Replies to Readers’ Frequently Asked Questions

By Murray Stewart murray.stewart49@gmail.com

The end-of-year joys and horrors are just around the corner, so before the madness sets in, I’ve decided to knuckle down and answer those emails from readers around the globe that have been piling up on the editorial desk all year.

Micky Angelo, curator of the archives in Venice’s Nautical History Museum, enquired about Marco Polo’s journey to the East via Southern Africa which, he maintains, isn’t recorded in any historical documents in his library. This, Mr Angelo, is due to poorly scribbled records in Latin shorthand by Lenny da Vinci, the ship’s navigator, surveyor and cartoonist who isn’t around anymore to ask.

But the latest news is that after his ship, the Santa Flatulata sank, Marco and his vuvuzela were rescued by Somali pirates two miles off Africa’s east coast near the port of Lawrence O’Marks. As soon as we’ve deciphered the rest of Lenny’s notes, we’ll let you know, Mr Angelo.

But back to the emails. Many folks asked about our inexpensive home-made Champagne Spritzer, ideal for any occasion, so here’s a quick step-by-step guide again. Fill a large glass/tankard 50/50 with wine and cold water. Pour in a dollop of Oros for flavour and colour. Add ice and just a pinch of ENOs. Stir vigorously and drink while still fizzing. Repeat ad nauseum. Guests love it.

Click below to read more. (The full article can be found on page 8)