Santorini and the Second Concert plus Nokia's New 'phone

The Queen Victoria is in Santorini today.
Robin has been there many times before and always enjoys it.
See 'Sun, Sea and Santorini' for one of his previous experiences.

When I last spoke to him, Robin had just completed the long walk up a very steep hill, and was enjoying a cup of coffee and a spectacular view.
He will only be on land a short time, as his second concert is tonight.
So whilst the tourists explore the island, Robin will be rehearsing.

He must be doing something right, and getting excellent reviews from these various trips, as he keeps getting re-booked.
A point highlighted by a waiter this morning over breakfast:

"You're back again? You're always back again."

It's a good job really judging by the views of the younger generation.
Apparently, they rarely, if ever, pay for the music they listen too.
Where has this 'something for nothing' attitude come from?
Free downloads and file sharing are a real concern for most musicians.

However, Nokia have come up with an idea.
They have unveiled a new music service.
You can watch a report by the BBC's Rory Cellan-Jones here.
It appears that people will be paying for their music, albeit indirectly, when they purchase a 'phone with this service.

How much of that will filter back down to the artist I have yet to establish.
But it could possibly be a long term solution to the problem.
I shall be watching with interest...

Sun, Sea and Santorini

Whilst Robin spends the day cruising the Ionian Sea, I shall return to my alternative career as a travel writer, and show you the fabulous Island of Santorini:



There are many churches to be found in the little roads and alleyways:



And it is certainly worth taking the time to go inside and have a look:




There are also numerous villages to explore:



Robin took the opportunity to say hello to a shop keeper he has met on a previous visit, and after a chat, was directed to a spectacular place, with fabulous views. Most people go by donkey, allowing the beast to take the strain on the long and dusty route.
Not Robin.
He chose to make the 45 minute, arduous trek, in the searing sun, on foot.
He therefore arrived very hot and thirsty at his destination.
Luckily, there was a very welcome internet cafe, so he was able to enjoy a refreshing drink, and also to send me an e mail!

(I've just remembered that the last time Robin was in Santorini he came across a party of holiday makers, each on a donkey, and was asked, by the owner, to lead one donkey down the hillside. This he did, causing great confusion, when the same passengers later saw him up on stage performing a concert!)

However, it was worth the walk, as this was the view, which Robin admired along with a new found friend:



Yes, that is Crystal Serenity waiting in the bay below, and once back on board Robin was challenged to a game of tennis by Naki Ataman.
I think he slept well that night.