Well, if you are wondering what happened to me, I didn't fall overboard into the Danube. The lady next to me on one of the flights called the flight the 'trip of horrors' and it wasn't quite that bad, not quite. But as one of my new friends from Serbia said, the only good thing about that nightmare flight is that no one is dead. So true! I will save that story for another entry, I am going to just do a short update now. But what a story it was!
Viking Pride, the boat I've been on, has free wifi, something I had looked forward to as I kept my blog/journal. Well, the wifi rarely works and if it does you are lucky to even get to read an email, much less write and send one and aol doesn't work at all!! So I've been internetless for over a week and it was a week worth writing about! When I would say something about it not working the remote reception girl just kept saying it is free wifi! I'm not sure free wifi that doesn't work is something to advertise, but they do! This will be my one and only trip on the Viking river boats.
Today we are in Regensburg and it is the last day of this cruise. We will be in Passau in the morning and then I will have a 2 hour bus ride into Munich where I will spend one night at the airport hotel and then hope that my flight is able to leave for Washington Dulles airport. Another stressful journey might be ahead.
Back to my current setting...sometimes when the river boats dock there aren't enough docks for us so they 'park' right next to each other and you have to walk off of yours into the next one and then out their door to the outside. Interesting arrangement. Well we are next to a beautiful boat that has internet that works so the very nice receptionist here is letting me use the free wifi and I am sitting in their very fancy lounge typing away. What a luxury internet can be!
This boat has it problems too. It is supposed to go all the way to Amsterdam but because of the ice in the river and the narrow locks it has to get through it cannot proceed as planned. So they are going back to Budapest the same way they came and every passenger has to rebook return flights from there! rather than seeing the rest of the river they will see what they have already seen. Another boat from a different company in this same dilemma took off the passengers and put them on a bus towards their destination and then somehow one of the other boats from that company is going to meet them from the Rhine River and take them the rest of the way. Everyone is talking about this being the worst winter in many years, how true that is from what we are experiencing.
So Regensburg, well that seem so anticlimatic to the rest of the trip. And it is actually. However this is the coldest and snowiest place we have been yet and it is beautiful! Most of the tours the boat gives you are walking tours and about 3 days ago my knee and the little toe I smashed got so bad that walking any distance was no longer feasible. In Linz one of the tour guides took me for a quick trip around when she finished the tour. It was delightful and I saw places and things that the groups didn't walk to. So I decided that was the way for me to do things. Yesterday in Passau I had a taxi with an English speaking guide for an hour and saw beautiful places and enjoyed the hour with him. He was quite personable, even if he did smell as though he was drinking each time I got out of the car to see something. He told me he had been at work since 4AM when the pubs closed because people were so drunk they didn't drive or walk home. Maybe that is why the cab smelled so badly? Oh well, he was in a great mood. And we saw wonderful things. I was disappointed with the driver I got today, but that is just how it is I guess. I did see some interesting places and enjoyed the old town tour. Then after lunch I took a taxi to a shopping center and really enjoyed the setting, seeing all the families and listening to the German being spoken everywhere. I don't know why people say everyone speaks English, I did not find that to be true at all here! Oh well, somehow I managed to survive. So far from the terror I felt just a few years ago when I started traveling.
In Austria and Germany and probably other countries around this area, they have Santa visit on December 6th. Then December 24th is the big celebration day when the baby Jesus comes and brings all the gifts. Christmas day is spent with friends and family and many people celebrate at the pubs that day, according to the taxi driver yesterday. I have been enjoying the decorations everywhere. The Christmas markets were all charming! They were all so different and I enjoyed the variety. I learned a very important lesson, anything you want to buy or eat, do it because each is so different you rarely see the same items or food twice! And there were some incredible foods that I had and hope to have again some day. If I do come back in winter I will definitely come back before Christmas so I can experience more markets, to me it is sad to be here and not have them to shop at anymore. They are beautiful and truly enchanting! The food is beyond explanation! Just visit them hungry! Although there were some that had very little food, but Gluwein is found everywhere, along with souvenir mugs. I don't like the hot spiced wine myself, but I must be the only one in the world who doesn't like it!
And so after a long, trecherous journey I arrived at the river boat to float and visit Christmas markets and see litte villages and cities of Austria and Germany. This has been a truly unique opportunity! And now I will hope and pray that my flight home is adventureless, safe and easy!
Happy holidays to all from Germany!
Monday, December 27, 2010
Friday, December 17, 2010
Mess in Munich
Well, here I sit at a computer in the fancy lounge at the Novotel hotel near the Munich airport...Munich, that is, not Budapest where I am supposed to be! The day was long, actually it was about 3 days in one. I waited a bit at the lounge and finally decided, based on the hundreds of cancelled flights that I would just go to the hotel and try again tomorrow. I do not recommend traveling with any kind of disability. The cart people were great, when they showed up! I waited well over an hour and finally took off walking and the Lufthansa people stopped me, knowing about my knee injury and insisted I stay and wait and finally a cart came. I had watched 2 men who were in the lounge after 2 other cancellations and decided that was all I had to look forward to so one man and I decided it was smartest to quit waiting today and try for tomorrow. He was given a room at the gorgeous Kempinski hotel right at the airport and when I asked about getting a room there too, I was told I don't have a 'black' membership card, just a gold one so they couldn't pay for that for me. I was furious and decided that a 30 minute ride on ice roads each way to the hotel they had paid for was not something I was willing to do so with the help of the 'fancy' hotel, I booked my own room here which is a 5 minute drive from the airport. I arrived, lucky to have a room since the lady told me that people were sleeping in the camping bags at the airport, as I might have mentioned. No camping bag for me...yet! I ate a club sandwich and went to bed, with a small ice bucket filled to put in a bag on my knee. That has really helped. I woke up at midnight Munich time,which is 8 hours later than Denver time and was ready for dinner. Unfortunately by the time I got dressed and went down everything was closed. The nice reception man had a ham sandwich made for me. What does a $9 ham sandwich look like in Munich? White bread with the crust cut off and 2 thin slices of ham and one of cheese and leaf lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers and red, green and yellow peppers. Quite good I have to say! Now it is the middle of the night and I am wide awake! Tomorrow is going to be another long day. Already the first flight to Budapest in the morning is cancelled but I will go to the airport early in hopes my next flight will take off. At least there is quite a lot of good food in the lounge and I still didn't get a german pretzel which is truly delicious so that awaits me tomorrow. If the flights get cancelled again, I will go to the charming Christmas market outside the airport for a while. I still have a couple of days to get to Budapest. The cruise starts on Sunday, but doesn't leave Buda until Monday so I have some time, however the forecast says that tomorrow/today/Saturday is the only break in this wintery weather so it will be best if I do get out. Budapest in only 1 hour and 15 minutes away, but seems like a world away at this moment!
Both of the free computers broke in the lobby so I was given the key to the executive lounge and it is on the 4th floor with a lovely view of the lights around. Trees are decorated everywhere, beautiful!
Thank goodness I had my overnight bag and all the things I drag with me on the plane. I didn't pack an extra top though, just a sweater to be prepared for the cold. I will be fine for another day, who knows where my other luggage is! But I'm so thankful I have all of the things I take with me!
Time is expiring on this computer so this will be the end of my mess in munich musings! Check back for an update on where in the world in europe is mitzi!!!
Both of the free computers broke in the lobby so I was given the key to the executive lounge and it is on the 4th floor with a lovely view of the lights around. Trees are decorated everywhere, beautiful!
Thank goodness I had my overnight bag and all the things I drag with me on the plane. I didn't pack an extra top though, just a sweater to be prepared for the cold. I will be fine for another day, who knows where my other luggage is! But I'm so thankful I have all of the things I take with me!
Time is expiring on this computer so this will be the end of my mess in munich musings! Check back for an update on where in the world in europe is mitzi!!!
Mitzi's Big Adventure
Well, this isn't quite as planned so far and I've not even reached my destination. And at this point it doesn't look like I will! Travel in winter should be left to the young adventurous ones!! From now on I will be staying home in winter myself! Flying to DC, no problem. Leaving DC, the problems began. The flight was almost 3 hours late leaving, first we waited to get deiced then waited for other connecting flights, then waited for more cargo, then more passengers making connections and then, what do you know, we had to wait forever to getinto a deicing station on the runway! So almost 3 hours late, 6 hours after I had arrived at the airport we took off.
Now of course that meant that no one would make connections. I was in a cart and was rushed through passport control and security again and made it to the gate as it was time to check in for the Budapest flight. Waited for a half hour, no rep showed up and suddenly the screen went blank and some handsome young German man came up to me and said the flight was cnacelled he had gotten a text. He showed it to me and it was in English and yes indeed, the flight was cancelled. Luckily I can still visit the priority lounges and waited in line for almost an hour with other frustrated travelers. I guess I\m lucky. I am booked on a flight out in nine hours and if it doesn't go then I have a hotel room, but it is 1/2 hour away at least and the airlines, Lufthansa gave me a pass for a taxi since I am so scared alone. Not sure I want to do that on the trecherous roads here either. I have a flight booked out in the morning too so if this one doesn't go out at 9PM I go to the hotel and ocme back in the morning. Too much stress for me!
So I will try to sleep now that I finally got a bit to eat. I must say the German potato salad is incredibly delicious! Why does the bright spot have to be food? I might just try the beer too! And hopefully I can sleep in the chair. The lounge is packed!
Time for this lady to stay home and write about the last few years! For now, I'm just hoping for sleep!
Now of course that meant that no one would make connections. I was in a cart and was rushed through passport control and security again and made it to the gate as it was time to check in for the Budapest flight. Waited for a half hour, no rep showed up and suddenly the screen went blank and some handsome young German man came up to me and said the flight was cnacelled he had gotten a text. He showed it to me and it was in English and yes indeed, the flight was cancelled. Luckily I can still visit the priority lounges and waited in line for almost an hour with other frustrated travelers. I guess I\m lucky. I am booked on a flight out in nine hours and if it doesn't go then I have a hotel room, but it is 1/2 hour away at least and the airlines, Lufthansa gave me a pass for a taxi since I am so scared alone. Not sure I want to do that on the trecherous roads here either. I have a flight booked out in the morning too so if this one doesn't go out at 9PM I go to the hotel and ocme back in the morning. Too much stress for me!
So I will try to sleep now that I finally got a bit to eat. I must say the German potato salad is incredibly delicious! Why does the bright spot have to be food? I might just try the beer too! And hopefully I can sleep in the chair. The lounge is packed!
Time for this lady to stay home and write about the last few years! For now, I'm just hoping for sleep!
Thursday, October 28, 2010
The Journey Home
The journey home did seem easier than the journey there. On the way to Faro, Portugal I had a 5 hour layover at Heathrow and it went quickly but made the trip long and hard. It was just over 24 hours from the time I left my house until I walked out of customs and saw Cesar waiting. This will be the last year I have the United Premier Executive status which enables me to go into the lounges so I enjoy taking advantage of that perk! The international lounges are incredible and I will miss the luxury a lot when I don't have my same status by flying so many miles a year. They make a trip much more comfortable! They have nice places to sit and free internet in most cases, and amazingly good food and free drinks, well soft drinks and wine that is.
Heading home I left Faro in the late afternoon, arriving in Lisbon with just over an hour layover. When you land in Lisbon many times you are way out from the airport on a landing place and go down stairs and are transported by buses to the airport. That adds on quite a bit of time because the buses have to fill up before they head to the terminal. Thus making the connection time much shorter. And if the flight is leaving from the field it is the same way, you have to go very early to the gate to get on a bus that takes a big group of people out at a time. Traveling is quite a journey! So my layover on the way home from Lisbon, although it was supposed to be almost an hour and a half only left 15 minutes for me to enjoy the wonderful lounge in Lisbon. It is filled with different open faced small sandwiches, small quiches, snack items and traditional Portuguese pastries. I always take a bottle of water for the trip and enjoy my last taste of pasteis de nata, the small egg custard tarts that are so famous there.
I then boarded the flight that is almost 3 hours back to London Heathrow. Once you reach Heathrow it is about a mile walk to the customs/passport area, quite a trip! There are some moving walkways that help, but it is quite the distance! I arrived there after 10PM and spent the night at the airport hotel where I have been staying since I started my traveling. It is convenient and they used to upgrade me to a club room which basically meant I could go in the 'private club' room with drinks for free and some snacks and free internet. That has changed and I never am invited to do that anymore without a 35 GBP charge which is about $70, not worth it at all. However the 3 main concierge gentlemen always remember me and welcome me with open arms. That is the reason I go back, they are so kind to me. I got a taxi from the airport to the hotel and whenever I get in those cars I feel like I am in a movie! They are darling and it only takes me a minute now to relax with them driving on the wrong side of the road! The hotel was a welcome destination that night and thank goodness, the air conditioning worked so finally I had a cool night, even though I did miss my traveling companion.
The next morning I avoided the 17GBP breakfast at the hotel since it didn't come with the room and headed to Heathrow to get checked in and have a leisurly breakfast at the lounge. I got stopped in security, I had forgotten to take out the water bottle from Portugal. I travel with a great lavendar 'purse' a bag that expands to hold many things and it counts as a purse so it's nice to have. I would list what I always carry with me but the list would go on and on. Ever since my luggage was lost going from Lisbon to London I take all I can with me, just in case! So the very sweet security lady started emptying my purse and it was hilarious, more and more kept coming out. She was laughing and said she felt like she was checking Mary Poppins bag! Pretty funny! She finally got to the bottom and saw that the bottle was all I had so the purple purse was repacked and away I went, on my journey! I have to remember no matter how tired I am, to take out water bottles I travel with between security check stations! It just causes unnecessary delays.
I ate a bit of breakfast at the lounge and was glad that lunch was put out before I had to leave. They do serve a nice lunch, many different Indian foods I think it is, and many other choices including soups, sandwiches and salads. The ladies who work there are so friendly and it is a pleasant place to spend time. And before I knew it I was on my way to my plane for the 10 hr 18 minute flight home. Luckily I had been able to upgrade to business with miles and money and on this flight the business class had beds and individual screens for movies, so it was a pleasant flight home, and was just under 10 hours.
It was great to get home again. In customs with all of the people there I got a man I know from the kennel where I leave Bram. The customs dogs are housed there too and once in a while I see the customs agents who work with them. They know Bram more than they know me. So it was a nice thing to see a familiar face on arriving home. It was a very long way to go for such a short time but that is what life is about, taking advantage of all the opportunities that come your way! And so, one more trip to Europe is over safely and I'm inspired to get busy with my travel agent/cruise consultant training so I can book another international adventure!
Ciao y adeus mi amigos
Heading home I left Faro in the late afternoon, arriving in Lisbon with just over an hour layover. When you land in Lisbon many times you are way out from the airport on a landing place and go down stairs and are transported by buses to the airport. That adds on quite a bit of time because the buses have to fill up before they head to the terminal. Thus making the connection time much shorter. And if the flight is leaving from the field it is the same way, you have to go very early to the gate to get on a bus that takes a big group of people out at a time. Traveling is quite a journey! So my layover on the way home from Lisbon, although it was supposed to be almost an hour and a half only left 15 minutes for me to enjoy the wonderful lounge in Lisbon. It is filled with different open faced small sandwiches, small quiches, snack items and traditional Portuguese pastries. I always take a bottle of water for the trip and enjoy my last taste of pasteis de nata, the small egg custard tarts that are so famous there.
I then boarded the flight that is almost 3 hours back to London Heathrow. Once you reach Heathrow it is about a mile walk to the customs/passport area, quite a trip! There are some moving walkways that help, but it is quite the distance! I arrived there after 10PM and spent the night at the airport hotel where I have been staying since I started my traveling. It is convenient and they used to upgrade me to a club room which basically meant I could go in the 'private club' room with drinks for free and some snacks and free internet. That has changed and I never am invited to do that anymore without a 35 GBP charge which is about $70, not worth it at all. However the 3 main concierge gentlemen always remember me and welcome me with open arms. That is the reason I go back, they are so kind to me. I got a taxi from the airport to the hotel and whenever I get in those cars I feel like I am in a movie! They are darling and it only takes me a minute now to relax with them driving on the wrong side of the road! The hotel was a welcome destination that night and thank goodness, the air conditioning worked so finally I had a cool night, even though I did miss my traveling companion.
The next morning I avoided the 17GBP breakfast at the hotel since it didn't come with the room and headed to Heathrow to get checked in and have a leisurly breakfast at the lounge. I got stopped in security, I had forgotten to take out the water bottle from Portugal. I travel with a great lavendar 'purse' a bag that expands to hold many things and it counts as a purse so it's nice to have. I would list what I always carry with me but the list would go on and on. Ever since my luggage was lost going from Lisbon to London I take all I can with me, just in case! So the very sweet security lady started emptying my purse and it was hilarious, more and more kept coming out. She was laughing and said she felt like she was checking Mary Poppins bag! Pretty funny! She finally got to the bottom and saw that the bottle was all I had so the purple purse was repacked and away I went, on my journey! I have to remember no matter how tired I am, to take out water bottles I travel with between security check stations! It just causes unnecessary delays.
I ate a bit of breakfast at the lounge and was glad that lunch was put out before I had to leave. They do serve a nice lunch, many different Indian foods I think it is, and many other choices including soups, sandwiches and salads. The ladies who work there are so friendly and it is a pleasant place to spend time. And before I knew it I was on my way to my plane for the 10 hr 18 minute flight home. Luckily I had been able to upgrade to business with miles and money and on this flight the business class had beds and individual screens for movies, so it was a pleasant flight home, and was just under 10 hours.
It was great to get home again. In customs with all of the people there I got a man I know from the kennel where I leave Bram. The customs dogs are housed there too and once in a while I see the customs agents who work with them. They know Bram more than they know me. So it was a nice thing to see a familiar face on arriving home. It was a very long way to go for such a short time but that is what life is about, taking advantage of all the opportunities that come your way! And so, one more trip to Europe is over safely and I'm inspired to get busy with my travel agent/cruise consultant training so I can book another international adventure!
Ciao y adeus mi amigos
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
The Grande Finale
All good things must come to an end. Sad but true. A short, fun filled interlude in southern Portugal is no exception. The foods, the companionship, the beauty, the laughter, the adventure...all are almost over when we wake up that last morning. Almost, but not quite...
We wake up to a beautiful sky, not a cloud to be seen! The sun is sparkling on the ocean and the red striped and green striped lighthouses stand out on the edge of land. Our balcony overlooks a tropical pool setting, surrounded with lounge chairs and green and flowering plants and palm trees. That is surrounded with large rattan lounges, sofas and chairs under canopies to escape from the sun. César wonders how the 2 people can be in the pool, to the Portuguese it is a cool morning with the breeze, but I know to many it is not too cold to enjoy the water. Or the beauty of the perfect day.
We get up and dress for breakfast, in clothes we will then wear to wander down to the beach. The beach is just past the pool, 'calling our names'. Finally, on the very last morning I wake up to a hotel with a beach right at our hotel. This has been my goal but now I know why we didn't have this until the last day...if we had found it sooner, I am slmost positive we might not have left the hotel! So we had seen the sights we could and now we had a morning in this perfect Portuguese paradise!
I didn't mention that we had to set the alarm each morning so that we would make it to breakfast. We missed it the first morning and decided that we had to make it the rest of the time even if we were tired enough to go back to sleep afterwards. Breakfasts are quite the experience, large buffets and as I mentioned some have more food choices than others, but all are delicious. There are always desserts at breakfast too, the first hotel had a full table of choices, but since then it has been a few cakes and puddings. Definitely not a meal to be missed! There are sparkling wines and champagne too. If there were Sangria, I might take up drinking at breakfast!
Breakfast ends at 10 or 10:30 at the hotels, way too early for us on holiday! So we usually get up around 9 or 9:30 to take our time getting there. It seems the nights are the best time for conversations and they last well into the early hours of the morning. So we are up and quiet, knowing it is our last lucious breakfast together. We walk into the restaurant and it is a wall of windows facing out to outside dining and the pool, absolutely beautiful! Such interesting people to look at too, César pointed a couple out and asked if I remembered what he had told me. I didn't know what he meant but he reminded me that if a lady is wearing sunglasses inside at breakfast she is Portuguese, and it appears he is right. The guests in the Algarve seem to be all Portuguese, British and German, at least at this time of year. We did not cross paths with one other American the entire trip, quite unusual for us.
We had expected the not as impressive breakfast that we had had the day before because the hotels were the same company. But we were in for a delightful surprise, it was fabulous! As always there was a table of "American Breakfast" items, the eggs, bacon, hash browns, sausages (although they don't look like ours, but more like little hot dogs) and baked beans. Baked beans aren't an American breakfast food that I know of but is served everywhere there. There were sauteed mushrooms and a few other items to choose from. There was a cooking station for omelets made to order or you could order eggs any other style. There were Portuguese pancakes which looked like crepes to me and when I asked César about them he said they were crepes, and there were different toppings for those. There were some bowls of fruit although it didn't look fresh cut like at some of the hotels. There was a table of breads and rolls and a toaster. There were baskets of jellies to choose from. And of course the meats and cheeses that are ever present at a European breakfast. I may have left out something, but you can tell it was a feast for the senses, all set up in lovely style.
We enjoyed our breakfast and then headed out to experience the beach. Yes, if we had found this hotel first, I doubt we would have ventured out much beyond the beach, it was ideal! We picked up towels as we passed the pool and came to a beach style bar and even though the hotel had advertised a 'private beach' it seemed that wasn't the case. César thinks that having a private beach in Portugal is illegal. There were large beach mattresses scattered about, along with some single ones and some beach beds, covered and so luxurious. It was still a bit early and being fall the beach was not crowded at all. The big comfy white mattresses were 10 euros a person and that included a drink. Usually the drinks were 10 euros in addition but since there were no towels there, it was a discount day. When I visited César at his hotel in Cascais I used to love to lounge in the canopied beach beds so I asked how much those would be and when I was told 100 euros, I decided the mattress would be fine. César thought I was crazy to pay for that, but it was my last day on a beach in the luxurious Algarve of Portugal and I thought it was a deal! We don't drink so we ordered our smoothies to be brought to us later when we requested them and settled down on an amazing mattress in the sun. The cool breeze made the day just perfect! Not too hot and not too cold. After lounging a bit I walked down to the water and saw that there were seashells along the beach. There hadn't been any when we were at the beach near Albufeira or where we had stopped in Salema so I did gather some to add to my collection and my memories. I had some from the beach in Ayamonte, Spain too, another nice addition to my collection. When we finally ordered our drinks they were delicious and only the 10 euro a drink price prevented us from ordering another.
The morning passed entirely too quickly and quite begrudgingly we packed up our things a bit after 1PM and left our comfy 'home' on the sand and headed back to the room to pack and get me to the airport. Yes, I can see why the Algarve is the perfect place to escape and relax although I am quite sure I would not enjoy it in the hot, crowded summer there at all! But the fall, yes I just might have to plan a return trip another fall!
The trip to the airport in Faro was uneventful, thank goodness! A bittersweet drive that was. The end of a grand experience, but the end none the less. And saying goodbye to a dear friend when we have no idea if and when we will see each other again is hard, but I know I was grateful for the incredible time we had. Who knows where in the world me may next meet...perhaps the Canary Islands?
Algarve and César...hasta proximo!
We wake up to a beautiful sky, not a cloud to be seen! The sun is sparkling on the ocean and the red striped and green striped lighthouses stand out on the edge of land. Our balcony overlooks a tropical pool setting, surrounded with lounge chairs and green and flowering plants and palm trees. That is surrounded with large rattan lounges, sofas and chairs under canopies to escape from the sun. César wonders how the 2 people can be in the pool, to the Portuguese it is a cool morning with the breeze, but I know to many it is not too cold to enjoy the water. Or the beauty of the perfect day.
We get up and dress for breakfast, in clothes we will then wear to wander down to the beach. The beach is just past the pool, 'calling our names'. Finally, on the very last morning I wake up to a hotel with a beach right at our hotel. This has been my goal but now I know why we didn't have this until the last day...if we had found it sooner, I am slmost positive we might not have left the hotel! So we had seen the sights we could and now we had a morning in this perfect Portuguese paradise!
I didn't mention that we had to set the alarm each morning so that we would make it to breakfast. We missed it the first morning and decided that we had to make it the rest of the time even if we were tired enough to go back to sleep afterwards. Breakfasts are quite the experience, large buffets and as I mentioned some have more food choices than others, but all are delicious. There are always desserts at breakfast too, the first hotel had a full table of choices, but since then it has been a few cakes and puddings. Definitely not a meal to be missed! There are sparkling wines and champagne too. If there were Sangria, I might take up drinking at breakfast!
Breakfast ends at 10 or 10:30 at the hotels, way too early for us on holiday! So we usually get up around 9 or 9:30 to take our time getting there. It seems the nights are the best time for conversations and they last well into the early hours of the morning. So we are up and quiet, knowing it is our last lucious breakfast together. We walk into the restaurant and it is a wall of windows facing out to outside dining and the pool, absolutely beautiful! Such interesting people to look at too, César pointed a couple out and asked if I remembered what he had told me. I didn't know what he meant but he reminded me that if a lady is wearing sunglasses inside at breakfast she is Portuguese, and it appears he is right. The guests in the Algarve seem to be all Portuguese, British and German, at least at this time of year. We did not cross paths with one other American the entire trip, quite unusual for us.
We had expected the not as impressive breakfast that we had had the day before because the hotels were the same company. But we were in for a delightful surprise, it was fabulous! As always there was a table of "American Breakfast" items, the eggs, bacon, hash browns, sausages (although they don't look like ours, but more like little hot dogs) and baked beans. Baked beans aren't an American breakfast food that I know of but is served everywhere there. There were sauteed mushrooms and a few other items to choose from. There was a cooking station for omelets made to order or you could order eggs any other style. There were Portuguese pancakes which looked like crepes to me and when I asked César about them he said they were crepes, and there were different toppings for those. There were some bowls of fruit although it didn't look fresh cut like at some of the hotels. There was a table of breads and rolls and a toaster. There were baskets of jellies to choose from. And of course the meats and cheeses that are ever present at a European breakfast. I may have left out something, but you can tell it was a feast for the senses, all set up in lovely style.
We enjoyed our breakfast and then headed out to experience the beach. Yes, if we had found this hotel first, I doubt we would have ventured out much beyond the beach, it was ideal! We picked up towels as we passed the pool and came to a beach style bar and even though the hotel had advertised a 'private beach' it seemed that wasn't the case. César thinks that having a private beach in Portugal is illegal. There were large beach mattresses scattered about, along with some single ones and some beach beds, covered and so luxurious. It was still a bit early and being fall the beach was not crowded at all. The big comfy white mattresses were 10 euros a person and that included a drink. Usually the drinks were 10 euros in addition but since there were no towels there, it was a discount day. When I visited César at his hotel in Cascais I used to love to lounge in the canopied beach beds so I asked how much those would be and when I was told 100 euros, I decided the mattress would be fine. César thought I was crazy to pay for that, but it was my last day on a beach in the luxurious Algarve of Portugal and I thought it was a deal! We don't drink so we ordered our smoothies to be brought to us later when we requested them and settled down on an amazing mattress in the sun. The cool breeze made the day just perfect! Not too hot and not too cold. After lounging a bit I walked down to the water and saw that there were seashells along the beach. There hadn't been any when we were at the beach near Albufeira or where we had stopped in Salema so I did gather some to add to my collection and my memories. I had some from the beach in Ayamonte, Spain too, another nice addition to my collection. When we finally ordered our drinks they were delicious and only the 10 euro a drink price prevented us from ordering another.
The morning passed entirely too quickly and quite begrudgingly we packed up our things a bit after 1PM and left our comfy 'home' on the sand and headed back to the room to pack and get me to the airport. Yes, I can see why the Algarve is the perfect place to escape and relax although I am quite sure I would not enjoy it in the hot, crowded summer there at all! But the fall, yes I just might have to plan a return trip another fall!
The trip to the airport in Faro was uneventful, thank goodness! A bittersweet drive that was. The end of a grand experience, but the end none the less. And saying goodbye to a dear friend when we have no idea if and when we will see each other again is hard, but I know I was grateful for the incredible time we had. Who knows where in the world me may next meet...perhaps the Canary Islands?
Algarve and César...hasta proximo!
Monday, October 25, 2010
The Best of Plans (edited version)
Day 3 in the Algarve started out a little more restful. No great rush to anything scheduled and although we joked about taking another boat ride out to see the caves, neither of us had any intention of setting foot back on a boat! So we had a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before packing up and moving on. The hotel had a lovely view of the top of a cliff and the sea in the distance. Unfortunately we weren't high enough to have much of a view so I was disappointed and made another note to self to always ask for a higher room with a view. The breakfast was quite spread out on different tables looking like much more than it was. Another disappointment that it wasn't as nice as the previous hotel's breakfast. But we ate enough anyway! Then we went to the room and gathered our things and packed the car for the next hotel in my quest to find the perfect Algarve hotel. Both of us were tired of packing and moving hotels, but no hotel had the beach access I'd wanted...so we were headed to one more for the last night there. We went to the Tivoli Vilamoura Marina. It was the first hotel I'd chosen after literally days of searching online originally, but Cesar had explained it was quite far from where he lived so we wouldn't be able to get to his 'house' for dinner at night. So I continued to look and booked another that was closer to start with. Vilamoura is a beautiful town, the whole town is like a large resort and the marina is almost as beautiful as the sea. The hotel was quite modern and elegant and we hoped we had found the best. I've decided this trip was the pursuit of the perfect Algarve hotel and it appeared as though we had found it. We had to wait a while to even get up to the check in desk and then were told our room was not ready. Cessar said that is because I requested the special things, high floor with an ocean view. Yes, I had learned that if you don't ask, you don't get it! We dropped off our luggage, well my luggage and his backpack, and headed towards Spain. It was a lovely drive, he took all the backroads rather than the highway and the sights were beautiful. Such a variety of things to look at along the way, old towns, new buiildings, flowers, trees, orange orchards and more. The beautiful pink bouganvilla drapped down the sides of the Portuguese style white houses was a sight to see!
Cesar's family always spent time in the Algarve in the summers when he grew up and they still do. He took me by the beautiful guest houses, like bungalows, in Tavira where they usually stayed, so nice I had to take pictures. It was one of the rare times I did get to take pictures because we turned into the lovely area, off the main road. It is illegal to stop along the highways or roads so I missed many beautiful pictures! Then he suggested we have lunch at a restaurant where his family always went. It was very good, he had the octopus pastry, which was very good but knowing it was octopus I just couldn't eat it. I had the fish filet which was good.
Driving through the villages is a delight because of the diversity of housing. I love seeing the traditional white buildings, so much like Spain, but so different too. And I love the homes that have the tile fronts, such an interesting concept. This trip I read that the azuelos (spelling?) are originally from the Moors influence there. Those are the tiles that are all over Portugal. Of course there are many old buildings that are homes, with paint peeling and very run down. One lady came out on the street to stare at us and the door to her 'home' was open and it was a tiny room with a bed and chair. What would it be like to live like that I wondered. But the people in Portugal make the best of a tough life. The economy has always been bad and now with the way things are it is even worse. That is hard to believe driving through some of the areas in the Algarve though. We saw some of the most gorgeous homes and I thought how much fun it would be to build a home here in the Portuguese style. Won't happen for me, but it is a fun dream. I wish I would have had time to take more pictures of the homes, so elegant and interesting!
Well, back to our journey to Spain...
There is a ferry to Spain but we weren't going to take any more boat rides, so we took the highway into Spain. We went into the small town of Ayamonte and first stopped at a gas station to get gas. I learned how to tell from the license plates where a car was from. All plates have the EU flag on them but under each is a letter for the country they are from. Cesar pointed out that the gas station across the border in Spain had a long line of cars with a P on them, the reason being the gas is between 12 and 20 euro cents a liter cheaper than Portugal, because of the way things are taxed. Very interesting. And the Spanish people go across the border to Portugal often for the delicious food he said. The different countries tax different items. Portugal is upset because they have just raised the taxes on many items. Foods that used to be the lowest taxed are now much more expensive. There are more tax categories and it is higher, now in a time of so much unemployment. After we got our car filled up with all the other Portuguese, saving about 10 euros at least, we found a close place to park by a beach. A beautiful day, a cool breeze and the sun made it a pleasant visit. We both wished we had towels to just sit and enjoy the beach although it was a bit cold for Cesar. For me it was perfect. Then we stopped at a little tapas bar near the beach and although we weren't hungry I wanted tapas. I ordered the Spanish potato salad and it wasn't very tasty so I didn't eat much.
We went back to the car to find a flat tire. Not good news as it turns out there is no where in Spain or Portugal on a Saturday or Sunday to get help or a new tire. Cesar had never changed a tire and of course i hadn't, I have AAA which is unheard of over there. The Spanish people were no help and I was shocked by their indifference at our problem. The lugnuts were so tight that Cesar couldn't get them off. I went up to a man who was in the park there and he called over a family member who did speak English and it turned out they were Portuguese and the man was able to jump on the lugwrench and get it to turn. He helped us so much! Amazing, we were in Spain and the only helpful people were the Portuguese. I have to say that I was quite disappointed at the fact that the Spanish people we talked to were so indifferent to our problem. I know it was only a few people in that small town that were around. We got the tire changed and I wasn't upset to see the big sign on the tire that we couldn't go over 50 miles an hour on it. Everyone drives so fast there and it was rather funny going so slow as cars flew past us! But I was qutie adamant that we follow the directions in big letters on the tire, it was there for a reason and we had a long way to go and if we lost that tire we were in big trouble! Although Cesar kept telling me if we got back across the border we would be okay. When we did, I noticed phones along the highway every couple of miles for emergencies. However I wasn't sure they would work if you need them, one of our jokes was that something in every hotel didn't work right, the upkeep is not what I am used to here. This was not the way we planned to spend the late afternoon and and evening, a long, quite leisurly drive back. It changed our plans for the evening. Chef Cesar was going to serve me his Portuguese pasta for dinner but by then we were too tired to drive all the way to his house so slowly so we opted for an alternative. The view was also beautiful from the highway. I fell asleep at one point and felt the car speed up. I opened my eyes and asked him to please drive the suggested speed and when he said 'go back to sleep' and I said I would as soon as he went back to 80km. And so we continued the very long drive to our hotel in Vilamoura. Vilamoura was closer to that side of Portugal so it turned out to be a good place for us to stay that night. I had read about a highly recommended restaurant that was in Faro by the train station. Cesar had said we wouldn't be there at dinner during the trip because we'd be eating at his place. Well we were so tired from our ordeal and the long drive, as we were passing Faro he asked if I would like to try the restaurant I'd heard so much about. We weren't going to his house and we weren't up for more sandwiches at the hotel. I was excited to try it, I love Portuguese food and this was supposed to be one of the best and most reasonably priced places. However I didn't have the name or exact directions, I only remembered it was on a street not far from the train station and had Adega in the name. We eventually found the train station, we couldn't ask for directions to get there because we WERE NOT lost! We just didn't know where we were! After the day we had had, I knew it was a good time to sit quietly and let him find his way. We did find the train station and he left me in the car to go in search of some restaurant that had the word Adega in the name. At the last minute I remembered it had the word Nova in it so off he went in search of the 'perfect' Portuguese restaurant which he had never heard of. He came back a few minutes later with good and bad news, he found it but there was no parking near it so we had a very slow walk the couple of blocks and found it well worth the search! It was charming inside! Elegant was the English word for Cesar's description of it. Most places we had eaten were plain and that was fine, but this had a lot of special touches. I'd read about the 'steak on a stone' and wanted to try cooking at my table on a stone. Quite an experience. While we were deciding what to order the man right next to me got that so we started talking about it. You get a hot stone and a tray of sliced beef seasoned and you put it on the stone and it cooks. I wanted to do that and Cesar ordered something I can't pronounce or spell. We were so hungry by then and enjoyed the traditional bread on the table. I think I mentioned that they serve things and you pay if you eat them. Some places in Europe are so expensive to have them but in Portugal it might be about 75 euro cents for the bread basket and 30 euro cents for the butter or spreads. The sardine spread that Cesar thinks is delicious was worth trying, but not so delicious to me. He had soup and I had salad and then the main course. Soon I was cooking my own dinner. It was fun but I didn't love the flavor of the meat, however the very strange looking thing Cesar ordered was delicious and since he didn't feel too good by then I enjoyed eating part of his too. Somewhere I had him write down the name, it was delicious and I will highly recommend anyone going to Portugal try it. However I did find out that just as in the US, different food items aren't necessarily found all over Portugal but rather in the regions we found them. Disappointing. Oh well, we enjoyed another lovely dinner and although we had gotten there probably around 7:30 and the restaurant was quite empty, by the time we were finishing there was a line into the street. Mostly 'foreigners' were there when we arrived, but the Portuguese who eat much later were there as we left. Cesar said that the restaurant was definitely an excellent authentic Portuguese restaurant and the prices were great. We both enjoyed this Portuguese experience. Finally we were headed back to our hotel and looked forward to sitting out by the beautiful pool, but by the time we got there the pool and beach access had closed for the night so we stayed in and spent a bit of time on our balcony with the gorgeous view, it pays to know what to ask for! Then we spent time on the hotel computers.
Unfortunately we found out, as perfect as the hotel seemed, that was not the truth. Our room was miserably hot. I couldn't sleep being that hot and miserable. By 2AM even Cesar was hot and we talked to the desk and they sent a maintenance man up and he seemed to fix it but in no time it was hot again. So hot that the chocolate caramel kisses melted right in the room! I'm not sure if it was a good thing or not that it wasn't one of my personal beach moments! At least those pass, but this night I continued to wake up miserable. We had gone out on the hotel balcony facing the marina and it was very cool and windy so I guess if we had been on that side we could have opened the balcony door and enjoyed the breeze, but that was not true on our side. I have a cute little purple hand fan that I bought in England, Terry appropriately calls it my 'hair tangler' because when I first used it I put it too close and it took a very long time to unwind my hair from it and quite a bit was just lost! Anyway, I had that and Cesar propped it up to blow on me but the batteries died sometime in the night. Next time...I take the small fan I bought for traveling! EVERYWHERE just in case! It was a long hot miserable night, but what a view we woke up to the next day!
And that was day 3 and night 4 in the Algarve!
Cesar's family always spent time in the Algarve in the summers when he grew up and they still do. He took me by the beautiful guest houses, like bungalows, in Tavira where they usually stayed, so nice I had to take pictures. It was one of the rare times I did get to take pictures because we turned into the lovely area, off the main road. It is illegal to stop along the highways or roads so I missed many beautiful pictures! Then he suggested we have lunch at a restaurant where his family always went. It was very good, he had the octopus pastry, which was very good but knowing it was octopus I just couldn't eat it. I had the fish filet which was good.
Driving through the villages is a delight because of the diversity of housing. I love seeing the traditional white buildings, so much like Spain, but so different too. And I love the homes that have the tile fronts, such an interesting concept. This trip I read that the azuelos (spelling?) are originally from the Moors influence there. Those are the tiles that are all over Portugal. Of course there are many old buildings that are homes, with paint peeling and very run down. One lady came out on the street to stare at us and the door to her 'home' was open and it was a tiny room with a bed and chair. What would it be like to live like that I wondered. But the people in Portugal make the best of a tough life. The economy has always been bad and now with the way things are it is even worse. That is hard to believe driving through some of the areas in the Algarve though. We saw some of the most gorgeous homes and I thought how much fun it would be to build a home here in the Portuguese style. Won't happen for me, but it is a fun dream. I wish I would have had time to take more pictures of the homes, so elegant and interesting!
Well, back to our journey to Spain...
There is a ferry to Spain but we weren't going to take any more boat rides, so we took the highway into Spain. We went into the small town of Ayamonte and first stopped at a gas station to get gas. I learned how to tell from the license plates where a car was from. All plates have the EU flag on them but under each is a letter for the country they are from. Cesar pointed out that the gas station across the border in Spain had a long line of cars with a P on them, the reason being the gas is between 12 and 20 euro cents a liter cheaper than Portugal, because of the way things are taxed. Very interesting. And the Spanish people go across the border to Portugal often for the delicious food he said. The different countries tax different items. Portugal is upset because they have just raised the taxes on many items. Foods that used to be the lowest taxed are now much more expensive. There are more tax categories and it is higher, now in a time of so much unemployment. After we got our car filled up with all the other Portuguese, saving about 10 euros at least, we found a close place to park by a beach. A beautiful day, a cool breeze and the sun made it a pleasant visit. We both wished we had towels to just sit and enjoy the beach although it was a bit cold for Cesar. For me it was perfect. Then we stopped at a little tapas bar near the beach and although we weren't hungry I wanted tapas. I ordered the Spanish potato salad and it wasn't very tasty so I didn't eat much.
We went back to the car to find a flat tire. Not good news as it turns out there is no where in Spain or Portugal on a Saturday or Sunday to get help or a new tire. Cesar had never changed a tire and of course i hadn't, I have AAA which is unheard of over there. The Spanish people were no help and I was shocked by their indifference at our problem. The lugnuts were so tight that Cesar couldn't get them off. I went up to a man who was in the park there and he called over a family member who did speak English and it turned out they were Portuguese and the man was able to jump on the lugwrench and get it to turn. He helped us so much! Amazing, we were in Spain and the only helpful people were the Portuguese. I have to say that I was quite disappointed at the fact that the Spanish people we talked to were so indifferent to our problem. I know it was only a few people in that small town that were around. We got the tire changed and I wasn't upset to see the big sign on the tire that we couldn't go over 50 miles an hour on it. Everyone drives so fast there and it was rather funny going so slow as cars flew past us! But I was qutie adamant that we follow the directions in big letters on the tire, it was there for a reason and we had a long way to go and if we lost that tire we were in big trouble! Although Cesar kept telling me if we got back across the border we would be okay. When we did, I noticed phones along the highway every couple of miles for emergencies. However I wasn't sure they would work if you need them, one of our jokes was that something in every hotel didn't work right, the upkeep is not what I am used to here. This was not the way we planned to spend the late afternoon and and evening, a long, quite leisurly drive back. It changed our plans for the evening. Chef Cesar was going to serve me his Portuguese pasta for dinner but by then we were too tired to drive all the way to his house so slowly so we opted for an alternative. The view was also beautiful from the highway. I fell asleep at one point and felt the car speed up. I opened my eyes and asked him to please drive the suggested speed and when he said 'go back to sleep' and I said I would as soon as he went back to 80km. And so we continued the very long drive to our hotel in Vilamoura. Vilamoura was closer to that side of Portugal so it turned out to be a good place for us to stay that night. I had read about a highly recommended restaurant that was in Faro by the train station. Cesar had said we wouldn't be there at dinner during the trip because we'd be eating at his place. Well we were so tired from our ordeal and the long drive, as we were passing Faro he asked if I would like to try the restaurant I'd heard so much about. We weren't going to his house and we weren't up for more sandwiches at the hotel. I was excited to try it, I love Portuguese food and this was supposed to be one of the best and most reasonably priced places. However I didn't have the name or exact directions, I only remembered it was on a street not far from the train station and had Adega in the name. We eventually found the train station, we couldn't ask for directions to get there because we WERE NOT lost! We just didn't know where we were! After the day we had had, I knew it was a good time to sit quietly and let him find his way. We did find the train station and he left me in the car to go in search of some restaurant that had the word Adega in the name. At the last minute I remembered it had the word Nova in it so off he went in search of the 'perfect' Portuguese restaurant which he had never heard of. He came back a few minutes later with good and bad news, he found it but there was no parking near it so we had a very slow walk the couple of blocks and found it well worth the search! It was charming inside! Elegant was the English word for Cesar's description of it. Most places we had eaten were plain and that was fine, but this had a lot of special touches. I'd read about the 'steak on a stone' and wanted to try cooking at my table on a stone. Quite an experience. While we were deciding what to order the man right next to me got that so we started talking about it. You get a hot stone and a tray of sliced beef seasoned and you put it on the stone and it cooks. I wanted to do that and Cesar ordered something I can't pronounce or spell. We were so hungry by then and enjoyed the traditional bread on the table. I think I mentioned that they serve things and you pay if you eat them. Some places in Europe are so expensive to have them but in Portugal it might be about 75 euro cents for the bread basket and 30 euro cents for the butter or spreads. The sardine spread that Cesar thinks is delicious was worth trying, but not so delicious to me. He had soup and I had salad and then the main course. Soon I was cooking my own dinner. It was fun but I didn't love the flavor of the meat, however the very strange looking thing Cesar ordered was delicious and since he didn't feel too good by then I enjoyed eating part of his too. Somewhere I had him write down the name, it was delicious and I will highly recommend anyone going to Portugal try it. However I did find out that just as in the US, different food items aren't necessarily found all over Portugal but rather in the regions we found them. Disappointing. Oh well, we enjoyed another lovely dinner and although we had gotten there probably around 7:30 and the restaurant was quite empty, by the time we were finishing there was a line into the street. Mostly 'foreigners' were there when we arrived, but the Portuguese who eat much later were there as we left. Cesar said that the restaurant was definitely an excellent authentic Portuguese restaurant and the prices were great. We both enjoyed this Portuguese experience. Finally we were headed back to our hotel and looked forward to sitting out by the beautiful pool, but by the time we got there the pool and beach access had closed for the night so we stayed in and spent a bit of time on our balcony with the gorgeous view, it pays to know what to ask for! Then we spent time on the hotel computers.
Unfortunately we found out, as perfect as the hotel seemed, that was not the truth. Our room was miserably hot. I couldn't sleep being that hot and miserable. By 2AM even Cesar was hot and we talked to the desk and they sent a maintenance man up and he seemed to fix it but in no time it was hot again. So hot that the chocolate caramel kisses melted right in the room! I'm not sure if it was a good thing or not that it wasn't one of my personal beach moments! At least those pass, but this night I continued to wake up miserable. We had gone out on the hotel balcony facing the marina and it was very cool and windy so I guess if we had been on that side we could have opened the balcony door and enjoyed the breeze, but that was not true on our side. I have a cute little purple hand fan that I bought in England, Terry appropriately calls it my 'hair tangler' because when I first used it I put it too close and it took a very long time to unwind my hair from it and quite a bit was just lost! Anyway, I had that and Cesar propped it up to blow on me but the batteries died sometime in the night. Next time...I take the small fan I bought for traveling! EVERYWHERE just in case! It was a long hot miserable night, but what a view we woke up to the next day!
And that was day 3 and night 4 in the Algarve!
Friday, October 22, 2010
Day 2 in the Algarve
It is the middle of the night in Portugal, but not so late according to my internal US clock so the business center at our hotel is empty and Cesar is fast asleep so it is a good time to think about my day. And what a day it was!
We started our day quite early. Had a lot to do before getting to our boat for a 9AM departure to see the caves and grottos of the Algarve. After a short night of sleep, we got up to have breakfast at our hotel. It was an amazing breakfast, the kind you come to expect in Europe. All of the European dishes including a large selection of meats and cheeses and breads. I was thrilled to see the pasteis de nata, the pastry that I love so much. Cesar told me it was not common in this part of portugal but not only did I have a few, the girl in the restaurant brought me cinnamon to put on top and they just may have been the best Iºve had yet! So in addition to that, there were eggs, bacon, and the American breakfast items, along with several desserts, including crepes with real chocolate. We ate and then checked out and headed to our new hotel. Yes it is crazy to keep changing hotels but I am hoping to find one that is walking distance to one of the incredibly beautiful beaches. So far ºsea viewº means a view of the ocean far away over rooftops but I have hope that the one we will go to tomorrow will come through and my last night will be spent really looking at the beach and ocean. We rushed to check into our new hotel and then rushed to Portamao where we were going to board the ºpirate shipº that would take up out to the caves. I was excited but we were late and it looked as if we would miss the boat. Oh how we both wish we would have!! The boat is late and we are there and I was my usual excited self at the thought of taking a boat through caves and grottos. Seeing the little fishing boats being pulled behind our boat was a little alarming, but what an adventure. Turns out I was the only American, the few other people on the boat were either Portuguese or German. The captain was German and I barely could understand his English which had to be said just for me. We sail away on very rough seas. I was pretty happy that I was feeling fine and when Cesar started feeling sick I reminded him of how he never had any sympathy for me when I would be seasick on the ship so it was his turn. Well, I never should have been so cocky. It wasnºt long before I got sick and I literally couldnºt lift my head off the bench. We finally got out to the magical place where we were supposed to board the little boat. the big boat was rocking beyond belief and I raised my head to see the little one bounce up on a wave way above the large one and I knew I wasnºt going anywhere! Cesar refused to go without me and he sat with me the entire trip, something Iºm not really used to, always being along through almost everything. The captain spent time talking to me and it is true that I was so sick I couldnºt even answer. He was worried about me because it was cold out and I was very hot to the touch. finally after what seemed like days, the little fishing boat returned and the captain announced we were heading directly back because Miss Colorado was so sick. He called me that the whole time and it really was funny, too bad I couldnºt say a word. Finally after 3 1-2 long hours at sea we arrived back at the dock. I made it! I know one day that will be funny, but today it was a nightmare. The only good thing was that I did make it and Cesar did stay with me throughout it all.
We decided to go on with the tour he had planned. If I could spell all the towns we visited I would share that because I know some of you would look up things. Since I canºt walk far with my damaged knee, most things were seen from the car window. We did drive to Lagos for lunch and ate at a restaurant he had heard about and it was amazing. We had a giant meal, complete with appetizers, tea and dessert and it came to 23 euros, that is about $35. We then headed to the town that is the southernmost point of land in Portugal and then on the way back visited the town of Salema where he hadnºt been before, but since Elaine had written about it I wanted to see it. Finally there we were able to get near enough to walk in the water. a lovely experience! The cold water felt wonderful! And I am sure I got some awesome pictures of the sun setting behind the cliffs.
Then we drove all the way back to our hotel for the night in Caroveiro (?). We got dressed to go out to dinner, first we were going back to his guest house because he wanted to cook dinner every night, then we decided to stay in this town then we decided we were too tired to go anywhere and settled on a fancy, cheap room service dinner of club sandwiches. A Portuguese club sandwich is about twice as big as the ones at home and we enjoyed that and then the night was over.
Tomorrow is our compromise day. I wanted to go into Spain and to Seville, he didnºt want to so we are going to Spain but not all the way to Seville. There are many more villages and towns to explore on the way and if we make it we will find the water fall that is supposed to be gorgeous. Lots of exploring, lots of new sights for him too and we can both guarantee there will be no more boat rides for a long, long time!
Again, bon nuite from the Algarve!
We started our day quite early. Had a lot to do before getting to our boat for a 9AM departure to see the caves and grottos of the Algarve. After a short night of sleep, we got up to have breakfast at our hotel. It was an amazing breakfast, the kind you come to expect in Europe. All of the European dishes including a large selection of meats and cheeses and breads. I was thrilled to see the pasteis de nata, the pastry that I love so much. Cesar told me it was not common in this part of portugal but not only did I have a few, the girl in the restaurant brought me cinnamon to put on top and they just may have been the best Iºve had yet! So in addition to that, there were eggs, bacon, and the American breakfast items, along with several desserts, including crepes with real chocolate. We ate and then checked out and headed to our new hotel. Yes it is crazy to keep changing hotels but I am hoping to find one that is walking distance to one of the incredibly beautiful beaches. So far ºsea viewº means a view of the ocean far away over rooftops but I have hope that the one we will go to tomorrow will come through and my last night will be spent really looking at the beach and ocean. We rushed to check into our new hotel and then rushed to Portamao where we were going to board the ºpirate shipº that would take up out to the caves. I was excited but we were late and it looked as if we would miss the boat. Oh how we both wish we would have!! The boat is late and we are there and I was my usual excited self at the thought of taking a boat through caves and grottos. Seeing the little fishing boats being pulled behind our boat was a little alarming, but what an adventure. Turns out I was the only American, the few other people on the boat were either Portuguese or German. The captain was German and I barely could understand his English which had to be said just for me. We sail away on very rough seas. I was pretty happy that I was feeling fine and when Cesar started feeling sick I reminded him of how he never had any sympathy for me when I would be seasick on the ship so it was his turn. Well, I never should have been so cocky. It wasnºt long before I got sick and I literally couldnºt lift my head off the bench. We finally got out to the magical place where we were supposed to board the little boat. the big boat was rocking beyond belief and I raised my head to see the little one bounce up on a wave way above the large one and I knew I wasnºt going anywhere! Cesar refused to go without me and he sat with me the entire trip, something Iºm not really used to, always being along through almost everything. The captain spent time talking to me and it is true that I was so sick I couldnºt even answer. He was worried about me because it was cold out and I was very hot to the touch. finally after what seemed like days, the little fishing boat returned and the captain announced we were heading directly back because Miss Colorado was so sick. He called me that the whole time and it really was funny, too bad I couldnºt say a word. Finally after 3 1-2 long hours at sea we arrived back at the dock. I made it! I know one day that will be funny, but today it was a nightmare. The only good thing was that I did make it and Cesar did stay with me throughout it all.
We decided to go on with the tour he had planned. If I could spell all the towns we visited I would share that because I know some of you would look up things. Since I canºt walk far with my damaged knee, most things were seen from the car window. We did drive to Lagos for lunch and ate at a restaurant he had heard about and it was amazing. We had a giant meal, complete with appetizers, tea and dessert and it came to 23 euros, that is about $35. We then headed to the town that is the southernmost point of land in Portugal and then on the way back visited the town of Salema where he hadnºt been before, but since Elaine had written about it I wanted to see it. Finally there we were able to get near enough to walk in the water. a lovely experience! The cold water felt wonderful! And I am sure I got some awesome pictures of the sun setting behind the cliffs.
Then we drove all the way back to our hotel for the night in Caroveiro (?). We got dressed to go out to dinner, first we were going back to his guest house because he wanted to cook dinner every night, then we decided to stay in this town then we decided we were too tired to go anywhere and settled on a fancy, cheap room service dinner of club sandwiches. A Portuguese club sandwich is about twice as big as the ones at home and we enjoyed that and then the night was over.
Tomorrow is our compromise day. I wanted to go into Spain and to Seville, he didnºt want to so we are going to Spain but not all the way to Seville. There are many more villages and towns to explore on the way and if we make it we will find the water fall that is supposed to be gorgeous. Lots of exploring, lots of new sights for him too and we can both guarantee there will be no more boat rides for a long, long time!
Again, bon nuite from the Algarve!
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Greetings from the Algarvel
Yes, here I am, enjoying the Algave, the southern region of Portugal. You may not have heard of this part of Portugal, but it is a very popular summer destination for Europeans. And it seems that people also head here for the Christmas holidays. Now is a quiet time however still there are people enjoying the gorgeous beaches and for me, someone who hates heat, it is the perfect time to enjoy the beauty of the area. I've found myself in Portugal each fall and this is the fourth fall that I have visited Portugal, a beautiful time of year for me.
The trip here was long. And yes, flying this far with a few connections to spend four days with Cesar, my Portuguese friend, may be crazy, but what is life if you can't just do crazy things once in a while. My travels took twenty four hours from the time I left my house until I walked off the plane in Faro, Portugal. Actually a bit more because the last flight was late. The flight from London Heathrow to Lisbon was late because we couldnºt fly over French air space and had to detour over Spain. I was stressed that I would miss my next TAP Portugal flight from Lisbon to Faro but in true Portuguese style, everyone said "Don't worry", about 15 different times I heard that and they were right. Luckily the flight was also delayed and I did make it to the last portion of the trip, Lisbon to Faro for the 45 minute flight. Luckily we had winds in our favor because that trip turned out to be 30 minutes, a very good thing because ater all that traveling there was a lovely Finnish lady in the middle seat next to me with a screaming little girl, yes she screamed and kicked and hit for the entire flight. She was exhaused and so was I and if I could have gotten away with it, that might be just what I would have done too.
And after all that time, finally we landed and I was pleasantly surprised that my suitcase actually made it with me after that long journey. And finally I walked out of the secure area and there was Cesar, waiting patiently for my very late flight, I had arrived! How fun to see him and suddenly my exhaustion was gone. As we started driving to the hotel the fog got so thick that we could barely see the front of the car. I was so thankful that happened AFTER we had landed or who knows where I might have spent the night. It was midnight and I was hungry and Cesar had planned to cook dinner for me at his guest house. So we went there for dinner and about 2AM we were headed to the hotel that he was sure he could find. Well after many turns on the roundabouts we did indeed find the hotel I'd reserved. He unloaded me, my luggage and his things and parked the car. By the time he was walking up I was outside telling him we were at the wrong place!
No matter how much you travel I think there are always lessons to learn. My pattern is to find hotels recommended on trip advisor and then go to the websites to book directly with the hotels. I had done that, or so I thought. Well, after we repacked his car and drove to the other CS hotel it turns out I had booked through a booking agency even though it had the name of the hotel. Long story short..we were not going to be in a very good room. The man at the desk said he would give us a nice room after all and we walked and walked and walked to an end room, walked in to it, a tiny room with barely enough room to enter the bathroom. The balcony was beautiful but the ocean view over the rooftops was minimal. I was sad but exhausted and we decided to stay, the room was prepaid. And then we started talking and laughing and at 5:30AM we decided to stay awake until breakfast and then sleep and then we both fell asleep. We woke up at 9:55AM and since breakfast ended at 10 that was one missed meal. We ended up getting a nicer room, although I did have to pay more for it. It's a suite and much more comfortable.
We drove around and went to the Fiesa, the largest sand sculpture show in the world. It was fabulous! It's been there all summer and tomorrow is the last day. At that point Cesar said all the artists will go in and destroy the sculptures and next year there will be a new theme and new sculptures. Wonderful experience. We then went to a restaurant overlooking a beautiful beach in Albufiera. We don't drink but when I saw the most beautiful pitcher of sangria being delivered to the next table I asked for just one glass of that. Turns out they only make it by the pitcher but the man brought out a pitcher that was small that he made for me. It was the most delicious thing I have ever had the pleasure of drinking. I was only sorry I couldn't bring home all the fruit that was floating inside to enjoy later. We had a salad and then a monkfish/shrimp kabob that was also excellent! A delightful lunch overlooking the beach! Cesar knew one of the waiters so when we got our bill most of it had been given to us for free, a nice gift! I might just have to revisit that place for more sangria before I leave!
After that filling lunch we returned to our suite and slept for a few hours. Then we had the delightful experience of going to the grocery store and yes, I was taking pictures of that too. We left with 3 bags filled with snacks for our trip and the total was only 17 euros, such good prices! Then we returned to Cesar's guest house and he once again cooked me dinner, such a nice evening! And now we are sitting in the suite, enjoying a quiet evening.
Tomorrow we will make it to an early breakfast and then have reservations for a tour of the grottos and caves in the area. We will board a boat that will take us out and then we will climb down to little boats it is pulling to go into the grottos and caves. WHAT! I say to Cesar, we have to climb down the side of a boat to little ones and yes, I got the classic Portuguese answer, "Don't worry!" And so, being too tired to worry anyway, I guess I won't worry! A wonderful adventure awaits us tomorrow. In the afternoon we are going to find a famous waterfall and then on Saturday we will go into Spain to see the countryside and Sunday my visit will be coming to an end, with another long journey ahead. But I'm in Portugal so I won't worry and trust all will go well.
Bon nuite de Albufiera, the Algave, Portugal...
The trip here was long. And yes, flying this far with a few connections to spend four days with Cesar, my Portuguese friend, may be crazy, but what is life if you can't just do crazy things once in a while. My travels took twenty four hours from the time I left my house until I walked off the plane in Faro, Portugal. Actually a bit more because the last flight was late. The flight from London Heathrow to Lisbon was late because we couldnºt fly over French air space and had to detour over Spain. I was stressed that I would miss my next TAP Portugal flight from Lisbon to Faro but in true Portuguese style, everyone said "Don't worry", about 15 different times I heard that and they were right. Luckily the flight was also delayed and I did make it to the last portion of the trip, Lisbon to Faro for the 45 minute flight. Luckily we had winds in our favor because that trip turned out to be 30 minutes, a very good thing because ater all that traveling there was a lovely Finnish lady in the middle seat next to me with a screaming little girl, yes she screamed and kicked and hit for the entire flight. She was exhaused and so was I and if I could have gotten away with it, that might be just what I would have done too.
And after all that time, finally we landed and I was pleasantly surprised that my suitcase actually made it with me after that long journey. And finally I walked out of the secure area and there was Cesar, waiting patiently for my very late flight, I had arrived! How fun to see him and suddenly my exhaustion was gone. As we started driving to the hotel the fog got so thick that we could barely see the front of the car. I was so thankful that happened AFTER we had landed or who knows where I might have spent the night. It was midnight and I was hungry and Cesar had planned to cook dinner for me at his guest house. So we went there for dinner and about 2AM we were headed to the hotel that he was sure he could find. Well after many turns on the roundabouts we did indeed find the hotel I'd reserved. He unloaded me, my luggage and his things and parked the car. By the time he was walking up I was outside telling him we were at the wrong place!
No matter how much you travel I think there are always lessons to learn. My pattern is to find hotels recommended on trip advisor and then go to the websites to book directly with the hotels. I had done that, or so I thought. Well, after we repacked his car and drove to the other CS hotel it turns out I had booked through a booking agency even though it had the name of the hotel. Long story short..we were not going to be in a very good room. The man at the desk said he would give us a nice room after all and we walked and walked and walked to an end room, walked in to it, a tiny room with barely enough room to enter the bathroom. The balcony was beautiful but the ocean view over the rooftops was minimal. I was sad but exhausted and we decided to stay, the room was prepaid. And then we started talking and laughing and at 5:30AM we decided to stay awake until breakfast and then sleep and then we both fell asleep. We woke up at 9:55AM and since breakfast ended at 10 that was one missed meal. We ended up getting a nicer room, although I did have to pay more for it. It's a suite and much more comfortable.
We drove around and went to the Fiesa, the largest sand sculpture show in the world. It was fabulous! It's been there all summer and tomorrow is the last day. At that point Cesar said all the artists will go in and destroy the sculptures and next year there will be a new theme and new sculptures. Wonderful experience. We then went to a restaurant overlooking a beautiful beach in Albufiera. We don't drink but when I saw the most beautiful pitcher of sangria being delivered to the next table I asked for just one glass of that. Turns out they only make it by the pitcher but the man brought out a pitcher that was small that he made for me. It was the most delicious thing I have ever had the pleasure of drinking. I was only sorry I couldn't bring home all the fruit that was floating inside to enjoy later. We had a salad and then a monkfish/shrimp kabob that was also excellent! A delightful lunch overlooking the beach! Cesar knew one of the waiters so when we got our bill most of it had been given to us for free, a nice gift! I might just have to revisit that place for more sangria before I leave!
After that filling lunch we returned to our suite and slept for a few hours. Then we had the delightful experience of going to the grocery store and yes, I was taking pictures of that too. We left with 3 bags filled with snacks for our trip and the total was only 17 euros, such good prices! Then we returned to Cesar's guest house and he once again cooked me dinner, such a nice evening! And now we are sitting in the suite, enjoying a quiet evening.
Tomorrow we will make it to an early breakfast and then have reservations for a tour of the grottos and caves in the area. We will board a boat that will take us out and then we will climb down to little boats it is pulling to go into the grottos and caves. WHAT! I say to Cesar, we have to climb down the side of a boat to little ones and yes, I got the classic Portuguese answer, "Don't worry!" And so, being too tired to worry anyway, I guess I won't worry! A wonderful adventure awaits us tomorrow. In the afternoon we are going to find a famous waterfall and then on Saturday we will go into Spain to see the countryside and Sunday my visit will be coming to an end, with another long journey ahead. But I'm in Portugal so I won't worry and trust all will go well.
Bon nuite de Albufiera, the Algave, Portugal...
Sunday, October 17, 2010
A Trip - Down Memory Lane
Today I ventured out for a drive in the mountains to see the turning of the leaves. I haven't done this is quite some time. Since I started traveling to Europe 3 1/2 years ago, and since I got my job close to home, I rarely drive very far.
Yesterday I visited friends in Cheyenne and once I was on the road again, it felt good and the day was perfect so I decided to sightsee right in my own backyard. I decided that a trip up to Sunshine to check out the house where I lived when I was married was a perfect destination. The large 4 Mile forest fire was up there and had burned Sunshine and I wasn't sure what I would find. I started out early and missed a lot of the Sunday driving traffic so the trip to Boulder was nice and when I got to Boulder all kinds of memories came flooding back. So it was quite the trip down memory lane.
I visited Boulder in 1966 with my aunt and uncle and cousins and fell in love with it and decided that was the only college I wanted to go to. I studied more in high school and was admitted 41 years ago and my dream began. The "Journey to Mitzi" had quite a start in school in Boulder. Today I relived it, I passed places where I went with friends for ice cream in the winter, where I worked when I met some of the most important people in my life including my exhusband and my dear friend in Albuquerque. I passed all the places I used to play and work. I drove up Sunshine Canyon and the drive was beautiful and then around a bend everything was gone, black and bleak. There were places where the fire only was on one side of the road and places where it was on both. As I took the fork in the road to our small town of Sunshine there seemed to be little that had changed on that dirt road. And then I saw signs of the fire, but not whole empty fields, instead the ground was black and the trunks of trees were charred. Some were gone and it was different and then not so different. The house where I lived was still standing, but the ground up the mountain to it was black. I drove to the end of the road and it seemed the homes were okay but there were signs of damage to the trees and ground. I'm not sure how that happened. On one side road there was a sign that said "residents only, please no media or reporters". It is obvious that much is being done to return to life as before.
While driving through that 'memory' a very strange thing happened. I always have music on but really don't pay a lot of attention to it. Suddenly as I was driving past my house up the road to where my inlaws had lived I noticed that the song "Annie's Song" by John Denver was playing. This was quite significant, it is one of the 2 songs I got married to. I just couldn't walk down the aisle to "Here Comes the Bride", I guess I've always needed to be a bit different. So my songs were "Annie's Song" and "Evergreen" and there, back in my past, I was hearing our song. A coincidence? Perhaps...and perhaps not! My ex husband died 12 years ago, almost to this day from my memory. The day in my past was touching, healing and reaffirming to my present life.
The trees were magnificent! The colors beautiful and the day was cool. I drove up Boulder Canyon after my trip up Sunshine Canyon and it too was beautiful. A year ago César and I were in the fall leaves in Germany at Neuschwanstein Castle and I thought I would miss that. But being close to home and seeing 'my trees' and 'my streams' just an hour drive away, was delightful. Autumn is a beautiful time and I'm glad we got a taste of it in Colorado before winter arrives!
One doesn't need to fly across the world for a wonderful adventure!
Yesterday I visited friends in Cheyenne and once I was on the road again, it felt good and the day was perfect so I decided to sightsee right in my own backyard. I decided that a trip up to Sunshine to check out the house where I lived when I was married was a perfect destination. The large 4 Mile forest fire was up there and had burned Sunshine and I wasn't sure what I would find. I started out early and missed a lot of the Sunday driving traffic so the trip to Boulder was nice and when I got to Boulder all kinds of memories came flooding back. So it was quite the trip down memory lane.
I visited Boulder in 1966 with my aunt and uncle and cousins and fell in love with it and decided that was the only college I wanted to go to. I studied more in high school and was admitted 41 years ago and my dream began. The "Journey to Mitzi" had quite a start in school in Boulder. Today I relived it, I passed places where I went with friends for ice cream in the winter, where I worked when I met some of the most important people in my life including my exhusband and my dear friend in Albuquerque. I passed all the places I used to play and work. I drove up Sunshine Canyon and the drive was beautiful and then around a bend everything was gone, black and bleak. There were places where the fire only was on one side of the road and places where it was on both. As I took the fork in the road to our small town of Sunshine there seemed to be little that had changed on that dirt road. And then I saw signs of the fire, but not whole empty fields, instead the ground was black and the trunks of trees were charred. Some were gone and it was different and then not so different. The house where I lived was still standing, but the ground up the mountain to it was black. I drove to the end of the road and it seemed the homes were okay but there were signs of damage to the trees and ground. I'm not sure how that happened. On one side road there was a sign that said "residents only, please no media or reporters". It is obvious that much is being done to return to life as before.
While driving through that 'memory' a very strange thing happened. I always have music on but really don't pay a lot of attention to it. Suddenly as I was driving past my house up the road to where my inlaws had lived I noticed that the song "Annie's Song" by John Denver was playing. This was quite significant, it is one of the 2 songs I got married to. I just couldn't walk down the aisle to "Here Comes the Bride", I guess I've always needed to be a bit different. So my songs were "Annie's Song" and "Evergreen" and there, back in my past, I was hearing our song. A coincidence? Perhaps...and perhaps not! My ex husband died 12 years ago, almost to this day from my memory. The day in my past was touching, healing and reaffirming to my present life.
The trees were magnificent! The colors beautiful and the day was cool. I drove up Boulder Canyon after my trip up Sunshine Canyon and it too was beautiful. A year ago César and I were in the fall leaves in Germany at Neuschwanstein Castle and I thought I would miss that. But being close to home and seeing 'my trees' and 'my streams' just an hour drive away, was delightful. Autumn is a beautiful time and I'm glad we got a taste of it in Colorado before winter arrives!
One doesn't need to fly across the world for a wonderful adventure!
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Favorites
A lot of thought went into this list and it might change or have additions but for now, here are my thoughts, and remember they are only based on my experiences:
Prague - most beautiful city in the world
Brugges - most charming city in the world
Mykonos - most beautiful, peaceful island in the world, the blues and whites of the water and sand, and homes bring a sense of peace not commonly found other places
Churchill - most thrilling destination in the world
Monet's Garden, Giverny, France - the most beautiful gardens and scents
Scottish Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle - the most soulful experience
Fjords of Norway tied with the Alps - most beautiful mountain sights
The midnight sun in the arctic in the summer and in Antarctica in the winter - the most stunning sights
And there you have my current lists, start making yours!
Prague - most beautiful city in the world
Brugges - most charming city in the world
Mykonos - most beautiful, peaceful island in the world, the blues and whites of the water and sand, and homes bring a sense of peace not commonly found other places
Churchill - most thrilling destination in the world
Monet's Garden, Giverny, France - the most beautiful gardens and scents
Scottish Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle - the most soulful experience
Fjords of Norway tied with the Alps - most beautiful mountain sights
The midnight sun in the arctic in the summer and in Antarctica in the winter - the most stunning sights
And there you have my current lists, start making yours!
Friday, June 25, 2010
Bits and Pieces
I'm sitting in the business center of the airport hotel at London Heathrow Airport. What a day! All went well and it was a nice morning in Prague, although it was getting quite warm by the time I left. I had my driver for an hour and we went to see the dancing house, quite an interesting structure and I will have to do some research to find out more about it. My driver had very limited English so couldn't explain it to me. We visited Wensceles Square, not a square at all, and the most amazing site of all, the old Jewish cemetary. The experience was quite moving although I didn't have nearly long enough there. It is on the list of places to go back to on my next trip to Prague! Very moving and there were many other buildings that I didn't have time to see, next time!
My airport driver, all the way from Sacramento, picked me up and took me to the airport. It was like seeing an old friend and we had a great conversation and he was so happy with all of the things I'd done, many of which he had suggested. What an interesting man he is! The flight to London was quite uneventful, although I did sit next to a Czech football (soccer) player on his way to some pro games somewhere in England for 5 days and then to S. Africa for 10. Obviously not World Cup games, but he was very kind and definitely a professional player. He only spoke Czech so our communication was quite limited, but he kindly got my luggage down for me and helped.
Have I mentioned how interesting it is to be traveling the world while the World Cup is happening? Oh my, it is the talk of the world! On the giant outdoor screen on the ship there was a game almost every night rather than the usual movies. The most amazing night was when the UK played US, almost all of the people on the ship were from one or the other countries. The deck was filled, and so were the 3 decks above it, every deck chair occupied and standing room only all over, a most amazing sight! It is the talk of the world, and I found out the game that was getting so much attention yesterday was Slovakia, since Czech has no team they support their neighbor and what emotion there was in the square. I found out it only happens every 4 years and the thrill everywhere in a way reminds me of the Olympics, but it is different. And now even I am starting to care about who is winning and who is playing who. When I was in Lisbon, Portugal had played that day and tied so cars were driving around honking and waving the flag. Such a celebration all over!
Another bit of story...
About 80ish years ago my mother was a little girl growing up on a street called McDuffie in Houston, Texas. I was always told the story of how the neighbor had a cat named Mitzi and she loved the name and said if she had a daughter she would name her Mitzi. And she did. Several years ago I was in San Antonio and introduced to another Mitzi. After talking a bit, we discovered that we had known each other, her father had grown up as a neighbor to my mom and they and the families got together a few times as we grew up. The story she was told however, was a bit different. She was told she was named after a neighbor's dog that was named Mitzi. Both of our parents had died so there was no way to investigate the true story. I told her I liked mine and she liked hers so we decided to just keep the ones we'd been told our whole lives...WELL, when I was walking on the Charles Bridge in Prague I found a small abstract blue painting I liked. The artist was there so I asked if he would sign it for me. He spoke very little English but his friend was there and helped translate. He asked me to write down my name so I did and the artist laughed and they were talking to each other. I asked the man why they laughed and he said that the word Mitzi is the nickname for a beloved kitty! Could my mother's neighbors have been Czech? I'll never know but I think the question has been answered! They enjoyed the story that I had been named after a cat anyway. I talked to the sweet girl at reception at my hotel and she said it is the dearest term for a kitty and she had thought of that when she saw my name but didn't say anything. So many stories tied to my simple name!
Well, time to head to bed so I will be rested for my 10 hour flight home to reality. I just want to be cool again! This hotel was nice enough to bring me a fan because the air conditioning isn't that cold.
Another thought to share, on a sadder note...about my blog and more. I write this as a journal and do a little reflecting while writing but usually that comes later. Friends are reading this and I hope that it comes through as more than a telling of tales, although they are all true. I know that we all have different gifts in our lives, I am not lucky enough to have the gift of a family, but I have made the very best out of my life by finding another passion. For years it was teaching and it still is in so many ways. But travel has also become my passion and my creative thinking and planning go to great use in this area of my life. I'm not sure the travel is what is so important, but the idea that I do all I can to make each day matter is the important lesson. (even if this is only when traveling it seems) I want to do it all, in every place I go, and usually I succeed in seeing and doing many incredible things and meeting many wonderful people. It doesn't just happen, I make it happen. I hope this inspires others to live their lives to the fullest each day, and appreciate the gifts you have, be it travel or families to love. Recently I had the very sad news that a young dear friend lost her battle with breast cancer. She only had a very short time with her beautiful little boy, he is just 5 months old, but she fought every day to do all she could to be with him as long as possible. I don't know the whole story that has happened in the short time I've been gone, but please take a moment to honor Sarah and be sure to live each day to the fullest, knowing that we don't know what tomorrow will bring so make today special! A long time ago while working at Barnes & Noble I read a quote in a little book that said, "Live your life so that, on the very last day, you can say, THERE, THAT WAS A GOOD LIFE". Make the most of your life and the days you have and smile and make others smile and do it all!!!
And once again thank you for joining me on my journey of discovery!
My airport driver, all the way from Sacramento, picked me up and took me to the airport. It was like seeing an old friend and we had a great conversation and he was so happy with all of the things I'd done, many of which he had suggested. What an interesting man he is! The flight to London was quite uneventful, although I did sit next to a Czech football (soccer) player on his way to some pro games somewhere in England for 5 days and then to S. Africa for 10. Obviously not World Cup games, but he was very kind and definitely a professional player. He only spoke Czech so our communication was quite limited, but he kindly got my luggage down for me and helped.
Have I mentioned how interesting it is to be traveling the world while the World Cup is happening? Oh my, it is the talk of the world! On the giant outdoor screen on the ship there was a game almost every night rather than the usual movies. The most amazing night was when the UK played US, almost all of the people on the ship were from one or the other countries. The deck was filled, and so were the 3 decks above it, every deck chair occupied and standing room only all over, a most amazing sight! It is the talk of the world, and I found out the game that was getting so much attention yesterday was Slovakia, since Czech has no team they support their neighbor and what emotion there was in the square. I found out it only happens every 4 years and the thrill everywhere in a way reminds me of the Olympics, but it is different. And now even I am starting to care about who is winning and who is playing who. When I was in Lisbon, Portugal had played that day and tied so cars were driving around honking and waving the flag. Such a celebration all over!
Another bit of story...
About 80ish years ago my mother was a little girl growing up on a street called McDuffie in Houston, Texas. I was always told the story of how the neighbor had a cat named Mitzi and she loved the name and said if she had a daughter she would name her Mitzi. And she did. Several years ago I was in San Antonio and introduced to another Mitzi. After talking a bit, we discovered that we had known each other, her father had grown up as a neighbor to my mom and they and the families got together a few times as we grew up. The story she was told however, was a bit different. She was told she was named after a neighbor's dog that was named Mitzi. Both of our parents had died so there was no way to investigate the true story. I told her I liked mine and she liked hers so we decided to just keep the ones we'd been told our whole lives...WELL, when I was walking on the Charles Bridge in Prague I found a small abstract blue painting I liked. The artist was there so I asked if he would sign it for me. He spoke very little English but his friend was there and helped translate. He asked me to write down my name so I did and the artist laughed and they were talking to each other. I asked the man why they laughed and he said that the word Mitzi is the nickname for a beloved kitty! Could my mother's neighbors have been Czech? I'll never know but I think the question has been answered! They enjoyed the story that I had been named after a cat anyway. I talked to the sweet girl at reception at my hotel and she said it is the dearest term for a kitty and she had thought of that when she saw my name but didn't say anything. So many stories tied to my simple name!
Well, time to head to bed so I will be rested for my 10 hour flight home to reality. I just want to be cool again! This hotel was nice enough to bring me a fan because the air conditioning isn't that cold.
Another thought to share, on a sadder note...about my blog and more. I write this as a journal and do a little reflecting while writing but usually that comes later. Friends are reading this and I hope that it comes through as more than a telling of tales, although they are all true. I know that we all have different gifts in our lives, I am not lucky enough to have the gift of a family, but I have made the very best out of my life by finding another passion. For years it was teaching and it still is in so many ways. But travel has also become my passion and my creative thinking and planning go to great use in this area of my life. I'm not sure the travel is what is so important, but the idea that I do all I can to make each day matter is the important lesson. (even if this is only when traveling it seems) I want to do it all, in every place I go, and usually I succeed in seeing and doing many incredible things and meeting many wonderful people. It doesn't just happen, I make it happen. I hope this inspires others to live their lives to the fullest each day, and appreciate the gifts you have, be it travel or families to love. Recently I had the very sad news that a young dear friend lost her battle with breast cancer. She only had a very short time with her beautiful little boy, he is just 5 months old, but she fought every day to do all she could to be with him as long as possible. I don't know the whole story that has happened in the short time I've been gone, but please take a moment to honor Sarah and be sure to live each day to the fullest, knowing that we don't know what tomorrow will bring so make today special! A long time ago while working at Barnes & Noble I read a quote in a little book that said, "Live your life so that, on the very last day, you can say, THERE, THAT WAS A GOOD LIFE". Make the most of your life and the days you have and smile and make others smile and do it all!!!
And once again thank you for joining me on my journey of discovery!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Sunset
I watched the most beautiful sunset imaginable behind the famous spires of Prague tonight from a rooftop terrace, knowing that it is also the sunset of a fabulous 3 weeks in Europe! What sights and adventures have been added to my story!
Tomorrow back to London then home to reality, not a bad thing either-my 2 4 legged friends waiting for me and a great job and home and friends!
Wonder when and where my next adventure will be? Ciao from Prague!
Tomorrow back to London then home to reality, not a bad thing either-my 2 4 legged friends waiting for me and a great job and home and friends!
Wonder when and where my next adventure will be? Ciao from Prague!
Prague experience continued
When I checked into my lovely hotel last night I was given a stack of brochures of events. There was one that advertised a classic Czech concert in a nearby church. So before I knew it, I was off to walk the short distance to this new adventure. The church was built at the end of the 1200's and the acoustics were incredible! A violin player and an organ player performed 14 beautiful songs. Quite the welcome to Prague! After the concert I walked a bit further to a traditional pub/restaurant. Many people smoking and everyone but me with large beer mugs, the national hobby of Czech. I ordered the Czech goulash and it was delicious! The sauce as quite flavorful and when I told the young waitress how good it was she said make her smile too much. Cute. After the ainn course I had Czech pancakes for dessert. Three tiny pancakes came on a plate and they were covered quite artistically with sour cream, blueberries and powdered sugar. Delicious! It was a wonderful dinner and after the short walk back, I slept quite well in the very cold, comfortable room.
Today I decided to splurge and have a driver to see the main sights. Unfortunately my feet are barely working at this point so I have to find alternatives to walking whenever possible. I changed more money for Czech krowns and visited the palace/castle and the Charles bridge. It was lovely to drive around the city and ee so much of it. Then I walked around the old town square and watched the famous astronomical clock.
More later, now I'm off to see the famous Czech black light show. The Prague adventure continues!
Today I decided to splurge and have a driver to see the main sights. Unfortunately my feet are barely working at this point so I have to find alternatives to walking whenever possible. I changed more money for Czech krowns and visited the palace/castle and the Charles bridge. It was lovely to drive around the city and ee so much of it. Then I walked around the old town square and watched the famous astronomical clock.
More later, now I'm off to see the famous Czech black light show. The Prague adventure continues!
The Prague Experience - 1
This has to be short because it is so hard to type on my mini laptop. But I have so much to say! What an experience this has been. I had a transfer scheduled with a company that advertised that they speak English and would wait for you even if your plane is late. I always see the nicely dressed men with names printed on 8 1/2 x 11 paper at the airport when I walk out of customs. Finally I was going to be met by one of these professional drivers. Or so I thought. Nothing could have been further from the truth. My plane was a little late and then I walked out of customs I didn't see my name. I was a little panicked but realized something would work out. Checked signs twice, no Mitzi on any. I did see a dalmation looking giant great dane who was darling and would have made my 110 lb. Bram look like a dwarf! The owner said he was only 6 months old! When the dog's mom alked out it was so cte to see that massive creature get excited and look like a puppy. However, getting back to reality I had to figure out how to find my hotel. I happened to look over to the side and noticed a tall handsome blonde man in jeans and a t shirt looking at his cell phone. I noticed he had a little piece of paper kind of hanging out of his hand. This was small, a regular piece of paper folded into 8ths with writing all over it. In pen, handwritten over what looked to be a folded up letter was my name! Not sure I would have ever noticed it if I hadn't noticed the cute guy, thinking how cute Czech men are. I went up and said that name was me and wondered what I had gotten myself into! Not expecting him to speak much English I started speaking slowly. He looked at me and said he speaks English, he is an ex pat from Sacramento! So much for the charm of Czech! He was fun, is an actor, musician and driver. He helped me with ideas of what to do. We arrived at my hotel which is on a small side street. The hotel was supposed to be in the old square directly across from the famous clock. Well it seems it is across from the clock, only a few blocks away! This is an adventure of surprises!
Now I'm off for a full day of Czech surprises! May they all be good!
Now I'm off for a full day of Czech surprises! May they all be good!
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Back in Brugges
The tour guide left me in Brugges at the end of the day! Now that would not be a bad place to stay with the waffles, frites and chocolates. However it would have been quite the hassle and if I miss the ship I would rather I am with Cesar in Portugal. Another, much kinder tour guide, saved me. May I NEVER see Robert again!
It was beautful as always inn my favorite place in Europe and always fun to see the amazement on the faces of people there for the first time.
Unfortunately my internet time is over and after breakfast I will be disembarking and journeying on to London and then Prague, alone. May my adventure be fun and safe! Thanks for taking this incredible cruise around the Mediterranean and Atlantic with me! Now to the land and air portion.
It was beautful as always inn my favorite place in Europe and always fun to see the amazement on the faces of people there for the first time.
Unfortunately my internet time is over and after breakfast I will be disembarking and journeying on to London and then Prague, alone. May my adventure be fun and safe! Thanks for taking this incredible cruise around the Mediterranean and Atlantic with me! Now to the land and air portion.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Dreams...
...can come true, and sometimes more than once! Monet's garden and home were beautiful today! What a treat to return to one of the most beautiful places I've ever seen! It wasn't my best visit, going on the ship's tour has it's disadvantages in this case. With my private guide I was there when it opened and had a while to enjoy the beauty without tons of people. Today we arrived in the midst of the rush and it was so crowded. The pleasant surprise today was the large number of school children, literally dozens of school groups of all ages were there. I said excuse moi to a group and they started talking to me in English and they were very excited to try out their English. They were 12 and darling! I started counting and they taught me to count to 12 and then clapped and cheered when I did it! Very, very cute and the teacher was really smiling the whole time. There were different flowers blooming that I've seen in spring and although it was quite colorful, I'm not sure it was more beautiful than I've seen it in May. It was still charming and next time I have to go for longer! It was a wonderful place to be one month before my birthday and on the first day of summer!
After that short visit we went to a 'barn' on a river for a nice lunch and it was delicious! But it took too long! Then we boarded the bus for Rouen and again it was a wonderful town. Not the riot police like the last time I was there! It was calm, cool and a nice setting for my last crepe this trip. The people were so friendly which was a nice change.
We arrived back at the ship and I was prepared for the lines of 3,000 people as usual but they have 2 gangways open and the buses were staggered I guess and we walked right on! A WONDERFUL surprise! My feet are so bad I am concerned about my day in Brugges tomorrow. I've decided to do the 2 hour visit rather than the whole day. I have to get packed to get off the ship early Wednesday morning too. It is a mile walk into and out of town so 2 hours there wandering and enjoying will be long enough. Some day I will go for a few days, maybe when my dream trip of driving around the French countryside happens!
The cool weather was a welcome relief and I'm hoping for the same the rest of the trip! For now, a quick dinner in the buffet then I will go to the show, which I usually don't do any more, I've seen them all so many times. But tonight is a Scottish singer and I love that kind of music so I will enjoy that before going to bed. Luckily I don't have an early morning meeting time tomorrow so I don't have to get up and rush around for a change.
Au revoir from Le Havre!
After that short visit we went to a 'barn' on a river for a nice lunch and it was delicious! But it took too long! Then we boarded the bus for Rouen and again it was a wonderful town. Not the riot police like the last time I was there! It was calm, cool and a nice setting for my last crepe this trip. The people were so friendly which was a nice change.
We arrived back at the ship and I was prepared for the lines of 3,000 people as usual but they have 2 gangways open and the buses were staggered I guess and we walked right on! A WONDERFUL surprise! My feet are so bad I am concerned about my day in Brugges tomorrow. I've decided to do the 2 hour visit rather than the whole day. I have to get packed to get off the ship early Wednesday morning too. It is a mile walk into and out of town so 2 hours there wandering and enjoying will be long enough. Some day I will go for a few days, maybe when my dream trip of driving around the French countryside happens!
The cool weather was a welcome relief and I'm hoping for the same the rest of the trip! For now, a quick dinner in the buffet then I will go to the show, which I usually don't do any more, I've seen them all so many times. But tonight is a Scottish singer and I love that kind of music so I will enjoy that before going to bed. Luckily I don't have an early morning meeting time tomorrow so I don't have to get up and rush around for a change.
Au revoir from Le Havre!
Saturday, June 19, 2010
A Day in Scotland
Can a day in Scotland possibly be enough? Hmmm, even if it starts before 7AM with the sound of bagpipers on the dock welcoming the ship? Just like they have done the last 2 visits here. The first visit this welcome was life changing. For several years I had a recurring nightmare about my childhood home. I watched it being built as a child of 2 years old and we moved in before I turned 3. Several years ago after my mother and my father died, we sold the house to someone who was tearing it down to build a massive structure. Ever since that time I had the same nightmare of wandering around the light gray brick exterior looking for something, either furniture, love, my family, memories, connections but it was nothing but a cold, empty shell leaving me quite distraught when I woke up. But one time when I was having this dream, I heard the sounds of bagpipes getting louder and louder and finally awoke to realize that they were real, the ship had just pulled up to the dock in Greenock. I thought for a moment about the new person I'd become and yes I really was halfway around the world in Scotland, far, far from my childhood and the bagpipes put that nightmare and the old me to rest. Never have I had that nightmare again, never have I felt so alone and lost! And so hearing them this morning was a strong reminder that life can get better and it has! Bagpipes to wake up too, Scotland for a day!
After a quick breakfast I rushed down to get my pass for the ship's tour and was off the ship to enjoy the cool Scottish morning for a while before the people poured off and the bus left. The day was beautiful, much different than the first time I was here. I think the weather must have been nice last year because I don't remember it at all. Do you remember, Diana? So with the sun shining and the cool breeze we headed out from the Glasgow Port to the Falkirk Wheel.
I had no idea what to expect but heard this was an amazing sight. And indeed it was! An engineering feat they say. We boarded a boat and it was in a little lock like area and without even knowing it we were lifted up into the air, about 25 meters, or 84 feet!! We went from one river to another and then across an aquaduct and then through a tunnel and out the other side. We turned around and went back the same way. The feeling of being raised and lowered without really feeling it was quite amazing. The only bad part was that we didn't have time to stay there to see what it looks like from the ground. But now I can say I have been on the Falkirk Wheel. I bought a book about it but am not sure I will even understand it, but it was fascinating just the same!
After that we headed to the town of Stirling. I had been to the castle before so I was looking forward to enjoying the town. I was disappointed, there was shopping, much like any shopping at home. I look for the atmosphere to be different here and I think only the bagpipe player on the street lent it a different feel. It was quite crowded downtown, so many people shopping for Father's day and enjoying the sunshine. It was hot, but not as hot as it has been. I had fish and chips for lunch, nothing special and a pastry and then sat and listened to the bagpipes until time for the bus. The ride back to the ship was an hour and a half and through absolutely beautiful countryside, it made the trip so worth it! The rolling green hills, the charming little homes, the cows and sheep and the beautiful day made it the most pleasant hour and a half of the day. We saw the highlands, our guide said that was a rare sight in summer. Such a charming country!
We arrived back at the ship just about on time so I rushed in to see the Scottish show that was going on in the theatre. What a delight that was! A beautiful violin (fiddle) player, highland dancers dancing the fling and the reels and other musicians to enjoy. And then came the finale, and the bagpipers and drummer came into the theatre from the top, playing as they climbed down the stairs to the stage. Fantastic! And they played a few songs and then Amazing Grace and all of the performers came out and sang Auld Lang Syne, a Robert Burns song. How can one be in Scotland listening to that and not get tears in your eyes. So, so touching!
The show ended and here I am and soon we will be sailing away. I look out the window of the internet cafe to the beautiful green hills of Scotland and watch a family of geese or maybe they are ducks, calmly floating by the window.
A day in Scotland? Not nearly long enough!
After a quick breakfast I rushed down to get my pass for the ship's tour and was off the ship to enjoy the cool Scottish morning for a while before the people poured off and the bus left. The day was beautiful, much different than the first time I was here. I think the weather must have been nice last year because I don't remember it at all. Do you remember, Diana? So with the sun shining and the cool breeze we headed out from the Glasgow Port to the Falkirk Wheel.
I had no idea what to expect but heard this was an amazing sight. And indeed it was! An engineering feat they say. We boarded a boat and it was in a little lock like area and without even knowing it we were lifted up into the air, about 25 meters, or 84 feet!! We went from one river to another and then across an aquaduct and then through a tunnel and out the other side. We turned around and went back the same way. The feeling of being raised and lowered without really feeling it was quite amazing. The only bad part was that we didn't have time to stay there to see what it looks like from the ground. But now I can say I have been on the Falkirk Wheel. I bought a book about it but am not sure I will even understand it, but it was fascinating just the same!
After that we headed to the town of Stirling. I had been to the castle before so I was looking forward to enjoying the town. I was disappointed, there was shopping, much like any shopping at home. I look for the atmosphere to be different here and I think only the bagpipe player on the street lent it a different feel. It was quite crowded downtown, so many people shopping for Father's day and enjoying the sunshine. It was hot, but not as hot as it has been. I had fish and chips for lunch, nothing special and a pastry and then sat and listened to the bagpipes until time for the bus. The ride back to the ship was an hour and a half and through absolutely beautiful countryside, it made the trip so worth it! The rolling green hills, the charming little homes, the cows and sheep and the beautiful day made it the most pleasant hour and a half of the day. We saw the highlands, our guide said that was a rare sight in summer. Such a charming country!
We arrived back at the ship just about on time so I rushed in to see the Scottish show that was going on in the theatre. What a delight that was! A beautiful violin (fiddle) player, highland dancers dancing the fling and the reels and other musicians to enjoy. And then came the finale, and the bagpipers and drummer came into the theatre from the top, playing as they climbed down the stairs to the stage. Fantastic! And they played a few songs and then Amazing Grace and all of the performers came out and sang Auld Lang Syne, a Robert Burns song. How can one be in Scotland listening to that and not get tears in your eyes. So, so touching!
The show ended and here I am and soon we will be sailing away. I look out the window of the internet cafe to the beautiful green hills of Scotland and watch a family of geese or maybe they are ducks, calmly floating by the window.
A day in Scotland? Not nearly long enough!
Friday, June 18, 2010
A bit o' the Irish
We all have challenging times in life when we think it can't get any worse. I've been there more than once. But right now I am lucky enough to be at a point in my life when I think it can't get any better! Cooler maybe, but not better! What a trip!
All of my wishes are coming true this trip, it is just a lovely experience! I realized today that everything I want to do is working out. When I was here 3 years ago I didn't get to see the famous Powerscourt Gardens. Today I was on the tour and it was beautiful! Especially the roses, so gorgeous! My feet aren't working the best so I can't walk a lot but that isn't interferring with the thrill of my experiences! I made it to Powerscourt and was able to enjoy the bit cooler weather too. After time to have tea and an extraordinary dessert, we returned to Dublin where I got off the bus for a bit more sightseeing on my own. FINALLY I was able to see the Book of Kells! It is in every guidebook as a must and the line was not too long and although I had no idea what the latin text said, it was goregous to see. Each capital letter is a different design and the pictures are amazing. It is from about 400AD, I don't remember exactly. It is the first book ever written, I believe, and although it cost 9 euros to enter, I think it was well worth it! Upstairs there was a library and I've never seen anything like it, absolutely amazing, gorgeous and filled 2 stories high with old books. This was all at Trinity College and the atmosphere was enchanting.
After that and a bit of shopping I had a nice lunch at Killarny, a beautiful department type store. I'd been there on each of my other 2 visits and although I didn't buy anything, it was fun to look. I'd hoped for Irish stew at a pub but the pubs in the area were packed and they were so hot inside and the wait was long. So I went to the cafe at the nice store and had quite the lunch. A young man helped me with suggestions, but actually gave me most of what was offered. The cod with mustard and cheese was delicious and it came iwth a rice salad, mashed carrots and turnips (not my favorite part), roasted potatoes, roasted beets and the man was quite upset I wouldn't take the mashed potatoes and gravy too!!! Delicious lunch and then it was back to the shuttle to return to the ship. I'll be resting my feet for the afternoon, probably taking a nice nap too.
I did tell our tour guide that I would like to see a leprechaun and she asked if I was pure of heart and free of sin and I replied, "pretty much" so she said then I would see one. I didn't, but the visit was still thrilling! I'm in Ireland!!
Yes, Dublin was charming and seeing the Book of Kells exciting and yes, right now I am not sure life could be any better! Tomorrow, Scotland is our destination!
All of my wishes are coming true this trip, it is just a lovely experience! I realized today that everything I want to do is working out. When I was here 3 years ago I didn't get to see the famous Powerscourt Gardens. Today I was on the tour and it was beautiful! Especially the roses, so gorgeous! My feet aren't working the best so I can't walk a lot but that isn't interferring with the thrill of my experiences! I made it to Powerscourt and was able to enjoy the bit cooler weather too. After time to have tea and an extraordinary dessert, we returned to Dublin where I got off the bus for a bit more sightseeing on my own. FINALLY I was able to see the Book of Kells! It is in every guidebook as a must and the line was not too long and although I had no idea what the latin text said, it was goregous to see. Each capital letter is a different design and the pictures are amazing. It is from about 400AD, I don't remember exactly. It is the first book ever written, I believe, and although it cost 9 euros to enter, I think it was well worth it! Upstairs there was a library and I've never seen anything like it, absolutely amazing, gorgeous and filled 2 stories high with old books. This was all at Trinity College and the atmosphere was enchanting.
After that and a bit of shopping I had a nice lunch at Killarny, a beautiful department type store. I'd been there on each of my other 2 visits and although I didn't buy anything, it was fun to look. I'd hoped for Irish stew at a pub but the pubs in the area were packed and they were so hot inside and the wait was long. So I went to the cafe at the nice store and had quite the lunch. A young man helped me with suggestions, but actually gave me most of what was offered. The cod with mustard and cheese was delicious and it came iwth a rice salad, mashed carrots and turnips (not my favorite part), roasted potatoes, roasted beets and the man was quite upset I wouldn't take the mashed potatoes and gravy too!!! Delicious lunch and then it was back to the shuttle to return to the ship. I'll be resting my feet for the afternoon, probably taking a nice nap too.
I did tell our tour guide that I would like to see a leprechaun and she asked if I was pure of heart and free of sin and I replied, "pretty much" so she said then I would see one. I didn't, but the visit was still thrilling! I'm in Ireland!!
Yes, Dublin was charming and seeing the Book of Kells exciting and yes, right now I am not sure life could be any better! Tomorrow, Scotland is our destination!
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Sea Day 2
We are drifting towards Ireland, we may be in the Irish Sea, but we've been in the Celtic Sea today. To be honest I didn't know there were so many seas! The captain talked to our group today and it was quite interesting. The head cruise director was there too as well as some other important people. Nice to see them and hear their stories. The cruise director, Ron Goldman, told us about he and his wife deciding to move to Prague so I talked to him and he is going to talk to a head chef he knows at one of the best restaurants there to tell him I might be visiting alone and to be nice to me. Never hurts to have connections!
That will prove true on the ship too. I want a certain shuttle from our port of Southampton to Heathrow so I have time to drop off my luggage and then get back to the airport to fly to Prague. Turns out Martin, my friend on the ship is in charge of all of that so he said he will be sure I am on which ever one I want. Yep, nice to have connections!
This has been the most social of all of my trips! I usually have 2 dinner invitations a night, so nice and by the end of the evening I am ready to retire to my room alone! I've really met a lot of people this time, glad I am going to all the groups. There is the solo travelers group and today I went to the teachers of the world group. Small but interesting! The teacher from Argentina was quite interested in our school so he is looking up the website.
I went to tea and it was delicious! I have to say I think the scones are the best, they are just soft and flaky and with the strawberry jam and whipped cream, they are delicious! Of course so are all the desserts they serve along with all of the sandwiches! I have to try to make it there more often! I want to be able to eat there so I had an early, light breakfast and then an early lunch at the British pub and that meant I was a bit hungry after my nap for the tea. Busy day, one lady said she will be so glad to get home and not have to eat so much!
I had dinner with a very kind couple who I met at the hotel in Rome before departing for the cruise. I enjoyed their company a lot. They are from Oregon, and it is their first cruise so they are making the most of it and do enjoy it.
The sea was smooth today which is good and not so good because there is no wind and that was such a pleasant change, the cool breeze was much appreciated! We are in the Celtic sea today and will be moving into the Irish sea at any time. The captain was telling us about the need to get into port when the tide is high. I remember that on one of the cruises on César's ship we had headwinds and rough seas and didn't arrive in time to get into port so spent the day out at sea, anchored and waiting for the next high tide. I also remember there was no internet service that day or on other days in the British Isles so I might not be writing every day during this part of the journey.
Lots of people are getting colds and I have the beginnings of one again but am living on my oil of oregano. I do swear it is a miracle cure! I brought a box of Celestial Seasonings peppermint tea and I've shared almost all of it with 'new' friends who are sick. Don't really want to give it all away, I'd like some myself.
Speaking of Celestial Seasonings, a family that I see a lot was at my table at tea today and their 2nd cousin is Mo Segal, or was it Levy?, who started that company. Small world! So many interesting people and stories on a ship! I could write a book of just those stories!
For now it is time to head to bed, it is almost 10PM and it is still light outside. So confusing!
Good night friends!
That will prove true on the ship too. I want a certain shuttle from our port of Southampton to Heathrow so I have time to drop off my luggage and then get back to the airport to fly to Prague. Turns out Martin, my friend on the ship is in charge of all of that so he said he will be sure I am on which ever one I want. Yep, nice to have connections!
This has been the most social of all of my trips! I usually have 2 dinner invitations a night, so nice and by the end of the evening I am ready to retire to my room alone! I've really met a lot of people this time, glad I am going to all the groups. There is the solo travelers group and today I went to the teachers of the world group. Small but interesting! The teacher from Argentina was quite interested in our school so he is looking up the website.
I went to tea and it was delicious! I have to say I think the scones are the best, they are just soft and flaky and with the strawberry jam and whipped cream, they are delicious! Of course so are all the desserts they serve along with all of the sandwiches! I have to try to make it there more often! I want to be able to eat there so I had an early, light breakfast and then an early lunch at the British pub and that meant I was a bit hungry after my nap for the tea. Busy day, one lady said she will be so glad to get home and not have to eat so much!
I had dinner with a very kind couple who I met at the hotel in Rome before departing for the cruise. I enjoyed their company a lot. They are from Oregon, and it is their first cruise so they are making the most of it and do enjoy it.
The sea was smooth today which is good and not so good because there is no wind and that was such a pleasant change, the cool breeze was much appreciated! We are in the Celtic sea today and will be moving into the Irish sea at any time. The captain was telling us about the need to get into port when the tide is high. I remember that on one of the cruises on César's ship we had headwinds and rough seas and didn't arrive in time to get into port so spent the day out at sea, anchored and waiting for the next high tide. I also remember there was no internet service that day or on other days in the British Isles so I might not be writing every day during this part of the journey.
Lots of people are getting colds and I have the beginnings of one again but am living on my oil of oregano. I do swear it is a miracle cure! I brought a box of Celestial Seasonings peppermint tea and I've shared almost all of it with 'new' friends who are sick. Don't really want to give it all away, I'd like some myself.
Speaking of Celestial Seasonings, a family that I see a lot was at my table at tea today and their 2nd cousin is Mo Segal, or was it Levy?, who started that company. Small world! So many interesting people and stories on a ship! I could write a book of just those stories!
For now it is time to head to bed, it is almost 10PM and it is still light outside. So confusing!
Good night friends!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
C Day, Sea Day, Biscay Bay
Yesterday was my C day, the day I spent with César in Portugal and as always (?) it was wonderful! The ship arrived early so I called him to let him know we would be in early and as I stood on my balcony he was driving along the road even with the ship. It seemed to take forever to get the ship docked and the gangways in place. I went so early to get in line to get off, but still wasn't the first in line. Patience, not my virtue! Finally all was in place and we were off the ship and walking along the large span of cement to get to the terminal. I rushed through the terminal to expect to see him where he is always waiting and he wasn't there! I searched the people and became worried, I had talked to him an hour earlier and he was almost there. After wandering around and trying to call, he came walking out of the terminal, he had waited inside to see me and somehow we had both missed each other. Seeing him is always a treat and seeing his face when he sees me always touches me too. After our greeting, I do love the European welcome, the kisses on both cheeks, I introduced him to a couple who had questions about seeing the sights of Lisbon. Someone was talking to them and he was trying to sell them a tour but César was telling them how to see it all on their own which is what they wanted to do. There was quite an exchange between C and the tour guide in Portuguese and later César told me the man was quite angry at him for helping them. After that was taken care of we were off to our planned trip to Evora.
I had been told by someone Portuguese on the ship that we couldn't make it and César insisted we could. So my decision was that we would drive a couple of hours and if we weren't there we would turn around and head back. But he was right as usual and it took just over an hour and a half. we travel so well on the road together, we stopped along the way for a snack break and bought some Portuguese treats. I LOVED the biscuits he chose for us this time, as usual. He got cheetos and I was quite surprised to see how different they are from ours. Not a cheesy or as big and they were softer. We got them along with some Pessica tea (peach) and enjoyed the leisurely ride to Evora. It was more beautiful than I had imagined. Old, very old and walled. We drove on the tiny cobblestone streets until we found a place to park and then headed out to find the chapel made of human bones that I had heard about. It was not that far but it was probably close to 100 degrees and quite steep up and down along the way. We didn't have a lot of time but we did find the chapel and it was amazing. 2 euros to enter and another euro and a half to take pictures, but it was quite the sight. and yes, it is made completely of bones and skulls! Something over the door says that it is to remind all that they will be like this someday. Or something like that. After that we didn't have time to browse the town but we stopped in a little cafe and César ordered our lunch to 'take away'. We got a couple of pastries and the sandwiches took forever it seemed but we then hiked back to the car and got in. We were going to stop somewhere along the way and have a picnic but it was really too hot to do that. We were driving around the town trying to find the way out of the village and we stopped at a corner and there was a lovely breeze so I asked him to just stay until I cooled off. Well it was right in front of the ancient monument to Diana and we decided it was a 'charming' place for our picnic, so we ate in the car right there. We were starving and knew our time was very limited. It was cool and fun and then we finally found our way out of the village and headed back. I had wanted to see the megolithic structures too, they are 7000 years old, 2000 years older than Stonehenge they say. Unfortunately it was a little too far off the road to go to so that will have to be saved for another trip. That's okay, now I will have time to read more about them and next time it will mean more to see the structures. At least I know I was in the area of such an ancient civilization. We also crossed the famous '25th of April' bridge, the one that looks just like the Golden Gate bridge and it was my first time across it so that was fun too.
We arrived back at the ship quite early, a good thing because the traffic in Portugal is so bad, and we sat at the Haagen Das ice cream kiosk at the marina near the ship for over an hour. His friend had time to get off the ship for a short visit so that was great for the two of them. César and I had talked about my staying for the 2 days the ship would be at sea and flying to Dublin, our next stop but he had job interviews and the chance to get a job that would start immediately so he wouldn't be able to take me to the Lisbon airport from the Algarve if he got it so it wasn't good timing. However, when it was time for me to board the ship we both wished that we had decided to do that, it is hard to leave after so short a time, but we both agreed it was a wonderful escape from our reality. We had enjoyed another new adventure! And so I was the last to embark, except for the lady in a wheelchair who waited until everyone was on, I waved to him watching and blew a kiss and we both returned to our lives apart.
This cruise is so different from my others because I have met so many nice people! I am always running into friends now. I walked into my cabin a little sad and there was a message from one of the ladies I knew telling me where to meet her for dinner. I changed and found a few of my friends at the same table so dinner was a nice distraction and well timed. I barely made it to bed after dinner and slept so well, for 10 hours!
The captain announced that we would be in very rough seas as we crossed the Bay of Biscay. That is normal and I hoped I would sleep through it. As it was, the cool breeze was heavenly, the first time I've been cold in over a week so I slept the whole night with the balcony door open and the rocking only put me to sleep faster! What a wonderful night! And so once again I have survived the Bay of Biscay!
Today was a sea day and whenever I left my room I ran into friends so it has been a nice day. We had to do an interesting thing I've never seen before. We had a mandatory immigration appointment! Every single person on the ship had to show up at an appointed time to be cleared by British immigration officers on the ship. I wasn't too happy because I had to get up from my nap to show up, but I have to say it was quite organized and went quickly. They will finish tomorrow, so for 3000 people to get through it, again, I was very impressed at the way it was organized. I think Princess is wonderful at the way they organize, so different from my experience on Royal Caribbean! The people work so hard on the ship to make sure things run smoothly. It's been restful today and tonight is formal night so I will be dressing up and am wondering what wonderful people I will meet tonight when I go to dinner.
We have one more sea day tomorrow and then we arrive in Dublin. I hope my feet are better by then, I am going to the 'famous' Powerscourt Estate to view the home and gardens for 1/2 the day and then will take the ship's shuttle back into Dublin and see the famous Book of Kells for the first time. Maybe there will be time for lunch at the famous pub my unnamed friend in DC told me about. I am looking forward to one more day to rest and recover from this hectic schedule tomorrow.
And so that is the update of my C(esar)day, my sea day and the Bay of Biscay!
Ciao from the Atlantic Ocean!
I had been told by someone Portuguese on the ship that we couldn't make it and César insisted we could. So my decision was that we would drive a couple of hours and if we weren't there we would turn around and head back. But he was right as usual and it took just over an hour and a half. we travel so well on the road together, we stopped along the way for a snack break and bought some Portuguese treats. I LOVED the biscuits he chose for us this time, as usual. He got cheetos and I was quite surprised to see how different they are from ours. Not a cheesy or as big and they were softer. We got them along with some Pessica tea (peach) and enjoyed the leisurely ride to Evora. It was more beautiful than I had imagined. Old, very old and walled. We drove on the tiny cobblestone streets until we found a place to park and then headed out to find the chapel made of human bones that I had heard about. It was not that far but it was probably close to 100 degrees and quite steep up and down along the way. We didn't have a lot of time but we did find the chapel and it was amazing. 2 euros to enter and another euro and a half to take pictures, but it was quite the sight. and yes, it is made completely of bones and skulls! Something over the door says that it is to remind all that they will be like this someday. Or something like that. After that we didn't have time to browse the town but we stopped in a little cafe and César ordered our lunch to 'take away'. We got a couple of pastries and the sandwiches took forever it seemed but we then hiked back to the car and got in. We were going to stop somewhere along the way and have a picnic but it was really too hot to do that. We were driving around the town trying to find the way out of the village and we stopped at a corner and there was a lovely breeze so I asked him to just stay until I cooled off. Well it was right in front of the ancient monument to Diana and we decided it was a 'charming' place for our picnic, so we ate in the car right there. We were starving and knew our time was very limited. It was cool and fun and then we finally found our way out of the village and headed back. I had wanted to see the megolithic structures too, they are 7000 years old, 2000 years older than Stonehenge they say. Unfortunately it was a little too far off the road to go to so that will have to be saved for another trip. That's okay, now I will have time to read more about them and next time it will mean more to see the structures. At least I know I was in the area of such an ancient civilization. We also crossed the famous '25th of April' bridge, the one that looks just like the Golden Gate bridge and it was my first time across it so that was fun too.
We arrived back at the ship quite early, a good thing because the traffic in Portugal is so bad, and we sat at the Haagen Das ice cream kiosk at the marina near the ship for over an hour. His friend had time to get off the ship for a short visit so that was great for the two of them. César and I had talked about my staying for the 2 days the ship would be at sea and flying to Dublin, our next stop but he had job interviews and the chance to get a job that would start immediately so he wouldn't be able to take me to the Lisbon airport from the Algarve if he got it so it wasn't good timing. However, when it was time for me to board the ship we both wished that we had decided to do that, it is hard to leave after so short a time, but we both agreed it was a wonderful escape from our reality. We had enjoyed another new adventure! And so I was the last to embark, except for the lady in a wheelchair who waited until everyone was on, I waved to him watching and blew a kiss and we both returned to our lives apart.
This cruise is so different from my others because I have met so many nice people! I am always running into friends now. I walked into my cabin a little sad and there was a message from one of the ladies I knew telling me where to meet her for dinner. I changed and found a few of my friends at the same table so dinner was a nice distraction and well timed. I barely made it to bed after dinner and slept so well, for 10 hours!
The captain announced that we would be in very rough seas as we crossed the Bay of Biscay. That is normal and I hoped I would sleep through it. As it was, the cool breeze was heavenly, the first time I've been cold in over a week so I slept the whole night with the balcony door open and the rocking only put me to sleep faster! What a wonderful night! And so once again I have survived the Bay of Biscay!
Today was a sea day and whenever I left my room I ran into friends so it has been a nice day. We had to do an interesting thing I've never seen before. We had a mandatory immigration appointment! Every single person on the ship had to show up at an appointed time to be cleared by British immigration officers on the ship. I wasn't too happy because I had to get up from my nap to show up, but I have to say it was quite organized and went quickly. They will finish tomorrow, so for 3000 people to get through it, again, I was very impressed at the way it was organized. I think Princess is wonderful at the way they organize, so different from my experience on Royal Caribbean! The people work so hard on the ship to make sure things run smoothly. It's been restful today and tonight is formal night so I will be dressing up and am wondering what wonderful people I will meet tonight when I go to dinner.
We have one more sea day tomorrow and then we arrive in Dublin. I hope my feet are better by then, I am going to the 'famous' Powerscourt Estate to view the home and gardens for 1/2 the day and then will take the ship's shuttle back into Dublin and see the famous Book of Kells for the first time. Maybe there will be time for lunch at the famous pub my unnamed friend in DC told me about. I am looking forward to one more day to rest and recover from this hectic schedule tomorrow.
And so that is the update of my C(esar)day, my sea day and the Bay of Biscay!
Ciao from the Atlantic Ocean!
Monday, June 14, 2010
As Strong as...
The Rock of Gibraltar! Yes, today I am in the town of Gibraltar, known as Gib to the locals. The rock rises out of the ground to a height of about 420 meters, I believe it was, maybe a different measurement. Finally I got a good picture which is nice, the last time my pic of THE ROCK had a crane in it, but this time I saw it from a different angle.
I went to Spain! First you drive through town and then cross the runway, they make sure no planes are crossing, and then walk through customs and get back on the bus on the other side. Andalucia was gorgeous! We drove a while in the countryside and then passed a bull ring and made a turn and before we knew it we were at a beautiful home which is a cork and cattle farm. The beautiful home is the farm! The family house is way up on the hill. Cork is very interesting. This is a forest that is all natural and goes from Spain to Portugal. The trees have to be 9 years old and then you strip the bark and then nine years later you peel the cork off and then the process starts again. It is cork when it comes off the tree, no processing necessary. We had lots of explanations and some tapas and then headed back to Gibraltar. I spent some time in the village and had lunch, the recommended fish and chips at the recommended restuarant, Ray's. Delicious! Possibly better than any I have had in England. The fries were different and wonderful too.
Now I'm back on board an hour before the deadline and I am exhausted and glad there wasn't a lot of walking today. Tomorrow in Lisboa will be a ride in the Portuguese countryside so I should be fine there too and then we have two sea days. I contemplated staying off the ship and visiting Lisbon for a couple of days and then meeting the ship in Glasgow, but I couldn't get in touch with Cesar so that isn't a smart plan to make alone. Sea days are nice and relaxing, but time in the Portuguese countryside would be nicer.
Today there is an art history lesson, all you ever wanted to know in one hour, worth it so I'm going to see how it is. Hope it is more interesting than the talk on Portugal yesterday, that was a very dry, boring presentation. I hear them and think I could do much better. Maybe, but maybe not.
I think I've made a decision to become a travel agent. Just to do things part time and I will specialize in cruise vacations. Met just the right people this trip to convince me it is possible and possibly profitable too. Can't hurt to add it to my list of travel services!! By my next cruise whenever it may be, maybe I will be getting the commission for my trip!
And on that note I am off to find ice cold water and take a nap.
Cheerio from British Gibraltar!
I went to Spain! First you drive through town and then cross the runway, they make sure no planes are crossing, and then walk through customs and get back on the bus on the other side. Andalucia was gorgeous! We drove a while in the countryside and then passed a bull ring and made a turn and before we knew it we were at a beautiful home which is a cork and cattle farm. The beautiful home is the farm! The family house is way up on the hill. Cork is very interesting. This is a forest that is all natural and goes from Spain to Portugal. The trees have to be 9 years old and then you strip the bark and then nine years later you peel the cork off and then the process starts again. It is cork when it comes off the tree, no processing necessary. We had lots of explanations and some tapas and then headed back to Gibraltar. I spent some time in the village and had lunch, the recommended fish and chips at the recommended restuarant, Ray's. Delicious! Possibly better than any I have had in England. The fries were different and wonderful too.
Now I'm back on board an hour before the deadline and I am exhausted and glad there wasn't a lot of walking today. Tomorrow in Lisboa will be a ride in the Portuguese countryside so I should be fine there too and then we have two sea days. I contemplated staying off the ship and visiting Lisbon for a couple of days and then meeting the ship in Glasgow, but I couldn't get in touch with Cesar so that isn't a smart plan to make alone. Sea days are nice and relaxing, but time in the Portuguese countryside would be nicer.
Today there is an art history lesson, all you ever wanted to know in one hour, worth it so I'm going to see how it is. Hope it is more interesting than the talk on Portugal yesterday, that was a very dry, boring presentation. I hear them and think I could do much better. Maybe, but maybe not.
I think I've made a decision to become a travel agent. Just to do things part time and I will specialize in cruise vacations. Met just the right people this trip to convince me it is possible and possibly profitable too. Can't hurt to add it to my list of travel services!! By my next cruise whenever it may be, maybe I will be getting the commission for my trip!
And on that note I am off to find ice cold water and take a nap.
Cheerio from British Gibraltar!
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Un dia en Barcelona
What a day! Beautiful Barcelona! What amazing architecture lines the streets there, from the buildings designed by Gaudi to the lovely balconies with the shutters that open and close, just beautiful!
I followed Jenny's recommendation that I see the Gothic Cathedral and thank you Jenny! It was magnificent! I am really not that enamored with churches anymore, but if I only see one on this whole trip, that was the one to see! I couldn't read the Spanish but one of the fountains there is the one that was used to baptize the Native Americans that Colombus brought to Spain. Quite an impressive place!
The trip throughout the city was not without complications however. The ship's shuttle took us to the world trade center and I got on the hop on/off bus. Well to begin with I chose the wrong color, it was the one I'd done with Cesar when we met here. Oh well, it was okay to see things again. However we hadn't gone far when the microphone started making loud staticy noises that were very annoying. They got more and more frequent and the bus stopped to try to fix it. The young guide was on the phone for a long time with the main office. Finally he stepped off the bus and lit up a cigarette, pretty funny as we all sat on the hot bus. The top was filled so I was on the bottom, closed in and very hot. He went to get back on the bus and the door wouldn't open! Finally he went to the back door and got it open and then the bus driver went off with him to see what he could do and in no time at all both were locked out of the bus and we were locked in with little ventilation. Of course all of their conversations were in Spanish and even with my recent classes I was unable to understand a word, however I did understand the problem!! I was across from a nice young couple from London and pretty soon we were laughing so hard. Well eventually a door was forced open and they got back on and the door shut and some people came up to get on and pushed the emergency button since the door wouldn't open. The 2 employees were yelling something and before we knew it the bus sank, the button releases the hydrolic stuff??? Anyway the bus wouldn't run at all then! So for quite some time we just sat waiting for the hydrolic whatever to come back? What a saga the morning was! The bus went on to the Sagrada Familia stop with nothing working and the door did open and we quite happily got off!! I then took a taxi to the place I wanted to see. I was able to communicate quite well with the driver who only spoke Spanish. He did smile at my Spanish, but I did get my point across so all was well...finally!!!
I got on the hop on/off bus again, making sure it wasn't the broken one and proceeded to the gorgeous cathedral. After the visit I stopped in a cafe and had paella. Another experience! The waiter couldn't speak English and I had no idea what seafood was coming in the dish. Well, it was mussels, clams, calimari, and cuttlefish, along with one baby (or he might have said bay) lobster and a prawn. The paella was good but I wouldn't say the best I've had. By that time I could have had a pitcher of sangria, but I don't drink and was afraid the way the morning had gone I wouldn't get back to the ship on time if I did!!
I spent some time on Las Ramblas and since it was a Saturday, it was very busy with a marketplace and so, so many people. It is such an interesting place! After walking for a while there I caught the shuttle back to the ship and arrived an hour and a half before the deadline, happy to be back safe and sound after the day I'd had! Barcelona is beautiful and I am sure one day I will be back!
I had dinner with a nice group of people tonight. One lady was there with her granddaughter and she kept complaining of her shoulder, the grandmoter. Finally I asked if she was familiar with reiki and she was and wanted it and before you know it I'd reiki'ed the whole table! People loved it. It was a nice dinner and the waiter from Portugal smiled when I tried out my very limited Portuguese on him!
Tomorrow is a sea day and I am not sure what I will be doing. I have met several people I see around the ship now so that is nice. There is a meeting of the cruise group so that will be a nice social event for me. No Georgie, no news for you!
Monday we will be in Gibraltar and I will not be going to the southernmost tip of land on continental Europe. Martin said it was not a good idea so I am going to listen to him. I am booked to take a tour to Spain to a cork and cattle farm with tapas snacks. I got a letter today saying it was necessary to take my passport because we will be walking across the border to Spain! A new adventure, probably safer than the hop on/off bus in Barcelona though. We will also go on a walk through a cork forest, that's new for me! Then Tuesday is Lisbon with Cesar, a nice treat I am sure.
No mas news, buenos noches mis amigos!
I followed Jenny's recommendation that I see the Gothic Cathedral and thank you Jenny! It was magnificent! I am really not that enamored with churches anymore, but if I only see one on this whole trip, that was the one to see! I couldn't read the Spanish but one of the fountains there is the one that was used to baptize the Native Americans that Colombus brought to Spain. Quite an impressive place!
The trip throughout the city was not without complications however. The ship's shuttle took us to the world trade center and I got on the hop on/off bus. Well to begin with I chose the wrong color, it was the one I'd done with Cesar when we met here. Oh well, it was okay to see things again. However we hadn't gone far when the microphone started making loud staticy noises that were very annoying. They got more and more frequent and the bus stopped to try to fix it. The young guide was on the phone for a long time with the main office. Finally he stepped off the bus and lit up a cigarette, pretty funny as we all sat on the hot bus. The top was filled so I was on the bottom, closed in and very hot. He went to get back on the bus and the door wouldn't open! Finally he went to the back door and got it open and then the bus driver went off with him to see what he could do and in no time at all both were locked out of the bus and we were locked in with little ventilation. Of course all of their conversations were in Spanish and even with my recent classes I was unable to understand a word, however I did understand the problem!! I was across from a nice young couple from London and pretty soon we were laughing so hard. Well eventually a door was forced open and they got back on and the door shut and some people came up to get on and pushed the emergency button since the door wouldn't open. The 2 employees were yelling something and before we knew it the bus sank, the button releases the hydrolic stuff??? Anyway the bus wouldn't run at all then! So for quite some time we just sat waiting for the hydrolic whatever to come back? What a saga the morning was! The bus went on to the Sagrada Familia stop with nothing working and the door did open and we quite happily got off!! I then took a taxi to the place I wanted to see. I was able to communicate quite well with the driver who only spoke Spanish. He did smile at my Spanish, but I did get my point across so all was well...finally!!!
I got on the hop on/off bus again, making sure it wasn't the broken one and proceeded to the gorgeous cathedral. After the visit I stopped in a cafe and had paella. Another experience! The waiter couldn't speak English and I had no idea what seafood was coming in the dish. Well, it was mussels, clams, calimari, and cuttlefish, along with one baby (or he might have said bay) lobster and a prawn. The paella was good but I wouldn't say the best I've had. By that time I could have had a pitcher of sangria, but I don't drink and was afraid the way the morning had gone I wouldn't get back to the ship on time if I did!!
I spent some time on Las Ramblas and since it was a Saturday, it was very busy with a marketplace and so, so many people. It is such an interesting place! After walking for a while there I caught the shuttle back to the ship and arrived an hour and a half before the deadline, happy to be back safe and sound after the day I'd had! Barcelona is beautiful and I am sure one day I will be back!
I had dinner with a nice group of people tonight. One lady was there with her granddaughter and she kept complaining of her shoulder, the grandmoter. Finally I asked if she was familiar with reiki and she was and wanted it and before you know it I'd reiki'ed the whole table! People loved it. It was a nice dinner and the waiter from Portugal smiled when I tried out my very limited Portuguese on him!
Tomorrow is a sea day and I am not sure what I will be doing. I have met several people I see around the ship now so that is nice. There is a meeting of the cruise group so that will be a nice social event for me. No Georgie, no news for you!
Monday we will be in Gibraltar and I will not be going to the southernmost tip of land on continental Europe. Martin said it was not a good idea so I am going to listen to him. I am booked to take a tour to Spain to a cork and cattle farm with tapas snacks. I got a letter today saying it was necessary to take my passport because we will be walking across the border to Spain! A new adventure, probably safer than the hop on/off bus in Barcelona though. We will also go on a walk through a cork forest, that's new for me! Then Tuesday is Lisbon with Cesar, a nice treat I am sure.
No mas news, buenos noches mis amigos!
People
Here I am, up early anyway but at last I slept through the night, a first on the trip! Even with exhausting days, it is hard for me to change to such a different time zone and it does take a while! We are just now pulling into the port of Barcelona. I am not rushing off the ship this morning, I will wait until the rush is over and then take the shuttle into town to get on one of the hop on/off buses. There are 3 choices here, and I was going to take the seaside one, but now that Jenny wrote and told me the story of the Cathedral of Barcelona, I think I will head to the Gothic Quarter after all. I will also try to find an area called Barcelonita, that is where our teacher who lived here told me the food is delicious. I don't want to leave Barcelona without some paella!
The people on the trip have been interesting. Such a range of people! There are some who don't smile at you no matter what and I do feel badly for them, they must be having a terrible time on this incredible journey, or just have very unhappy lives. But most people are friendly and happy to be on such an incredible trip. This morning I ate with a very nice lady from Buenos Aires but I didn't practice my spanish, she spoke English. Last night I was waiting at the passenger services desk for Martin for dinner and helped a couple of people with questions. When he walked up a lady asked me if I was Mitzi from the cruise website and I said yes. I have no idea how she knew that. She proceeded to ask me questions about the visit to Barcelona and I had Martin help with some of the information and when we walked away he said they should set up a desk for me to use to help people! Wouldn't that be fun?! Wonder if we could do it, I'll have to check on that next time I see him. Would be fun to try for an hour on a sea day and just see what questions people ask. But I'm not sure I'll be moving by tomorrow, our first sea day. It is nice to know Martin, he said that he has sent an email to the passenger's services desk letting everyone know that if I call for anything they are to page him. I feel so safe knowing that. I could get spoiled being so cared for here!
There are some interesting couples I've met and enjoyed the people. It's interesting, so far it is always the wives that do the talking and the husbands stand/sit quietly by. Just an interesting pattern I thought. Guess it isn't that unusual. I have met 4 women traveling alone which is a first for me. They have my feeling that the independence is nice. One lady's husband died a few months ago and this is her first trip alone but she said she is enjoying it and knows she will do it again. So many stories from the people you meet! Just now a man asked if anyone knew when we would get into France, and yes, I was the one who knew right off the top of my head and explained that it is a month to the day from my birthday so I will be celebrating early in Monet's garden!
I talked to Cesar last night and he promised he would be waiting for me even before the ship docks in Lisbon on Tuesday. I think we will have a wonderful time. We are going to try to make it to Evora but if it looks like it is further than he thinks and we can't make it we will just turn around and go back to Lisbon. The last I heard British Airlines is still on strike. They are flying but not necessarily the same planes at the same times. If this is true when I get to London I might just tour London or maybe I will fly to Lisbon to spend a couple more days with Cesar like he had asked me to do a while ago. I'm glad I do have some extra time, but if my feet are this bad, being in Prague might not be the best idea, in Portugal we would be driving around in the countryside instead of my walking all over. Oh well, I do like all the options!
I'm off to get ready for the day in Barcelona. A great time to practice my Spanish, I think I am much better!
Hasta luego de Barcelona!
The people on the trip have been interesting. Such a range of people! There are some who don't smile at you no matter what and I do feel badly for them, they must be having a terrible time on this incredible journey, or just have very unhappy lives. But most people are friendly and happy to be on such an incredible trip. This morning I ate with a very nice lady from Buenos Aires but I didn't practice my spanish, she spoke English. Last night I was waiting at the passenger services desk for Martin for dinner and helped a couple of people with questions. When he walked up a lady asked me if I was Mitzi from the cruise website and I said yes. I have no idea how she knew that. She proceeded to ask me questions about the visit to Barcelona and I had Martin help with some of the information and when we walked away he said they should set up a desk for me to use to help people! Wouldn't that be fun?! Wonder if we could do it, I'll have to check on that next time I see him. Would be fun to try for an hour on a sea day and just see what questions people ask. But I'm not sure I'll be moving by tomorrow, our first sea day. It is nice to know Martin, he said that he has sent an email to the passenger's services desk letting everyone know that if I call for anything they are to page him. I feel so safe knowing that. I could get spoiled being so cared for here!
There are some interesting couples I've met and enjoyed the people. It's interesting, so far it is always the wives that do the talking and the husbands stand/sit quietly by. Just an interesting pattern I thought. Guess it isn't that unusual. I have met 4 women traveling alone which is a first for me. They have my feeling that the independence is nice. One lady's husband died a few months ago and this is her first trip alone but she said she is enjoying it and knows she will do it again. So many stories from the people you meet! Just now a man asked if anyone knew when we would get into France, and yes, I was the one who knew right off the top of my head and explained that it is a month to the day from my birthday so I will be celebrating early in Monet's garden!
I talked to Cesar last night and he promised he would be waiting for me even before the ship docks in Lisbon on Tuesday. I think we will have a wonderful time. We are going to try to make it to Evora but if it looks like it is further than he thinks and we can't make it we will just turn around and go back to Lisbon. The last I heard British Airlines is still on strike. They are flying but not necessarily the same planes at the same times. If this is true when I get to London I might just tour London or maybe I will fly to Lisbon to spend a couple more days with Cesar like he had asked me to do a while ago. I'm glad I do have some extra time, but if my feet are this bad, being in Prague might not be the best idea, in Portugal we would be driving around in the countryside instead of my walking all over. Oh well, I do like all the options!
I'm off to get ready for the day in Barcelona. A great time to practice my Spanish, I think I am much better!
Hasta luego de Barcelona!
Friday, June 11, 2010
AMAZING
ME!! I have totally amazed myself with all I have done the last few days! Who is this new MITZI?? Yesterday was a wonderful day in Genoa, Italy. I got to visit the very famous town of Portofino! It was beautiful, but then all of Italy I have seen the last few days is beautiful! Some call it the Italian Riviera and say Rick Steves was really instrumental in bringing such attention to it. Yesterday we drove to a town called Rapello and then took a boat on a very rough ride to Portofino. We only had an hour on our own and by then it was lunch time so a lady I met and I tried to eat a pizza but it was served just minutes before we had to take the boat so they told us we couldn't take the pizza to go. Funny them! We'd waited almost 45 minutes and I wasn't going to leave it so I folded it the way they do in Italy and put it in one of their thick paper napkins and my pesto pizza became 'take away' after all! The boat rides have been very rough and getting on the boats on a tiny little gangplank that is bouncing up and down is an experience. I'm scared of everything so I just told myself that it was just like a ride at Disneyland!! You know, kind of a space mountain without the ride part! But you slide all over just like on the ride!
Portofino was nice, but I think I liked the villages of Cinque Terre better, more charming. I found out that I could take a train to all the villages so maybe I will visit Cinque Terre again someday, but not the walk along between the villages. By the way, the pesto pizza was delicious!
After a very rough ride from Portofino to Santa Margherita we had just 45 minutes to visit the town and all the stores were closed so I sat at a street cafe and had a nice pesca (peach) tea and people watched! When we got back to the ship my feet were so sore, but I just couldn't sit on the ship so I decided to walk a couple of blocks to the water taxi which would take me to the very famous, largest aquarium in Europe, the Genoa Aquarium. It really was beautiful and I liked the manatees eating lettuce the best! So many wonderful displays there. Finished that visit with a chocolate chip gelato, my first of the trip and then took the water taxi back to the ship and rested. Went to dinner late and slept well.
The weather is unbearably hot here, I'm miserable. I would be enjoying this much more in the fall or spring, next time I won't make the mistake of heading to the Mediterrean in summer!! However I will say I am getting some color and can say my tan is from the Italian and French Riviera! My cabin is warm, I think that is a way that Princess is saving money. Thank goodness my friend Martin is on the ship and I told him and he got them to come in and make it cooler and now it is much more comfortable, although I would like it even cooler!! It is nice to have a friend in a high place! Finally we had dinner tonight and I really enjoyed it. He is an interesting young man from Dubai and a good friend of Cesar's too.
Today I had to switch from Buon giorno to Bonjour and from grazie to merci beaucoup! Hard to change countries over night! I've been to the French Riviera and Monaco and Monte Carlo before so I decided to take the only tour I hadn't been on and headed innocently to St. Paul de vince. It is a walled city on a mountain. What I didn't know was that I would be walking up that mountain!!! Buses aren't allowed to drive up there! I didn't think I would make it, but alas, I did! And the village was a straight up walk, just like Mont St. Michel was. I made it up the charming village and was happy at the little parfume store, the scent was wonderful! Bought a few things and stopped for a crepe, when in ... My favorite is the simple one with sucre, sugar and the way the man made it amazed me, and it was so delicious! Walked back to the bus and was a couple minutes late, but it was okay, I was feeling so proud of myself for making it at all!
That was not the only thrill of the day. I went to the Cannes film festival center and yes, I did pose and have my picture taken walking on THE red carpet! What fun that was! The picture is horrible of me, so Iwould guess I will never be one of the famous ones walking up the carpet! Spent some time wandering the city of Cannes and loved it! Chatted with a nice couple who had a gorgous golden retriever, all white! They are so common over here in Europe but not at home. The couple was ready to fix me up with the breeder but I explained I couldn't have another dog now. What a cutie that boy was though, he had a name I couldn't pronounce and they told me it was the name of one of the 3 musketeers, not the Micky Mouse ones!
Tomorrow is Barcelona and I will be seeing it without a tour, finally a day I don't have to wake up with the sun!!!
Au Revoir mes amis!
Portofino was nice, but I think I liked the villages of Cinque Terre better, more charming. I found out that I could take a train to all the villages so maybe I will visit Cinque Terre again someday, but not the walk along between the villages. By the way, the pesto pizza was delicious!
After a very rough ride from Portofino to Santa Margherita we had just 45 minutes to visit the town and all the stores were closed so I sat at a street cafe and had a nice pesca (peach) tea and people watched! When we got back to the ship my feet were so sore, but I just couldn't sit on the ship so I decided to walk a couple of blocks to the water taxi which would take me to the very famous, largest aquarium in Europe, the Genoa Aquarium. It really was beautiful and I liked the manatees eating lettuce the best! So many wonderful displays there. Finished that visit with a chocolate chip gelato, my first of the trip and then took the water taxi back to the ship and rested. Went to dinner late and slept well.
The weather is unbearably hot here, I'm miserable. I would be enjoying this much more in the fall or spring, next time I won't make the mistake of heading to the Mediterrean in summer!! However I will say I am getting some color and can say my tan is from the Italian and French Riviera! My cabin is warm, I think that is a way that Princess is saving money. Thank goodness my friend Martin is on the ship and I told him and he got them to come in and make it cooler and now it is much more comfortable, although I would like it even cooler!! It is nice to have a friend in a high place! Finally we had dinner tonight and I really enjoyed it. He is an interesting young man from Dubai and a good friend of Cesar's too.
Today I had to switch from Buon giorno to Bonjour and from grazie to merci beaucoup! Hard to change countries over night! I've been to the French Riviera and Monaco and Monte Carlo before so I decided to take the only tour I hadn't been on and headed innocently to St. Paul de vince. It is a walled city on a mountain. What I didn't know was that I would be walking up that mountain!!! Buses aren't allowed to drive up there! I didn't think I would make it, but alas, I did! And the village was a straight up walk, just like Mont St. Michel was. I made it up the charming village and was happy at the little parfume store, the scent was wonderful! Bought a few things and stopped for a crepe, when in ... My favorite is the simple one with sucre, sugar and the way the man made it amazed me, and it was so delicious! Walked back to the bus and was a couple minutes late, but it was okay, I was feeling so proud of myself for making it at all!
That was not the only thrill of the day. I went to the Cannes film festival center and yes, I did pose and have my picture taken walking on THE red carpet! What fun that was! The picture is horrible of me, so Iwould guess I will never be one of the famous ones walking up the carpet! Spent some time wandering the city of Cannes and loved it! Chatted with a nice couple who had a gorgous golden retriever, all white! They are so common over here in Europe but not at home. The couple was ready to fix me up with the breeder but I explained I couldn't have another dog now. What a cutie that boy was though, he had a name I couldn't pronounce and they told me it was the name of one of the 3 musketeers, not the Micky Mouse ones!
Tomorrow is Barcelona and I will be seeing it without a tour, finally a day I don't have to wake up with the sun!!!
Au Revoir mes amis!
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