car! Then he tells me about several Ferraris he has - and the Bently GT his wife drives and the Rolls Royce... So I slink back to my table -- and tell my wife what a prick he is. :rofl:

Just tell him your friends with Todd Akes. That might get you somewhere. You know the guy that owns Payback. Or maybe those guys know who Doug Renner is.

[Bucketlist2012]

Just tell him your friends with Todd Akes. That might get you somewhere. You know the guy that owns Payback. Or maybe those guys know who Doug Renner is.

He may get a room downgrade:wow: :willy:

[buickfunnycar.com]

Monaco...that is on my bucketlist of things to do before I die!

Keep them pictures coming man...:hail:

[GregWeld]

Just spent 2 hours in an F430.... drove to Nice - on the "high road" and back then south(?) of Monaco on the "middle road"... then back on some little windy roads thru a couple villages... The deal came with an instructor/tour guide - and the SOB NEVER shut up! But in the end I had a nice time and without him I'd never have gotten the tour that I got. Have an hour and a half video but it's relatively poor quality and needs editing to shorten it. I'm not going to spend time now to do that just to share with you buttheads. :unibrow:

Nice car - torquier than I expected - and quite light and lively compared to the teutonic R8. Sadly - it's raining here so not much spirited driving. But it beat going to work! (sorry - had to toss that grenade in there!) It does make me want a 458 though! I love the looks of them! They're EVERYWHERE here. Not a single R8! But I don't think the French and the Italians like the Germans anyway.

The driver instructor did tell me that there are SEVEN Bugatti Veyrons in Monaco! And that all that have them are "idiots".... "who would buy such a car"... he says in typical french accented english with gestures and much disdain.

[GregWeld]

I don't know if the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup is being shown on television... but it's fun to watch these Porsches run! They're very competitive... and sound great!

Note the side loaded rear tires on this one.... Sadly he smacked the wall in the tunnel (IIRC) and tore a wheel and tire off! It went bouncing wildly down the track -- going 25 or 30 feet high a couple times... yikes!



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/d402db0b.jpg

[ironworks]

Just spent 2 hours in an F430.... drove to Nice - on the "high road" and back then south(?) of Monaco on the "middle road"... then back on some little windy roads thru a couple villages... The deal came with an instructor/tour guide - and the SOB NEVER shut up! But in the end I had a nice time and without him I'd never have gotten the tour that I got. Have an hour and a half video but it's relatively poor quality and needs editing to shorten it. I'm not going to spend time now to do that just to share with you buttheads. :unibrow:

Nice car - torquier than I expected - and quite light and lively compared to the teutonic R8. Sadly - it's raining here so not much spirited driving. But it beat going to work! (sorry - had to toss that grenade in there!) It does make me want a 458 though! I love the looks of them! They're EVERYWHERE here. Not a single R8! But I don't think the French and the Italians like the Germans anyway.

The driver instructor did tell me that there are SEVEN Bugatti Veyrons in Monaco! And that all that have them are "idiots".... "who would buy such a car"... he says in typical french accented english with gestures and much disdain.

I think one of my other customers business partner's did the same thing a few weeks ago while in Monaco. Was the car rental place next a perfume factory. They went to go tour the factory with his wife and wound up at the dealer test driving a 430 for 2 hours around town with an instructor.

Small world

[Bucketlist2012]

I feel like I am watching the "Lifestyle's of the Rich and Famous "

Oh wait....I am..

Greg, PM me when you get my Adoption application...

[GregWeld]

A vicious FAILED pass attempt by the uphill Porsche... coming downhill into the hairpin... this guy barely caught the car! I was bracing for a wreck. Of course I didn't get the shot when he was nearly using the side windows for forward vision! (Hey! I know that trick!)



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/491ed8ed.jpg

[Bucketlist2012]

A vicious FAILED pass attempt by the uphill Porsche... coming downhill into the hairpin... this guy barely caught the car! I was bracing for a wreck. Of course I didn't get the shot when he was nearly using the side windows for forward vision! (Hey! I know that trick!)



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/491ed8ed.jpg

That is why you keep your side windows clean...

Did you put the flowers out on the turn for Bob yet ?

[GregWeld]

I think one of my other customers business partner's did the same thing a few weeks ago while in Monaco. Was the car rental place next a perfume factory. They went to go tour the factory with his wife and wound up at the dealer test driving a 430 for 2 hours around town with an instructor.

Small world



This is the outfit ----- and I did "all three" 60 minute drives in one longer version. So did a pickup at the hotel -- drove to Nice - turned around came back and went south of Monaco on a different road -- then back to Monaco. Was worth the time spent as it was a great way to see the way people live here - and the roads they drive on daily -- and of course all narrated by a guy that lives in the village of Eze.... which is just absolutely a spectacular village! Google it and you'll see what I mean.


If the page loads in French -- at the top there is a "button" to convert to English.


http://www.drivingexperience.livenup.fr/livenupdrivingexperience/index.cfm/formules/60-minutesexperience/

[David Pozzi]

Amazing Greg, thanks for taking time to share with us!

[GregWeld]

Amazing Greg, thanks for taking time to share with us!



David -- if you weren't such a Pozzi -- you'd bring Mary here!


:rofl:


This has been really a nice trip and I'm enjoying it. And would recommend it to anyone. It's my FIRST TIME to Europe... so just taking it all in.

[GregWeld]

Did you put the flowers out on the turn for Bob yet ?


You can't get anywhere near the track - so that's going to be impossible! This is the most controlled circumstances I've ever seen. I mean you just wouldn't believe where you CAN'T GO!

Your "ticket" gets you THERE ONLY.... otherwise you can't get to another area of the track. Luckily we have a VIP deal at 48 Rue Grimaldi for Sat/Sun... so I can see other parts of the track 'cause I'm already bored with the hairpin!

You want to see this race from any vantage point ---- or multiple vantage points - bring THOUSANDS of dollars. And I'm not joking when I say that. THOUSANDS.... PER PERSON. PER VENUE. Or watch it on TV. You don't just buy "a ticket" and get to wander around and see what you want. A ticket gets you ONE location and that's it!

[Bucketlist2012]

Got it...It was the thought that counted..

You don't want to be thrown out trying to be the "Flower Boy "..

Enjoy your stay.. This thread Inspires me to seek the next level of wealth..

Happy where I am, but my Wife and I are always scrapping for the next step up..

Life is the Journey and the Game, not the destination..

Rock on Mr. Weld...:cheers: Somebody's got to do it..

[Nessumsar]

Amazing stuff Greg!:thumbsup: Its mind boggling to think of the wealth that is concentrated there.:wow:

Now get off of here and go enjoy!!

[FlameBroiled]

http://money.cnn.com/galleries/2012/fortune/1205/gallery.million-dollar-megayachts.fortune/?iid=HP_LN

[GregWeld]

Amazing stuff Greg!:thumbsup: Its mind boggling to think of the wealth that is concentrated there.:wow:

Now get off of here and go enjoy!!



Well --- it's evening here -- so we're just cleaning up and getting dressed to go out for dinner... Thus fewer posts from me - and probably at what looks like odd times.

The display of money that I've seen here is unimaginable... And I lived in New York City for 7 years... and have been to Tokyo and Hong Kong... and Beverly Hills -- and frankly - where I live now is pretty on the uppity scale (Microsoft and Amazon and Starbucks wealth) but we don't live this way... not by a long shot!

[GregWeld]

Got it...It was the thought that counted..

You don't want to be thrown out trying to be the "Flower Boy "..

Enjoy your stay.. This thread Inspires me to seek the next level of wealth..

Happy where I am, but my Wife and I are always scrapping for the next step up..

Life is the Journey and the Game, not the destination..

Rock on Mr. Weld...:cheers: Somebody's got to do it..



Mike --- I'm 59 this August.... and this is the first time I've been to Europe - and the last Grand Prix I went to was the ones they ran thru Long Beach California...

This 5 days (of Monaco) is a ONE AND DONE for me... It's amazing but not something I'd pay to do every couple of years. It's off my bucket list and we'll move on to the next one on there!

EEEEEEEEEEEEEHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAA

[Bucketlist2012]

Greg,

Enjoy.. Your Bucket is bigger than mine, haha...For now...:thumbsup:


I started by building my Z/28, and then Yosemite , and then the Grand Canyon is next.. Baby Steps..:lol:

After that ? Who knows... First I need to add to my Bucket.. :rofl:

I won't take out of my Investments, because that is my Income..:cheers:

I have some Irons in the fire, and I am luckier than I am smart, and so far, it has taken me far in life...Not Monaco far, but at 52, I am just getting warmed up..

Mike.

[sik68]

The display of money that I've seen here is unimaginable... And I lived in New York City for 7 years... and have been to Tokyo and Hong Kong... and Beverly Hills -- and frankly - where I live now is pretty on the uppity scale (Microsoft and Amazon and Starbucks wealth) but we don't live this way... not by a long shot!

How you say, 'keep up with the Joneses' in français.

To be honest, it's so very infectious too. I'm embarrassed to admit that in a matter of 24 hours I found myself playing the "who's obviously not from here" game. :lol:

[Bucketlist2012]

How you say, 'keep up with the Joneses' in français.

To be honest, it's so very infectious too. I'm embarrassed to admit that in a matter of 24 hours I found myself playing the "who's obviously not from here" game. :lol:

I am playing the " how do I get there from here " Game...:thumbsup:

[GregWeld]

So I know this is a car forum -- but these boats outside our room are AMAZING and I'm sucked into the view like a moth to a flame...






http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/29ac9c92.jpg

[Tom.A]

Thanks for posting. Keep them coming :thumbsup:

[buickfunnycar.com]

Oh trust me...I'd be spending mucho time staring at those too,lol...I was too busy checking out the outrageous motor coaches at the ALM race here to watch the actual racing. :yes:

[Bucketlist2012]

So I know this is a car forum -- but these boats outside our room are AMAZING and I'm sucked into the view like a moth to a flame...






http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/29ac9c92.jpg

Mr.Weld....I don't see ANY boats....All I see is Yacht's, and maybe a Feadship. Don't use the word " Boat's", around the upper crust , or they will just think you are " dingy"...:cheers:

No more "Hillbilly "talk...OK ?

Oh and I know you have owned Grand Banks, some of the best Trawler's in the world, so I know that you know, You are just a kid in a candy store right now, and I am just busting your balls...And I am jealous...And you are in Shock..

[FETorino]

So it's fair to post up this yacht in the automotive section (here) because it was originally built for Russell Alger the Chairman of Packard!

Now owned by the Getty family... and it is only a lousy 80 meters or..... 262 FEET...



http://www.mytalitha.com/history.php


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/f4078c37.jpg

Love that classic styling. "Only 262 ft" Hilarious. I have a buddy who raised a family on a 65 footer in the Seattle area. He and his wife still live on it. He'd laugh his ass off hearing that.

I have another good childhood friend who just sailed from Mex to NZ on a 35 ft catamaran. In this case I would say only 35 ft.
http://blog.toastfloats.com/

[Stuart Adams]

Cool stuff. :thumbsup:

[DFRESH]

Love that pic of the yachts at night. Wish I was there--so does Gwen.

Dub a dub Dug

[89 RS]

Great pictures Greg, keep sharing when you get time! You're living the dream!

[Sieg]

[SIZE="2"]So I know this is a car forum -- but these boats outside our room are AMAZING and I'm sucked into the view like a moth to a flame...
Keep the pics coming Greg, awesome! What lens' did you get with the camera? Are you locking the mirror and using a remote for the night shots?
:thumbsup:

[Sieg]

Love that pic of the yachts at night. Wish I was there--so does Gwen.

Dub a dub Dug

Didn't you mean you wish you were Gwen?

[GregWeld]

Love that pic of the yachts at night. Wish I was there--so does Gwen.

Dub a dub Dug



She did mention that again last night.... I reminded her that we were taught that you don't always get what you wish for. I've used this little reminder many times over the last 41 years...

[Bucketlist2012]

What up Greg...

I am loving the pictures..


I am just up late crunching numbers for this short sale that I am looking at.

See avatar. it may be my next chance of a lifetime.. i thought the place I am in was my chance of a lifetime,REO, but with the rates so low, and this mansion in Bankrupcy, I may have to go into contract this week..


It will be my vacation every day..

Those pictures of the harbor at night are stunning...

Enjoy yourself.We are enjoying your vacation from far away...

[GregWeld]

Keep the pics coming Greg, awesome! What lens' did you get with the camera? Are you locking the mirror and using a remote for the night shots?
:thumbsup:

So -- now this is photography class 102?? :lol:

I took those night shots handheld using my Nikon D7000 (purchased new for this trip to replace my D70s) - flashless - with my 18 - 200 f3.5-5.6... using the index finger on the right hand (some call it the pointy finger) to modulate the shutter release... with my arse bent over so I could steady the camera on the balcony railing.

Like most other things in my life -- I try to just keep it simple 'cause more than that is over my head.:woot:

[GregWeld]

What up Greg...

I am loving the pictures..


I am just up late crunching numbers for this short sale that I am looking at.

See avatar. it may be my next chance of a lifetime.. i thought the place I am in was my chance of a lifetime,REO, but with the rates so low, and this mansion in Bankrupcy, I may have to go into contract this week..


It will be my vacation every day..

Those pictures of the harbor at night are stunning...

Enjoy yourself.We are enjoying your vacation from far away...


Hey! Good luck with the possible purchase! Right now is the opportunity of a lifetime to make these kinds of deals...

Do like I do if you need money -- just PM Charley... he's loaded with it and is an easy touch. :D

[Bucketlist2012]

Thanks Greg.. Yes I am moving up one more time while the timing is perfect..

Too good to pass up and no harm if it does not go through..

I get to get my bid in before it hits the MLS, so that when it hits, it will say "sale pending" to scare people off..

The numbers crunch, although I wasn't ready to jump, but sometimes the opportunity is too good to pass up...

If I need to ask for money then I shouldn't be buying it,haha.

I will only put enough down to make the payment reasonable and to stay out of a Jumbo loan..At 3.5% apr, the rest stays in investments .

Sorry for the high jack...I am excited...

[Sieg]

So -- now this is photography class 102?? :lol:

I took those night shots handheld using my Nikon D7000 (purchased new for this trip to replace my D70s) - flashless - with my 18 - 200 f3.5-5.6... using the index finger on the right hand (some call it the pointy finger) to modulate the shutter release... with my arse bent over so I could steady the camera on the balcony railing.

Like most other things in my life -- I try to just keep it simple 'cause more than that is over my head.:woot:
TMI :woot: :woot:

[GregWeld]

Mr.Weld....I don't see ANY boats....All I see is Yacht's, and maybe a Feadship. Don't use the word " Boat's", around the upper crust , or they will just think you are " dingy"


Nothing in life would piss me off faster than some arse telling me about his "yacht".... that was a 32' Bayliner.... I purposely always referred to my BOAT.

Yes -- these are real YACHTS with a capital Y.


The amazing thing is the relativity of the boats in these photographs - because they are all so dang large they make each other look "normal" like a group of basketball players without reference from us short guys standing around. The 280' just looks like a nice boat. And 262' looks small when you see the 300+'r .... and then a nice one steams in... and I get a glimpse of the name and look it up - and it's ONLY 196' and it actually does look SMALL! OMG.... I can't imagine the "shrinkage" the owner has just experienced! :rofl:

[Bucketlist2012]

Just the magnificence of some of those Yacht's..

Incredible pictures.. In the daytime, or the night time..

Beautiful...Crazy Rich, but just Beautiful..

Yes there is always someone with a bigger yacht or nicer car..

What would look the the Biggest yacht that you have ever seen, is soon trumped by an even larger yacht..

Takes my breath away, and surely the smaller yachts have penis envy..

Smaller being 200' OMG... Crazy...

[GregWeld]

Taken with the lowly iPhone during my Ferrari drive.... which was really quite fun BTW - to be in the hills of these windy "streets"... and with this kind of view. Too bad - as my "instructor" said -- that it wasn't sunny and that he (in broken english - holding two hands in front to indicate large breasts) wasn't a "Bimbo" to ride with me. :lol:




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/33b5fb53.jpg

[GregWeld]

One must have just a "hint" of color.... <stolen from a great movie>



This is in the lobby of our hotel... I'm not sure why... but it is.



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/d04c753b.jpg

[GregWeld]

Again - taken with my iPhone from our terrace table for dinner last night...


The largest "boat" in this picture is the Indian Empress --- a paltry 311' <the owner should be ashamed>... and in the interest of an automotive forum... has only THREE puny 10,000 hp engines. Yes you read that correctly.... THREE 10,000 hp engines.




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/bf1d80e0.jpg

[GregWeld]

While enjoying a bit of breakfast... This "boat" came cruising into view. I hastily mounted "da big ass lens" and snapped this for "contrast" against the background cruise ship...

The Lady Moura..... 344'

When launched in 1990 it was the 9th largest private "boat".... It's since fallen to mid 20's on the list. Poor bastage! Compare this against the Paul Allen Octopus at 416'.


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/c6f57736.jpg

[RECOVERY ROOM]

I suddenly feel very useless in the world...OMG. We all need to pay close attention to the investing thread Thanks for sharing GW

[GregWeld]

Tracey -- Let me give you a little more "perspective".....


The Lady Moura @ 344' is now anchored out.... tell me which one it is....




HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA..... and you think OMG! Dude... talk about feeling insignificant! :wow: :lol:



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/c6f57736.jpg





http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/8d6675b1.jpg




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/5f57a8f0.jpg

[Flash68]

Mary Martha Focker. :willy:

So is Gwen having a great time or she beyond ready to go home?

[GregWeld]

Mary Martha Focker. :willy:

So is Gwen having a great time or she beyond ready to go home?



She's looking forward to Portofino and Cinque Terra....


This is all about GRAND PRIX.... not relaxing and walkabouts... and site seeing. The cars run about 45 minutes and take 20 or 30 minutes off... and the screaming engines (gawd how I love that sound!) fill the city! You can not just walk around.... To get out of the hotel -- we have to leave from the 7th floor... and walk uphill (it's hot and HUMID) 3 blocks or so just to get to a street to be able to walk from or cab from...

In a bit we're going to go to our other place to watch the qualifying runs... and that may take us at least an hour if we're lucky. If we could just walk - it would take us 15 minutes - but there is no way to get there due to the race track set up.


Having said all of that.... what's not to like? :woot:

[Flash68]

Well at least you're having fun. :lol:

I think we're the only 2 people awake right now on the whole forum. :captain:

[Bucketlist2012]

OMG...

Just Incredible...

The maintinence on them must be Incredible...

And that is why I have Insomnia.. Thinking about the maintinence on the property I am about to make an offer on...

I am in the should I ? Phase.. Sure my Wife says "don't worry"...Well I worry..

So, here I sit...Worrying..

But looking at these Yacht's....I am a grain of sand in a large desert..

But if my wife wants this new crib, she can pay for the maintinence..

This daddy is not . I still need more toys..

And from the looks of your pictures.....I am way behind..

I had to tell my Wife. NO, that is NOT a cruise Liner...It is a Private Yacht.

[GregWeld]

Well at least you're having fun. :lol:

I think we're the only 2 people awake right now on the whole forum. :captain:



Go cram Susie Q for a final.... er.... I mean... is Susie Q.... oh never mind.

[Bucketlist2012]

Well at least you're having fun. :lol:

I think we're the only 2 people awake right now on the whole forum. :captain:

No worry wart Mike is here too.. I have too much on my mind to sleep.

[Flash68]

Go cram Susie Q for a final.... er.... I mean... is Susie Q.... oh never mind.

:lol: You dirty dog... did you accidentally drink a gin and tonic again? :rofl:

No worry wart Mike is here too.. I have too much on my mind to sleep.

Oh yeah you're on the late night program too Mike. Atta boy. :cheers: :woot:

[GregWeld]

Mike.....


We looked for over a year at buying a house in the Napa Valley... a second home... I started at 2MM... nothing.... and raised that to 4MM... for which you got orange formica kitchen... or so far out that I couldn't take the drive into "town" (St Helena or Yountville) for dinner....

While laying in bed at our hotel (Meadowood Country Club -- you'd love it!) I realized the true cost of 4MM invested in a second home would cost me 200K in income loss (5% that I make off that now in TAX FREE bond income)... so that is "opportunity costs" which one has to calculate to see the true costs! I would need gardeners - and housekeeping - and property taxes and the gutters need cleaning and the windows washed - and more cars to make it "easy" to come and go... and furnishings.... so figure at least another 100K per year... so the income off another 2MM....

To which I said to the Misses.... "Ya know.... we could stay here a MONTH and our room is ONLY 60K".... so if we ate out every night for the month - we might spend 100K. Sounds ridiculous - until you compare the "loss" of ownership costs to just traveling and not owning or worrying about diddly squat. We're traveling.... I gave her a yearly budget (HA!) and we'll just blow that messing about rather than having a second house we'd rarely use since we're traveling anyway.

[Bucketlist2012]

:lol: You dirty dog... did you accidentally drink a gin and tonic again? :rofl:



Oh yeah you're on the late night program too Mike. Atta boy. :cheers: :woot:

Yep, too much on my mind...And seeing the harbor pictures is jaw dropping..

I have been on some 130 foot Yachts for party's but these one's in Greg's photo's are beyond what my Brain can process...

And I am about to go into contract on another house...My Brain is rattled...

[Bucketlist2012]

Mike.....


We looked for over a year at buying a house in the Napa Valley... a second home... I started at 2MM... nothing.... and raised that to 4MM... for which you got orange formica kitchen... or so far out that I couldn't take the drive into "town" (St Helena or Yountville) for dinner....

While laying in bed at our hotel (Meadowood Country Club -- you'd love it!) I realized the true cost of 4MM invested in a second home would cost me 200K in income loss (5% that I make off that now in TAX FREE bond income)... so that is "opportunity costs" which one has to calculate to see the true costs! I would need gardeners - and housekeeping - and property taxes and the gutters need cleaning and the windows washed - and more cars to make it "easy" to come and go... and furnishings.... so figure at least another 100K per year... so the income off another 2MM....

To which I said to the Misses.... "Ya know.... we could stay here a MONTH and our room is ONLY 60K".... so if we ate out every night for the month - we might spend 100K. Sounds ridiculous - until you compare the "loss" of ownership costs to just traveling and not owning or worrying about diddly squat. We're traveling.... I gave her a yearly budget (HA!) and we'll just blow that messing about rather than having a second house we'd rarely use since we're traveling anyway.

Funny we/she started looking in Napa, and Calistoga...Since we love to travel there..But seriously, I am not that well off.. I am looking at REO's , etc... because I cannot afford anything else..

But my Wife's family are in Redding, I know it ain't Napa, but they have some nice Communities up there ,Gated and nongated, Golf course's ect.. Villa type properties.

But I am trying to factor the maintinence in. That is the worry.. I won't pull money from my Investments because that is my Income generator..

But my Wife knows that she will be responsible for it, if she wants to jump up to the Villa on the hill.. I am trying to keep emotion out of the deal..Easy for me, I am a cold basterd, but getting a Woman to not have emotion, is like trying to...well, you get the picture..Hence I am up at 2:30 am...

I need to figure, an extra grand a month ? Large Pool, Pond that is the size of the house, gardeners, home energy...Ahhhhhh....

[WSSix]

Thanks for posting the pictures Greg. Looks like a lovely city. I love the fews from above in the mountains. Have fun.

[GregWeld]

Okay --- this is a HORRIBLE VIDEO.... but who cares?! Not me... I'm watching and hearing in real time! :rofl:

Just a shorty for the SOUND.... I can't figure out the cameras video with focus and zoom in or out and blah blah blah... so shut up already!




i1872D3C4no&feature=youtube_gdata_player

[intocarss]

I suddenly feel very useless in the world...OMG. We all need to pay close attention to the investing thread Thanks for sharing GW

That makes two of us

Thanks for sharing the pics & video Greg

[Sieg]

.... I can't figure out the cameras video with focus and zoom in or out and blah blah blah... so shut up already![/YOUTUBE]
Sounds like home, have you read the manual? :D
http://www.nikonusa.com/pdf/manuals/kie88335f7869dfuejdl=-cww2/D7000_EN.pdf

Are you using Wide Area AF or Custom Setting a8 (pg 211) for video?

I'm watching qualifying right now, looks like the weather is perfect!
I've always wanted to hear (experience) F1 and MotoGP live. One of those bucket list items :yes:

175 mph top speed coming out of the tunnel with that light transition.
:wow:

[GregWeld]

Sounds like home, have you read the manual? :D
http://www.nikonusa.com/pdf/manuals/kie88335f7869dfuejdl=-cww2/D7000_EN.pdf

Are you using Wide Area AF or Custom Setting a8 (pg 211) for video?

I'm watching qualifying right now, looks like the weather is perfect!
I've always wanted to hear (experience) F1 and MotoGP live. One of those bucket list items :yes:

175 mph top speed coming out of the tunnel with that light transition.
:wow:



I read some of the manual and thought I had the settings correct but obviously not -- and since I was already up at our suite -- there was no checking to see what I messed up. I was really just trying to get the sound for the most part.. but of course would also like to get the video focusing correctly. Back in the room here now obviously so will read a bit more about it.

[sik68]

I cannot imagine how good that must sound echoing throughout the city too. It's good you heard em before they switch to 6cylinders next year. They'll never be the same!

[Sieg]

I read some of the manual and thought I had the settings correct but obviously not -- and since I was already up at our suite -- there was no checking to see what I messed up. I was really just trying to get the sound for the most part.. but of course would also like to get the video focusing correctly. Back in the room here now obviously so will read a bit more about it.Run out and grab a remote microphone while you're at it!!!! You should be able to use it in the car when you get the Contour Plus too. :thumbsup:

Give us some WeldFabulous Audio!

[GregWeld]

Okay -- will attempt to post a few pics of some interest... maybe...



Here's a nice pass I caught....


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/8c7186e3.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/0d6c5c44.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/81ea10f4.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/6d9acc39.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/b3dc85b2.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/23369f6c.jpg

[Sieg]

You know I'm struggling with serious camera envy now right? :willy:

[GregWeld]

Here's a bad line vs good line series....



Bad Line!



Look at the entering angle and his front wheels and then the next turn and the amount of front wheel angle and he STILL missed the apex!





http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/30dd4ff4.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/11e32c7d.jpg



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/0a551e98.jpg

http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/9b000724.jpg

[GregWeld]

And here's a little better line thru this same "turns" which this guy is taking correctly -- Note the front wheel angles! Or LACK THEREOF!!




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/d4b61bfc.jpg



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/1fb059fa.jpg



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/d1fe450d.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/a19f5f81.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/c959a35e.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/67be088d.jpg

[GregWeld]

You know I'm struggling with serious camera envy now right? :willy:



Well the sad thing is.... that I'm nowhere NEAR the track to get some real shots... All mine will be from da top (like Commander Onatop)

This camera is SMOKIN' fast! 6 frames per second in continuous... and da big ass lens (it's HEAVY) -- a AF-S Nikkor 70-200 f2.8 VR is super quick on AF!

Some of the shots I'm using a 2X convertor and some just the lens.

[FETorino]

I will tell you that you think you're doing "okay" until you come to a world class city (principality actually) like this and then you realize you're just a schlepper...

I'm okay with being a schlepper. I'm happy. Life is good.

Talked to a guy at Mozza (we ate dinner there) last night - he's wearing a shirt with a big MBZ emblem on it -- so I say "hey! so which one do have?" and he says "an S65"... ah ha I say -- nice car! Then he tells me about several Ferraris he has - and the Bently GT his wife drives and the Rolls Royce... So I slink back to my table -- and tell my wife what a prick he is. :rofl:



Mike.....


We looked for over a year at buying a house in the Napa Valley... a second home... I started at 2MM... nothing.... and raised that to 4MM... for which you got orange formica kitchen... or so far out that I couldn't take the drive into "town" (St Helena or Yountville) for dinner....

While laying in bed at our hotel (Meadowood Country Club -- you'd love it!) I realized the true cost of 4MM invested in a second home would cost me 200K in income loss (5% that I make off that now in TAX FREE bond income)... so that is "opportunity costs" which one has to calculate to see the true costs! I would need gardeners - and housekeeping - and property taxes and the gutters need cleaning and the windows washed - and more cars to make it "easy" to come and go... and furnishings.... so figure at least another 100K per year... so the income off another 2MM....

To which I said to the Misses.... "Ya know.... we could stay here a MONTH and our room is ONLY 60K".... so if we ate out every night for the month - we might spend 100K. Sounds ridiculous - until you compare the "loss" of ownership costs to just traveling and not owning or worrying about diddly squat. We're traveling.... I gave her a yearly budget (HA!) and we'll just blow that messing about rather than having a second house we'd rarely use since we're traveling anyway.

I'll slink back down in my chair on the porch and to tell my wife "what a prick this guy on the forum is " :rofl::lol: :rofl:

Monoco sounds like an experience. Not sure I'd be down for more than a couple days of it though. Great shots.

Schlepper out :cheers:

[Al Moreno]

Greg nice pics! thanks for posting. I think you and you camera are ready to go pro :thumbsup:

[Sieg]

Good choice on the lens. :thumbsup:

I'm sitting here looking at camera bodies and 2.8 lenes........:mad:

[intocarss]

Greg, Is this your first "live" F-1 race?

[GregWeld]

So here is THE BOAT in the harbor... The M/V Alexander.... with her crew of 58... and 39 staterooms... a 27 seat theater... a full hospital room! At a mere 400' it makes the others look ridiculous! :lol:


http://www.charterworld.com/index.html?sub=yacht-charter&charter=myalexander-1598


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/DSC_0092.jpg

[GregWeld]

Greg, Is this your first "live" F-1 race?

No... I used to go to the Long Beach Grand Prix in the 70's... and even accidentally ended up in the pits by helping to push Niki Lauda's 312T Ferrari up a slight hill when it stalled early in the morning coming up to pit lane. I was sitting on a curb waiting for the cars to come out... and he stalls and a couple guys on the team start yelling at me to "Poooosh".

I had a FILM camera at the time (mid and late 70's) and got some sweet shots of Emerson Fittipaldi's Copersucar... and Mario Andretti's John Player Special.. and Giles Villeneuve's Ferrari... before I ran out of film (a role of 24) and finally some gendarme tossed my sorry butt out of there!

[EBMC]

Im not up to speed on these things, but when does a boat become a yacht and a yacht become a ship?:question:

[Rybar]

Here's a bad line vs good line series....



Bad Line!



Look at the entering angle and his front wheels and then the next turn and the amount of front wheel angle and he STILL missed the apex!





http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/30dd4ff4.jpg


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/11e32c7d.jpg



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/0a551e98.jpg

http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/9b000724.jpg

Hey Greg, you do know your telling 7 time world champion Michael Schumacher how to drive? The best F1 driver of all time :lol: :lol:

[sik68]

Great stories Greg!

Im not up to speed on these things, but when does a boat become a yacht and a yacht become a ship?:question:

I suppose it just depends on comparison, which harbor you're pulling into :question:

[Sieg]

So here is THE BOAT in the harbor... The M/V Alexander.... with her crew of 58... and 39 staterooms... a 27 seat theater... a full hospital room! At a mere 400' it makes the others look ridiculous! :lol:


http://www.charterworld.com/index.html?sub=yacht-charter&charter=myalexander-1598

Starting at only 630,000 Euro per week. :wow:

[Track Junky]

His fatness is just above the drivers helmet in this photo -- and or just right (as in your right arm facing the picture) of Alex's (driver) outstretched arm in this winners circle photo... I've lost weight since then -- HONEST!! :D

http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/9c5152e0.jpg

Awesome pic's of yaught's and views but your right, I peaked right here. Rubbin' shoulders with the real deal is where I would want to be.

[Flash68]

That is a killer pic. And Greg you really have lost that poundage! :unibrow:

[GregWeld]

#1 lesson in "Boats vs Yachts vs Ships"....

A yacht is anything with a bedroom and a bathroom AKA a "stateroom" and a "head"...


#2 - You can put a boat on a ship but not the other way around.




So after roaming Monaco I finally found something that IS NOT in Charley's collection.



A gift from Gorbachev!



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/b8ee05fe.jpg




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/90de55aa.jpg




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/f9626c24.jpg

[GregWeld]

Hey Greg, you do know your telling 7 time world champion Michael Schumacher how to drive? The best F1 driver of all time :lol: :lol:



What do the photos tell you?!?!?



A simple question -- which version do you think was off line? Which version do you think was faster through these turns?



Maybe he was bored and fell asleep.... "Oh Shiat! I have a turn coming up...."

[GregWeld]

I would add that Michael Schumacher is #18 on the F1 standings with a whopping 2 points.... That would put him 59 points behind the current leader. :rofl:

Perhaps his line could use some improvement?

[GregWeld]

That is a killer pic. And Greg you really have lost that poundage! :unibrow:



I inhaled and was holding my breath!

[Craig67]

Thanks for sharing all this Greg!! This is definitely on my list of things to do!!!

[protour73]

Thanks for the great post Greg. Great stories and even greater pics to enjoy as well.

For your first trip to Europe, you sure chose the go with the Full Monte!!

[Bucketlist2012]

I love the Yacht with the Hospital Room.

For a sick old fart like me, that is what I would need...

Great Pictures...

[Sieg]

Is Schumi going to pull it off with the pole advantage and Ross Braun's strategy?

[Bucketlist2012]

Speaking of Jody...I received great help from Jody fixing my hook up to this site..

My hat is off to Jody and congrats on their son's Graduation.:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[Rybar]

Is Schumi going to pull it off with the pole advantage and Ross Braun's strategy?

I think he took Greg's driving advice :lol:

[intocarss]

No... I used to go to the Long Beach Grand Prix in the 70's... and even accidentally ended up in the pits by helping to push Niki Lauda's 312T Ferrari up a slight hill when it stalled early in the morning coming up to pit lane. I was sitting on a curb waiting for the cars to come out... and he stalls and a couple guys on the team start yelling at me to "Poooosh".

I had a FILM camera at the time (mid and late 70's) and got some sweet shots of Emerson Fittipaldi's Copersucar... and Mario Andretti's John Player Special.. and Giles Villeneuve's Ferrari... before I ran out of film (a role of 24) and finally some gendarme tossed my sorry butt out of there!Yup used to go to F-1 LBGP and also to the Las vegas F-1 race. Would be very cool to see that footage you took. Giles V was one of my all time favs. Have a great race day!

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y3/real3/scan0001-4.jpg

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y3/real3/GilesV.jpg

[GregWeld]

Is Schumi going to pull it off with the pole advantage and Ross Braun's strategy?



Historically nobody has ever won the Monaco GP from 6th position (his start position)... and after being here at the track I certainly understand why. This SOB is N A R R O W... and while the straights look long... they are not! And these guys know how to make themselves 30 ft wide. :unibrow:

[GregWeld]

#1 I'm glad that you are enjoying the "blog" from my view. This is what I'm trying to do - as just like you - I enjoy reading about your cars and your adventures. This is why we're all here I think. I'm not trying to 'brag' about being here... I am - and that is all... after that I'm doing my best to share a lifetime dream.


After yesterday -- we decided to watch the race from our vantage point at 48 Rue Grimaldi building. We can watch turn 6 from the hotel - but this is a very short - albeit famous - turn and not much "action" can be seen from here.... whereas from our 14 floor room on Rue Grimaldi which is just towards turn 1 from the start stop line we can see:

Turn 1 - 2 - 3 - 4 - the exit from the tunnel so the end of 9 - 10 - 11 - 12 - 13 - 14 - 15 and coming from 19

If anyone is planning on doing this race - we have lots to talk about - because I have learned a lot during this trip so far and would do many things differently.

So - a bit of breakfast and enjoy the boats and terrace - then a schlep to Rue Grimaldi "hang out" for the 2 PM race. I don't think I'll even take my camera today -- I've taken enough pictures for the memories... so today I shall just open both eyes and watch and soak up the sounds etc.

:woot:

[intocarss]

Historically nobody has ever won the Monaco GP from 6th position (his start position)... and after being here at the track I certainly understand why. This SOB is N A R R O W... and while the straights look long... they are not! And these guys know how to make themselves 30 ft wide. :unibrow:

This should give some perspective

kYqvcXwU510

[FETorino]

It's pretty cool getting to hang out with you on your trip. I'm stoked somebody is there keeping us all in the loop. :thumbsup:

I'm thinking the inaugural NY event sounds like a trip that needs to be done.

Enjoy the day off duty tomorrow.

What was #2?

[intocarss]

What was #2? Hopefully he tells us about all the beautiful F-1 women he is seeing there :unibrow:

[GregWeld]

Hopefully he tells us about all the beautiful F-1 women he is seeing there :unibrow:


At dinner on Friday night - the place where I took the cell phone shots of the harbor... the woman next to us had a diamond ring on that might equal my entire net worth (it was the size of a quarter and was FLAWLESS!) -- and THEN she had earrings that were ruby and diamonds and I'm certain they cost a million euro each... and THEN the bracelet OMG....

Oh and the bottoxed lips - priceless!

[Sieg]

Historically nobody has ever won the Monaco GP from 6th position (his start position)... and after being here at the track I certainly understand why. This SOB is N A R R O W... and while the straights look long... they are not! And these guys know how to make themselves 30 ft wide. :unibrow:

I didn't know he had a grid penalty..........:(

No doubt it's narrow, techincal, limited visability, with varying irregular surfaces.........and mentally fatiguing on the drivers.

[protour73]

I didn't know he had a grid penalty..........:(

No doubt it's narrow, techincal, limited visability, with varying irregular surfaces.........and mentally fatiguing on the drivers.

He was penalized 5 grid spots in this race for crashing into Bruno Senna at the Spanish Grand Prix.

mentally fatiguing? ....... just wait, now there's a threat of rain!!

[toddshotrods]

Great thread - thanks Greg! :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

It changes the perception of what you're seeing on TV, because Greg's description of the sound of the cars (which I love, love, love too) reverberating through the town, etc all rings in my head with the sounds an sights on my TV screen... Awesome. :yes:

The view of the cars going away from you and slinging to the right out of the tunnel is incredible! They have to feel like a bullet being shot out of a curved barrel. :hail:

[coolwelder62]

Greg,Thank's so much for sharing this with us.It's a side of the F1 world, some of us would ever get to see.:thumbsup: :thumbsup: Now can you take in some Australian V8 super car Race's.:lol:

[GregWeld]

Okay -- walking back to our hotel from the race position - the building I mentioned earlier was OMG HELL! This town is built around 8 elevators lifting you from the sea wall area... the start / finish line... and all these people 90% of them not knowing where to go! Like rats cornered in a maze! All the streets blocked - people just keep getting closer and closer together. Finally we turned around - swam up stream - hooked up with a group of young (20 somethings) that seemed to know the routine and bingo -- we climbed 126 steps (thank gawd at 59 I work with a personal trainer 3 days a week!!!!!!! I took them two at a time I'll have you know!!).... we pop out on the street where I'd taken that awesome photo of the rocky cliff walls peering way down to the marina! So think about this -- we climbed stairs from the bottom all the way to the top of that! EEEEEEEEEEEEEEHHHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAA

Now I must face time with my daughter for a few minutes then back to post some pics!

AN exciting race there near the end when she started to sprinkle... :cheers:

[Track Junky]

Awesome....glad to hear your still training ya old fart :lol:

[GregWeld]

I saw several people near death... you know the type -- ashen grey faces... lips turning whitish... having to stop and moving like slugs... Me the old coot! Kickin' arse and takin' 'em two at a time - non stop to the top! I was thanking Jawarren (my trainer) the whole time! I actually hate him and I tell him that every time! :lol:

[Track Junky]

At the age of 47 I know the importance of training. I had been slacking off for 3 weeks before T-hill and I felt the difference. Kudos Weld :thumbsup:

[GregWeld]

Here's the start --- with crash -- taken with my iPhone.... excuse the upside-down start... I flipped this to better see the crash...


It's a short video...


h3qlypgK7pg

[GregWeld]

And here's were we walked from the BOTTOM to the TOP!






http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/79e67a38.jpg






TOP looking down!





http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/fca1e465.jpg

[Bucketlist2012]

I saw several people near death... you know the type -- ashen grey faces... lips turning whitish... having to stop and moving like slugs... Me the old coot! Kickin' arse and takin' 'em two at a time - non stop to the top! I was thanking Jawarren (my trainer) the whole time! I actually hate him and I tell him that every time! :lol:

Hey, you gotta problem with ashen grey faced people ? :_paranoid

I resemble that remark,haha..:rofl: :willy:

That is what Heart problems and Brain trouble will get you, errr ah, I mean me...

As long as I don't wear a Grey sweatshirt, I don't look as bad..:cheers:

I have to color co-ordinate my colors...Grey face, and Blue shirts seem to look the best.:lateral:

[GregWeld]

Here's a couple links to my photobucket account if anyone cares to just cruise thru the photos on there....

One is most of the photos I've put on this thread --- the "PORTOFINO" one is some pics of todays drive and lunch DIVE - on our way from Nice to Portofino hotel where we'll be for the next 3 nights... It's the Splendido --- Love that name! What a hoot!

GRAND PRIX:

http://s919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Monaco%20Grand%20Prix/?start=all




PORTOFINO Journey:




http://s919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Portofino/?start=all

[sniper]

Those pictures and the video are awesome. Thanks for sharing!

[GregWeld]

Those pictures and the video are awesome. Thanks for sharing!

Glad you enjoyed them!


It's only about 1% of what I've taken... the magic - you know - of digital photography! Not having to pay development costs (RIP Kodak!)....

Next time I would bring a couple other bodies I have so I don't have to swap lens and tele convertors etc. I've also discovered that a good "shorter" lens would have been helpful as the two I brought can't capture the "actual" vistas as seen with your own two.

This morning when we FINALLY got our lazy arses out of the rack -- we had b'fast on the terrace with the view of the Dolce and Gabana (ask your wives) "weekend getaway hut". And when I peaked over the edge of the terrace wall saw another - they're a dime a dozen here - Ferrari and Lambo. They truly are the Chevrolets <or maybe Buicks> of the places we're visiting.



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Portofino/DSC_1069.jpg






http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Portofino/IMG_2361.jpg

[intocarss]

F-1 in car @ Monaco

http://www.wimp.com/formulamonaco/

[Craig67]

F-1 in car @ Monaco

http://www.wimp.com/formulamonaco/

That just makes you appreciate even more what those guys can do!! That was impressive!

[GregWeld]

So just to piss you guys off even more! Lewis Hamilton is here at the Splendido....


Priceless!



And NO I will not take his photo or ask for an autograph... I'm just not the kind of guy - however should he find out who I am - he may ask for mine!

:rofl:


He'll be like --- DUDE!! You're that post whore on Lat G!!!!

[Sieg]

Are you taller than Lewis? :D

[Sieg]

F-1 in car @ Monaco

http://www.wimp.com/formulamonaco/

To add to the difficulty/talent level, what you don't get from the video is the drivers perspective.
Consider the drivers line of sight in comparison to the camera periscope:
http://www.redbull.com/cs/RedBull/RBImages/000/000/411/430/photo610x343/Vettel%20Monaco%202705.jpg

Their reaction times are very impressive.

[toy71camaro]

wow.. i just ran across this thread... holy hell. Thats amazing. the view (of everything, not just the scenery) is absolutely breathtaking.

And to the camera talk.. the F2.8 70-200 = my dream lens. :hail: :bow:

LOL.

Greg, thanks for taking the time to share so much with us here on Lat-G. Most people wouldnt take the time to do that. kudos to you for thinking of us while enjoying your once in a lifetime vacation. :cheers:

[intocarss]

Are you taller than Lewis? :D

.
Consider the drivers line of sight in comparison to the camera periscope:


Their reaction times are very impressive.So are you saying that Greg wouldn't be able to see over the dash?? :rofl: :rofl: ;)

[GregWeld]

So are you saying that Greg wouldn't be able to see over the dash?? :rofl: :rofl: ;)



Have you seen the new phone books? They're getting smaller and smaller... it'd take 2 or 3 of them now to get me high enough!

[rwhite692]

Have you seen the new phone books? They're getting smaller and smaller... it'd take 2 or 3 of them now to get me high enough!


Technology is taking its toll....GW what are you gonna do when they stop printing phonebooks altogether

[Sieg]

So are you saying that Greg wouldn't be able to see over the dash?? :rofl: :rofl: ;)
No, but you are. :unibrow:

Technology is taking its toll....GW what are you gonna do when they stop printing phonebooks altogether
Probably sit on a stack of obsolete iPhones.

[Rybar]

Cool pic I just found of the start:

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d125/Rybar/Various%20pics/460765_10150832324645108_226003235107_10227580_188 3766471_o.jpg

[intocarss]

Have you seen the new phone books? They're getting smaller and smaller... it'd take 2 or 3 of them now to get me high enough! Guess you and I will be fighting over them :lol:

[GregWeld]

That was the problem with viewing the GP from ABOVE -- there was no way to get any real action shots... after 600 or shots I was bored with that. Didn't even take my camera on race day.


What a great capture of the turn 1 crash!

[Flash68]

So Greg was affect has this trip and F1 and exotic scene done to motivate/inspire you to change or do something car-related when you get back I'm wondering? Whenever I go to something -- a track day, the Vintage Trans Am races, etc I get new ideas and inspiration...

F1 shift paddles for the Toter perhaps? :unibrow:

[GregWeld]

I get home on the 5th -- will be hauling the roadster to LA on the 11th for LA Roadsters show at Fairplex 14/15th.... then I plan to cruise slowly up the coast for a week - stop - drop the roadster out of the box enjoy lunch and the scenery... load it back up and do it all over again.

I'm not turning into a racer head... more like an eraser head. I'm totally happy just bouncing around between driving our new cars - doing an "event" somewhere with a hot rod - and tossing in an event with the track car. Mix it up keep it simple and enjoy each aspect along the way.

Monaco GP was an "event" -- but other than it being an "event/experience" -- I wouldn't recommend the expense / value received for anything other than the experience. Unless you have cubic $ and just want to be there... it's not the best race set up for actual viewing. Most people we've talked to since - had to sit in bleachers and the cars flash by so quickly that they really weren't all that thrilled. So if someone is into the RACE rather than the experience of Monaco - they might be better off going to a track event... like Austin maybe.. I don't know since I've not been there.

I will say that Gwen said she actually got excited about the race as it was about to start... so that was kinda kool and unexpected!

[Sieg]

You'd think one of our newbie mod's would use their magical powers and resize that turn one picture. Justify all those perks so I don't have to use my 65" tv to view this thread in full-frame! :lol:

[GregWeld]

They get what they pay for.... no talent = no pay!

[buickfunnycar.com]

That's one big picture...!:wow:

[Rybar]

Sorry guys lol

Greg, I've always wanted to experience a Monaco F1 race, but a true track I am dreaming of going to see a race at is Spa in Belgium. That and maybe Monza in Italy. Those are two you should consider.

Canadian GP at Montreal is a real good one I've been there a few times. They know how to do it well.

[Sieg]

Sorry guys lol
Rybar, since Flash Gordon isn't out of bed yet maybe you can edit you and bucketlist can edit your posts and use this link for the photo: http://sieg.smugmug.com/Photography/Just-Because/i-VLBbFSt/0/XL/460765101508323246451082260032-XL.jpg

[Rybar]

Rybar, since Flash Gordon isn't out of bed yet maybe you can edit you and bucketlist can edit your posts and use this link for the photo: http://sieg.smugmug.com/Photography/Just-Because/i-VLBbFSt/0/XL/460765101508323246451082260032-XL.jpg

OK Done

[intocarss]

Rybar, since Flash Gordon isn't out of bed yet maybe Yeah where is Barney Five when ya need him

[Flash68]

I'll have you know I was up by 9am today! :D

[Sieg]

I'll have you know I was up by 9am today! :D

Since you already lost half a day you probably don't have time to "mod" this post then do you? :D
http://www.lateral-g.net/forums/showpost.php4?p=417208&postcount=176

:lolhit:

[Vegas69]

Jody evidentally forgot to send over the job description with the proposal. :unibrow:

[Flash68]

You sallies are all sleeping while I am working late. Someone has to watch this precious cargo while you all get your beauty rest. :unibrow:

The graveyard shift is the true heartbeat of America. :lol:

[Sieg]

You sallies are all sleeping while I am working late. Someone has to watch this precious cargo while you all get your beauty rest. :unibrow:

The graveyard shift is the true heartbeat of America. :lol:

If you're working why do I have to scroll half a page right to hit the f'n quote button rookie. :question: :unibrow:

[Flash68]

If you're working why do I have to scroll half a page right to hit the f'n quote button rookie. :question: :unibrow:

The title is Moderator.... not garbage man. :lol:

Cleanup in aisle 5! :_paranoid

[Sieg]

The title is Moderator.... not garbage man. :lol:

Cleanup in aisle 5! :_paranoid

The title should be Contributing Member Beotch! :rofl:

Get to work I'm being severely inconvenienced and your salary is in jepordy.

Snap-snap

:woot:

[GregWeld]

Snap-snap

:woot:



The sound of his bra straps.....

[intocarss]

Let me tell ya.. While your all sleeping, O'l Flash is in here patrolling & protecting this site from low life spammers who want to highjack your threads . I have personally witnessed him attack these spammers like a kittycat pounces on its prey

Flashmod.com Where The Weak Are Killed And Eaten

[GregWeld]

We've moved on from Portofino - to Sienna... a drive in my Peugeot diesel... I'm the only idiot in all of Italy driving a f'n French POS! It's brand new and is a "luxury" car... but consider it a midsize wallowing Buick... not really high on my luxury list. Thankfully we dropped it here this afternoon and will continue on with a car and driver for the next several days.

This is the Castello di Monastero (Castle Monastery) where we are for the next couple of nights. Unlike some of the rooms in europe - we actually have a "senior suite" (not sure if they saw me coming or that's really what they call them!)... so it's really large and quite nice!



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1201.jpg




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1206.jpg




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1205.jpg




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1207.jpg





http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1209.jpg





http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1218.jpg




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1228.jpg




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1232.jpg




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1234.jpg



The rooms are off this common courtyard area



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1236.jpg





I LOVE the construction techniques here.... really really built to last!!




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1215.jpg

[Bucketlist2012]

Rybar, since Flash Gordon isn't out of bed yet maybe you can edit you and bucketlist can edit your posts and use this link for the photo: http://sieg.smugmug.com/Photography/Just-Because/i-VLBbFSt/0/XL/460765101508323246451082260032-XL.jpg

Oh no...

My name is used as one of the thread High Jackers..

It is about time..They let me run loose all over this site.. I have stunk up the place and I had to moderate myself..

[Bucketlist2012]

Greg..

Beautiful Photos :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[toy71camaro]

Greg..

Beautiful Photos :thumbsup: :thumbsup:


x2

That place looks beautiful.

[HWY Nova]

Greg..

Beautiful Photos :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Greg,

Awesome photos!...... But who took them for you?



--Eric

[Sieg]

Rybar, since Flash Gordon isn't out of bed yet maybe you can edit you and bucketlist can edit your posts and use this link for the photo: http://sieg.smugmug.com/Photography/Just-Because/i-VLBbFSt/0/XL/460765101508323246451082260032-XL.jpg

Oh no...

My name is used as one of the thread High Jackers..

It is about time..They let me run loose all over this site.. I have stunk up the place and I had to moderate myself..

Would you please edit your post quoted with the picture ( http://www.lateral-g.net/forums/showpost.php4?p=417208&postcount=176 ) with the above smugmug url which will reduce the image size.

Greg's thread is obscenely wide for those of us that don't have 22" monitors.

Thanks! :thumbsup:

[GregWeld]

If you miss watching this video == you're missing some crazy good info!!!


_Wn1EFLa2C8

[GregWeld]

Greg,

Awesome photos!...... But who took them for you?



--Eric



I know Eric -- 'cause you're used to the top down Rodger point of view eh??

:D

Kinda fun from down here looking up!

[GregWeld]

We had dinner tonight here at the Castello....


So since this place was built in the 11th century... you go DOWN a smallish stairway...


Actually takes two shots because of the landing/turn.


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1255.jpg



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1256.jpg



Then you arrive for wonderful Tuscan dinner!


http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1259.jpg



This was in the old storage and meat hanging area! Thus the steel rings in the ceiling.



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1261.jpg




And a drunken Gwen on the way back up!




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1263.jpg




Outside I couldn't resist a bit of camera play....



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Sienna/DSC_1266.jpg

[toddshotrods]

That's f'n awesome! :yes: Thanks Greg. :thumbsup: I always wondered what the drivers' position looked like, since they went to the high noses. I'm surprised that being in there that long, in that position, is possible.

[intocarss]

More great pictures and that F-1 vid is awesome Thanks for sharing

[Sieg]

Excellent video GW! Tush 10mm from the tarmac........and I thought it was close in a kart. Wonder what that feels like jumping the curbing and hitting G-outs?

Good work with the camera, looks like you're getting your money's worth. :thumbsup:

[onevoice]

Interesting perspective on the race, thanks for all the posts.

I find it interesting that you mentioned it is so hard to get around the track, because I found the same thing at the Belgium GP at Spa years ago, which is one of the grand old road courses. It is as if the organizers really don't give a crap about how well the spectators can actually see a race, and maybe they don't. A GP is an EVENT, not necessarily a race.



What do the photos tell you?!?!?

A simple question -- which version do you think was off line? Which version do you think was faster through these turns?

Maybe he was bored and fell asleep.... "Oh Shiat! I have a turn coming up...."

Schumacher was actually on pole position before the 5 grid position penalty for an infraction at the last race. He's an old guy, give him some credit.

Actually, those pictures point out how hard it is to see speed. His car seems to have a lot of understeer, but it may just look that way because he was going faster.

Have a good trip.

[GregWeld]

Excellent video GW! Tush 10mm from the tarmac........and I thought it was close in a kart. Wonder what that feels like jumping the curbing and hitting G-outs?

Good work with the camera, looks like you're getting your money's worth. :thumbsup:



A camera is a tool..... or golf clubs for that matter... there's usually just a bit more to it than point and shoot. :lol:

This camera is "easier" to use than my older D70s -- and I can choose the scene setting and then dial in several pre-sets.... and of course you're not seeing EVERY photo I've taken... I take lots and discard lots in order to get the look I want. Trust me I'm not really "good" or particularly skilled in any way. But I do know what I want and just work til I get there.

Sadly I choose to only carry two lens.... so I'm doing most of the work with my 18-200 f3.5-5.6. T'was stupido of me to not have brought more. :cheers:

[Sieg]

I was just looking at a 17-55 f2.8 this morning, $300 more than a Quick Fuel Q-750. :willy:

[GregWeld]

I was just looking at a 17-55 f2.8 this morning, $300 more than a Quick Fuel Q-750. :willy:



The bodies are only just for sale so that you can buy many expensive lens to attach to them... like Gillette and razor blades... :lol:

[GregWeld]

You guys that understand construction might love this! This is in a very small village and if you note the "cornerstone" for the base - then the brick detail for the doors and windows -- but the "BODY" is just filled in with junk and rocks... Loved it!



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/San%20Gimignano/DSC_1412.jpg

[GregWeld]

My wife with the man in the town square.....



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/San%20Gimignano/DSC_1433.jpg

[GregWeld]

And what I feel like doing after a couple of weeks of eating out and traveling...



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/San%20Gimignano/DSC_1434.jpg

[Track Junky]

:lol: Thats some good and funny stuff there Greg :thumbsup:

[GregWeld]

And because this is an automotive website... the way to travel in Italy.... a Black "S" (diesel!) and a driver. He speaks the language... knows where to eat (well) and waits for us while we "sightsee". He also knows where NOT to go and where NOT to shop etc. He's stuck with us for 5 days... god help him!
The silver MBZ van has a load of RUSSIAN tourists - and the driver was going crazy according to our driver.




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/San%20Gimignano/DSC_1415.jpg

[Vegas69]

Is there Grey Poupon onboard?

[Sieg]

[SIZE="2"]-- but the "BODY" is just filled in with junk I've seen media blasted cars that looked similar. :wow: :D

[GregWeld]

Is there Grey Poupon onboard?



No -- the car isn't an S63..... so we had him take us here and they had it!!




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/San%20Gimignano/DSC_1329.jpg

[96z28ss]

My wife with the man in the town square.....



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/San%20Gimignano/DSC_1433.jpg

She looks all giddy, not used to tall guys.
Looks like she got a bit close. Was her shirt all rusty after?

[GregWeld]

Her only comment was that she'd never seen one so small....

[GregWeld]

We're in Firenze now.... and had dinner here tonight. Bring the cost of a 6 speed for the 9 courses and if you add 4 different wines (drink as much as you like) - toss in a complete clutch and bell housing...:lol:



http://www.enotecapinchiorri.com/

[Bucketlist2012]

We're in Firenze now.... and had dinner here tonight. Bring the cost of a 6 speed for the 9 courses and if you add 4 different wines (drink as much as you like) - toss in a complete clutch and bell housing...:lol:



http://www.enotecapinchiorri.com/

Enjoy yourself Greg.

I stayed at the Grand Hotel in Florence once, what a beautiful City and Hotel..

Have a great time.

I am off to the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite tomorrow for a few days..

My Bucket list is a little smaller, haha..

Mike

[FETorino]

You guys that understand construction might love this! This is in a very small village and if you note the "cornerstone" for the base - then the brick detail for the doors and windows -- but the "BODY" is just filled in with junk and rocks... Loved it!



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/San%20Gimignano/DSC_1412.jpg

That style of construction looks eerily familiar for some reason. :D

http://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll306/superjinca/IMG_0274.jpghttp://i291.photobucket.com/albums/ll306/superjinca/IMG_0276.jpg

[GregWeld]

Ahhhhhhhhhh...... a bit of old Mexico yes?


:cheers:

[RECOVERY ROOM]

I have always liked how they take the old buildings and modernize on the insides with out messing up the outside,..... Around here they would just tear it down and call it progress, The Euro way of doing things just looks cool to me. On another note, Got a lot more respect for F1 drivers after seeing that cutaway.

[GregWeld]

I have always liked how they take the old buildings and modernize on the insides with out messing up the outside,..... Around here they would just tear it down and call it progress, The Euro way of doing things just looks cool to me. On another note, Got a lot more respect for F1 drivers after seeing that cutaway.



If you watched how fast they are going thru those small streets! OMG! Amazing!


So we're at the Four Seasons here in Firenze... and the one we are at is an Noble estate and a Convent... with fabulous gardens between (almost a park actually). They have absolutely kept the feel and look of the old even in the inside with the elegance etc -- but of course all the "workings" are brand new.


They would NEVER do this in the U.S.!




The lobby/bar area!



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Firenze/IMG_2432.jpg




The entrance at the Convent building where we are.




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Firenze/IMG_2442.jpg





Your "park" (walled) between the two buildings...



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Firenze/IMG_2437.jpg

[FETorino]

Ahhhhhhhhhh...... a bit of old Mexico yes?


:cheers:

Dead on sir. The Europeans brought their construction techniques to the continent via the Spanish I'd say.

:cheers:

[GregWeld]

Off to Modena (pronounced Mo de na) today.... and you know what that means?


Will post up photos tonight if I have time. Flight at O'Dark Thirty tomorrow AM. UGH!


:cheers:

[Musclerodz]

Thank you for taking us on vacation with you.:thumbsup: :thumbsup:

[Rybar]

Off to Modena (pronounced Mo de na) today.... and you know what that means?
:cheers:

Greg, you should visit the Lamborghini and Pagani factories in Modena and the Ferrari factory (which is a whole town pretty much) of Maranello which is bout 15 minutes south of Modena. Pretty cool site to see although you cannot go into the Ferrari factory but there is a museum and the whole town eats, breathes and sleeps those cars. Might even see some cars on the Fiorano track.

[GregWeld]

Thank you for taking us on vacation with you.:thumbsup: :thumbsup:



Prego! Senori!

[GregWeld]

Greg, you should visit the Lamborghini and Pagani factories in Modena and the Ferrari factory (which is a whole town pretty much) of Maranello which is bout 15 minutes south of Modena. Pretty cool site to see although you cannot go into the Ferrari factory but there is a museum and the whole town eats, breathes and sleeps those cars. Might even see some cars on the Fiorano track.



Biggest waste of my time of the entire trip!

The track was closed for F1 testing (in the rain) and you can't get into the factory... only ride around in a bus OUTSIDE... so you don't see nada!

The museum is cool... and takes about 20 minutes to see all if you take your time.


So we spent all day driving up (in the back seat of course..:D )... and for this you get a 20 minute bs bus ride.

In other words -- unless you're just some kind of Ferrari freak and think this is some mecca you have to see... FUGIDABUDIT!


Each WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP year on display.




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Firenze/DSC_1488.jpg




Some serious carbon fiber suspension.



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Firenze/DSC_1491.jpg




I almost bought this just to have - as it reminded me of Dave Gordon AKA "short stroke"...



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Firenze/DSC_1523.jpg




A DRIVERS exercise machine!!




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Firenze/DSC_1520.jpg





And of course I had to TRY to make a comparison...:D





http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Firenze/DSC_1517.jpg

[Ron in SoCal]

(Started typing a reponse to that Popeye forearm pic and thought naw, not looking for a scrum today :lol: )

Thx for giving us the cliff note version of the tour Greg. I hope the Lambo/Pagani factories are the next stop? :thumbsup:

[GregWeld]

This is also AUTOMOTIVE related....


While in Sienna.... we wanted to go to the GOD FATHER of Brunello wine... for wine snobs (I don't even drink) The Biondi-Santi winery is the founder of this type of wine... and Mister is still alive at 90 years old and nothing gets done until HE says it's done! We did buy some 1997 and some 2004 (the best years "lately" - this swill is slightly expensive!) of the Biondi-Santi Brunello di Montalcino Riserva... Gwen can drink it 20 years from now. :unibrow:

SO here's the car part.... We drive up and you can see the ENTRANCE to the dump from the road... very cool and old Italy... then the ivy covered "house" (friggin' mansion) but the coolest part was what was parked outside and obviously hadn't been driven in awhile...





http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/DSC_1381.jpg





http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/DSC_1385.jpg





http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/DSC_1398.jpg





http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/DSC_1400.jpg





AND......





http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/DSC_1384.jpg

[Rybar]

Biggest waste of my time of the entire trip!

The track was closed for F1 testing (in the rain) and you can't get into the factory... only ride around in a bus OUTSIDE... so you don't see nada!

The museum is cool... and takes about 20 minutes to see all if you take your time.


So we spent all day driving up (in the back seat of course..:D )... and for this you get a 20 minute bs bus ride.

In other words -- unless you're just some kind of Ferrari freak and think this is some mecca you have to see... FUGIDABUDIT!

Well, you shouldnt have taken a bus tour, and You should go see Pagani and Lambo then. Maybe better experiences there.

[GregWeld]

Well, you shouldnt have taken a bus tour, and You should go see Pagani and Lambo then. Maybe better experiences there.



There is no other type of tour... unless you've purchased a car... da bus is it. They put seals over your phone camera - there are NO photos allowed... and had I been able to take a photo - there was nothing to take a photo of unless you like factory building exteriors...:rofl:

Other than to say you've "been there" it is a GIANT waste of effort.

[RECOVERY ROOM]

Was that Citreon just sitting there rusting away, This is the cheapest Euro vacation we could all take together..except for you ! Next year you should go to Russia or Hong Kong for us...LOL

[intocarss]

Thanks for sharing

[GregWeld]

Was that Citreon just sitting there rusting away, This is the cheapest Euro vacation we could all take together..except for you ! Next year you should go to Russia or Hong Kong for us...LOL

It wasn't rusting at all - it was well cared for - except it was dusty... but it was clean under the dust (gravel road) and the tires appeared to be in good shape....


It will be awhile before you'll find me on anymore "european" trips... I'm not much of a traveler.

[DOOM]

Greg.I'm doing the same trip in a few months I'll have to call you about some do's and don'ts..Already disapointed about the Ferrari tour.!

[GregWeld]

Mario....


My wife is the tour guide. She planned the entire trip. I - as usual - was just along to carry the luggage.


I don't want to taint anyone else's "vision" and or the way or types of things they want to do and see... but I will say this (and even Gwen agreed)... The castle towns all look better from a distance. And by this I mean... they're romantic and look medieval - until you get inside the walls - where they turn into tourist traps selling "I was here" T-shirts and postcards.... So once you've seen two of them... you're done.

There are a FEW remarkable churches that are must sees... the interiors can be absolutely mind boggling...

WE - (you know who) - didn't allow enough time for just taking a couple days off here and there... we were far too busy even at a relaxed pace. I would have liked a couple more days in Portofino to just lay by the pool and not have to get dressed or have to be anywhere... You also need to just discount the "travel days" -- i.e., the days you are moving from one town to another... even if you're stopping along the way to sightsee... by the time you pack up - check out - drive/ride/train to your next destination - check in - unpack - eat etc... that day is SHOT. So I would have liked to plan the travel day as a non-day.... get somewhere - settle in - next day or two sightsee - then have a day to just relax before moving on...

You can actually get into the LAMBO and ZONDA factories... SCREW Ferrari... You can buy the same exact chinese made crap in Vegas...

Do NOT do the Ferrari drive that I did in Monaco or from that company. The guy has to ride with you and the SOB NEVER SHUT UP. Two hours of this AH blabbing and telling me when to up or down shift was.... well.... just never mind. I loved the car (F430) and the roads... but the AH blabbing was too much and ruined the otherwise wonderful experience.

Do not rent a Renault... it's a car your Grandmother would drive.

Do not rent a car and intend to only drive one way - our drop off charge was 1000 Euro ($1250 US).... which is just a giant waste. If you plan to rent - do your research into the actual costs and try to incorporate a "loop" where you bring the car back.

I'm sorry I missed ROME... Next trip... and if you want to blow 800 euro a day... and trip around in luxury - I have a guy for you. You'd love him, and riding in the back of an S Class and being dropped off at the front door - and not having to find cabs etc was "the only way to fly" IMHO. The days I drove - I didn't see much as you're too busy driving... riding in the back - I could look around... I could say "Dude! Can you turn around I want to take a picture of that." Or.... I'm hungry... and he knew a place and could speak the language and we ate things that I wouldn't have known to order etc...

Do NOT buy leather until you go to the Sculoa Del Cuoio in Firenze (Florence)... it's a leather making school in a monastery building (hard to find it!)... and work with a cute little man (6" shorter than me!) named VITO. I bought two jackets (one custom made) 3 large overnight satchels... two purses... Mama Mia! But wonderful things and well priced and you can TRUST them to ship etc.


The winery in Tuscany was "interesting" (if you've seen one winery you've seen them all) and the history of that particular wine was really interesting... but super expensive (500 euro per bottle starting point for the good vintages) and I bought a few just "because"... but there are wineries everywhere and a great bottle of that type can be had for 60 euro or less and you'd enjoy it just as much. The Tuscan area is littered with wineries... and retailers.


We found a new "snack" -- Prosciutto and melon... and a chunk of Pecorino cheese.... DONE! Mama Mia...


DO NOT TAKE YOUR WIFE HERE! <in Portofino>



http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Portofino/IMG_2424.jpg

[GregWeld]

Mario....



An alternative to an S Class....




http://i919.photobucket.com/albums/ad33/gregweld/Firenze/6d93da32.jpg

[Sieg]

There are a FEW remarkable churches that are must sees... the interiors can be absolutely mind boggling...
When you consider when they were built, what they had for tools and power, and interior altitudes it's pretty amazing.

I loved the car (F430) and the roads...
I think the trick would be finding a company that does track days.

DO NOT TAKE YOUR WIFE HERE!
The sacks look out of my price range let alone the contents. :D

Thanks for being so diligent and sharing the journey with us. :thumbsup:

[Rybar]

You can actually get into the LAMBO and ZONDA factories... SCREW Ferrari...

OK, so did you go to Lambo and Pagani??

[Track Junky]

My parents are retired and go to Italy at least twice a year and and we have family there. They were born in Sicily but my dad has a sister in Rome. When they first started visiting they went to Sicily to see family but after a couple of trips decided they wanted to explore all of Italy.
Their advice after a couple of trips......rent a home and by a car.

[GregWeld]

OK, so did you go to Lambo and Pagani??



No.... it was pouring rain -- My son went to Pagani and Lambo and I have tons of pics of them.

It's a two hour drive from Firenze so round trip is 4 hours and we wanted to get back to Firenze early enough to relax before we had a big azz dinner reservation. So -- maybe next trip.

[DOOM]

Greg Thanx! Just sent the info to my wife . I think she was going to surprise me with the Ferrari ''tour'' just told he forget it if she was thinking it..

[GregWeld]

Greg Thanx! Just sent the info to my wife . I think she was going to surprise me with the Ferrari ''tour'' just told he forget it if she was thinking it..

Well -- I hated to be the one to pour cold water on anyones dream trip... but I was SORELY disappointed in what THEY bill as a "factory tour".... yeah... it's a factory tour so no issues with the "truth in advertising" -- it's just OUR idea of a f'n factory tour would be the INSIDE... not the exterior!

Azzholes!

What a wasted day.

Don't forget there is still the Lambo and Pagani factories there.... and if a guy wanted to he can hit all three in a day... so if you're in that region - I'd still go. But we'd made the trip up from Firenze. I wanted Gwen to drive the California and I was going to drive the 458... and was under the impression that the FACTORY did this -- but noooooooooooo.... this is all done 3rd party and they're in the parking lot like vultures! You step out of your car and there are 3 guys and 2 chicks hitting you for a "Ferrari drive" (they have postcards like the porn people do in Las Vegas).... and they appear to be factory people all dressed in red Ferrari stuff from head to toe... the chicks where HOT! But these are all competitors hustling you like the beach sellers do in Mexico. Dude! I HATE that kind of stuff!

[Tiger]

Sadly I saw this to late, you more or less "drove by" my door while going there to Ferrari/Lambo from Florence.
I would have invited you for a beer....

[GregWeld]

Sadly I saw this to late, you more or less "drove by" my door while going there to Ferrari/Lambo from Florence.
I would have invited you for a beer....


Well dang! That would have been fun! :cheers: