Papa-yay-tay as opposed to Pap-eet as I used to think it was called, was shelled briefly at the outbreak of WW1.

I'm not sure why they'd have wanted to do that. Maybe they were just letting folks know "things" we're underway. A kind of start gun if you will. Or, perhaps they took exception to the architecture. If that was the case, let's hope they don't pass by any time soon.

Some parts of Papeete are a fine example of what French architects could - and still can do - given an unlimited supply of concrete. Look at some of their ski resorts.

Fortunately much of the hideous concrete is covered in quite spectacular, brightly coloured murals, one of which is the current postage stamp. There are still a good number of French colonial type buildings, largely occupied by various government departments in tree lined routes which brighten up the place. There's a background of verdant, lush rain forrest with soaring peaks reaching up into either the blue or clouds, depending on the time of day. You don't get lush without rain. But like Scotland.

Anyway, I'm now recovering from my fitness C25k programme, now renamed 5k2C.

After my first run with Dick back in Fakarava I looked out my C25K - "Couch to 5 K" running app. The one that, post 5k run I was somewhat over zealous with my stretching which pretty well left me on the couch for a few days hence renamed 5K2C.

Instead of a nice, ice cold G&T or maybe a rum and Coke for sundowners my evening cocktail has been one of anti-inflammatories, painkillers and, well, let's call them anti-coagulants. Unable to move without a minor shockwave round me bum I've been horizontal most of time. Thankfully the drugs are working so while I'm doped up I can get on a coat of varnish.

Just say, "yes please" is what I say.