We left Vienna early and started our long drive. With a detour to go over a mountain path in Slovenia and a stop near the Austrian border to see an old bunker, our drive took most of the day.
We had a left-over schnitzel lunch at a beautiful lake-side park called Worthensee.
We entered Italy! Add another country to my list. It was fun to notice differences in the architecture and country side. Even though all of these countries are so close together and they have similarities in climate or culture, there are still noticeable differences in the buildings and the people. I love it and I wish I were more familiar with all of them.
Italy's countryside is full of churches, like everywhere else, but they are no longer the spires and gray stone like in the northern countries. The Italian churches are more square with red tile roofs and brown stones or plaster. It's just like the kinds of things you see in paintings in Italian restaurants.
Our first experience with Italy was getting gas in Verona. If you don't recognize the name of that city you need to read more Shakespeare.
The ride into the city of Milan is not so pretty from the freeway. There are just a lot of walls and ugly buildings in the way of seeing anything. But we were happy to arrive in Milan and the downtown part of the city is very beautiful.
We came to Milan because a friend of the family lives there and wanted to have us for dinner. Paulo was an exchange student when he was a teenager and my dad had started college. It had been 30 years since they've seen each other but Paulo has kept good contact with the family.
He had a hotel reservation ready for us so we were able to check in easily and freshen up very comfortably as we waited for Paulo to come pick us up. I got a room all to myself- which really just means I had my own bathroom cuz that's all that matters. Not having to schedule showers is so nice.
Paulo didn't live very far away, still just right in the center of town. He and his wife were very fun to talk to and they made an exceptional dinner. We started eating around 8 pm. We had bread with olives, pickles and mini onions for the antipasti. Then they cooked the pasta and served it with a sauce from her mother with eggplant. It was SO good! They brought out a sausage and cheese that came from a mountain region near by. The sausage was very hot. I took my taste bite with a bit of pasta. I believe the sausage was called Caciotta.
After we had eaten our fill of pasta Paulo went back to the kitchen and took out a large chunk of roasted veal. I had to laugh to myself when my dad realized that the pasta wasn't the main course. His face was classic. I had already eaten enough food to be satisfied until breakfast but I knew I'd be eating more anyway.
Paulo cut the veal into slices and laid them in a casserole dish. Then he laid out the prepared potatoes around the meat and put it in the oven. Have you ever had a meal cooked for you as you go from course to course? Cuz it's pretty fun. It smells delicious and it is the best way to have long and lively conversations because it takes so long and there are breaks.
When the veal came out Paulo poured a sauce over the whole dish and then served us. I was worried about being able to eat it all...until I tasted it. It. Blew. My. Mind.
His sauce was simply juice from the meat with nutmeg. I had never thought of nutmeg with meat but now I can't imagine meat without it. It was that good. If I had a second stomach I would have had second helpings. Thank you Paulo for changing my life. Around 11pm we finished dinner and decided to take the dog for a walk and get ice cream. Can you just imagine how good a gelato is in Italy? I had mint and chocolate.
So, we had the longest most delicious dinner I have ever experienced and stayed the night in a hotel in MILAN. Fantastic new experiences.
Monday, September 30, 2013
Sunday, September 15, 2013
Day 17: Vienna
In the morning I took the public transportation with instructions from Julia to go meet my parents in the city center to see the famous dancing stallions in their morning practice. Mom was hoping they would rehearse their formations, but they just kept cycling through groups of horses to warm them all up and practice some of their tricks. We ended up staying for the whole thing hoping to see something more exciting, but we didn't. Mom thought it was a bit of a dud. And they must make so much money from that.
Dad left early to go see a clock that moves at noon. I believe it has 12 apostles that go around.
It started raining when mom and I left to go meet him at the cathedral.
Mom and dad were ready to go see their museums but Julia had told me about a large market that I should check out so I told my parents I would just do my own thing today.
I quickly felt comfortable with the transportation and found buses when I needed them. So I went to the market and spent some of my money and then I went to the apartment we rented and laid down for a quick nap. When Julia texted me that she was on her way home I also set out to go to her house and help her cook.
It was heaven to just hang out in her house, helping when she needed me and just enjoying her company as well as getting to know her husband Sammy. I had heard about Sammy during the mission and I would have killed to go to their wedding last fall, but at least I am here now.
Eventually the door buzzed and my parents were here. Dinner was not ready yet so they also got to relax and enjoy being in a 'home.' Dinner was fantastic, and for dessert dad had requested something he had a long time ago and Julia was happy to oblige him. He got to watch her make Kaiserschmaren- a pancake meal that is fluffy and torn up because some king a long time ago didn't like his pancakes flat. Sammy said that Julia must have made that up but dad 'wiki'd it and she was right.
It was a very fulfilling evening and it was sad to have to go and to say goodbye but I know one day they will come and visit.
Today was one of the best days of the trip so far.
So again- I'm sorry I can't tell you about my parents' adventures. They visited the military museum with a ginormous collection of armor and weapons, as well as the ancient musical instruments museum with an expansive collection of pieces that even my dad had no idea existed. They were very impressed with both museums.
Dad left early to go see a clock that moves at noon. I believe it has 12 apostles that go around.
It started raining when mom and I left to go meet him at the cathedral.
Mom and dad were ready to go see their museums but Julia had told me about a large market that I should check out so I told my parents I would just do my own thing today.
I quickly felt comfortable with the transportation and found buses when I needed them. So I went to the market and spent some of my money and then I went to the apartment we rented and laid down for a quick nap. When Julia texted me that she was on her way home I also set out to go to her house and help her cook.
It was heaven to just hang out in her house, helping when she needed me and just enjoying her company as well as getting to know her husband Sammy. I had heard about Sammy during the mission and I would have killed to go to their wedding last fall, but at least I am here now.
Eventually the door buzzed and my parents were here. Dinner was not ready yet so they also got to relax and enjoy being in a 'home.' Dinner was fantastic, and for dessert dad had requested something he had a long time ago and Julia was happy to oblige him. He got to watch her make Kaiserschmaren- a pancake meal that is fluffy and torn up because some king a long time ago didn't like his pancakes flat. Sammy said that Julia must have made that up but dad 'wiki'd it and she was right.
It was a very fulfilling evening and it was sad to have to go and to say goodbye but I know one day they will come and visit.
Today was one of the best days of the trip so far.
So again- I'm sorry I can't tell you about my parents' adventures. They visited the military museum with a ginormous collection of armor and weapons, as well as the ancient musical instruments museum with an expansive collection of pieces that even my dad had no idea existed. They were very impressed with both museums.
Day 16: finally in VIENNA!!
We left Budapest early of course, saying goodbye to our cute host Zsofie.
I was so excited to get to Vienna. One of my mission companions lives in Vienna. Julia and I were MTC roommates (with four other amazing girls) and she was going to the Toulouse, France mission. She was actually the first sister I met. The Toulouse missionaries were on the bus with us to leave the MTC when all the Geneva missionaries were 'recalled' because our flight was cancelled. Hasty and confused goodbyes on the bus were all be got with those Toulouse missionaries but we had no clue what would happen to our missions in the future. In the middle of my mission, we were combined with Toulouse. In the first transfer where we were combined, President mixed every companionship so that we could get to know the new missionaries an learn how to work together. I was in Geneva with a french companion when Julia came to be in the other sister companionship. I was SO excited to see her again! We spent three transfers in Geneva and for 2.5 weeks in the middle we were made a trio. Those 2.5 weeks were some of the most rewarding of my mission and Julia became a best friend. I got to see much more of her in later transfers and of course, we got to finish together with all our other beloved sisters. Anyways- I can get very lost down mission-memory lane. Sorry for the digression but now you may understand why I was so excited to be in Vienna. I've seen the other sisters in Utah, but I haven't seen Julia since we parted in Heathrow airport 16 months ago.
So we drove into the city center and found parking near the tourist information center so we could plan our visit. I texted Julia and she said she could get out of work early and meet us. Yay!! After waiting impatiently through the next two hours while we explored the area a bit, finding locations of things we wanted to do, Julia was on her way to find us. It was raining and we were standing inside the museum gate for shelter when she was suddenly there and I was finally hugging her! I didn't want to let go but she could finally meet my parents.
Julia walked us through the city center, sharing some of the things she knows and we went to the city's old famous Ferris wheel. It was nice to see the city from so high and Julia was pointing out interesting things. Julia had to go to school at 5, but she invited me to come stay with her for the night. Yay!! And before she left she took us to her favorite ice cream place, which was Italian and Amazing! I had a nut mixture- which if you know me you might think WHAT?! I hate nuts in things because I don't like their texture, but I love most of their flavors. But these ice creams had no chunks- just the flavor! I got pistachio, chestnut, and Nutella, of course. Each of them were so delicious and the combination was incredible!
We happened upon a statue of Guttenburg, the man who invented the printing press. As we took a picture mom said, "we need books to be holding for the picture." So I had the funny idea to make the picture ironic- if it can even be seen in the photo; I pulled out my iPod, which has a number of my books saved. So even though I am incredibly grateful for the invention of a printing press, I am also very grateful for the modern technologies that allow me to carry many books in my one pocket and it weighs only a few ounces.
We bought tickets for a symphony in the Golden Hall at 8, so we had time to explore more and find dinner. But first mom and I changed out of our jeans into skirt and dress so we wouldn't feel too underdressed at the concert. We found a perfect quick-food stand that sold sausages(LIKE a hot dog), Chinese noodles(cooked right on this huge flat hot-counter), and kebabs. I got a kebab(shocker), dad got a sausage and mom got noodles. We enjoyed our food with a talented accordion player in the background.
The symphony hall was very beautiful, and true to its name, very gold. It was a mostly young group of musicians, led by a young director. The music was incredible, and we were sitting only 10 rows back. We got great last-minute, half-priced, front-and-center tickets. It made for a great night. I enjoy such concerts because it reminds me of when I was in band. I didn't love playing the trumpet, cuz I was too lazy to practice, but I did love being a part of band. There is something special about adding a small part to such incredible and intricate creations of music.
After the spectacular performance we drove to find the place we had booked to check in, but I was going to stay with Julia so dad dropped off his stuff and then we drove to Julia's. We worked out a free parking situation by leaving our car at Julia's and she and I drove dad home. Then she was hungry (at 11:30 pm) so she bought food from Burger King and then she drove me out to the hills at the edge of Vienna where we parked with pretty views of the city and talked for hours. We got back to her apartment around 2:30 and still couldn't stop chatting until after 4. And she had school in the morning at 8. I went to sleep on her very comfortable and ingeniously designed convertible couch.
I was so excited to get to Vienna. One of my mission companions lives in Vienna. Julia and I were MTC roommates (with four other amazing girls) and she was going to the Toulouse, France mission. She was actually the first sister I met. The Toulouse missionaries were on the bus with us to leave the MTC when all the Geneva missionaries were 'recalled' because our flight was cancelled. Hasty and confused goodbyes on the bus were all be got with those Toulouse missionaries but we had no clue what would happen to our missions in the future. In the middle of my mission, we were combined with Toulouse. In the first transfer where we were combined, President mixed every companionship so that we could get to know the new missionaries an learn how to work together. I was in Geneva with a french companion when Julia came to be in the other sister companionship. I was SO excited to see her again! We spent three transfers in Geneva and for 2.5 weeks in the middle we were made a trio. Those 2.5 weeks were some of the most rewarding of my mission and Julia became a best friend. I got to see much more of her in later transfers and of course, we got to finish together with all our other beloved sisters. Anyways- I can get very lost down mission-memory lane. Sorry for the digression but now you may understand why I was so excited to be in Vienna. I've seen the other sisters in Utah, but I haven't seen Julia since we parted in Heathrow airport 16 months ago.
So we drove into the city center and found parking near the tourist information center so we could plan our visit. I texted Julia and she said she could get out of work early and meet us. Yay!! After waiting impatiently through the next two hours while we explored the area a bit, finding locations of things we wanted to do, Julia was on her way to find us. It was raining and we were standing inside the museum gate for shelter when she was suddenly there and I was finally hugging her! I didn't want to let go but she could finally meet my parents.
Julia walked us through the city center, sharing some of the things she knows and we went to the city's old famous Ferris wheel. It was nice to see the city from so high and Julia was pointing out interesting things. Julia had to go to school at 5, but she invited me to come stay with her for the night. Yay!! And before she left she took us to her favorite ice cream place, which was Italian and Amazing! I had a nut mixture- which if you know me you might think WHAT?! I hate nuts in things because I don't like their texture, but I love most of their flavors. But these ice creams had no chunks- just the flavor! I got pistachio, chestnut, and Nutella, of course. Each of them were so delicious and the combination was incredible!
We happened upon a statue of Guttenburg, the man who invented the printing press. As we took a picture mom said, "we need books to be holding for the picture." So I had the funny idea to make the picture ironic- if it can even be seen in the photo; I pulled out my iPod, which has a number of my books saved. So even though I am incredibly grateful for the invention of a printing press, I am also very grateful for the modern technologies that allow me to carry many books in my one pocket and it weighs only a few ounces.
We bought tickets for a symphony in the Golden Hall at 8, so we had time to explore more and find dinner. But first mom and I changed out of our jeans into skirt and dress so we wouldn't feel too underdressed at the concert. We found a perfect quick-food stand that sold sausages(LIKE a hot dog), Chinese noodles(cooked right on this huge flat hot-counter), and kebabs. I got a kebab(shocker), dad got a sausage and mom got noodles. We enjoyed our food with a talented accordion player in the background.
The symphony hall was very beautiful, and true to its name, very gold. It was a mostly young group of musicians, led by a young director. The music was incredible, and we were sitting only 10 rows back. We got great last-minute, half-priced, front-and-center tickets. It made for a great night. I enjoy such concerts because it reminds me of when I was in band. I didn't love playing the trumpet, cuz I was too lazy to practice, but I did love being a part of band. There is something special about adding a small part to such incredible and intricate creations of music.
After the spectacular performance we drove to find the place we had booked to check in, but I was going to stay with Julia so dad dropped off his stuff and then we drove to Julia's. We worked out a free parking situation by leaving our car at Julia's and she and I drove dad home. Then she was hungry (at 11:30 pm) so she bought food from Burger King and then she drove me out to the hills at the edge of Vienna where we parked with pretty views of the city and talked for hours. We got back to her apartment around 2:30 and still couldn't stop chatting until after 4. And she had school in the morning at 8. I went to sleep on her very comfortable and ingeniously designed convertible couch.
Day 15: Middle of the trip- Budapest
Nutella in the car!!
Remember how I said before that we have the best road snacks ever? Well it got even better. Dad had the brilliant idea of just keeping a jar of Nutella in the car! Yes! We actually bought a knock-off brand because they exist here and they are cheaper and you wouldn't know the difference, anyway. So I had a delicious banana Nutella breakfast this morning. Today like yesterday- we were driving a lot to get to Hungary but first we had one stop before we left the Czech Republic.
We visited the Bone Church in Kutna-Hora. It is a very creepy-macabre church where everyone wanted to be buried because some man in the 13th century brought dirt from Golgotha and sprinkled it on the ground. So to them it was very holy land- a good place to be buried. Their total is 40,000 people laid to rest there. How? Well when they ran out of ground they started using the bones to decorate and build large pyramids of bones. It was like something right out of Indiana Jones or Lord of the Rings 3. Pretty freaky. I think if I wanted to be an archeologist or someone like Brennan from Bones I could do it. But there was something so weird about using the bones all mixed together, and as decorations, that was really disturbing. It didn't FEEL like a place to honor the dead and let them rest, especially since they have four candelabras, mostly of skulls, that you can touch. Dad did- so I did quickly. I mean, just last night I decided to do things I've never done before and I certainly had never touched a human skull.
Btw- even with all the strange things you will see in movies and you imagine what they would be like- you NEVER know how you will really react to such things. It was WEIRD. Have I said it enough? Weird morning.
We didn't stay long. Had to hit the road.
Getting to Budapest took longer than we hoped due to road work but we found an information center and bought tickets for a on-off bus tour around the city. The buses took us around all of the center of town to see the monuments and buildings, but only in passing. It's a good way of seeing everything quickly and seeing things you may want to revisit later.
Our place for the night is very close to all of the major sites to see- very close to the center of the city. Our host is the most adorable young woman! She was as sweet and helpful as they come but she also had a high-pitched mousy voice like a cartoon. She was just too cute. It's hard to describe her. So she came out the door, and we're so 'tickled' (as my mom would say) to see her hustle about to help us upstairs. Then we see her flat- her painting studio, actually- which was HUGE! All if the ceilings were 12-14 feet high! Large rooms full kitchen and roomy bathroom. This is NOT the kind of apartment you expect to see in the middle of a big city and owned by a young person. Plus- she doesn't live there. It's just her studio. Incredible. My favorite part? A piano in the corner by the window. The acoustics were fantastic and I felt different playing that piano in that setting. I had a lovely evening to myself in the flat, listening to Zsofie's collection of music while my parents went out in the late boat cruise. They got back very late but dad went out again to take more pictures while mom went to bed. I think we could all say that we had a lovely and perfect day.
Remember how I said before that we have the best road snacks ever? Well it got even better. Dad had the brilliant idea of just keeping a jar of Nutella in the car! Yes! We actually bought a knock-off brand because they exist here and they are cheaper and you wouldn't know the difference, anyway. So I had a delicious banana Nutella breakfast this morning. Today like yesterday- we were driving a lot to get to Hungary but first we had one stop before we left the Czech Republic.
We visited the Bone Church in Kutna-Hora. It is a very creepy-macabre church where everyone wanted to be buried because some man in the 13th century brought dirt from Golgotha and sprinkled it on the ground. So to them it was very holy land- a good place to be buried. Their total is 40,000 people laid to rest there. How? Well when they ran out of ground they started using the bones to decorate and build large pyramids of bones. It was like something right out of Indiana Jones or Lord of the Rings 3. Pretty freaky. I think if I wanted to be an archeologist or someone like Brennan from Bones I could do it. But there was something so weird about using the bones all mixed together, and as decorations, that was really disturbing. It didn't FEEL like a place to honor the dead and let them rest, especially since they have four candelabras, mostly of skulls, that you can touch. Dad did- so I did quickly. I mean, just last night I decided to do things I've never done before and I certainly had never touched a human skull.
Btw- even with all the strange things you will see in movies and you imagine what they would be like- you NEVER know how you will really react to such things. It was WEIRD. Have I said it enough? Weird morning.
We didn't stay long. Had to hit the road.
Getting to Budapest took longer than we hoped due to road work but we found an information center and bought tickets for a on-off bus tour around the city. The buses took us around all of the center of town to see the monuments and buildings, but only in passing. It's a good way of seeing everything quickly and seeing things you may want to revisit later.
Our place for the night is very close to all of the major sites to see- very close to the center of the city. Our host is the most adorable young woman! She was as sweet and helpful as they come but she also had a high-pitched mousy voice like a cartoon. She was just too cute. It's hard to describe her. So she came out the door, and we're so 'tickled' (as my mom would say) to see her hustle about to help us upstairs. Then we see her flat- her painting studio, actually- which was HUGE! All if the ceilings were 12-14 feet high! Large rooms full kitchen and roomy bathroom. This is NOT the kind of apartment you expect to see in the middle of a big city and owned by a young person. Plus- she doesn't live there. It's just her studio. Incredible. My favorite part? A piano in the corner by the window. The acoustics were fantastic and I felt different playing that piano in that setting. I had a lovely evening to myself in the flat, listening to Zsofie's collection of music while my parents went out in the late boat cruise. They got back very late but dad went out again to take more pictures while mom went to bed. I think we could all say that we had a lovely and perfect day.
Day 14: Prague
So we got up in the morning, said goodbye to Miriane and her dogs, bought quick breakfast/lunch for the road and set off for the Czech Republic. It was about a four hour drive, so obviously I slept for most of it.
But unfortunately the weather was not looking good. It was a rainy day in Prague. If you know me well, you know that I hate rain. I hate terribly to be in it. My parents don't care- they were willing to do the free walking tour of Old Town Prague. So we found the tour guide with the blue umbrella and started the tour. But I didn't feel 100%. I was pretty torturously uncomfortable during the first 15 minutes of just standing there. I knew that 3 hours of walking and standing was going to kill me. And I wouldn't enjoy much anyway because it was raining. Seriously, I hate rain that badly.
I really DID want to see the city- but you just know when some things aren't possible; so I got the car key from Dad and walked back to the car. I made the right choice. By the time I met up with my parents again I felt just fine and we bought a delicious gyro/kebab-ish dinner. For those of you who don't know and can't understand a difference between a gyro and a kebab- just trust me that there is one.
So- the only bits if Prague that I got to see were from the car in the rain. I'm sure my parents have some good stuff to tell you, and maybe in the future I will edit this post to include it, but for now you'll have to ask them.
I'm sure my mom was a little nervous that I just left them and walked on my own back through the city, but it wasn't far and there was nothing to be concerned about- but it DOES count as something new I have never done before. A completely strange country, foreign language, and I was totally alone. Brief new experience. I've decided to try to do something everyday that I have never done before.
We found the house where we were staying for just one night. I don't know what to really call it. Like a giant condo/house hybrid; I couldn't count how many bedrooms there were- all you could see were doors everywhere. But throughout the night we kept hearing more and more voices. I have no idea how many people live there- it's more like a dorm than anything else. It was a very nice place to stay. I had a large room and a comfortable bed.
Sorry that Prague is so boring from my perspective. You'll have to talk to my parents.
But unfortunately the weather was not looking good. It was a rainy day in Prague. If you know me well, you know that I hate rain. I hate terribly to be in it. My parents don't care- they were willing to do the free walking tour of Old Town Prague. So we found the tour guide with the blue umbrella and started the tour. But I didn't feel 100%. I was pretty torturously uncomfortable during the first 15 minutes of just standing there. I knew that 3 hours of walking and standing was going to kill me. And I wouldn't enjoy much anyway because it was raining. Seriously, I hate rain that badly.
I really DID want to see the city- but you just know when some things aren't possible; so I got the car key from Dad and walked back to the car. I made the right choice. By the time I met up with my parents again I felt just fine and we bought a delicious gyro/kebab-ish dinner. For those of you who don't know and can't understand a difference between a gyro and a kebab- just trust me that there is one.
So- the only bits if Prague that I got to see were from the car in the rain. I'm sure my parents have some good stuff to tell you, and maybe in the future I will edit this post to include it, but for now you'll have to ask them.
I'm sure my mom was a little nervous that I just left them and walked on my own back through the city, but it wasn't far and there was nothing to be concerned about- but it DOES count as something new I have never done before. A completely strange country, foreign language, and I was totally alone. Brief new experience. I've decided to try to do something everyday that I have never done before.
We found the house where we were staying for just one night. I don't know what to really call it. Like a giant condo/house hybrid; I couldn't count how many bedrooms there were- all you could see were doors everywhere. But throughout the night we kept hearing more and more voices. I have no idea how many people live there- it's more like a dorm than anything else. It was a very nice place to stay. I had a large room and a comfortable bed.
Sorry that Prague is so boring from my perspective. You'll have to talk to my parents.
Day 13: more Salzburg
Early morning for us! It rained during the night and sprinkled/misted a little, but I never needed my umbrella. We got breakfast of delicious baked goods for our car ride up to Werfen, where there is a mountain with the biggest ice cave in the world. The hike up (minus a small portion of cable car) was much longer than my parents would have told me. I was ready wearing my warm clothing, so hiking was not on my good list. It seemed really far! It really wasn't so bad- I just had no idea I would be doing that. The views( once we got above the clouds and fog) were amazing. It's a very beautiful and impressive mountain.
We got up to the opening of the cave and met our tour guide. They gave us gas lanterns instead of flashlights and the guide was constantly burning magnesium for brighter light. It was beautiful, BUT they wouldn't let us take pictures so we had to buy some. It was very impressive! The ice formations are huge and steep! We were mostly walking up wooden stairs. There were over 1400 steps! There was one section that was a 70% incline and the steps felt SO steep. Looking behind was weird. It was obviously freezing in the cave, but we were moving so much that it wasn't uncomfortable- and we dressed warmly of course. But they did have metal hand railings which were freezing. I challenged my dad to seeing who could hold on the longest and I lost. My hand felt like there was a knife tearing into it- I wasn't just holding one part of the bar- we were on the move- I think that made it harder.
It was a very enjoyable tour and since the hike back was all downhill it was very enjoyable. Oh- and I filled my water bottle from the rap they have up there...THE coldest, most delicious water you'll ever drink from a pipe. Fantastic.
It was 12:30 when we got out of there and the morning fog cleared up so we had much better views.
We had our typical car lunch of cheese with bread and crackers.
I napped in and out while my parents found information centers for planning the rest of the day. They hoped to go back to the silent night museum if it was open this time, but it still wasn't. Finally they woke me up at our next destination. I gotta tell you- it's kinda disorienting when you sleep through car rides. Suddenly you wake up in a new place and you have no sense of direction or distance. I don't mind- I like sleep and I just can't stay awake if I'm a passenger for more than 10 minutes.
Anyways- our next stop was ANOTHER mountain. This mountain, Untersburg, has a funicular all the way up where there are more incredible vistas. Since I had just been sleeping and we were exposed to high mountain winds and we didn't have to hike- I was WAY colder up there than in the ice cave. But we only stated long enough to snap pictures and ride back down.
Back in Salzburg we took a river cruise which gave our legs a good break from all the work they had done. It wasn't long but our captain gave us some fun in the end when he turned on loud classical dance music and set the boat to just spin in 360's. Tour guides need to have their own fun.
We spent the next hour walking around their busy shopping part of town looking for a kebab dinner and a photo store so dad could buy a tripod. The only kebab shop in that area was closed. That is unheard of- it wasn't even six! What kind of business do thy expect to get? So we wandered for a bit longer and also bought mom a ticket for the marionette show. Finally we went back to the car and drove to the area where we were hoping to find a laundromat, an we happened to drive right by a kebab stand! Finally! Turns out- they had REALLY good kebabs. Probably the best I've had this trip. Success!! So we went to drop mom off at her show and then dad and I went to find the laundromat- which no longer existed. Luckily a girl at the movie theater knew of another one and was able to tell us the street.
Dad and I did the laundry, which was expensive, until it was time to go pick up mom and be home for the night.
We got up to the opening of the cave and met our tour guide. They gave us gas lanterns instead of flashlights and the guide was constantly burning magnesium for brighter light. It was beautiful, BUT they wouldn't let us take pictures so we had to buy some. It was very impressive! The ice formations are huge and steep! We were mostly walking up wooden stairs. There were over 1400 steps! There was one section that was a 70% incline and the steps felt SO steep. Looking behind was weird. It was obviously freezing in the cave, but we were moving so much that it wasn't uncomfortable- and we dressed warmly of course. But they did have metal hand railings which were freezing. I challenged my dad to seeing who could hold on the longest and I lost. My hand felt like there was a knife tearing into it- I wasn't just holding one part of the bar- we were on the move- I think that made it harder.
It was a very enjoyable tour and since the hike back was all downhill it was very enjoyable. Oh- and I filled my water bottle from the rap they have up there...THE coldest, most delicious water you'll ever drink from a pipe. Fantastic.
It was 12:30 when we got out of there and the morning fog cleared up so we had much better views.
We had our typical car lunch of cheese with bread and crackers.
I napped in and out while my parents found information centers for planning the rest of the day. They hoped to go back to the silent night museum if it was open this time, but it still wasn't. Finally they woke me up at our next destination. I gotta tell you- it's kinda disorienting when you sleep through car rides. Suddenly you wake up in a new place and you have no sense of direction or distance. I don't mind- I like sleep and I just can't stay awake if I'm a passenger for more than 10 minutes.
Anyways- our next stop was ANOTHER mountain. This mountain, Untersburg, has a funicular all the way up where there are more incredible vistas. Since I had just been sleeping and we were exposed to high mountain winds and we didn't have to hike- I was WAY colder up there than in the ice cave. But we only stated long enough to snap pictures and ride back down.
Back in Salzburg we took a river cruise which gave our legs a good break from all the work they had done. It wasn't long but our captain gave us some fun in the end when he turned on loud classical dance music and set the boat to just spin in 360's. Tour guides need to have their own fun.
We spent the next hour walking around their busy shopping part of town looking for a kebab dinner and a photo store so dad could buy a tripod. The only kebab shop in that area was closed. That is unheard of- it wasn't even six! What kind of business do thy expect to get? So we wandered for a bit longer and also bought mom a ticket for the marionette show. Finally we went back to the car and drove to the area where we were hoping to find a laundromat, an we happened to drive right by a kebab stand! Finally! Turns out- they had REALLY good kebabs. Probably the best I've had this trip. Success!! So we went to drop mom off at her show and then dad and I went to find the laundromat- which no longer existed. Luckily a girl at the movie theater knew of another one and was able to tell us the street.
Dad and I did the laundry, which was expensive, until it was time to go pick up mom and be home for the night.
Day 12: Salzburg
Another relaxing morning in Salzburg. I was awake long before my parents and I'm pretty sure I went to bed after them.
We found the Salzburg LDS church whose sacrament meeting was at 10:50; so around 9 we headed into the city and walked around the very quiet center of town to go see the cathedral and hopefully sit in on their mass. The cathedral is famous for its multiple organs. We asked a man if we were in the right place 'for the 4 organs'. And he quickly interrupted, 'seven!' Wow- even better. Apparently it was even a holiday (I think specifically a catholic holiday) of thanksgiving; so the mass was very special and started with a large procession of people all dressed in various traditional clothing. We really want to find out the history behind all of that. But what I loved most is that their traditional clothing isn't just costume. Half of the women attending the mass were wearing dirndlen and a lot of the men wore leder hosen. Sunday hasn't been the only day that we have seen people wearing such clothing around town. I think that is pretty cool!
The music in the mass was phenomenal- with organ and a special brass band for the holiday. But we had to leave pretty quick to be on time for sacrament meeting.
It was wonderful to be among people in the church. It just feels like home no matter where you go. We met some other traveling Americans and compared our experiences and our routes with them.
After a road-side day-planning pow-wow, we started with a tour at the Hellbrunn palace fountains. Our tour guide sure enjoys shocking people. The whole purpose of this tour is not really for history, but for getting people wet. This is the splash zone of Austria. It started with an old stone table and seats where the guide asked people to come sit. Then he turns on fountains that spray all around them but also directly up their seats- soaking their derrières. It was so funny. The whole tour became a game of jumping and running away from the fountains that the guide would surprise you with. He became the most untrustworthy man. But it was all in very good fun and is so enjoyable. It makes for funny videos, too.
The end of the tour leaves you at a large and beautiful public park where you can find the gazebo from Sound of Music.
Around 2:00 I was so sleepy. My body is used to car naps while we drive somewhere but I could feel myself falling asleep so I took a nap in the car while my parents did more historical exploring in town. They visited the Mozart museum which was a bust; they weren't impressed by it.
When they were done exploring they came to wake me up and we went up to visit the fortress up on the hill. We took a tour that takes you to the high tower where you can get a panoramic view of the city. We also visited the torture tower, which was never actually used for torture. They stored the instruments and tools there but never used them. Though it was used as a dungeon.
While we were walking on the ramparts we had perfect timing for the evening bells down below in the cathedral and we were surprised by a responding song from the fortress with their old organ-like music box. It was really loud and came from right above us. You'd have to see pictures to know what I'm describing.
It was a lovely evening but as we were heading home for another early night we could see clouds rolling in. We could probably expect rain tomorrow.
We found the Salzburg LDS church whose sacrament meeting was at 10:50; so around 9 we headed into the city and walked around the very quiet center of town to go see the cathedral and hopefully sit in on their mass. The cathedral is famous for its multiple organs. We asked a man if we were in the right place 'for the 4 organs'. And he quickly interrupted, 'seven!' Wow- even better. Apparently it was even a holiday (I think specifically a catholic holiday) of thanksgiving; so the mass was very special and started with a large procession of people all dressed in various traditional clothing. We really want to find out the history behind all of that. But what I loved most is that their traditional clothing isn't just costume. Half of the women attending the mass were wearing dirndlen and a lot of the men wore leder hosen. Sunday hasn't been the only day that we have seen people wearing such clothing around town. I think that is pretty cool!
The music in the mass was phenomenal- with organ and a special brass band for the holiday. But we had to leave pretty quick to be on time for sacrament meeting.
It was wonderful to be among people in the church. It just feels like home no matter where you go. We met some other traveling Americans and compared our experiences and our routes with them.
After a road-side day-planning pow-wow, we started with a tour at the Hellbrunn palace fountains. Our tour guide sure enjoys shocking people. The whole purpose of this tour is not really for history, but for getting people wet. This is the splash zone of Austria. It started with an old stone table and seats where the guide asked people to come sit. Then he turns on fountains that spray all around them but also directly up their seats- soaking their derrières. It was so funny. The whole tour became a game of jumping and running away from the fountains that the guide would surprise you with. He became the most untrustworthy man. But it was all in very good fun and is so enjoyable. It makes for funny videos, too.
The end of the tour leaves you at a large and beautiful public park where you can find the gazebo from Sound of Music.
Around 2:00 I was so sleepy. My body is used to car naps while we drive somewhere but I could feel myself falling asleep so I took a nap in the car while my parents did more historical exploring in town. They visited the Mozart museum which was a bust; they weren't impressed by it.
When they were done exploring they came to wake me up and we went up to visit the fortress up on the hill. We took a tour that takes you to the high tower where you can get a panoramic view of the city. We also visited the torture tower, which was never actually used for torture. They stored the instruments and tools there but never used them. Though it was used as a dungeon.
While we were walking on the ramparts we had perfect timing for the evening bells down below in the cathedral and we were surprised by a responding song from the fortress with their old organ-like music box. It was really loud and came from right above us. You'd have to see pictures to know what I'm describing.
It was a lovely evening but as we were heading home for another early night we could see clouds rolling in. We could probably expect rain tomorrow.
Day 11: Austria
We had a relaxing morning at Miriane's. The dogs got up to greet me as soon as I emerged from my room and every time after. If you pet one the other comes running. You always need both hands. If the cat is nearby it's out of luck- we don't have enough hands.
We went to the little town's big crafts fair when it opened. A lot of then vendors were actually still setting up. There were so many things that I would LOVE to have if I had the money. Specifically a beautiful handmade wood and leather purse.
The first big event of the day was visiting the Eagle's Nest high in the mountains. The bus ride up has incredible views! The valley stretches so far into the distance but you also get spectacular views of the alps as you keep going higher and higher. The bus drops you off where you can take a lift up to the house- now a restaurant and you can explore outside to find more amazing vistas. We did not like waiting in such long lines for the lift, but we got buses pretty easily. And at least they provide transportation and don't expect you to walk down.
Btw- while we were waiting in line, the couple in front of us had their little dog with them. I think most little dogs are no better than rats (sorry if I offend anyone for their choice of dog- but seriously, their not cute and they're spastic). Anyways (type of dog is not the issue here really) but who SERIOUSLY needs to have their dog with them as they go to see tourist sites? Does the dog care? Does the dog want to see the sites? Do you enjoy it more when you also have to take care of your dog? I love my dog like crazy but I don't need to take her everywhere I go. I don't get it.
Sorry- back to the trip.
After the eagle's nest we went to find the museum for Franz Gruber, the man who wrote Silent Night, but the museum was unexplainedly closed. But we still got to go into the church, which was beautiful and completely empty. Seriously I never saw a soul.
With that bust we drove out to find our next item on the agenda, the salt mine. But since we had extra time we took the chance to have a snack because we had hardly eaten all day.
Our tour of the salt mine was at 5:00. I had NO idea what this was going to be like. I wondered if I would prefer to skip it but mom booked the tickets in advance. So we go inside and they hand us the most ridiculous, baggy white jumper suits. Well they were separate jacket and pants, but they look like they were made for crazy people. MOM! WHAT have you gotten us into?
Looking absurd, we started this tour with our guide Lisa and one other couple.
I don't even know how to describe this tour. It is a good way to see and experience the old mine which was closed many years ago. They make the tour funny and interesting with cheeky videos and music at one point. But the reason for the silly suits is the mode of transportation in the mines. They have these historically authentic slides- yes, slides, a little bench train and a boat underground. You'd have to see it to believe it.
It WAS very fun- but my goodness when I saw those suits I was worried.
We were really hungry when we came out and we drove through a little village by a lake looking for somewhere to eat. We asked where we could find some good Schnitzel and we were directed to a hotel in town. The prices weren't that bad and our waitress was very helpful. She seemed confused when we only ordered two entrees and multiple starters because we were going to share everything so we could try a lot of things. But she said OK and thought it was a good idea. The food was amazing and some of it very new to us. Even as hungry as we were, it was a good thing we only ordered two entrees. We were stuffed with just a few bites remaining. But dad still considered a dessert, which we decided against.
After dinner we made our way home, much earlier than any other night. Salzburg has had a relaxing effect on the trip and I am enjoying it!
We went to the little town's big crafts fair when it opened. A lot of then vendors were actually still setting up. There were so many things that I would LOVE to have if I had the money. Specifically a beautiful handmade wood and leather purse.
The first big event of the day was visiting the Eagle's Nest high in the mountains. The bus ride up has incredible views! The valley stretches so far into the distance but you also get spectacular views of the alps as you keep going higher and higher. The bus drops you off where you can take a lift up to the house- now a restaurant and you can explore outside to find more amazing vistas. We did not like waiting in such long lines for the lift, but we got buses pretty easily. And at least they provide transportation and don't expect you to walk down.
Btw- while we were waiting in line, the couple in front of us had their little dog with them. I think most little dogs are no better than rats (sorry if I offend anyone for their choice of dog- but seriously, their not cute and they're spastic). Anyways (type of dog is not the issue here really) but who SERIOUSLY needs to have their dog with them as they go to see tourist sites? Does the dog care? Does the dog want to see the sites? Do you enjoy it more when you also have to take care of your dog? I love my dog like crazy but I don't need to take her everywhere I go. I don't get it.
Sorry- back to the trip.
After the eagle's nest we went to find the museum for Franz Gruber, the man who wrote Silent Night, but the museum was unexplainedly closed. But we still got to go into the church, which was beautiful and completely empty. Seriously I never saw a soul.
With that bust we drove out to find our next item on the agenda, the salt mine. But since we had extra time we took the chance to have a snack because we had hardly eaten all day.
Our tour of the salt mine was at 5:00. I had NO idea what this was going to be like. I wondered if I would prefer to skip it but mom booked the tickets in advance. So we go inside and they hand us the most ridiculous, baggy white jumper suits. Well they were separate jacket and pants, but they look like they were made for crazy people. MOM! WHAT have you gotten us into?
Looking absurd, we started this tour with our guide Lisa and one other couple.
I don't even know how to describe this tour. It is a good way to see and experience the old mine which was closed many years ago. They make the tour funny and interesting with cheeky videos and music at one point. But the reason for the silly suits is the mode of transportation in the mines. They have these historically authentic slides- yes, slides, a little bench train and a boat underground. You'd have to see it to believe it.
It WAS very fun- but my goodness when I saw those suits I was worried.
We were really hungry when we came out and we drove through a little village by a lake looking for somewhere to eat. We asked where we could find some good Schnitzel and we were directed to a hotel in town. The prices weren't that bad and our waitress was very helpful. She seemed confused when we only ordered two entrees and multiple starters because we were going to share everything so we could try a lot of things. But she said OK and thought it was a good idea. The food was amazing and some of it very new to us. Even as hungry as we were, it was a good thing we only ordered two entrees. We were stuffed with just a few bites remaining. But dad still considered a dessert, which we decided against.
After dinner we made our way home, much earlier than any other night. Salzburg has had a relaxing effect on the trip and I am enjoying it!
Saturday, September 7, 2013
Day 10: Germany-Austria
With a quick departure from our little loft in St. Gallen, Switzerland we headed through Lindau for a 'drive-around-look-see' which I honestly don't remember at all.
We also drove through a construction-packed city called Ulm, where Einstein was born. Trying to follow the GPS when it doesn't know which roads are closed for construction has been the theme of this trip. It's frustrating, but that's why I like public transportation. In Ulm is also the tallest cathedral in Germany. But like all the cathedrals we see, it had scaffolding. I'm starting to sound negative, but people have to understand that touring Europe is not easy and you don't always get postcard pictures.
After a bit of a drive we came to Dachau, the first concentration camp. Historically I would never remember many facts and so I don't focus on details in museums, and I didn't really want too many details. But we started with their video presentation about Dachau and it gave me all the information I needed, maybe even too much. I have seen Holocaust movies and images and museums before, and as I watched their film I didn't feel particularly different. But when we went outside and my parents headed toward the start of the museum, I was suddenly very affected: probably due to my solitary, standing in the middle of the large square where thousands were condemned to death. I got even more emotional when I read a simple plaque that I should have photographed to remember it. But to paraphrase it said In honor of those who died and that we may remember and learn to spread peace and love and respect toward our fellow men.
I walked around for a little while, glad for the solitude to reflect and absorb. But eventually I sat down under a tree and waited for my parents to be finished.
After Dachau we had a bit more of a drive (which always means nap time for me- even though its not good sleep) to go to Munich. I don't know what all my parents hoped to see. I'm pretty sure they had to give up on some things because Munich was brimming with action and excitement getting ready for a soccer game between Austria and Germany. The Austrian fans dressed in red filled the streets, chanting and singing and making as much noise as possible. The German fans were more boring. But it was very fun to see. That is pure European culture right there. I don't really like professional sports, but I think the Europeans have more fun with it than Americans.
We found some easy food before we left Munich. I had a kebab (shocker), mom had pizza and dad found a bratwurst.
After Munich we were done for the day so we drove to Salzburg and found the next house where we are staying for 4 nights. Our host Miriane has a beautiful, large home all to herself now that her kids are grown. But she is not alone: she has two very friendly dogs that were rescued from abusive owners. They are SO full of affection and just want attention all the time. We were happy to see them bursting from behind Miriane to greet us when we arrived. She also has two very old cats who also love people. I felt right at home with animals all around to love and pet. I'm glad we will be staying here for a while.
We also drove through a construction-packed city called Ulm, where Einstein was born. Trying to follow the GPS when it doesn't know which roads are closed for construction has been the theme of this trip. It's frustrating, but that's why I like public transportation. In Ulm is also the tallest cathedral in Germany. But like all the cathedrals we see, it had scaffolding. I'm starting to sound negative, but people have to understand that touring Europe is not easy and you don't always get postcard pictures.
After a bit of a drive we came to Dachau, the first concentration camp. Historically I would never remember many facts and so I don't focus on details in museums, and I didn't really want too many details. But we started with their video presentation about Dachau and it gave me all the information I needed, maybe even too much. I have seen Holocaust movies and images and museums before, and as I watched their film I didn't feel particularly different. But when we went outside and my parents headed toward the start of the museum, I was suddenly very affected: probably due to my solitary, standing in the middle of the large square where thousands were condemned to death. I got even more emotional when I read a simple plaque that I should have photographed to remember it. But to paraphrase it said In honor of those who died and that we may remember and learn to spread peace and love and respect toward our fellow men.
I walked around for a little while, glad for the solitude to reflect and absorb. But eventually I sat down under a tree and waited for my parents to be finished.
After Dachau we had a bit more of a drive (which always means nap time for me- even though its not good sleep) to go to Munich. I don't know what all my parents hoped to see. I'm pretty sure they had to give up on some things because Munich was brimming with action and excitement getting ready for a soccer game between Austria and Germany. The Austrian fans dressed in red filled the streets, chanting and singing and making as much noise as possible. The German fans were more boring. But it was very fun to see. That is pure European culture right there. I don't really like professional sports, but I think the Europeans have more fun with it than Americans.
We found some easy food before we left Munich. I had a kebab (shocker), mom had pizza and dad found a bratwurst.
After Munich we were done for the day so we drove to Salzburg and found the next house where we are staying for 4 nights. Our host Miriane has a beautiful, large home all to herself now that her kids are grown. But she is not alone: she has two very friendly dogs that were rescued from abusive owners. They are SO full of affection and just want attention all the time. We were happy to see them bursting from behind Miriane to greet us when we arrived. She also has two very old cats who also love people. I felt right at home with animals all around to love and pet. I'm glad we will be staying here for a while.
Friday, September 6, 2013
Day 9: more Germany!
We needed a quick and early start, so it was a really good thing that at 6:00am I get a Facebook message from Jared: Wake up! It's 6:00!
I decided that personal alarm clocks are better than buzzers. So I got into the shower earlier than I would have and we got a better start on a very long day.
We gassed up the car in Austria, so really, we were in 4 countries in 24 hours. I feel like this is challenging me to see how many countries in Europe you can drive through in one day.
Our adventures in Germany started after a small stop in Ruette, Austria to see another old castle ruin. Dad might have been ashamed that I really didn't want to hike so early in the morning when I had just showered and felt so clean and nice, but HE went up the slope and visited the ruins while I discovered THE coolest wooden playground castle ever built. I am not being ridiculous; the videos I took might be ridiculous, but seriously I cannot exaggerate how cool this playground was. I know it would NEVER be possible to built one in the US because safety-wise there were a million ways kids could hurt themselves- I mean it is literally for climbing all over and even I was concerned with falling. I can just imagine the stupid parents who would not allow such a dangerous setup in the states. But I am totally bringing my kids here someday.
Even my dad was impressed when he came back down from the real castle.
The next stop was Oberammbergau, a tiny little town made famous because in 1633, in the hopes of saving the town from the plague after they had suffered much loss in war, asked God to spare them and promised that in return they would hold a Passion Pageant every 10 years. No one died of the plague after the vow was made and to this day (with just some variance in the years) the town has been putting on the passion play. It was pretty cool. We watched a video about it which also showed some of the scenes from the 2010 performance. I was super impressed by how the actors talk about what it means to them and to the community.
We couldn't stay long but dad and I found some great cheap ice cream to enjoy as we left.
Our drive through the mountains was incredible. I feel like we took a million photos which can probably be filtered through to find the keepers. Can you imagine the quaint rolling hillsides covered in farm houses and fields and villages? But the most impressive sight were the gorgeous mountain lakes that were so clear and blue they looked tropical. I couldn't believe my eyes. If we didn't have a pressing day and things to do after, we would have totally gone swimming and it would have been marvelous.
Our next stop filled the rest of the day- the magnificent Neunschwanstein castle. Built by the Swan King, Leopold, just across from the castle where he grew up. Our tickets included a tour at both castles. It is wonderful that neither of these castles were destroyed during the world wars- so all of the furniture and original pieces are still there. The smaller castle is still owned by the family and the Neunschwanstein castle I owned by the government. King Leopold dies before it was completed and only spent around 100 days living in it. He was declared mentally ill and died in mysterious circumstances. Because of money, they stopped work on the castle immediately.
Though we now get to enjoy the beauty of his creations, the man really was insane with his plans and architectural desires. Just off of the King's lavish and beautiful suit of rooms is a door that leads to a man made plaster cave. Yep- cave. In a castle. Some clever guy on our tour said, 'hey look a man-cave.' I think we can pretend we found where the term originated. Why he needed a cave in his house (on the fourth floor) I have no idea.
To his personal bed chamber wash table, he had a direct line of fresh water from miles up in the mountain. Because of simple gravity he had running water and even a toilet that flushed.
For his birthday, the kings of other nations sent messages of congratulations in the form of huge, ridiculously ornate books! The covers varied from beautiful leather to intricate filigree and gem stones. I have no idea of their value- and they were all basically birthday cards.
Anyways- his history aside- the castle is a magnificent sight. It is the inspiration for the Disney castle and even if you don't know the name- I would be shocked if you didn't recognize a picture. Particularly the winter images where it is surrounded by snow are spectacular.
As much as we loved the castle, mom and I were appalled by the organization. The tickets were expensive and didn't even include transportation to it. We enjoyed a horse carriage ride up, but at the end of the tour we followed signs for leaving by bus. But there was no more bus. I guess after a certain time, anyone still at the castle has to walk all the way down. Fine- so it's a walk. That's not a problem. The problem that made my mom so frustrated and even concerned was that there were no clear signs to show us the way so we were walking down this long service road that seemed to go no where. You'd think they could include a little tram with all the money they make from the tickets. On top of that- we had hoped to hit a gift shop at the bottom but they were all closed. Luckily there was a gift shop in the town nearby that was still open and they had exactly what we wanted.
We had another kebab for dinner, making me a very happy person! We then buckled in for our late drive back to Switzerland to go to bed.
I decided that personal alarm clocks are better than buzzers. So I got into the shower earlier than I would have and we got a better start on a very long day.
We gassed up the car in Austria, so really, we were in 4 countries in 24 hours. I feel like this is challenging me to see how many countries in Europe you can drive through in one day.
Our adventures in Germany started after a small stop in Ruette, Austria to see another old castle ruin. Dad might have been ashamed that I really didn't want to hike so early in the morning when I had just showered and felt so clean and nice, but HE went up the slope and visited the ruins while I discovered THE coolest wooden playground castle ever built. I am not being ridiculous; the videos I took might be ridiculous, but seriously I cannot exaggerate how cool this playground was. I know it would NEVER be possible to built one in the US because safety-wise there were a million ways kids could hurt themselves- I mean it is literally for climbing all over and even I was concerned with falling. I can just imagine the stupid parents who would not allow such a dangerous setup in the states. But I am totally bringing my kids here someday.
Even my dad was impressed when he came back down from the real castle.
The next stop was Oberammbergau, a tiny little town made famous because in 1633, in the hopes of saving the town from the plague after they had suffered much loss in war, asked God to spare them and promised that in return they would hold a Passion Pageant every 10 years. No one died of the plague after the vow was made and to this day (with just some variance in the years) the town has been putting on the passion play. It was pretty cool. We watched a video about it which also showed some of the scenes from the 2010 performance. I was super impressed by how the actors talk about what it means to them and to the community.
We couldn't stay long but dad and I found some great cheap ice cream to enjoy as we left.
Our drive through the mountains was incredible. I feel like we took a million photos which can probably be filtered through to find the keepers. Can you imagine the quaint rolling hillsides covered in farm houses and fields and villages? But the most impressive sight were the gorgeous mountain lakes that were so clear and blue they looked tropical. I couldn't believe my eyes. If we didn't have a pressing day and things to do after, we would have totally gone swimming and it would have been marvelous.
Our next stop filled the rest of the day- the magnificent Neunschwanstein castle. Built by the Swan King, Leopold, just across from the castle where he grew up. Our tickets included a tour at both castles. It is wonderful that neither of these castles were destroyed during the world wars- so all of the furniture and original pieces are still there. The smaller castle is still owned by the family and the Neunschwanstein castle I owned by the government. King Leopold dies before it was completed and only spent around 100 days living in it. He was declared mentally ill and died in mysterious circumstances. Because of money, they stopped work on the castle immediately.
Though we now get to enjoy the beauty of his creations, the man really was insane with his plans and architectural desires. Just off of the King's lavish and beautiful suit of rooms is a door that leads to a man made plaster cave. Yep- cave. In a castle. Some clever guy on our tour said, 'hey look a man-cave.' I think we can pretend we found where the term originated. Why he needed a cave in his house (on the fourth floor) I have no idea.
To his personal bed chamber wash table, he had a direct line of fresh water from miles up in the mountain. Because of simple gravity he had running water and even a toilet that flushed.
For his birthday, the kings of other nations sent messages of congratulations in the form of huge, ridiculously ornate books! The covers varied from beautiful leather to intricate filigree and gem stones. I have no idea of their value- and they were all basically birthday cards.
Anyways- his history aside- the castle is a magnificent sight. It is the inspiration for the Disney castle and even if you don't know the name- I would be shocked if you didn't recognize a picture. Particularly the winter images where it is surrounded by snow are spectacular.
As much as we loved the castle, mom and I were appalled by the organization. The tickets were expensive and didn't even include transportation to it. We enjoyed a horse carriage ride up, but at the end of the tour we followed signs for leaving by bus. But there was no more bus. I guess after a certain time, anyone still at the castle has to walk all the way down. Fine- so it's a walk. That's not a problem. The problem that made my mom so frustrated and even concerned was that there were no clear signs to show us the way so we were walking down this long service road that seemed to go no where. You'd think they could include a little tram with all the money they make from the tickets. On top of that- we had hoped to hit a gift shop at the bottom but they were all closed. Luckily there was a gift shop in the town nearby that was still open and they had exactly what we wanted.
We had another kebab for dinner, making me a very happy person! We then buckled in for our late drive back to Switzerland to go to bed.
Day 8: on the move
We left Alsace early in the morning, hearing the morning clock bells at 7. They chime like any normal clock, seven times for the hour but then after a pause they just go crazy and don't stop ringing for about 5 minutes, as if they are yelling GET UP! You're burning daylight!
With a boulangerie breakfast in the car (I had a delicious apple tarte) we headed out of France and back into Germany. In Tribourg, of the Black Forest, we took an easy hike up to see a waterfall, the tallest in Germany: not tall as in one single cascade that is tall, but it starts higher in the mountain. It was very nice to do a simple hike, as if we were home in the sierras, and the waterfall was simply lovely. Now, we did remark that the forest felt like the sierras but it certainly was hard to forget that we are almost half the world away.
Since we were in the area, we had to buy a Swabian cuckoo clock from the House of a Thousand Clocks.
My parents are completely opposite shoppers. It is hilariously embarrassing. Mom had found three that she liked and could choose from and then she easily decided which one she liked the most and I liked it too. But dad CANNOT make speedy decisions. He is a perfectionist (and that is a good thing) but I was chuckling with the man helping us. The really cool one which my dad would have lived to have (but it wouldn't be what my mom wants) was a make your own clock kit. I even loved the rustic look it had. Instead dad convinced my mom against the 'just pretty' clock she and I liked and they chose another one she has found that was the more popular/classic 'house' clock. It's not awful, but I would have never chosen it. It's ok- it's their clock.
On our way out of the little town we had to buy a slice of Black Forest cake, of course! I didn't even make the connection until dad mentioned that we needed to get cake. It was a surprise that caused much laughter when my mom took the first bite an said, 'oh boy- there is rum in this.' Obviously it is mostly cooked out but it was pretty funny. I didn't care for the cake at all so I let my parents devour it.
In Friedrichshafen we visited a large museum about the Hindenburg zeppelin. Though originally I didn't think I would be that interested, there were some things that did really catch my attention, like a science section that explained some interesting principles of the zeppelin's flight. During a more artsy part of the exhibit there were things that reminded me of two tv shows, Fringe and Doctor Who because in both, there are alternate universes where Zeppelins are the common form of transportation and so the skies are full of them. I realized that our world might be different if the Hindenburg hadn't gone down in such a terrifying blaze. How funny that those two shows, and probably some others, chose that event to make changes in their alternate universe.
Anyways- forgive my geeky tangent.
My silly father likes Whopper Wednesday and he discovered that there was a Burger King in the city. So he had to go. It's silly. I'd much rather have a kebab! I decided that whopper Wednesday no longer exists. From now on it is cafe Monday, kebab Tuesday, kebab Wednesday, kebab Thursday, fondue Friday, Schnitzel Saturday, and Sacred Sunday.
But back to the story. I waited while they got food from Burger King, hoping we'd find something for me later. They DID get me some chicken nuggets which came with a delicious curry sauce- interesting idea Germany.
We went to a lake front park where people swim and we stuck our feet in the water and took a nap on the grass. It was heavenly.
To get to our new place for the night we took a ferry across the lake, seeing the sun set beautifully and crossing into SWITZERLAND!! I'm home! We were just sleeping there- my real return to the country will be at the end of our trip, but it still gave me a thrill to see a Migros, a Coop, Torino chocolate and MOVENPICK ice cream!!! I can't tell you how good it is- it has to be experienced.
Getting to our apartment was a hassle. We never met the host. He left us keys at one address a block up the street from where we were staying: which was, btw, on the 4th floor (technically the 5) in a strange loft with other rooms for rent and a shared bathroom. I thought it was an adventure! There is nothing wrong with that- but my mom was not impressed. We wanted to do laundry, but figuring out a German washing machine was tough. My dad wanted to figure everything out and my mom was just ready to press the go. It would have been picture or video worthy to see three American adults hovered over this machine.
So we woke up in France, toured in Germany and went to be in Switzerland. Not bad.
With a boulangerie breakfast in the car (I had a delicious apple tarte) we headed out of France and back into Germany. In Tribourg, of the Black Forest, we took an easy hike up to see a waterfall, the tallest in Germany: not tall as in one single cascade that is tall, but it starts higher in the mountain. It was very nice to do a simple hike, as if we were home in the sierras, and the waterfall was simply lovely. Now, we did remark that the forest felt like the sierras but it certainly was hard to forget that we are almost half the world away.
Since we were in the area, we had to buy a Swabian cuckoo clock from the House of a Thousand Clocks.
My parents are completely opposite shoppers. It is hilariously embarrassing. Mom had found three that she liked and could choose from and then she easily decided which one she liked the most and I liked it too. But dad CANNOT make speedy decisions. He is a perfectionist (and that is a good thing) but I was chuckling with the man helping us. The really cool one which my dad would have lived to have (but it wouldn't be what my mom wants) was a make your own clock kit. I even loved the rustic look it had. Instead dad convinced my mom against the 'just pretty' clock she and I liked and they chose another one she has found that was the more popular/classic 'house' clock. It's not awful, but I would have never chosen it. It's ok- it's their clock.
On our way out of the little town we had to buy a slice of Black Forest cake, of course! I didn't even make the connection until dad mentioned that we needed to get cake. It was a surprise that caused much laughter when my mom took the first bite an said, 'oh boy- there is rum in this.' Obviously it is mostly cooked out but it was pretty funny. I didn't care for the cake at all so I let my parents devour it.
In Friedrichshafen we visited a large museum about the Hindenburg zeppelin. Though originally I didn't think I would be that interested, there were some things that did really catch my attention, like a science section that explained some interesting principles of the zeppelin's flight. During a more artsy part of the exhibit there were things that reminded me of two tv shows, Fringe and Doctor Who because in both, there are alternate universes where Zeppelins are the common form of transportation and so the skies are full of them. I realized that our world might be different if the Hindenburg hadn't gone down in such a terrifying blaze. How funny that those two shows, and probably some others, chose that event to make changes in their alternate universe.
Anyways- forgive my geeky tangent.
My silly father likes Whopper Wednesday and he discovered that there was a Burger King in the city. So he had to go. It's silly. I'd much rather have a kebab! I decided that whopper Wednesday no longer exists. From now on it is cafe Monday, kebab Tuesday, kebab Wednesday, kebab Thursday, fondue Friday, Schnitzel Saturday, and Sacred Sunday.
But back to the story. I waited while they got food from Burger King, hoping we'd find something for me later. They DID get me some chicken nuggets which came with a delicious curry sauce- interesting idea Germany.
We went to a lake front park where people swim and we stuck our feet in the water and took a nap on the grass. It was heavenly.
To get to our new place for the night we took a ferry across the lake, seeing the sun set beautifully and crossing into SWITZERLAND!! I'm home! We were just sleeping there- my real return to the country will be at the end of our trip, but it still gave me a thrill to see a Migros, a Coop, Torino chocolate and MOVENPICK ice cream!!! I can't tell you how good it is- it has to be experienced.
Getting to our apartment was a hassle. We never met the host. He left us keys at one address a block up the street from where we were staying: which was, btw, on the 4th floor (technically the 5) in a strange loft with other rooms for rent and a shared bathroom. I thought it was an adventure! There is nothing wrong with that- but my mom was not impressed. We wanted to do laundry, but figuring out a German washing machine was tough. My dad wanted to figure everything out and my mom was just ready to press the go. It would have been picture or video worthy to see three American adults hovered over this machine.
So we woke up in France, toured in Germany and went to be in Switzerland. Not bad.
Tuesday, September 3, 2013
Alsace/Allemagne:
Day 6? You mean it hasn't been longer? I feel like I've done so many things that it couldn't possibly have all fit in a week. But it's true.
Today we woke up to a beautiful 9 degree (C) mountain morning and we drove to Kayersberg to see the museum of Albert Schweitzer because mom adores him. I really liked some of his quotes that were on display.
I'm sure there is a more eloquent translation, but my own translation of one I liked is:
The great enemy of ethics is insensibility. Being Good means keeping your eyes open.
Great inspirational quote.
So after our quick stop and drive through the little city we moved on to Strasbourg. I did a project on Strasbourg back in high school french class and I always wanted to go there. Mostly I remembered it being famous for its huge Christmas tree and world famous Christmas markets, but obviously it's summer. I was still excited though and I was looking forward to finding the places that the pictures came from.
There was a lot of construction going on so driving in the city was a pain. Eventually dad dropped us off at the cathedral and went to go park while mom and I bought tickets to see the very famous, huge astrological clock that moving statues at certain parts of the hour. At noon every day there is a presentation and a video and the most action on the clock happens at noon. I recorded a lot of it. This was a highlight for dad- being an astronomy fanatic, he loved all the different displays on the clock. It shows the current location of the planets, the phase of the moon, the hours when the sun rises and sets, the current position relative to the stars, and probably some other stuff that I forgot. Being a lover of fine mechanics, he wishes he could have seen the gears and inner workings.
After we were done at the cathedral we drove over to Strasbourg's Petite France. The lovely, picture perfect area of town that is on all the post cards. It was truly beautiful. I can be satisfied in knowing that I have been there and walked around and I had a delicious Creme Brûlée ice cream cone.
We ate some of our car snacks: bread and french cheese. Best road snacks ever- but with lots of crumbs.
Next on the list: a new country!! Deutschland! The number of countries I've been to in Europe has just doubled.
We bought diesel in Gengenbaugh.
Longest stop of the day: the Black Forest folk museum. This is NOT what you might think when you hear that name. It IS a collection of farm houses built from 1599 to the 1700s. They are still standing and one huge house in particular housed the same family line for 13 generations- nearly 400 years. It was an expansive plot of very green land with animals and busy tractors just next door.
I thoroughly enjoyed sitting on the benches and watching the scenery around me. As I was watching the tractors at work this adorable little boy came and stood right beside me, even leaned on my leg a little. He was chattering away in German and I obviously didn't understand a word but I didn't want to say anything in English cuz that might confuse him and scare him away. He was too cute! I wanted to take him home with me, but that would obviously cause intolerable problems.
As my parents were exploring the largest of the houses, I witnessed the best moment of the day outside at the water trough. There was a beautiful pure white dog with the body and fur like a German shepherd, and she was drinking out of the water trough with such glee and excitement that she wasn't licking up the water, she was trying to eat it! Seriously, chomping mouth in the water. But every 5 seconds she would get so excited that she would dash off, spin in a circle and come right back to drink some more. You can probably imagine what she did when her owners splashed water on her face. Seriously it was the funniest thing and she was obviously the happiest dog on the planet and it was all because of the water trough. I wish my parents had seen it.
The last funny thing was as I was sitting on a bench at the end of the visit and I saw three girls trying to put away an easy-up. I walked over and offered to be the fourth to make it easier. It's a good thing too because it quickly became clear that they had no idea what they were doing. They couldn't get it to fold in on itself so I indicated to the last little locks on the inside of each of the corners and asked if they had pulled those. None of them had and they gave one feeble try that didn't work and decided it was 't what they should do, so as they continued to fuss around I walked to each of the corners and easily released all the locks. As soon as the last one was released it easily folded on itself and they all exclaimed in joy 'thank you! Dankeschön!' No problem, I said, bitteschön!
Yeah- I'm cool.
Last city of the day: Obernai.
Mostly we had a delicious kebab dinner. Then we walked for a little while around the city where the old rampart walls are still standing and have become a part of the structures. Some of the homes have front doors at the rampart-street level, but they have little bridges to their door because their yard is practically a moat! Hard to picture, I'm sure, but trust me- it exists.
So we were able to get home pretty early again and get ready for another big day!
Today we woke up to a beautiful 9 degree (C) mountain morning and we drove to Kayersberg to see the museum of Albert Schweitzer because mom adores him. I really liked some of his quotes that were on display.
I'm sure there is a more eloquent translation, but my own translation of one I liked is:
The great enemy of ethics is insensibility. Being Good means keeping your eyes open.
Great inspirational quote.
So after our quick stop and drive through the little city we moved on to Strasbourg. I did a project on Strasbourg back in high school french class and I always wanted to go there. Mostly I remembered it being famous for its huge Christmas tree and world famous Christmas markets, but obviously it's summer. I was still excited though and I was looking forward to finding the places that the pictures came from.
There was a lot of construction going on so driving in the city was a pain. Eventually dad dropped us off at the cathedral and went to go park while mom and I bought tickets to see the very famous, huge astrological clock that moving statues at certain parts of the hour. At noon every day there is a presentation and a video and the most action on the clock happens at noon. I recorded a lot of it. This was a highlight for dad- being an astronomy fanatic, he loved all the different displays on the clock. It shows the current location of the planets, the phase of the moon, the hours when the sun rises and sets, the current position relative to the stars, and probably some other stuff that I forgot. Being a lover of fine mechanics, he wishes he could have seen the gears and inner workings.
After we were done at the cathedral we drove over to Strasbourg's Petite France. The lovely, picture perfect area of town that is on all the post cards. It was truly beautiful. I can be satisfied in knowing that I have been there and walked around and I had a delicious Creme Brûlée ice cream cone.
We ate some of our car snacks: bread and french cheese. Best road snacks ever- but with lots of crumbs.
Next on the list: a new country!! Deutschland! The number of countries I've been to in Europe has just doubled.
We bought diesel in Gengenbaugh.
Longest stop of the day: the Black Forest folk museum. This is NOT what you might think when you hear that name. It IS a collection of farm houses built from 1599 to the 1700s. They are still standing and one huge house in particular housed the same family line for 13 generations- nearly 400 years. It was an expansive plot of very green land with animals and busy tractors just next door.
I thoroughly enjoyed sitting on the benches and watching the scenery around me. As I was watching the tractors at work this adorable little boy came and stood right beside me, even leaned on my leg a little. He was chattering away in German and I obviously didn't understand a word but I didn't want to say anything in English cuz that might confuse him and scare him away. He was too cute! I wanted to take him home with me, but that would obviously cause intolerable problems.
As my parents were exploring the largest of the houses, I witnessed the best moment of the day outside at the water trough. There was a beautiful pure white dog with the body and fur like a German shepherd, and she was drinking out of the water trough with such glee and excitement that she wasn't licking up the water, she was trying to eat it! Seriously, chomping mouth in the water. But every 5 seconds she would get so excited that she would dash off, spin in a circle and come right back to drink some more. You can probably imagine what she did when her owners splashed water on her face. Seriously it was the funniest thing and she was obviously the happiest dog on the planet and it was all because of the water trough. I wish my parents had seen it.
The last funny thing was as I was sitting on a bench at the end of the visit and I saw three girls trying to put away an easy-up. I walked over and offered to be the fourth to make it easier. It's a good thing too because it quickly became clear that they had no idea what they were doing. They couldn't get it to fold in on itself so I indicated to the last little locks on the inside of each of the corners and asked if they had pulled those. None of them had and they gave one feeble try that didn't work and decided it was 't what they should do, so as they continued to fuss around I walked to each of the corners and easily released all the locks. As soon as the last one was released it easily folded on itself and they all exclaimed in joy 'thank you! Dankeschön!' No problem, I said, bitteschön!
Yeah- I'm cool.
Last city of the day: Obernai.
Mostly we had a delicious kebab dinner. Then we walked for a little while around the city where the old rampart walls are still standing and have become a part of the structures. Some of the homes have front doors at the rampart-street level, but they have little bridges to their door because their yard is practically a moat! Hard to picture, I'm sure, but trust me- it exists.
So we were able to get home pretty early again and get ready for another big day!
Alsace:
We left the Vanhulst family very early and made some more stops on our way to Alsace. We first saw Bastogne with an old WWII tank from the battle of the bulge and we did some grocery shopping. Not very exciting, I know- but I love it because it reminds me of my mission. Dad bought another new cheese to try. I don't think I talked about the first one in Paris, but we tried Mimouette, a very orange hard cheese. Daddy gave it 5 stars. This new cheese we bought is slightly softer. It is called St. Paulin and it has a good flavor, but we give it 3 stars. We also bought fromage de l'abbaye which gets 2 stars.
We decided that our ratings would be 5: definitely eat again, 4: it's good, don't turn it down, 3: maybe, 2: eh- only to be polite, 1: never again
Anyways- for any french missionaries who might appreciate this: I found that you can buy Samurai sauce! I had no clue. That was what I always put on my kebab.
So, after groceries for breakfast and lunch snacks in the car we drove out of town to go see war monuments. In all we saw the Bastogne war monuments, the American monuments, the Meuse-Argonne WWI cemetery which is the largest American cemetery outside of the United States. In Verdun we saw the French Tranchée, where after the war they found bodies of men that had been buried by bombing dirt debris. They only found them because they found bayonets sticking out of the ground.
We saw a bunker of the Maginot line and drove by other monuments and cemeteries on our way into the Alsace area of France.
We had a quick trip to Neuf-brisac, for the Vauban museum. The city is laid out in something like an eight pointed (maybe more) star. It is still completely surrounded by its wall. Because of this, the streets are all perfectly square and organized. So? You may say? Well, that is NOT like the rest of Europe. Every other city has winding, confusing streets that get you lost easily.
We also spent some time in Colmar, a very beautiful city. Mom and dad visited a museum about the artist Bartholdi, the man who created our very own Statue of Liberty. Dad has pictures of some of his mock-up statues and I think I actually like some of them better. Tant pis- too bad. We walked for a long way through all the pretty streets of Colmar. It is known as the Venice of France because it has beautiful water ways. We weren't just wandering, we were also looking for a place to have dinner. We needed something that looked good with decent prices. Nothing we passed by seemed to fit but I remembered the cafe next to where we started, by the museum. So we ended up walking in one big circle, and the cafe WAS just what we hoped. I ordered a delicious quiche, mom a pasta, and dad a regional specialty: the tarte flambée, which is like a thin crust pizza without red sauce. It was cheese, onion and ham. But the funniest part was that they took a whole egg and cracked it right in the middle. So it was cooked a little, but it was basically a runny egg in the middle of a pizza. Dad wasn't sure what to think, and then he tried it. And he loved it. So we learned something new. Make a pizza and then just crack an egg on it- you might like it. I also ordered a classic cheap European drink- Grenaldine sirop. If you've lived here you'll know what I'm talking about. It's nothing special, but it is good, and my parents had never had it. We were very satisfied with our meal- it was delicious!
Time to get to our new home for the night!
We booked a place outside of Strasbourg, in the mountains. It was comical how far into the woods we drove, with absolutely no buildings in sight until finally a small village appeared and we found our little resort lodge apartment. It is skinny and small but very cozy. Our hosts were very kind and they laughed with me at how quickly we move through our trip. I told them that we did Paris in 2 days and they were stunned! They left us with a special Alsatian dessert called Kougelopf which is a large bread cake that looks like an upside down cup cake with almonds and powdered sugar on top. I read later that it comes from a Christmas tradition because it represents the hats of the wise men bringing their gifts.
We had a relaxing, early night up in the cold mountain.
We decided that our ratings would be 5: definitely eat again, 4: it's good, don't turn it down, 3: maybe, 2: eh- only to be polite, 1: never again
Anyways- for any french missionaries who might appreciate this: I found that you can buy Samurai sauce! I had no clue. That was what I always put on my kebab.
So, after groceries for breakfast and lunch snacks in the car we drove out of town to go see war monuments. In all we saw the Bastogne war monuments, the American monuments, the Meuse-Argonne WWI cemetery which is the largest American cemetery outside of the United States. In Verdun we saw the French Tranchée, where after the war they found bodies of men that had been buried by bombing dirt debris. They only found them because they found bayonets sticking out of the ground.
We saw a bunker of the Maginot line and drove by other monuments and cemeteries on our way into the Alsace area of France.
We had a quick trip to Neuf-brisac, for the Vauban museum. The city is laid out in something like an eight pointed (maybe more) star. It is still completely surrounded by its wall. Because of this, the streets are all perfectly square and organized. So? You may say? Well, that is NOT like the rest of Europe. Every other city has winding, confusing streets that get you lost easily.
We also spent some time in Colmar, a very beautiful city. Mom and dad visited a museum about the artist Bartholdi, the man who created our very own Statue of Liberty. Dad has pictures of some of his mock-up statues and I think I actually like some of them better. Tant pis- too bad. We walked for a long way through all the pretty streets of Colmar. It is known as the Venice of France because it has beautiful water ways. We weren't just wandering, we were also looking for a place to have dinner. We needed something that looked good with decent prices. Nothing we passed by seemed to fit but I remembered the cafe next to where we started, by the museum. So we ended up walking in one big circle, and the cafe WAS just what we hoped. I ordered a delicious quiche, mom a pasta, and dad a regional specialty: the tarte flambée, which is like a thin crust pizza without red sauce. It was cheese, onion and ham. But the funniest part was that they took a whole egg and cracked it right in the middle. So it was cooked a little, but it was basically a runny egg in the middle of a pizza. Dad wasn't sure what to think, and then he tried it. And he loved it. So we learned something new. Make a pizza and then just crack an egg on it- you might like it. I also ordered a classic cheap European drink- Grenaldine sirop. If you've lived here you'll know what I'm talking about. It's nothing special, but it is good, and my parents had never had it. We were very satisfied with our meal- it was delicious!
Time to get to our new home for the night!
We booked a place outside of Strasbourg, in the mountains. It was comical how far into the woods we drove, with absolutely no buildings in sight until finally a small village appeared and we found our little resort lodge apartment. It is skinny and small but very cozy. Our hosts were very kind and they laughed with me at how quickly we move through our trip. I told them that we did Paris in 2 days and they were stunned! They left us with a special Alsatian dessert called Kougelopf which is a large bread cake that looks like an upside down cup cake with almonds and powdered sugar on top. I read later that it comes from a Christmas tradition because it represents the hats of the wise men bringing their gifts.
We had a relaxing, early night up in the cold mountain.
Leave Caen- go to Belgium
We had a repeat of the fantastic breakfast from Alain and Cecilia before we said goodbye. We told them they absolutely must come stay with us the next time they are in California.
As we left the area we stopped first to see William the Conqueror's castle. Unfortunately only the foundations are original. The rest was destroyed but has been restored and recreated to make a great tourist site. What's cool is that they are still doing archaeological digs. A major dig was started in 2011 and scheduled to finish this year.
We saw some people getting ready to film a movie about William (Guillaume) the Conqueror.
We left the west side of France we passed over the huge Pont de Normandie.
We drove out of France and into Belgium, a city called Charleroi, where we stayed the night with one of my mission companions. I was I my fourth transfer in Renens with Sister Metro when Sister Vanhulst (Laura) started her mission. She knew very little English and I was still speaking very basic 'church french' but we still managed to connect and I loved her! I had to leave after one transfer but I had the opportunity to do exchanges with her later and I saw her at the end of my mission when we were both picking up missionaries that we would be training.
Needless to say, I was very excited to see her.
She went with us to go see Waterloo and Villers-la-ville. I didn't pay much attention to the sites because I was just chatting with her the whole time, but I am sure my parents enjoyed them. I wonder what they though of us too girls just chatting non-stop in french in the back seat. There was lots to catch up on.
We stopped by her cousin's 40th birthday party at the church. Her family is like ours at home: almost all of her cousins and brothers live in the same ward. Their family is probably half of the ward. The party was lively and fun- felt like home. Her parents seem to be a lot like mine.
We chatted with her parents for over an hour when we got home. Laura and I were looking at pictures from our mission until we had to go to bed. Laura had an exam in the morning.
As we left the area we stopped first to see William the Conqueror's castle. Unfortunately only the foundations are original. The rest was destroyed but has been restored and recreated to make a great tourist site. What's cool is that they are still doing archaeological digs. A major dig was started in 2011 and scheduled to finish this year.
We saw some people getting ready to film a movie about William (Guillaume) the Conqueror.
We left the west side of France we passed over the huge Pont de Normandie.
We drove out of France and into Belgium, a city called Charleroi, where we stayed the night with one of my mission companions. I was I my fourth transfer in Renens with Sister Metro when Sister Vanhulst (Laura) started her mission. She knew very little English and I was still speaking very basic 'church french' but we still managed to connect and I loved her! I had to leave after one transfer but I had the opportunity to do exchanges with her later and I saw her at the end of my mission when we were both picking up missionaries that we would be training.
Needless to say, I was very excited to see her.
She went with us to go see Waterloo and Villers-la-ville. I didn't pay much attention to the sites because I was just chatting with her the whole time, but I am sure my parents enjoyed them. I wonder what they though of us too girls just chatting non-stop in french in the back seat. There was lots to catch up on.
We stopped by her cousin's 40th birthday party at the church. Her family is like ours at home: almost all of her cousins and brothers live in the same ward. Their family is probably half of the ward. The party was lively and fun- felt like home. Her parents seem to be a lot like mine.
We chatted with her parents for over an hour when we got home. Laura and I were looking at pictures from our mission until we had to go to bed. Laura had an exam in the morning.
Caen/Normandy:
We woke up to the most awesome breakfast provided by our dear Cecilia. She had croissants and pain au chocolat, grapes and plums, yogurt, toast and cheese and ham and sausage and butter and jam, hot milk with cocoa and juice...and a pretty new rose for mom. I mean really- I found my lost french-Italian aunt and uncle. They asked what our plans were for the day and gave us a little local advice.
First thing on our agenda was St. Michel, a large monastery and town built on a huge rock right in the middle of an expansive beach of sand. When the tide is in, the whole rock is surrounded by water and it is a castle on the sea. When the tide goes out, the beach expands almost 18 km out. But here's the really amazing part: the tide doesn't 'come' in, it RACES in so fast that it is dangerous. They say it comes faster than a galloping horse. Alain told us that he has see it only one time and he looked out when there was no sea and when he looked out again a minute later there was no beach. The sea was just there. I think I jus found the most spectacular thing to add to my bucket list: come during the season of he greatest tide differences and be there when it comes in.
Truly, St. Michel was an incredible site to see. The whole village is beautiful and you can explore all around and get up all the way to the monastery before you have to pay. So it's only the parking and monastery that actually charge admission. The structures are so beautiful and the view is incredible. I really can't use many words to describe it but the good thing is that my dad and I take a million pictures, so I don't have to!
After leaving St. Michel we drove to Bayeux (I slept) and we visited he Tapisserie, a museum with a near 50 meter long tapestry that tells the story of William the Conqueror. It isn't like the tapestries I usually think of, tall and thick and very colorful. This was long and skinny, a thin linen with about four colors of wool yarn.
You're supposed to view it with the audio guide but I didn't and I rather liked trying to find the little details on my own before my dad told me about them.
After the tapestry museum my parents went off to find the lace factory but the morning adventure and my increasing congestion took all the energy out of me so I slept in the car. Well, except for when a wedding car procession passed by blazing their horns.
Unfortunately my energy did not return. As my parents visited a number of historic world war sites in Normandy I continued to sleep in the car. If there were any day it had to happen, I'm glad it was that day. I had enough energy for all of St. Michel and then all the rest if the stuff would have bored me. But they did wake me up to go help take pictures at the American Cemetery (Omaha beach) when my dad got to raise a 48 star flag that belonged to Heidi Robbins' dad. It was a very special moment and my dad got choked up every time he explained to someone why he was doing it.
So I apologize if you wanted details about Normandy and the historic sites my parents visited. You'll have to ask them.
I still LOVED the day. St. Michel will definitely be a highlight of the trip.
For dinner we walked around Bayeux and found a little cafe called Pourquoi Pas which means Why Not? I like that. And we discovered, there is no reason not to. It was well priced and the portions were huge, and it was delicious. Their vegetable soup was perfect for me, the invalid. And dad and I got two huge stuffed potatoes while mom got a delicious quiche Lorraine. We all split a crème brûlée for dessert.
We were VERY satisfied as we plopped into bed.
First thing on our agenda was St. Michel, a large monastery and town built on a huge rock right in the middle of an expansive beach of sand. When the tide is in, the whole rock is surrounded by water and it is a castle on the sea. When the tide goes out, the beach expands almost 18 km out. But here's the really amazing part: the tide doesn't 'come' in, it RACES in so fast that it is dangerous. They say it comes faster than a galloping horse. Alain told us that he has see it only one time and he looked out when there was no sea and when he looked out again a minute later there was no beach. The sea was just there. I think I jus found the most spectacular thing to add to my bucket list: come during the season of he greatest tide differences and be there when it comes in.
Truly, St. Michel was an incredible site to see. The whole village is beautiful and you can explore all around and get up all the way to the monastery before you have to pay. So it's only the parking and monastery that actually charge admission. The structures are so beautiful and the view is incredible. I really can't use many words to describe it but the good thing is that my dad and I take a million pictures, so I don't have to!
After leaving St. Michel we drove to Bayeux (I slept) and we visited he Tapisserie, a museum with a near 50 meter long tapestry that tells the story of William the Conqueror. It isn't like the tapestries I usually think of, tall and thick and very colorful. This was long and skinny, a thin linen with about four colors of wool yarn.
You're supposed to view it with the audio guide but I didn't and I rather liked trying to find the little details on my own before my dad told me about them.
After the tapestry museum my parents went off to find the lace factory but the morning adventure and my increasing congestion took all the energy out of me so I slept in the car. Well, except for when a wedding car procession passed by blazing their horns.
Unfortunately my energy did not return. As my parents visited a number of historic world war sites in Normandy I continued to sleep in the car. If there were any day it had to happen, I'm glad it was that day. I had enough energy for all of St. Michel and then all the rest if the stuff would have bored me. But they did wake me up to go help take pictures at the American Cemetery (Omaha beach) when my dad got to raise a 48 star flag that belonged to Heidi Robbins' dad. It was a very special moment and my dad got choked up every time he explained to someone why he was doing it.
So I apologize if you wanted details about Normandy and the historic sites my parents visited. You'll have to ask them.
I still LOVED the day. St. Michel will definitely be a highlight of the trip.
For dinner we walked around Bayeux and found a little cafe called Pourquoi Pas which means Why Not? I like that. And we discovered, there is no reason not to. It was well priced and the portions were huge, and it was delicious. Their vegetable soup was perfect for me, the invalid. And dad and I got two huge stuffed potatoes while mom got a delicious quiche Lorraine. We all split a crème brûlée for dessert.
We were VERY satisfied as we plopped into bed.
Leaving Paris:
All packed and ready to go, we took our luggage with us to breakfast near our car rental place, which just so happened to be right by the Arc de Triomphe. So we sat down for a delicious real Paris cafe breakfast with a huge historical monument at our backs. Wow. What a way to end our stay in Paris!
Getting our car went smoothly and then we were on our way out of the city but we had one more important site before we truly left the Paris area...Versailles.
The most elegant and extravagant of all palaces, built by Louis XIV. He valued beauty and pleasure and luxury. That is what you see when you visit Versailles.The grounds are expansive. They are huge! The gardens go on forever and we didn't even try to explore them. Apparently some areas are just like a park. People come with bikes and picnic.
We visited the queen's grand trianton, a smaller palace on the other end of the grounds from the main palace. It was built for Marie Antoinette, wife of Louis XVI, who was shy and quiet. She didn't enjoy the hustle and excitement of the court at the main palace.
I don't even know what to say about the main palace. It is huge and extravagant. Full of the finest paintings and intricate designs.The most famous and remarkable room is the Hall of Mirrors. I wish I could have seen this room while it was empty. I couldn't get any satisfactory pictures of the room because there is always a crowd.
When we finally saw enough of Versailles we truly got on the road!
I sleep easily in moving vehicles (car, train, plane, bus, metro, you name it) so I don't remember how long we were driving but we made a stop in Rouen, once the second biggest city in all of France and well known for the history of Joan of Arc. She was tried as a heretic and burned in Rouen. There is Tower museum to mark what remains of the old fortress. We didn't spend much time in the city but we did walk around a little bit. Rouen has a ton of churches. It's like Utah with its spires poking up all over the place.
I started to have bad congestion in the morning, I guess I got a traveling bug; so sleeping in the car was a good plan for me, and the next place I woke up was the memorial monument at the beaches of Normandy. There are still bunkers and cement structures that you can duck through. Dad and I had to hunch real low to get through some openings.
The sun was setting as we were there. The colors were impressive and beautiful but it was the first time it was cold outside. Also it was the first I had ever seen the English channel or the Atlantic Ocean from the east side.Around 9 o'clock we pulled up to the house of our hosts in Caen.
Alain and Cecilia are the CUTEST little couple. Their kids are all grown and they have a baby grandchild. One of their sons works in Los Angeles in the film business. They were SO welcoming and had the most comfortable, adorable rooms ready for us. Cecilia asked if we were hungry she could make us some pasta (oh yeah, she's Italian) and we couldn't say no to that. First home-cooked meal in 4 days- and it was pasta prepared by an Italian! Need I say more?A good day of traveling ended very well I would say.
Paris Day 2:
PLEASE excuse typos- all of these were typed up on an ipod while driving in the car from place to place. I will try to correct any I catch, but I'm sure I'll miss some.
Good morning Paris!! Despite having a short sleep, it was a pleasure to wake up in Paris. We were a little slow to get out the door because we needed to make our strategy for viewing the city. We bought delicious pastries at the boulangerie just outside of our apartment and we took them to la Place de la Bastille, the old location of the prison. There is only a tall monument in a round-about to mark it. We sat down to enjoy our french breakfast as cars circled by rushing to work.
A couple metro stops away we went looking for the apartment of Victor Hugo. It was difficult to find, but find it we did. They have some of his own furniture that was donated by his descendants. There was also a strange wooden writing desk where his quill and pen and ink bottles and some papers are permanently attached and preserved in glass. I though that was pretty awesome.
Hopping back onto the metro we headed to the south end of the city to find the catacombs. But we should have gotten there much earlier. The line outside was over an hour long. We didn't have time for that unless we wanted to give up some of our other plans.
So instead we got on our bus and returned to the Latin Quarter of which we had seen a little bit with Rick Steves' tour. But today we were on the search for the Pantheon and the Sorbonne university, two sites mom wanted to see. The Pantheon was very big and beautiful but we did not take the time to go inside. After we walked by the university we visited the Cluny museum. Mom was looking to see the tapestry of the lady and the unicorn. We had no clue what the museum was really like.
Laid out in a very old, expansive mansion on top of more ancient foundations and Roman baths, this museum just seemed to go on forever! I swear it was 'bigger on the inside'. We didn't plan to spend so much time there, but we did walk through every bit of the museum in search of the tapestry. Only to discover that it was not here because it was on a tour and currently in Japan. Dang. But we did see some original stone king's heads that were torn down from Notre Dame. Someone collected them and buried them long ago. It was an impressive museum. We simply had no clue what it would be like.
On our way out of the Latin Quarter we took a bus so we would be able to sight see and it is a good thing we firm. Very quickly we passed by an enormous church and beautiful fountain so we got off the bus to take pictures. It was the Église St. Sulpice which houses one of the biggest organs.
We got back on the bus to take us very close to the Eiffel Tower at the Pont d'Alma. At this bridge there is an entrance to the Sewers of Paris, or next site on our list, but to our dismay, we struck out again. The sewers are closed on Thursdays and Fridays. 2 strikes in one day was not looking good, but if we had done the catacombs and the sewers I don't know how we would have done everything else.
So we quickly moved on and went to a quick stop in the Rodin museum to see the Thinker. Picture, done... Moving on to la Place des Invalides. Full of war history, is ancient old hospital houses the tomb of Napoleon and displays of very beautiful, intricate weapons and pieces of armor.
We did not try to see everything they have at those museums, because we still had other places to get to before they close. This is what is difficult about seeing sights in Europe. Many things close around six. It takes talent to see as many things as we did in the amount of time we had. My mom would have been able to move even faster if dad and I weren't such obsessive photographers. I took over 300 photos in just 2 days and my camera is just our secondary. I don't know how many are on my dad's camera.
Moving still quickly we went from Place des Invalides to the north side of the Seine to go see...the Louvre!
Now- being time constrained people, going inside was never our plan. I know it's a little crazy, but my parents are more into history and I am into pictures, so being outside and seeing the glass pyramid really was enough for me. And that's all we did. We SAW it, we took pictures and we moved on.
We were also really hungry, so we went searching for a cafe recommended to us by our cousin Heather. We got some directions from people in the Louvre, but we could 't find it. We asked a news-stand vendor and he directed us one way, but we never found it. Dang. Eventually we settled with a slightly expensive place that sold take-away crêpes and sandwiches. So we ate them at a park near the Orangerie, a museum my mom hoped to visit to see Monet's lilies; but she also really wanted to be at the Arc de Triomphe for the relighting of the eternal flame at 6:30. So she had to give up the Orangerie and we went to catch a bus that took us directly to the Arc.
The Arc de Triomphe was one of my highlights of Paris. It is a gorgeous and impressive structure that was just begging me to keep taking its picture. My parents watched the flame relighting and then we got to walk up all the stairs (I forgot to count as I went :( should have done that) and we got to see all of Paris from the top. It was spectacular.
We took the stairs back down and let me tell you, there are a lot of stairs! Of course not as many as cathedral towers and other things but what I likes about these stairs is they were open in the middle so you could see all the way down.
After taking more pictures from the other side of the arc with different lighting we took the metro up for a quick stop in Montmartre. I got to see the Moulin Rouge!!!! Yay!
We had nothing else planned until 11 pm so we headed home to find a grocery store to eat. It was fun for me to go in a grocery store because I remember all the things I used to buy regularly. Picked up some chocolate!!
We ate quickly at home while figuring out the fastest route to get back across town late at night. Not all buses and metros run 24/7 so we needed to plan ahead. After our dinner of bread and cheese and grapes and other random things, we were off for the main event! Wanna guess where we were going at 11:00? The only tickets we could find to visit the most popular site in Paris were for 11. You probably guessed it: la Tour Eiffel! We couldn't get tickets to ride to the top but even the 2nd floor is very high. The views of the city are incredible. Right as we stepped off the lift it was on the hour, so the tower was sparkling. When we had had enough of the view we 'descended' and continued to take pictures from the park across the street where hundreds of couples and groups of young people were gathered, enjoying a lovely evening in front of the tower. I can't count how many times we had to tell these random vagabond men that we didn't want to buy their wine, champagne, or cigarettes.
Needless to say it was a memorable experience to visit the Eiffel Tower at night.
We took the metro back home and apparently our timing was perfect because we were literally on the last metro that goes to our stop and they there were already some exits closed off. Good job us!
So generally it was the day with the most fails but it was still JAM-packed and 'bout near ran me off my feet. Mom has decided she does need to come back someday because she is not done...
Good morning Paris!! Despite having a short sleep, it was a pleasure to wake up in Paris. We were a little slow to get out the door because we needed to make our strategy for viewing the city. We bought delicious pastries at the boulangerie just outside of our apartment and we took them to la Place de la Bastille, the old location of the prison. There is only a tall monument in a round-about to mark it. We sat down to enjoy our french breakfast as cars circled by rushing to work. 
A couple metro stops away we went looking for the apartment of Victor Hugo. It was difficult to find, but find it we did. They have some of his own furniture that was donated by his descendants. There was also a strange wooden writing desk where his quill and pen and ink bottles and some papers are permanently attached and preserved in glass. I though that was pretty awesome.
Hopping back onto the metro we headed to the south end of the city to find the catacombs. But we should have gotten there much earlier. The line outside was over an hour long. We didn't have time for that unless we wanted to give up some of our other plans.
So instead we got on our bus and returned to the Latin Quarter of which we had seen a little bit with Rick Steves' tour. But today we were on the search for the Pantheon and the Sorbonne university, two sites mom wanted to see. The Pantheon was very big and beautiful but we did not take the time to go inside. After we walked by the university we visited the Cluny museum. Mom was looking to see the tapestry of the lady and the unicorn. We had no clue what the museum was really like.
Laid out in a very old, expansive mansion on top of more ancient foundations and Roman baths, this museum just seemed to go on forever! I swear it was 'bigger on the inside'. We didn't plan to spend so much time there, but we did walk through every bit of the museum in search of the tapestry. Only to discover that it was not here because it was on a tour and currently in Japan. Dang. But we did see some original stone king's heads that were torn down from Notre Dame. Someone collected them and buried them long ago. It was an impressive museum. We simply had no clue what it would be like.
On our way out of the Latin Quarter we took a bus so we would be able to sight see and it is a good thing we firm. Very quickly we passed by an enormous church and beautiful fountain so we got off the bus to take pictures. It was the Église St. Sulpice which houses one of the biggest organs.
We got back on the bus to take us very close to the Eiffel Tower at the Pont d'Alma. At this bridge there is an entrance to the Sewers of Paris, or next site on our list, but to our dismay, we struck out again. The sewers are closed on Thursdays and Fridays. 2 strikes in one day was not looking good, but if we had done the catacombs and the sewers I don't know how we would have done everything else.So we quickly moved on and went to a quick stop in the Rodin museum to see the Thinker. Picture, done... Moving on to la Place des Invalides. Full of war history, is ancient old hospital houses the tomb of Napoleon and displays of very beautiful, intricate weapons and pieces of armor.
We did not try to see everything they have at those museums, because we still had other places to get to before they close. This is what is difficult about seeing sights in Europe. Many things close around six. It takes talent to see as many things as we did in the amount of time we had. My mom would have been able to move even faster if dad and I weren't such obsessive photographers. I took over 300 photos in just 2 days and my camera is just our secondary. I don't know how many are on my dad's camera.Moving still quickly we went from Place des Invalides to the north side of the Seine to go see...the Louvre!
Now- being time constrained people, going inside was never our plan. I know it's a little crazy, but my parents are more into history and I am into pictures, so being outside and seeing the glass pyramid really was enough for me. And that's all we did. We SAW it, we took pictures and we moved on.We were also really hungry, so we went searching for a cafe recommended to us by our cousin Heather. We got some directions from people in the Louvre, but we could 't find it. We asked a news-stand vendor and he directed us one way, but we never found it. Dang. Eventually we settled with a slightly expensive place that sold take-away crêpes and sandwiches. So we ate them at a park near the Orangerie, a museum my mom hoped to visit to see Monet's lilies; but she also really wanted to be at the Arc de Triomphe for the relighting of the eternal flame at 6:30. So she had to give up the Orangerie and we went to catch a bus that took us directly to the Arc.
The Arc de Triomphe was one of my highlights of Paris. It is a gorgeous and impressive structure that was just begging me to keep taking its picture. My parents watched the flame relighting and then we got to walk up all the stairs (I forgot to count as I went :( should have done that) and we got to see all of Paris from the top. It was spectacular. We took the stairs back down and let me tell you, there are a lot of stairs! Of course not as many as cathedral towers and other things but what I likes about these stairs is they were open in the middle so you could see all the way down.
After taking more pictures from the other side of the arc with different lighting we took the metro up for a quick stop in Montmartre. I got to see the Moulin Rouge!!!! Yay!We had nothing else planned until 11 pm so we headed home to find a grocery store to eat. It was fun for me to go in a grocery store because I remember all the things I used to buy regularly. Picked up some chocolate!!
We ate quickly at home while figuring out the fastest route to get back across town late at night. Not all buses and metros run 24/7 so we needed to plan ahead. After our dinner of bread and cheese and grapes and other random things, we were off for the main event! Wanna guess where we were going at 11:00? The only tickets we could find to visit the most popular site in Paris were for 11. You probably guessed it: la Tour Eiffel! We couldn't get tickets to ride to the top but even the 2nd floor is very high. The views of the city are incredible. Right as we stepped off the lift it was on the hour, so the tower was sparkling. When we had had enough of the view we 'descended' and continued to take pictures from the park across the street where hundreds of couples and groups of young people were gathered, enjoying a lovely evening in front of the tower. I can't count how many times we had to tell these random vagabond men that we didn't want to buy their wine, champagne, or cigarettes.
Needless to say it was a memorable experience to visit the Eiffel Tower at night.We took the metro back home and apparently our timing was perfect because we were literally on the last metro that goes to our stop and they there were already some exits closed off. Good job us!
So generally it was the day with the most fails but it was still JAM-packed and 'bout near ran me off my feet. Mom has decided she does need to come back someday because she is not done...
Paris Day 1
We found our way to the part of town where we would be staying and we met our host, Ana. We changed, freshened up a bit since we had been traveling for nearly a day, and then took off to get our adventure started.
First on the docket: a walking audio tour (for my parents) from Rick Steves. This started at a metro very close to...
Notre Dame! Great thing to start with. The tour takes you walking all around the cathedral and the area around it. While my dad was listening to the tour, I was just loving the sights and picture opportunities. Though I had never been to Paris before, the feeling of being in France again was heavenly.
The very first thing we did was see the roman foundations under Notre Dame. They were very cool to see. I also enjoyed a touch screen zoom and pan presentation of the process of building the cathedral. That was very cool.
The lines were really long for going up the towers so we decided to try to come back for that at the end of the day if we had time. I know that you might say you HAVE to go up, but with the number of things my mom wants to see in Paris we had to also think of time. So we moved on.
We found the lock bridge- which my parents had never heard of.
We visited a holocaust museum very close to Notre Dame and we found a gelato to share as we walked along the river Seine and the Ile St.
Louis. It was a beautiful day. I wanted to sit down in the sun and read.
We wandered through the Latin quarter south of the river. This includes St. Michel, like in Les Miserables where the university students had political rallies. It is still a place for rallies today. In this area, along the river there are a lot of street book vendors. I looked at the antiques but couldn't find anything I was willing to spend money on. The area used to be the part of town where many scholars lived.
We visited the St. Michel church with huge stained glass windows. It was very beautiful.
We circled back with the audio tour to the Ile with Notre Dame and discovered that the tower climbing line had just closed. Dang! So instead we went inside the cathedral. Our timing was great. There is always a lot of people but it isn't necessarily crowded. I mean, it's huge. But our timing was perfect because they were in the middle of mass. A young woman was singing so beautifully. Instead of walking around and looking at their historic displays I just sat down and listened. I closed my eyes and got lost in the music. I definitely drifted in and out of sleep, but it was VERY worthwhile to be there at that time.
During the evening we visited the opera house in the north of the city. This is not the original opera house but it is built in the same location. All in one day we visited locations of 3 of the most renowned french classic novels, hunchback of Notre dame, Les Miserables and the Phantom of the Opera.
For dinner we wandered around a popular shopping area and found a kebab place. This is not a KABAB like you think of with sticks on the BBQ. This is a Turkish gift to the world much like gyros and chawarma (watch the end of the avengers). Kebabs can come in bread or in a tortilla which is how I like them and they usually have delicious sauce selections. I used to eat these a lot on my mission and I can't wait to go back to the kebab shops I know in my own cities.
While we were eating we saw elders walk by. I ran to go day hi but one of them didn't hear me at all and he kept walking so I only got to say hi to the other and tell him that I was a missionary in Geneva before he needed to go catch up with his disappearing companion. I knew I would see SOME missionaries while I was here.
After dinner, around 6 we found some famous covered passages which are really just hallways between buildings and an old hotel that have been made into little shops so it is like a mall, but without a mall feel. Everything was closed, so it was empty, but we weren't there to buy stuff, jus to see it so it was perfect.
Then we made our way down by bus (so we could see more of the city- unlike when we take the metro) back to the river Seine and Pont Neuf (New Bridge- which is actually the oldest bridge in Paris). We bought tickets for the river boat tour at 9:30. It takes you in a circle around the Seine river islands under all the bridges which are each unique and have various histories.
The tour's possibly most exciting moment is passing by the Eiffel Tower at night when it sparkles on every hour. Though we had seen the tower from a distance during the day, this the the first time we were so close.
The tour ends after sailing through the area around Notre Dame, which is completely alive with night life. Couples and groups of young people fill the edges and pathways of the river channels. At one park there were dances and parties right on the edge of the river and I SO badly wanted to be dancing with them.
We returned home late after our river tour very tired but happy. Our first day of Paris was very full and the next day looked to be even busier.
There are obviously a lot more pictures. I don't even know how many really. But it would take forever to post them on a blog- especially with the slow internet I've been working with. In fact it took me over an hour just to add these photos. I already have the next 6 days written out, so I am going to post those without pictures (Sorry!) and then someday I'll get back to them.
First on the docket: a walking audio tour (for my parents) from Rick Steves. This started at a metro very close to...Notre Dame! Great thing to start with. The tour takes you walking all around the cathedral and the area around it. While my dad was listening to the tour, I was just loving the sights and picture opportunities. Though I had never been to Paris before, the feeling of being in France again was heavenly.
The very first thing we did was see the roman foundations under Notre Dame. They were very cool to see. I also enjoyed a touch screen zoom and pan presentation of the process of building the cathedral. That was very cool.The lines were really long for going up the towers so we decided to try to come back for that at the end of the day if we had time. I know that you might say you HAVE to go up, but with the number of things my mom wants to see in Paris we had to also think of time. So we moved on.
We found the lock bridge- which my parents had never heard of.
We visited a holocaust museum very close to Notre Dame and we found a gelato to share as we walked along the river Seine and the Ile St. Louis. It was a beautiful day. I wanted to sit down in the sun and read.
We wandered through the Latin quarter south of the river. This includes St. Michel, like in Les Miserables where the university students had political rallies. It is still a place for rallies today. In this area, along the river there are a lot of street book vendors. I looked at the antiques but couldn't find anything I was willing to spend money on. The area used to be the part of town where many scholars lived.
We visited the St. Michel church with huge stained glass windows. It was very beautiful.
We circled back with the audio tour to the Ile with Notre Dame and discovered that the tower climbing line had just closed. Dang! So instead we went inside the cathedral. Our timing was great. There is always a lot of people but it isn't necessarily crowded. I mean, it's huge. But our timing was perfect because they were in the middle of mass. A young woman was singing so beautifully. Instead of walking around and looking at their historic displays I just sat down and listened. I closed my eyes and got lost in the music. I definitely drifted in and out of sleep, but it was VERY worthwhile to be there at that time.During the evening we visited the opera house in the north of the city. This is not the original opera house but it is built in the same location. All in one day we visited locations of 3 of the most renowned french classic novels, hunchback of Notre dame, Les Miserables and the Phantom of the Opera.
While we were eating we saw elders walk by. I ran to go day hi but one of them didn't hear me at all and he kept walking so I only got to say hi to the other and tell him that I was a missionary in Geneva before he needed to go catch up with his disappearing companion. I knew I would see SOME missionaries while I was here.After dinner, around 6 we found some famous covered passages which are really just hallways between buildings and an old hotel that have been made into little shops so it is like a mall, but without a mall feel. Everything was closed, so it was empty, but we weren't there to buy stuff, jus to see it so it was perfect.
Then we made our way down by bus (so we could see more of the city- unlike when we take the metro) back to the river Seine and Pont Neuf (New Bridge- which is actually the oldest bridge in Paris). We bought tickets for the river boat tour at 9:30. It takes you in a circle around the Seine river islands under all the bridges which are each unique and have various histories.
The tour's possibly most exciting moment is passing by the Eiffel Tower at night when it sparkles on every hour. Though we had seen the tower from a distance during the day, this the the first time we were so close.
The tour ends after sailing through the area around Notre Dame, which is completely alive with night life. Couples and groups of young people fill the edges and pathways of the river channels. At one park there were dances and parties right on the edge of the river and I SO badly wanted to be dancing with them.We returned home late after our river tour very tired but happy. Our first day of Paris was very full and the next day looked to be even busier.
There are obviously a lot more pictures. I don't even know how many really. But it would take forever to post them on a blog- especially with the slow internet I've been working with. In fact it took me over an hour just to add these photos. I already have the next 6 days written out, so I am going to post those without pictures (Sorry!) and then someday I'll get back to them.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)