Hi George Bear,
when you joined us, we had just arrived in NZ, Christchurch a few hours ago. We - Heidi & Henning - are Germans, so there is 12h time difference between Germany and NZ. so when you entered our room in the nice hotel george, we were just back from a visit around the centre of Christchurch, which had shocked us. and were waiting for the dinner - so we fell asleep and were totally surprised when you arrived in hour hotel room :)
But you are a nice bear and could join us in our NZ trip and later on you got some kiwi fellows.
After leaving The George, George the Bear took a road trip down to Queenstown. He enjoyed the amazing scenery along the way and stopped to take pictures. George then flew to Wellington and then to Los Angeles where he is now. He's been spending his days looking for an agent to, as he says it, "break into the biz." It shouldn't be too long before George makes it to A-List Status!
Fortunately, George had already left Christchurch a week before the december 2011 quake. After that he travelled extensively across the South and North island and admired his beautiful native country and never felt a shake!
After a brief stop and quick dip in a hotel pool in Malaysia, he has now found his home in a Dutch village, where he is intrigued by Diesel, the neighbouring horse.
Our George bear has had extensive travel in his short life! Upon departing Christchurch, he travelled to Queensland, NZ; Sydney, AU; Baltimore, MD (USA); West Palm Beach, FL (USA); and finally to my grandson in Spring Hill, TN (USA), where he has found a warm & loving home!
The George was the best hotel experience we have ever had! Hope you have the privilege sometime.
Our george the bear now has a home in Australia, on the mid north coast. He lives on a beef farm.
Grandad bought two George's back from NZ! Now George 1 & George 2 live here with us, Oliver & Joseph in Newington, Kent, England! We will look after you George's!
Bula Joanne
Thank you for your email. Attached a photo of George Bear on a palm tree to proof that he is really very well! :-)
A picture in the mountains will follow soon… ;-)
I'm really very glad to hear that you found the cardigan, because somehow I love it a lot!
Thank you so much for sending it to Switzerland!
If we ever will be back in Christchurch, I'm sure we will choose The George again to be our place to be.
Thanks again for everything.
Kind regards
Friederike
Unfortunately it looks like the Chilling in the Big Apple photo has not yet been uploaded!
Hi, if you can send the image to wally@thegeorge.com I will upload it for you.
George Bear came to San Francisco after his companions visited wonderful New Zealand last February! He stayed there for awhile and then he was given to our grandson, Kellen, who lives in Rancho Cucamonga, CA! He loves George Bear and can\'t wait to take him on trips! George Bear says Hi to all the wonderful staff at The George!
Hugh and Georgia Schall and Kellen Church
It's so nice here in New York. Sure, it's not Christchurch but it's still pretty exciting. I often come to this "vacation" (as they say here) apartment and look out at the city from my balcony. I can while away many an hour.
Hello, I am in Canberra and I love it here. My family has two small grandchildren who love me dearly and I play with all the other bears and toys all the time. I have a special friend named Phoebe bear who wears a pretty dress and sleeps with me. Today it is cold and rainy so we are all at home ready to watch Australia play Russia in the World Cup.
I will let you know my next adventure soon
Canberra
Hi everyone
Today I went to Greenhithe School (in Auckland) with Dominic, my new owner! I was shown to the class during news. It was very exciting. I loved meeting all the children and the teacher, Miss Mitchell, even read my tag to the class.
love
George
Hi Everyone
Well my new adventure is all go! Last night I went to the rugby at Eden Park to see the All Blacks play the French. I had my photo taken with a person who makes sure you get to the right seat, (she loved talking to me, I could tell!!!) and then we went up into our seats way up high. High Up!
It was a great view and lots of people with painted faces and flags. AND… I even saw other animals like me, mainly roosters, because of the French. I thought they were very funny.
We had a late night really; everyone was friendly and we popped into a local place to have a drink and enjoy the gourmet barbeque on the way home. This was good fun too because the night had got quite chilly and this place had big outdoor fire heaters to stand around (but not too close!)
And it was daylight savings night… so when I got home I was supposed to fix my watch, but I forgot. But I have done it now.
Well I had better go now. A big hello to all my friends.
Love
George
Hi there!
Well – it’s been a couple of weeks since I left Christchurch and every now and then I have a wee sad moment because I miss you all – but I have had lots to do as well so every day is new and exciting.
I am living in Orewa at the moment. What a great little seaside town. Small and cute (just like me!) We have had some glorious days so I thought I’d send you a pic of me at Orewa Beach.
Before this was taken, I had just had a hot chocolate at a café called Olivers where one of the people serving is called George too! (“Nice name,” I told him!)
Tonight I am going to see the All Blacks play the French in rugby at Eden Park so I will let you know about my night on the town with all the other rugby fans.
Hello to all my friends at the George. I miss you lot!
Love
George
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Very comfortable pillow but I am feeling a little homesick. (so I ate the chocolate!)
It is no blarney that my home in Christchurch is wonderful.
Went to watch Kristy performing at the Royal Opera House. Had a great seat
I'm very excited to have spent the last week flying around New Zealand with my new friend! She's a pilot and got to fly a tiny 2 seat aircraft around the country for work. I visited just about everywhere between Queenstown and Auckland, but I especially liked the views of the Southern Alps from above.
Love George
our george bear has chosen to come and live with us on a farm in North Canterbury. We all travel frequently so will endevour to take gerge bear with us to on more exciting ventures
George is flying the A380 Airbus on the outside. He calls the plane the AIR NEW ZELAND CLOUD GLIDER.
I came home to Auckland and met up with an eldery relative George. He was so excited in meeting me and catching up with all thats happening at The George since he left.
I'm getting very excited because on Thursday I'm off to Africa, we are going 4 wheel driving in Botswana and Namibia, hopefully I won't get eaten by a lion. Will post some photos when I can
George Bear is settling in to his new home in Sunnyvale, California.
In the photo he's being a bit of a show off, bragging to his new
companions about his travels to the North Island, then through China,
India, Germany and then finally Sunnyvale. The other bears listened
politely but I heard one later whisper, "I've been to China," but they
love George Bear all the same.
Everyone we have been luck to have George staying at our place because my daddy brought him home I was so excited that we got to look after him!
he sleeps right next to my and I always talk to him when I am sad he is a great lisner I think he is to shy to talk
from Alex
Finished off at the Golden Gate in San Francisco.
At home for a rest now. Where next I wonder?
To the team at the George,
My daddy is a pilot and is away from time to time.
It isn't the same when he is not here but I can hug George the Bear when I miss him.
Amara
-x-
Hi Bruce & Team,
Last weekend I was lucky enough to get super close to Ice Hockey's coveted Stanley Cup when the Boston Bruins (who's mascot just happens to be a bear like me!) brought the cup back to Boston after a very exciting victory in Vancouver.
Best wishes!
George Bear "Boston"
where did you get your name or the name of your company George Bear
George bear is sooooooo cute muah
He belongs to MEEEE!!!!
I believe he is loving this place and the people here
I <3 U bear george
From the SaNdHu family
Gunzzz, Tats, Jugs, Jai,
Dear Bruce, Lavina and fellow George staff,
George bear has now made his new home in Boston and is enjoying the fact that he gets to have two summers this year! George was a perfect companion on our honeymoon in March. We were so warmly greeted by George Bear at our Sumner hotel after we learned that The George would be closed during our stay due to the cordon. Look at how happy he is to see us!
George reluctantly departed Christchurch (we promised him that we'd come back for a visit to see his mates) and very quickly settled into vacation mode. He is seen here enjoying the on-flight entertainment.
In Melbourne, George strutted his stuff on the runway during the L'Oreal Fashion Festival!
Further afield, George is seen here enjoying a three day sail in the Whitsundays!
The three of us, George, Ori and Jess, would like to send our gratitude to George staff for being so thoughtful and making our trip to Christchurch so special. You are in our thoughts and we continue to send our best wishes!!
George recently visited some of his relatives in Alaska.
We made him a jumper for the trip.
Mark & Karen Bragg
My Granny Franny and Poppa were at the George in Christchurch. Staying for a wonderful Party. Granny was getting ready for the party when there was a knock at the door and I was there. Then Granny said but we had twins born yesterday morning so another George Bear hopped up and said I will come as well to see the twins. Well Granny Franny didnt tell us immediatley but the twins Annabel and Hugh were born in Boston USA so we are going on a plane journey with big brother Olivers surprise to be with Annabel Hugh and Oliver. The childrens Daddy, Granny Frannys wee boy ( now grownup)has promised to take all of us to the George in Boston. What an adventure we have and will let you know when we arrive. But we do hope we keep our Kiwi accents as we wont be coming back to NZ for a while
PS Was such a wonderful party for Mikes 60th that Granny Franny didnt feel any aftershocks She says Christchurch is quite safe to visit and loved staying at the George
Bye for now George and George
We hope your hotel is still standing, and life is getting back towards normal in Christchurch after the earthquake.
Since we left George Hotel in spring of 2010, we visited Hawks Bay, where our son was doing a harvest internship at Craggy Range Winery. He is now at Round Pond Estate Winery in Napa Valley, where he is making Cabernet Sauvignon.
This year we went to the Caribbean on a cruise from Florida. We visited 3 island nations: Dominica, Antigua and Bahamas and St. Barth(French) and the 2 U.S. territories Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.
We will be going to China in the fall and to a Porsche event in Carmel, California.
For 2012 there are plans to go to Denmark for a birthday party including family and friends from both sides of "the Pond"(the Atlantic Ocean).
We had a wonderful time in New Zealand. It was just as they say: friendly people, beautiful scenery, good wine and food.We hope to be back.
George has now arrived in Glasgow, Scotland after touring around Australia.
We were very very sad to see and hear about the tragedy of the earthquake
especially as we had only been in Christchurch the week before. Glad to hear the hotel and staff are all safe and well. George is moving on again today to Edinburgh and will be handed over to our grand-daughter Megan and grand-son Lewis to look after him. Hopefully Megan (7) will write of his adventures in Edinburgh.
Ann & Bill Mitchell
George is loving it here in Brisbane he is playing with some other toys and going to come to new places all around the world. George is being a easy and cuddling bear. Wishing you are having a good time at the George Hotel it is a WONDERFUL PLACE TO BE GOOD CHOICE.
XX
Love George & Lulu
My George is enjoying his life in Palo Alto with his 2 cat friends Ceffy and Sasha. The staff of the George and people of Christchurch have been in our thoughts and prayers since the earthquake. I am pleased to see you have reopened.
The stay there was wonderful. We wish the people of Christchurch and the city all the best and speedy recovery from this tragedy.
We started our holiday in New Zeeland when we left the George at 1100 am on 22 februari two hours before the quake.....
George was save with us when we drove to kaikoura to do some whalewatching.
We had a great time in New Zeeland but we were every second thinking about the people in Christchurch who died, got injured, lost their home/jobs etc.
I wish the people a lot of strength!
Good luck,
Hilde/JG
Like my new outfit? Note how I rolled the sleeves of the t-shirt up to show off my muscles? Prince William would have liked it I'm sure. If only I could have been there today.
I think there will be trouble when all the Wallaby supporters here see my logo! ;)
This will be a great outfit to wear to Auckland next week.
Love
George
Shelby & Gina and George Bear are very happy to hear that the hotel is again housing guests. George Bear visited the Missouri state capitol building a couple of days ago and wanted us to post his picture, but we can't seem to make that work. He is looking forward to Spring and warmer weather. He plans to spend time in the Rocky Mtns. in Colorado this summer. We all hope and pray for the recovery of your beautiful city and hope to bring George back home for another visit soon.
Shelby & Gina Jones
I left the George on Friday 21st February and my new home for the next month was a camper van. It was a bit of a culture shock but my new friends were nice if a little elderly!! We stayed in Christchurch for one night and then hit the road. It was amazing to see my country and we travelled west in to the Mckenzie basin and then back to the coast at Dunedin. From there we went south through the Catlins and on to Te Anu. In Te Anu we explored Fjiordland, spectacular, but the weather was a little west coast and we got a bit damp. We moved north up to Abel Tasmin and saw some beautiful scenary and walked, that was new. Onward and eastward to Kiakura and the whales, had a helicopter ride and that was good too. The whales look awesome from the air. Eventually we returned to Christchurch and, yes, to the George.
Here I got a new friend and we both travelled together to Salt Lake City, via Hawaii. My new friend has his own blog called my "new home home". We were both very upset to hear about the earthquake but glad The George and staff were safe. Hawaii was nice and I enjoyed the sunshine. I saw snow for the first time in Salt Lake, very pretty on the mountains, just like my old home.
After spending some time with all my new friends it was time for the last leg of my journey. My new friend stayed in Salt Lake and now lives with Olivia, a rabbit and a black bear amongst an assortment of dolls and toys. He is very cosy.
I have travelled to England but unlike the famous "Paddington" I do have a nice home and share space with two bears, one called "Jeffrey"!!!!, and an elephant. I think I am going to be happy here but would like to return one day.
I left The George on Friday 18th February to fly to Hawaii on my way to a new home in America. I had a nice holiday in Hawaii but was sad to hear about the earthquake. I am glad all the staff are safe and my old home was not damaged.
I had a nice holiday in Hawaii and have now moved on to Salt Lake City in Utah, America where I will have a new home with a little girl called Olivia. She has a nice mama and papa and two little pug dogs called Oscar and Thomas.
I sleep in a nice crib at night and am taken out during the day to the shops and the park and am having a lovely time.
We spent our last weekend in New Zealand in beautiful Christchurch at the wonderful George Hotel, checking out February 21 with George Bear tucked safely in my backpack. A few hours after our long journey home to California we heard the news of the earthquake. Our thoughts are with you and all the wonderful people of Christchurch. Long live CHCH!
Sheila, Bob & George Bear
Thank you so much for my George Bear ,we have now returned to Chester, Cheshire UK .He has a place on our super king size bed and looks the part ,so we will always remember our stay at the George at Christchurch. Our thoughts are very much with you all and hope things will improve as quickly as possible. Our hearts go out to people who have lost family and friends.
Best wishes,
Martin and Christine.
After our stay in Christchurch, we traveled to Sydney. This is where we heard the traggic news about the earthquake. Our prayers and blessings goes out to the good people of Christchurch.
George Bear has a new home with the Bullock\'s in Cardiff, California. George is having as blast living near the ocean. He is awaiting the birth of his new baby sister!
I hope to be back to visit Christchurch soon. Love, George Bear
Once again thank you for all your kind messages it is lovely that you are all thinking of us here. The George Hotel has been fortunate to have been issued a green sticker so it is safe to occupy. However, as we are within the cordon access is restricted. Nonetheless, we ready ourselves to accommodate numerous City Care workers who are helping efforts here in Christchurch. I would especially like to thank all those brave and seemingly tireless rescue and recovery teams who have come from all over the world to help us. It is truely comforting for us to know that we are not alone in our time of need. We have far to go on this road and would not make it without help from outside. Our greatest sympathy goes to those who have lost or are still missing their loved ones.
It is nice to hear that your George Hotel is in good condition.
I was in your hotel Sep.2009 for 2 night and enjoyed it very much.
Ben Kong
I was very upset to see on the TV all the awful things happening in Christchurch. I do so hope that everybody is safe and well.
My friends Edward Bear, Freddie, Harry and Bertie came to The George in November 2008 to bring me back to North Wales.
I am here with such good friends and having a lovely time and wiping a tear from my eye thinking about you all.
With love
Georgie
The Manns want to wish all at The George a speedy recovery! Hope that you and your families are safe and well. We are so sad about the destruction and loss of lives. Our prays are with you all.
Now that Kiwi George (our name for our newest companion)are settled back in Novato, CA, we thank the staff for their great hospitality while we were there in Christchurch Feb.l to 3. We were devasted to hear about the earthquake and hope your recovery is as quick as possible! We send the George Hotel Staff our best wishes!
P.S. Kiwi George is looking forward to meeting our oldest grandson, Kellen, who will be taking care of him in the near future. He will then be living in Rancho Cucamonga, CA!
After knowing the news about the earthquake in Christchurch, we got really sad and worried about the staff members of The George and the hotel (building) as well.
But now we calmed down for all of you are safe and well. Never give up hope, for better days will come and everything will be settled.
I really spent nice moments in The George and, of course, in the pleasant city of Christchurch. Before leaving the city, I was already missing it.
Thank you for so much kindness and attention of you all.
All the best,
Adriana and George Bear
Brasília-DF,Brazil
Thank you once again for your kind posts. The team here at The George are very brave as they ready themselves to cross the in to the city to continue the clean up at The George. Led by Bruce Garrett (who is staying in-house around the clock) the team are getting The George ready to help the relief effort here in Christchurch as hundreds of kind friends from overseas flood in to help. Incredible teams of professionals are rallying 24/7 and in many cases risking their own lives to help us. Sincerely we are moved by the their dedication as our hearts ache for those still missing and those that have passed in this terrible disaster. Please join us on facebook for updates about our team http://www.facebook.com/TheGeorgeHotel.
Over and out from George Bear Home Base
Dear all
beeing back in Switzerland only one week of course we are following here all news we get through the medias - and it is quite a lot that is published
here in words and images. Having been shortly (from 14th-18th january) in Christchurch makes what we see even worse.
After having a very good time in Christchurch we travelled for 5 weeks through New Zealand South and North. In every Motel George Bear was sitting on a chair and looking around, happily.
It seems that George Bear likes it to stay with us in Zurich. He found some Bear-Friends around him :-)
Our thoughts are with you all.
Warmest regards
George Bear, Vera and Christian
Stay safe down in Christchurch after the devestating earthquake, hopefully a nice quick recovery.
Kia Kaha and take care!
Having stayed with you two weeks before the earthquake we send you all our best wishes and hope things are not too bad for you. We have been truly shocked by the news of the earthquake and our thoughts are with you. My George Bear is safely home with us near York in the UK
I was laughed at by the Brisbane contingent of rescue workers when I offered to accompany them to Christchurch. The picture below shows me at Brisbane Airport ready to fly out with them.
BC suggested we donate to the Red Cross Appeal instead. Here is the web address for any other George Bears who want to help:
http://www.redcross.org.nz/donate
Wish I could be there, even if it's just to help Bruce and his team in the big clean up!
Love
George
From across the globe here in Boston, we are thinking of the George staff and sending well wishes through this difficult time. Hopefully things return to normal for you soon - we are still looking forward to our stay in March and to bringing home a George bear of our own... a little ambassador of your remarkable city : )
-Jessica
Sorry guys you have to go through these difficult times. We are really happy to hear back from you. Stay safe and stay strong. Canterbury will go through it
Thank you all for your kind messages. The team at The George are all fine. We do have a big mess to clean up but luckily no injuries here.
Was devastated to hear the news of the earthquake yesterday. My husband and I from Tucson, Arizona recently had a lovely stay at the George. We are hoping that all our friends/staff at the hotel are save and our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
My husband and I stayed at your beautiful hotel on a trip that we made for our honeymoon and were hoping to return there next year. We are so, so sad to hear about this terrible event.
Purpose in sending this blog is just to ask how you are at the hotel and to wish everyone in the area a safe recovery. Such a special place to treasure forever.
Best,
The Wells
I hope all my friends and family in Christ Church are safe. I think about you often from my home here in the Catskills.
We just left there on the 17th , had a few days in Sydney and are now back safe and sound in Devon PA ( near Philadelphia). Having heard and seen the devastating news, we want to send our best wishes to all those there. Hope that all of you made it through ok. Please post some news whenever feasible.
The Sterlings ( and George Bear)
I know Brisbane is meant to be my new home, but The George Hotel is where my heart is. I've just heard about the earthquake and I'm really, really upset.
B.C has been drying my tears and assuring me that The George is a wonderful building and that all will be fine.
Bruce, I hope you, your team and all visitors are safe and well.
Love
George
hey it\'s george!,
i came too my new house yesterday is it lovely! my owner is lucy and she loves me to bits!!! i had a homemade dinner and a nice hot milo before i went to bed, my bed is lovely!
regards
George xx
Wineries, wine tastings, wine tours.....I mean to say.....WHERE ARE THE HONEY TASTINGS?
Today my sisters flew back into auckland with this lovely teddy bear they said it was for me i said that it was goresges anyway he did a very good flight with my sisters
the End
BC promised me a life of Grand Adventures and hasn't let me down yet.
We are now in San Francisco and the weather is just wonderful. No floods, cyclones or humidity here! Just beautiful blue skies, moderate temperatures and dry air - nice when you have fur.
BC has to work here, poor girl. She took time off yesterday, though, which meant we could explore Fishermen's Wharf. The photo below is of me looking over the Bay at the scary Alcatraz Prison. We also took a ferry to Sausalito for a nice lunch.
I hope all is well back in Christchurch.
Love George :)
My dad bought George home for me. George is now going to live with me and meet my new puppy. I think George is so cuddly and cute. We have got monkey bars and a tramp for George to play on with me.
Bye and thank you
from Elsie
There was bearly room for me in the luggage but they squeezed me in and we went by ferry, train, then car to Dundin and stayed with the lovely Charles and Lissa Barkla who took us for dinner at Judith Cullen's house. Fine dining at The George Hotel followed by more fine dining with a tv chef. Yum. After 4 nights in Hong Kong, I'm at my new home in Chilham, Canterbury, Kent, England. No aftershocks here.
Love, George
....for Shawn and George.
This morning, George ripped his neck tie off and begged Sarah and Peter to let him stay at Clifftops with Shawn the sheep....they have fallen deeply in love during the last week. Sarah and Peter gave in and now George lives happily ever after with Shawn the sheep at Clifftops......the end.
The George Bears looooove sweets!!!
Pebbles and Frankie, the Goldies, are Bear friendly.
This is Shawn the Sheep here from Clifftops-Retreat in Ruby Bay, Nelson.
I can report an influx of George the Bears from Christchurch. They are fleeing the Hotel in great numbers. I am very concerned about this and I am wondering, has the standard slipped at the Hotel????
But I am pleased to let you know that the George Bear visitors have been enjoying themselves and the new owners, Sarah, Peter, Lucy and Amy are looking after them well. They find it hard to leave our place though and I, Shawn the sheep, have always got a little tear in my eye to see them go off on their world travels.
Anyway, I thought I will send you some images of the lovely times they had here.
Very concerned,
Shawn the Sheep!
PS: I must come down to Christchurch one day to make sure Hotel Standards are up to scratch for the Bears!
BC and I live close to the Brisbane River. Fortunately we're on a ridge so where there has been flooding around us, our house has stayed dry.
We still have power and water (touch wood) which makes us luckier than most.
This morning we drove to the local shopping centre and were able to get some supplies, although there was no fresh milk or bread and a lot of other fresh foods are unavailable.
That ended up good because BC made me pancakes with real maple syrup for breakfast. Aren't I a lucky bear!
Here's a photo of me on the deck of our house - nice and dry.
Love, George
Hi there, well i am leaving this hotel in te morning on my travels to Fiji, then i am off to explore America xxxx
After a long trip across Australia, into Indonesia and round large parts of Europe, they took the blindfold off and I was given over for interrogation to Bertie, a lab who lives near Hexham. He bites me a bit, sleeps on me and is a bit smelly, but I'm okay. I'm a pro, I'll never talk......
I've just spent the last few days in a cottage in the rainforest of Maleny, Queensland. It was wonderful, with a hot tub and really, really nice bed.
It was a bit cold, though. It should have been really hot. B.C. was shivering sometimes!
This morning the sun came out so we went on an adventure. We walked down to Gardeners Falls. B.C took my photo while I was sitting on a rock near the gushing water. Apparently Maleny has had nearly 2 metres of rain this year, so the waterfall was certainly flowing.
Now I'm back home in Brisbane. HUMID!
Love to All.
George
Thought I would share my "Bear" picture with you...my daughter and I spent 4 weeks in China in April-May....and these are three of my little friends, in the sanctury at Chengdu.
Wishing you all the best of everything.
To all my friends at The George Hotel and the people of Christchurch, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Love, George
Friday I got to see my new home! It is in Brisbane and is really, really nice but very wet, humid and hot. BC said she'd have to take special care to make sure my fur doesn't suffer from mildew.
It seemed that we only just got there and we're back on the road again. It's Sydney this time. BC made sure I got my own seat on the flight (see photo below) so that I'd be safely strapped in. She's just so nice. I'm a lucky bear.
Thanks Mr Garrett and the team for letting me start a new life of exciting travel. I'm very, very happy.
More soon,
Love George
Boy am I a lucky bear! I've been adopted by a wonderful, kind and loving girl who likes me so much she wants to cuddle me all the time.
Here I am in the Qantas Lounge setting off on my Grand Adventures. My owner thinks that Vegemite is better than honey. I'll have to educate her.
More later from some exotic ports......
Love,
George
George - it was always my intention when visiting Christchurch to stay at The George Hotel and rescue you. I became very excited when told we would be in Christchurch in December and planned some travels with you to Sydney, Brisbane and Montville for the remainder of 2010, then San Francisco, Auckland and France in 2011.
Unfortunately we are here on business and were told by the company we are working for that we had to stay at another hotel.
No bears here. I'm heartbroken.
Tonight I'm coming to dine at 50 on Park. If you're really quick you could slip in under the red merino coat I'll be wearing. I promise you a wonderful life of Grand Adventures.
BC
My name is George. On Christmas Day 2008 I left the George with my new 'mummy Sarah' who wanted to take me home to London. I was glad mummy Sarah picked me. Sometimes, I thought no one would!
Before we went home we had to go to a place called Chile. I saw lots of new and exciting things there. My best time was cooking on a big fire near a beautiful lake and a giant volcanoe!
Now I'm in England and live my new bearfriends Barry and Stephen, who I love very much. We hang out all the time and do stuff like go skiing with daddy David and mummy Sarah. I love them too...
Hi Bruce
After a long flight half way around the world to the Cayman Islands with Mimi & Bampa I met my new best friend named Alianne. We are right now celebrating Pirate's week and she is so much fun!!!!!!!!!!
George has recently come up to live in Nelson with Charlie. Charlie has been given the responsibilty to love and look after George by James and Anna who are living in Wellington. She wants all to know that she takes this responsibility very seriously and that George has settled into his new home very well and is in very good company.
Hagley Park, the Avon River
The ground did shake and make me quiver
So I did roam home with Jane to TJ
But am now restless for another duvet.
Commodoare Parry does sound very posh
But I fear at times there is not enough nosh
So my smaller, flatter tummy
Is now seeking something more yummy.
TJ did whisper"Go to Derm
He will spoil, feed and take care of your next roaming term".
Southern Cross will give us a lot of fuss
The doctors and nurses will just love us
And when we have passed the necessary motion
It will be time for us to roam home to Karen's location.
Today I got snaffled by a 10 year old who said 'you're gowgeous' and squeezed me until my eyes almost popped out! She's really nice but is threatening to take me to a 'farm' in Timaru - I hope they don't have tigers there! Hold this space.....
We do get around. But fortunately we rounded The Cape in a car... it did look a bit rough out there. It's a bit like Cape Reinga but no Ninety Mile Beach.
Hi Bruce,
Here we are again, this time on Table Mountain. It's windy. Lynne is having to keep a good grip on me. It's nice to see the southern seas again.
Glad to hear the there were no injuries from the earthquake...
Thoughts and prayers to the people of Christchurch.
George (We will be back to visit)
Thought and prayers from George Marley in Jamaica
Heard the news this morning. I am sure that Christchurch will bounce back quickly. George will be back for a visit
Here is the story of our George the bear...
Mel and Jo adopted me from room 406 and I made the following wonderful adventures...
- I traveled to the sun and beaches of Bora Bora
- Then I returned to my native New Zealand but moved on for one night hotel stay in Sydney
- Then I flew all the way to Singapore and spent 3 nights at the Raffles
- Then I spent great time in Japan and saw Mt. Fuji
- I flew all the way to Germany to meet Frank and Renate
- then on to Sweden and all of the beautiful blond women
- We flew back to Munich for a good beer before leaving Europe
- Finally I arrive in JFK and the big apple
- We drove to Canada to meet my new friend Tech, the golden retriever...
This was just two days before he ate me.
After our stay at the George, in Christchurch NZ, George nestled in our suitcase for the start of his exotic life with his new owner's Sylvia & Keith.
We travelled on the Trans Alpine Railway to Greymouth where we picked up a car to continue down the West Coast stopping at various points, making a cirular tour until we arrived back at the George.
On our last night in Christchurch at the George his Son George junior was waiting in our suite to join us for the start of their journey of a lifetime.
We flew the next day to Auckland, with them both tucked up in their sleeping bags for the journey.
Arrived in Auckland and picked a car up to drive to the top of the North Island and a 2 day stay.
We then returned to Auckland to join the QM2 and total luxury for the two bears, they were met by their white gloved Butler, who looked after their every need.
They embarked on their cruise half way round the world, with their special postions on the bed between two luxury cushions, looking out to sea, past the balcony.
Their journey took them to Sydney,Adelaide,Perth,Mauritius,Durban,Cape Town, St. Helena, Rio de Janeiro,Barbados,Miami,New York and back to their new Country of Great Britain.
It was now time to return to their sleeping bags for the short journey up to Kent, and their new home where they will be pampered in a warm snuggly bedroom, until their next holiday.
George and George Junior have certainly had a great start to life, will update in the future
Dear Bruce,
Great place this Paris. Can't understand a word they say though. That's Lynne by the way.
Apparenty this "Eiffel Tower" used to be the tallest in the world.
Not as big as the Sky Tower in Auckland though. I miss NZ sometimes but I can see the photos from my place on the speaker all the time.
Life is busy... Off the South Africa soon. I'll try to get you a picture of one of those Heffalump things.
Dear Bruce,
Just arrive in Paris. Travelled with my pals Lynne and Andy. Ivan and Oran are keepin' an eye on the property back home.
Came though a huge hole in the ground. I think this Eurostar mob have got a major mole problem.
Dear Bruce,
Just thought I'd introduce you to my new pals here in the "Old Country". Ivan, a Russian Bear, is all the way from Siberia. Oran is a Ginger from some place called Borneo. Apparently I saved him from a load of toe rags who like to grow oil. I always thought oil came out of wells.
We all sit here on top of the speaker keeping an eye on things. It can get a bit load but at least I get to travel.
Dear Bruce,
Since I left the hotel on 6th May I have travelled around all of NZ by campervan, including Queenstown, Franz Josef (the helihike was awesome), Pancake Rocks, Kaikoura, Tongariro National Park, Rotorua and Auckland. You can see a picture of me with the Lonely Planet planning the next part of my trip.
I also went to Fiji for a few nights which was lovely (although very hot in my fur coat) before heading to England where I'll now be settling permanently. If I'm ever back In Christchurch I will definitely come to visit!
Love George x
My name is Maxine and I work at a day care centre in Auckland called Bear Park and in my classroom I have this little girl called Joanne. She is the sweetest little girl you will ever meet and everyone just loves her. The other day she brought her friend George to visit us and he got LOST we have looked everywhere and the older kids have even gotten involved and they have put up posters everywhere to try and find him but he hasn't shown up. Now Joanne loves this little bear as she got it when she stayed at your hotel and she is very upset that it got lost and she understands that she shouldn't have brought it but she wanted to show everyone.
And I was wondering if there was anyway we would be able to surprise her with a new one if it hasn't shown up by Friday afternoon. Her family are moving to Shanghai at the end of next month so we would all love it very much if we could send her with her bear.
I am going to be in Christchurch this weekend and was wondering if I could arrange something?
Very Kind Regards Maxine
Dear Maxine,
Thank you for your moving email regarding Joanne and her missing bear. George loves adventures so I imagine he must have wondered off and become lost. I know he will be missing Joanne terribly now, just as she is missing him. We would be very happy to provide a replacement George which can be collected from our reception desk any time this weekend. Our reception staff will be expecting you.
Kind regards
Bruce Garrett
General Manager
Hi Bruce
Joanne would like to say thank you very much to the George hotel for her new George bear she was very excited!!! (photo attached)
The team at bear park would also like to thank you.
Maxine
I have travelled from The George Hotel in Christchurch to my new home in Indiana, USA! I now live with a little boy named Wyatt on a farm with horses and kitty cats. Wyatt takes me on the back of his new red tricycle and sometimes he lets me ride on his green tractor! I love my new home.
Dear Bruce
We have left Sydney and are now in Hawai'i staying in Waikiki and atking in the beach and the surf. We were here when the tsunami alert was triggered and had to evacuate up onto a higher floor but luckily there was not much of a surge in the sea this time.
Regards to all at The George
George Bear
Not only did I have a delightful stay at the Hotel, but found a companion for my little mascot, Bernie, who made the summit of Everest in May, 2009. Bernie is delighted to have a new friend, especially from New Zealand, since Sir Edmund Hillary was the first to summit Everest in 1953.
As of May 23, 2009, I became the oldest woman(age 60) in the world to summit the highest peak on each of the Seven Continents. Thanks to the staff for taking these photos. I would like to include George in the children's book that I am writing.
I was hoping to contact some news media, but my stay in Christchurch was very brief. Thanks to your wonderful staff, I was able to connect with my cycling tour at the train station. I had overslept and they managed to call a cab and get me off and on my way to my next adventure.
George, Bernie and I will keep you posted on our next endeavor.
Kay LeClaire
My website is: www.kayleclaire.com
George ordering room service at the Lotte Hotel Seoul, Korea
George relaxing at the Beache Palace. (Korea)
Andy and Julie were given George bear by the lovely staff at The George.
George bear is now home in Gisborne, and has been given to their daughter and son in law who are expecting their first child (named sprout at the moment)
So George bear is here enjoying his time and waiting for surf to pick up so he can head out on the waves!
Oh, I forgot to mention in my previous mail I already made a new friend 'Nero' here in Belgium :O)
Sorry for the late response, but I just arrived today in my new home in Belgium. And, as you can see in the attached picture, I'm very happy here ;O) I was too late for the survey, but anyhow, many thanks for the great stay in your perfect accommodation!
George Bear, happily adopted now by Ann & Rudy
Greetings from Bruges Belgium for your whole staff.
Hi Bruce
No prizes for guessing where we are now. Supposed to be here to visit David's grandchildren but couldn't resist a spot of sight seeing
Regards
George Bear
I was taken to a town in Tasmania before we left that was named after me - see photo. David reckons there aren't many towns called Bruce in the world.
Next stop Sydney, so hopefully a few photo oportunites there
Regards to all
Gearge
Dear Bruce,
We have just finished Tasmania and attach photo of me before we got on the train at Strahan. Off to Hobart and then on to Sydney for 10 days.
Regards
George
I have just got a george bear he is so cute and i,ll love him from now on
Hi Bruce, We have arrived in Melbourne at the start of our 6 week trip. Today we went to the MCG, Marilyn did not complain too much but I suspect we shall have to do some shopping later to compensate. Attached a 'photo of me with Denis Lilley who David says probably did as much damage to the Kiwis as he did the Poms. We liked Melbourne but it's not a patch on Christchurch. Will send more news from Tasmania soon. Hope all is well with you and the staff at The George.
Regards
George
You will be pleased to learn that I have been in the company of the Forresters who had a great time travelling round the South Island in accomodation like the George and meeting locals who have much to teach hospitality in Scotland, They say that they have had a ball ..same as they had three years ago when they travelled from Christchurch North and then over to the North Island.
Incidentally I have been in good company of the BEAR TYPE! I met a horific pepermint bear who joined the FORRESTERS on their last trip having been bought in my home area (purpose of being acquired was to provide an ID object in the rear window of their hire car) The pepermint bear has technically been round the WORLD and I have gone half way!
My home in Gartocharn is very pleasant ,companions include STEIFF FAMILY COLLECTOR ITEMS so be happy in the knowledge that I have found an excellent home in SCOTLAND
THe family wish me to convey their regards and to wish all at the GEORGE A MERRY XMAS and a HAPPY NEW YEAR
Bear c/o Forrester,
How are you, I hope all is well at The George. Marilyn and David are busy packing for a trip to Melbourne, Tazmania, Sydney, Honolulu and California and have promised that if I behave they will take me with them.
Regards
George
Hi Bruce
Here I am in Seattle working hard from my desk at Uniquely New Zealand Travel, with my Chocolate Lab mate Milo. We are busy getting lots of people down to New Zealand, a few who I'll get to see over the summer months, when I get back home. It's raining non-stop here in Seattle (sounds like it might be that way for a while) so I plan to head home soon to help take care of our guests.
George
I was part of the travel agent famil from the U.S. that stayed at The George in July. After we left, I started taking pictures of George in various poses and places including sampling a cheese roll in Dunedin. I know he's wearing the wrong beanie! The one from the Blues was the only one I had, so sorry about that. Myself, and the rest of the group, enjoyed having George travel with us and I plan on taking him on all my trips now.
Just thought I would share. And I'd also like to thank you once again for your fabulous hospitality. I hope to be sending lots and lots of tourists your way.
Thank you again,
Best regards,
Nancy Purdin
We were deeply moved by your plaintive appeal to be freed from the drudgery of luxury living in the George Hotel and decided there and then to make every effort to free you. To this end we set about saving all our pennies and eventually had enough to travel on our quest to release you. We travelled half way round the world for 6 weeks calling at Singapore, Perth, Cairns, Sydney and then drove 3,000 miles around both islands of your homeland before eventually finding The George Hotel in Chistchurch on the very last two days that we had remaining before our funds ran out.. When we enquired at reception of your whereabouts we were told that you had ‘run out’. We had not seen you depart although we may have been able to=2 0spot you from any other room but 401 from which one can only see a flat roof. We now regret telling our grandchildren about our mission as we have to go back to England empty handed and break the bad news to them. Marilyn and David
Imagine my distress when I received your message to learn that after all your travels and efforts I was nowhere to be found. As you can see from this email that I am now back and deeply saddened that I missed the opportunity to have new adventures and a travel to distant lands. However all is not lost for I am not a bear known for sitting around and sulking but am a bear of action. I shall stow away aboard a plane and make my way to 17 Woodside Close in Storrington, West Sussex where I hope to find you and entertain your grandchildren with tales of my travels. Please accept my humble apologies for being absent during your visit, hopefully I will be able to make this up to you when I arrive in the near future. Kind regards, George Bear
We were so pleased to hear from you and that you are ready for new adventures. So, we await your arrival with great anticipation. Our grandchildren have lots of exciting things planned for you when you arrive and your stay (hopefully a very long one) with us will be filled with many activities. We also intend to take you with us as we travel around the world. Although you are a very well travelled bear, we hope to be able to show you places you have never been. Bon Voyage George, and we look forward to seeing you soon. With kind regards Marilyn and David
Just to let you know that I arrived safely in Storrington this morning (see picture) only to be immediately whisked off to Ireland (see picture taken at Gatwick Airport where we were lunching as we waited for our flight) where I am currently enjoying the rain. I am so looking forward to meeting the 3 grand-daughters who are, of course, looking forward to meeting me. Thank you for facilitating my journey to England. I can see I am in for an exciting time with Marilyn and David. I hope to keep in touch with you as I journey around. My very best regards to you and all at the George. George Bear.
Still enjoying my travels and new friends. Attached are two photos of me enjoying the early spring sunshine on the shore of Lough Swilly, Co. Donegal in the Republic of Ireland. Also attached is another of me with Erin, the youngest of the Irish grandchildren. More news to follow. Kind regards George Bear
Thank you so much for your letters and photos. I am delighted that you are enjoying your new life and it is great to see you in your new environment looking loved and well cared for. You certainly are a well travelled bear and have chosen the right time to emigrate to the northern hemisphere. As the autumn is approaching here and cooler weather is around the corner, you are enjoying the delights of spring and the wonders and beauty of new countries. By the way, I have been so taken by your correspondence, along with that of your new owners, I hope you don\'t mind that I have posted it all on the Hotel website - http://www.thegeorge.com/comments.htm. With all the doom and gloom around the world regarding the economy we also thought the local paper might be interested in your tail [sic] as a feel-good story to help cheer everyone up. If you, Marilyn and David don\'t mind, we will forward the details to the paper and if anything does get published will certainly send you a copy. I wish you continued safe travels and look forward to hearing more of your exploits. Kind regards, Bruce
As you can see from the attached, I am maintaining my reputation as "Action Bear". I am looking forward, though, to warmer weather which I have been promised will eventually arrive. (It was snowing slightly as I kayaked my way over Lough Swilly). Best regards George
Yesterday we did the cultural bit of Derry/Londonderry although only scratched the surface as there is so much history here. Attached is photo of me sitting on the city wall with the street behind me running up to The Diamond, which is the centre of the walled area of the city. The hotel you see is not a patch on the George!!!!! Weather turned wintery last evening with some quite heavy snow in places but this morning it has gone and we have what looks to be a nice spring day ahead, although a little chilly. George
Have just spent the weekend looking after David's 3, Irish grand daughters(see attached of me with Amy, the middle girl) so we are all worn out. However we have today been for a bracing stroll along the edge of the Swilly, this time beyond Buncrana and Marilyn and David showed me where the Life Boat Station was just in case I ever get lost in the kayak. This break in Ireland ends tomorrow but there are a few 'photos left that I have to send you during the week. Hope all is well at The George. Kind regards George B
Just to let you know that I am back in England now having arrived from Ireland late last night, hopefully I will now get to see some of this country as we left for Irelend the moment I arrived in Storrington. I attach three 'photos from yesterday which was a lovely spring day and the sun had some real, promising warmth to it. It is hard to imagine that Lough Swilly is connected to the Atlantic Ocean on a day like yesterday when it gets mirror flat. I have a few more 'photos from Inch to send including one from Inch Experimental Farm but David says he has to get government approval before we can send it, hopefully this will not be too long in coming as it is a very interesting picture. Please give my best regards to all at The George Yours George B
Thank you so much for the regular updates on your travels along with the beautiful photos. You have certainly been making the most of your new found freedom although I understand you may be settling down a bit more now. We have loved hearing from you and are certainly intrigued about your latest "top secret" government assignment. I imagine you have been grateful for your fur coat as you seem to have been outdoors quite a lot and taking in some stunning scenery. We have been putting your photos up in our staff-room so all the team can see what you are up to and are still working on getting some local media to pick-up your story. You also appear to have met some lovely children and we know how much you love spending time with them. I imagine that once you settle in to your new routine you may not be in contact as much but that is okay, we will still remember you fondly and wish you all the best for your future life and adventures yet to come. Kind regards, Bruce
Thankyou for your recent email, I am flattered that the staff are interested in my travels and all the time I am doing new things I will continue to keep in touch and let them know how I am doing. I am at present in Hampshire staying with David but had the pleasure of meeting Marilyn's daughter and grandson, Barnaby at the weekend when they came for the day. I have met Murphy the cat and he doesn't seem too bothered by my presence (see 'photo) and this afternoon had a ride in a car, David has promised me a flying helmet and goggles (nothing was mentioned about ear plugs as I really need them too) for the next trip out in it as it is very windy and I was really pleased I had my fur coat. Kind regards George B
Had a quiet week, catching my breath from all this ‘jet setting’ and enjoying the English spring time. Back in Storrington now with Marilyn and have met Lucy, Marilyn’s pride and joy and we got on really well as you can see. Spent yesterday in the garden smelling the hyacinths. Will write again when I have something to report. Take care Regards George B PS Q: Why was the little bear so spoiled? A: Because its mother panda'd to its every whim
Marilyn and David have shown me an extract from The Press which you may be interested to see, so I am attaching it to this email. Bearly yours George B
BEAR IN BAR Earlier this week, a report came in that a bear was seen walking into the top Christchurch hotel, The George at Park Terrace. He entered the 50 on Park Bar and ordered a pint of lager. The bar tender, Bruce, who was multi-tasking, amazed that the bear could actually talk, silently gave him a beer. “Thanks”, the bear says, “what do I owe you?” Bruce, forever with an eye to making a profit, stopped and thought for a moment. Even though this bear is smart, he thought, he probably hadn’t been in many bars. So Bruce said “That’ll be NZ$20 please, sir”. The bear handed over the money and started drinking his beer. After a few minutes, Bruce gave in to his curiosity and walked back over to the bear and said “You know, we don’t get many bears in this bar”. The bear looked slowly up from his beer and said “Well, at twenty dollars a beer, I’m not surprised”.
Great news. I can bearly contain my excitement, we now, at long last, have received clearance to publish the photograph from the day we went to a secret location on Inch Island where they are carrying out some experiments with genetic engineering on animals. At this location they are trying to cross breed giraffes and sheep. See the two resulting animals in the background that David tells me are called Sheraffes .
Have a good day
George B
At last, the pictures we have all been waiting for. I imagine you had to be blindfolded on the way to and from the location so that you couldn't divulge the information. I hope that you were not too shocked by seeing this top secret programme. I take it now that the pictures have been released this experiment will soon become public knowledge and we will be seeing reports in our news media.
Whatever next? Mind you here in New Zealand we already have agricultural fairs where we display a sheep/cow cross. We call them "shows".
Kind regards,
Bruce
Marilyn and David promised me great fun today with the grand daughters who were all coming to Inch for Easter Sunday and they were right. When the girls got here there was great eggcitement for they told me that on Easter Sunday the Easter Bunny always came and hid Easter Eggs around the cottage for them to find. Caitlin informed me that it was very impawtant that we all kept our eyes shut while he wandered around hiding the eggs. This we did and then it was all off running to hunt for the eggs. Here’s me with the girls and the Easter Bunny, me with Amy and another of Erin with a smaller version. I think that they must have eggscaped from the genetic engineering farm down the road.
Regards
George B
Enjoying the Easter break here. Been quiet as the girls are in Sligo for four days but we are seeing them again tomorrow.
Yesterday we walked the whole of the Derry city wall, see photo of me in front of the magnificent Guildhall. The rest of the time we've been relaxing and just taking things easy.
Hope you are all well at The George
Regards
George B
Not much been happening since the excitement of the wedding but we did go down to the woods the other day, sadly not for a picnic, but to see the bluebells which are quite something to see and attached is a photo of me admiring them.
Also attached are two pawtraits of me .drawn by Amy and Caitlin while they were over last week
David has gone to Ireland for Amy's birthday this week so I am off to Cardiff with Marilyn.
Please give the staff at The George my best wishes.
Regards
George B
Water, water, everywhere - it rains in Wales (as indeed it does in Ireland!). I've been with Marilyn for a few days and we took a trip on a narrow boat on the Brecon Canal (see pictures). I even came across a boat named Dancing with Bears - had to restrain myself from dancing!! We stopped on an aqueduct over the River Usk and I was prebeariously perched on the bridge for a photo - I held my bearth!!
Our next outing is to see Maj (the Queen) at Windsor. Of course, she will be delighted to meet me, and Marilyn or David will get some pictures of us together. Hopefully the weather will be better as I am told another boat trip (on the River Thames) is in prospect.
Hope all is well at The George - please give my regards to all who know me (and that must be everyone).
George Bear
