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!
Saturday, June 26, 2010
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!
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Cinque Terre
Been there, DONE that! Amazing, what beauty! I am not sure I've ever been as hot and tired, I walked miles today literally! We visited 4 of the 5 towns and walked between two of them on the 'path of love'. It was an incredible day and I'm glad I've now done Cinque Terre! The path of love is lined with agave plants that have love messages carved in the massive leaves. There are love messages along the tunnel walls and there are padlocks all over, locked onto every possible place! The point is to lock the lock and throw the key into the ocean to seal their love! Touching and interesting. I saw a dad carving someting into the tunnel wall, what a nice thing to do for his wife and daughters. Me, I just panted along, blisters squishing in the shoes!
I sampled some food, had delicious bruschetta in one village, something called finnata (NOT the right spelling) that is made up of chickpeas. Delicious! Then there was the pesto pasta, out of this world! Lots of beauty to see and interesting people to meet. In fact I took pictures of a few of the beautiful young men I met and have decided to do a book or a calendar on the beauty of Italy! Have to get more pics tomorrow in Portofino. Took pics of most of the food too!
The day was different, a very strange happening for Princess. Yesterday during the lifeboat drill the captain informed us that we didn't have a berth space in Livorno so we would have to move on La Spaneza and dock far out and tender a long way in. Now this trip has been on the books for over a year and it is hard to believe that PRINCESS, yes PRINCESS, didn't get berth space reserved!! Not many of us believe that story. What a mess for everyone, the tours had to switch to the other port and people with independent tours had to contact tour guides to tell them of the switch and people who were planning on train trips to Pisa and Florence no longer could do what they'd planned. For my tour it was supposed to be a good thing, we were closer to Cinque Terre. But we were supposed to leave at 8:30 and the new time told us to be ready at 6:45AM!! It's been a 12 hour day and hot and exhausting. Probably I shouldn't have done the trip, it was so hard, but I did know I needed to do it this trip. And I made it but I'm not sure when I'll move again!!!
Now it is time to eat and go to bed so all I can say is...Ciao bella!
I sampled some food, had delicious bruschetta in one village, something called finnata (NOT the right spelling) that is made up of chickpeas. Delicious! Then there was the pesto pasta, out of this world! Lots of beauty to see and interesting people to meet. In fact I took pictures of a few of the beautiful young men I met and have decided to do a book or a calendar on the beauty of Italy! Have to get more pics tomorrow in Portofino. Took pics of most of the food too!
The day was different, a very strange happening for Princess. Yesterday during the lifeboat drill the captain informed us that we didn't have a berth space in Livorno so we would have to move on La Spaneza and dock far out and tender a long way in. Now this trip has been on the books for over a year and it is hard to believe that PRINCESS, yes PRINCESS, didn't get berth space reserved!! Not many of us believe that story. What a mess for everyone, the tours had to switch to the other port and people with independent tours had to contact tour guides to tell them of the switch and people who were planning on train trips to Pisa and Florence no longer could do what they'd planned. For my tour it was supposed to be a good thing, we were closer to Cinque Terre. But we were supposed to leave at 8:30 and the new time told us to be ready at 6:45AM!! It's been a 12 hour day and hot and exhausting. Probably I shouldn't have done the trip, it was so hard, but I did know I needed to do it this trip. And I made it but I'm not sure when I'll move again!!!
Now it is time to eat and go to bed so all I can say is...Ciao bella!
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Crown Princess
I'm on the ship and it feels like home! Haven't seen my friend on the crew yet, but I did meet a couple of the people I met on the cruise website so I think this trip will be a lot of fun!
I'm now Elite, which means some extra perks. I think I am going to enjoy that. There is a bowl of fruit in my cabin and extra ammenities that I haven't seen before so I'm sure that is an elite thing.
Now off to hear the Italian singer who is in the atrium. The vacation has begun! There are many families and young adults on this trip so it feels different. I'm not used to a cruise in summer. Hope the heat isn't too bad!
I hope my feet are better by tomorrow, the blisters on the bottom of my feet from my long walk in Rome are not at all comfortable but tomorrow is the most important tour, Cinque Terre!! So I have to make it, blisters and all!
At this point it seems César will be meeting the ship when it arrives in Lisboa in a week. That was more good news, we do always have a lot of fun.
And now off to explore my new home for the next 2 weeks!
Arriverdici! (not sure of the spelling...)
I'm now Elite, which means some extra perks. I think I am going to enjoy that. There is a bowl of fruit in my cabin and extra ammenities that I haven't seen before so I'm sure that is an elite thing.
Now off to hear the Italian singer who is in the atrium. The vacation has begun! There are many families and young adults on this trip so it feels different. I'm not used to a cruise in summer. Hope the heat isn't too bad!
I hope my feet are better by tomorrow, the blisters on the bottom of my feet from my long walk in Rome are not at all comfortable but tomorrow is the most important tour, Cinque Terre!! So I have to make it, blisters and all!
At this point it seems César will be meeting the ship when it arrives in Lisboa in a week. That was more good news, we do always have a lot of fun.
And now off to explore my new home for the next 2 weeks!
Arriverdici! (not sure of the spelling...)
Monday, June 7, 2010
Roma!
Oh my, what a long day!! The flight across the Atlantic was good, rough at points but I believe I did sleep about an hour or so. We were on the runway for over an hour before we finally took off. Long wait and long night! We arrived about 8AM Rome time, which is midnight Colorado time. They say the trick is to stay awake until night to adjust to the time change, well that was miserable and thank goodness for a short nap a bit ago!
Sat next to an interesting lady on the flight, she is a neurophysicist, I believe it was. Neuro was at the beginning and physicist was in there too but there may have been more scientific words too. She was on her way to a meeting in Sardenia, she and her husband have traveled all over the world many times and she had quite interesting stories. She was upset with her husband because he had knee replacement surgery and felt he could not make the trip and she did not like that she was going to be alone on their 48th anniversary and she had to handle her own passport and all the paper work for travel. Poor thing!
While waiting at the airport for almost an hour for our luggage I started talking to a lady next to me. Turns out she is one of the teachers on the trip who is a teacher in Douglas County! Hundreds of people on our flight and I meet one of the people out of 2600 on our cruise who lives close by and taught where I taught for years. Small world? Then on the hotel shuttle into Rome I started talking to the people behind me and what do you know, they are from Littleton and their children went to school at the school I taught at my first year! Rome, Italy, that is where I am honestly, not in downtown Denver! One would never know that! That couple took a Windjammer cruise on the Amalfi coast.
Something I learned about Italy, no reason to hurry for an appointment, no one seems worried about being on time. The shuttle from my hotel to the other Hilton was 30 minutes late and no one said a thing, just acted like it was normal to have waited 45minutes when it should have been 15. A very handsome Italian man helped me find my way to the hotel shuttle from the airport. Last year Cesar and I gave up because we could not find it but now I know where it is! The Italian gentleman even used his cell to call the hotel to see when they would be there and they said about 5 minutes, so I looked at him and asked if that meant 20 minutes and he laughed and said probably, we were right! I do have to say that I am meeting much kinder people this trip than Cesar and I met last year here. Everyone has been kind and helpful so it is a pleasant surprise since I do ask a lot of questions!
After checking in I took our shuttle to the other Hilton and then took their free shuttle into Rome. Evidently that is no longer okay so the driver was not pleased with me on the way back when I did not have a card from their Hilton. We got to the drop off point in Rome and it was where I remembered being with Justin. I took off after inquiring which way the Trevi fountain was. I remembered it was a few blocks away but the directions people were giving me were for quite a long walk, almost 2 miles each way I was told. (keep in mind Rome is on hills!) Could not figure out that discrepency and I was sure I would find it a couple of blocks away. WELL, it is rare, but I was wrong! What I had forgotten is that my nephew and I had taken a bus to the Trevi stop and THEN walked a couple of blocks. AND so I can barely stand right now, but I did make it to the Trevi fountain, joined 3 delightful young people from Australia in our search so at least the long walk was pleasant, but the heat made it an even harder trip for me. When we arrived at the Trevi fountain it was packed and so hot and unfortunately I could not sit by it with gelato as I had planned. I was just happy to find a little cafe near there to have lunch. The spaghetti carbonara was not my favorite, but it was good. I ordered a coke, and nearly fell over when the bill came, 5 euros for a can of coke!! That would be about $6 I think. Oh well, how often does one get to eat at a sidewalk cafe at the Trevi Fountain. I then walked the 2 miles back in the heat to our meeting point. When we arrived at the hotel I went in and tried their gelato. I had cinnamon and it was delicious! So I did get gelato and pasta, just no pizza yet. The young man was so kind at the hotel that he would not even charge me for the gelato, I must have really looked pathetic after that walk in the heat!
Dinner tonight was after a short nap and I had an amazing pasta at my hotel. It is called Spaghetti Cacio & Pepe with Pears, and it was incredible! Evidently the chef here won a competition in Florence with this recipe and it will be served in 500 Hilton Garden Inns around the world and now it is being previewed here. Absolutely delicious! A real treat in Roma! Now I am off to bed and will be up in the morning to head back to the airport and get the shuttle to Civitavecchia for the cruise. I will be very glad to settle in for a while!
Ciao from Rome!
Sat next to an interesting lady on the flight, she is a neurophysicist, I believe it was. Neuro was at the beginning and physicist was in there too but there may have been more scientific words too. She was on her way to a meeting in Sardenia, she and her husband have traveled all over the world many times and she had quite interesting stories. She was upset with her husband because he had knee replacement surgery and felt he could not make the trip and she did not like that she was going to be alone on their 48th anniversary and she had to handle her own passport and all the paper work for travel. Poor thing!
While waiting at the airport for almost an hour for our luggage I started talking to a lady next to me. Turns out she is one of the teachers on the trip who is a teacher in Douglas County! Hundreds of people on our flight and I meet one of the people out of 2600 on our cruise who lives close by and taught where I taught for years. Small world? Then on the hotel shuttle into Rome I started talking to the people behind me and what do you know, they are from Littleton and their children went to school at the school I taught at my first year! Rome, Italy, that is where I am honestly, not in downtown Denver! One would never know that! That couple took a Windjammer cruise on the Amalfi coast.
Something I learned about Italy, no reason to hurry for an appointment, no one seems worried about being on time. The shuttle from my hotel to the other Hilton was 30 minutes late and no one said a thing, just acted like it was normal to have waited 45minutes when it should have been 15. A very handsome Italian man helped me find my way to the hotel shuttle from the airport. Last year Cesar and I gave up because we could not find it but now I know where it is! The Italian gentleman even used his cell to call the hotel to see when they would be there and they said about 5 minutes, so I looked at him and asked if that meant 20 minutes and he laughed and said probably, we were right! I do have to say that I am meeting much kinder people this trip than Cesar and I met last year here. Everyone has been kind and helpful so it is a pleasant surprise since I do ask a lot of questions!
After checking in I took our shuttle to the other Hilton and then took their free shuttle into Rome. Evidently that is no longer okay so the driver was not pleased with me on the way back when I did not have a card from their Hilton. We got to the drop off point in Rome and it was where I remembered being with Justin. I took off after inquiring which way the Trevi fountain was. I remembered it was a few blocks away but the directions people were giving me were for quite a long walk, almost 2 miles each way I was told. (keep in mind Rome is on hills!) Could not figure out that discrepency and I was sure I would find it a couple of blocks away. WELL, it is rare, but I was wrong! What I had forgotten is that my nephew and I had taken a bus to the Trevi stop and THEN walked a couple of blocks. AND so I can barely stand right now, but I did make it to the Trevi fountain, joined 3 delightful young people from Australia in our search so at least the long walk was pleasant, but the heat made it an even harder trip for me. When we arrived at the Trevi fountain it was packed and so hot and unfortunately I could not sit by it with gelato as I had planned. I was just happy to find a little cafe near there to have lunch. The spaghetti carbonara was not my favorite, but it was good. I ordered a coke, and nearly fell over when the bill came, 5 euros for a can of coke!! That would be about $6 I think. Oh well, how often does one get to eat at a sidewalk cafe at the Trevi Fountain. I then walked the 2 miles back in the heat to our meeting point. When we arrived at the hotel I went in and tried their gelato. I had cinnamon and it was delicious! So I did get gelato and pasta, just no pizza yet. The young man was so kind at the hotel that he would not even charge me for the gelato, I must have really looked pathetic after that walk in the heat!
Dinner tonight was after a short nap and I had an amazing pasta at my hotel. It is called Spaghetti Cacio & Pepe with Pears, and it was incredible! Evidently the chef here won a competition in Florence with this recipe and it will be served in 500 Hilton Garden Inns around the world and now it is being previewed here. Absolutely delicious! A real treat in Roma! Now I am off to bed and will be up in the morning to head back to the airport and get the shuttle to Civitavecchia for the cruise. I will be very glad to settle in for a while!
Ciao from Rome!
Sunday, June 6, 2010
ME
If you are reading this blog you probably know me. Maybe you are an old friend, maybe a new one, or maybe someone just told you to follow this crazy lady as she ventures around the world. Whoever you are, welcome to my adventures!
I write like I talk, a lot! And believe me, I have a lot to say! Maybe not all worth reading, but that is your decision. I'm a teacher, always have been and always will be, whether I am teaching children, teaching adults or just exploring the world with a child-like curiousity. I love learning and I love learning about different cultures and people, so when my international travel began just 3 short years ago, my world opened up.
I love my job! I am Curriculum Coordinator at an international charter school. I help plan units and order materials in 4 languages, only one of which I speak-English, and love being immersed in books and cultures. Being at work helps my desire to experience cultures, you can always hear conversations going on in Mandarin, French or Spanish, both with the teachers and students. It is a wonderful place to be!
When I stepped on the plane yesterday out of Denver headed to DC and now on to Rome, I realized that this is the time I become alive! It seems I am more myself when chatting with 'strangers' along the way. I am thrilled with the anticipation of the adventure to come. I've been gone less than 24 hours and have already met interesting people and had interesting conversations and learned a lot!
One of the best opening lines is "Where are you from?" and when I hear an accent in Denver or anywhere that is what I always ask. It is fascinating to hear people's stories. I remember one time on tv there was a show or segment of a show about real people's lives. I found that interesting and that is what I like to do. Hear people's stories.
After writing my blog last night I went to the lobby restaurant here at the airport Marriott. I had already met the 'Olympic' lady on the plane and a very nice flight attendent whose name I got so I could write United to tell them how kind she was. I don't find that the rule on United anymore so it is important to give credit when someone is doing their job well and with a smile. My server had an accent so I asked where he is from and he is from Morocco! I will be right across a bay from there when I am in Gibraltar so I asked him about visiting there. I am quite sure I will not take the ferry over alone but maybe if I meet someone who will go with me I just might do it. He became so animated talking about his country, all the beautiful things to see and do and how I would need at least a week to see it all. He explained the language is really a mix of Arabic, French, Spanish and Italian and he could understand most of those languages but no can understand his! He was so happy talking about his home country that by the time I'd finished my dinner he told me he would fly home to show me around when I was there! A joke of course, but I believe I left him happier than when I first met him. That is something I do like to do, make people feel good. People love to talk about home and I love to learn from the experts! Luckily it was almost 11PM here so the restaurant was empty and he had time to chat with me. I had a club sandwich and it was just perfect as a bedtime dinner and when I left I knew more about Morocco so it was a lovely dinner. And one of the advantages of travelling alone, you meet so many people!
This morning I came into the business center to check email and a man was waiting as I was finishing up. I told him it would just be a minute and when he answered he spoke with an Irish accent. I've learned that I confuse that with Scottish and have learned that I need to be very careful about that. I was pretty sure he was Irish so I asked him and I was right. I told him that I would be in Dublin in a couple of weeks as a one day stop on the cruise. He is from Cork so I did ask if he knew the naturalist who was on the Antarctic cruise, you just never know! He didn't. He was very excited thinking about what I should see. I told him I wanted to see the Book of Kells and he said that was very nice and I should and then I told him I was planning on seeing the Powerscourt Estate and he told me that was a good choice too. He said he knows an excellent restaurant that serves delicious Irish 'fare' near Trinity College where the Book of Kells is. He wrote down the name of that and another for me. He was telling me about the chef there and was so excited talking about it he made me look him up on google. I did and the man has his own show or internet site or something and this man made me write his name down so I could email him and tell him when I will be there so he can have an excellent Irish meal prepared for me. I shared with this unnamed Irish man, no I didn't get his name, that I am working on my business of travel photos turned into greeting cards and I wanted to do a whole line of pics of foods from around the world so a traditional Irish meal would be great for the pics. He told me I needed to email this chef for sure and tell him when I would be there and he is sure he will even let me back in the kitchen to take pictures of the food being prepared! Funny! Who knows, it might be my new career, oh it has already been done by others on the Food Network so I think I'll just stick with pictures for now.
So here I am, less than 24 hours into my trip and I've met interesting people and learned a lot! Christina, my principal, said I collect people, what an interesting concept and I believe she is right!
Well, a thunderstorm just started up here. I hope it passes quickly and my flight can depart on time. I've now got about 4 hours at the airport so I will check my bags and then go to the Smithsonian Air and Space museum at the airport I guess. Or maybe I'll just relax in the United lounge and sleep a bit more. Whatever I do, I will be ready to arrive in Roma and sit at the Trevi fountain eating gelato!
More from there! Ciao mi amigos!
I write like I talk, a lot! And believe me, I have a lot to say! Maybe not all worth reading, but that is your decision. I'm a teacher, always have been and always will be, whether I am teaching children, teaching adults or just exploring the world with a child-like curiousity. I love learning and I love learning about different cultures and people, so when my international travel began just 3 short years ago, my world opened up.
I love my job! I am Curriculum Coordinator at an international charter school. I help plan units and order materials in 4 languages, only one of which I speak-English, and love being immersed in books and cultures. Being at work helps my desire to experience cultures, you can always hear conversations going on in Mandarin, French or Spanish, both with the teachers and students. It is a wonderful place to be!
When I stepped on the plane yesterday out of Denver headed to DC and now on to Rome, I realized that this is the time I become alive! It seems I am more myself when chatting with 'strangers' along the way. I am thrilled with the anticipation of the adventure to come. I've been gone less than 24 hours and have already met interesting people and had interesting conversations and learned a lot!
One of the best opening lines is "Where are you from?" and when I hear an accent in Denver or anywhere that is what I always ask. It is fascinating to hear people's stories. I remember one time on tv there was a show or segment of a show about real people's lives. I found that interesting and that is what I like to do. Hear people's stories.
After writing my blog last night I went to the lobby restaurant here at the airport Marriott. I had already met the 'Olympic' lady on the plane and a very nice flight attendent whose name I got so I could write United to tell them how kind she was. I don't find that the rule on United anymore so it is important to give credit when someone is doing their job well and with a smile. My server had an accent so I asked where he is from and he is from Morocco! I will be right across a bay from there when I am in Gibraltar so I asked him about visiting there. I am quite sure I will not take the ferry over alone but maybe if I meet someone who will go with me I just might do it. He became so animated talking about his country, all the beautiful things to see and do and how I would need at least a week to see it all. He explained the language is really a mix of Arabic, French, Spanish and Italian and he could understand most of those languages but no can understand his! He was so happy talking about his home country that by the time I'd finished my dinner he told me he would fly home to show me around when I was there! A joke of course, but I believe I left him happier than when I first met him. That is something I do like to do, make people feel good. People love to talk about home and I love to learn from the experts! Luckily it was almost 11PM here so the restaurant was empty and he had time to chat with me. I had a club sandwich and it was just perfect as a bedtime dinner and when I left I knew more about Morocco so it was a lovely dinner. And one of the advantages of travelling alone, you meet so many people!
This morning I came into the business center to check email and a man was waiting as I was finishing up. I told him it would just be a minute and when he answered he spoke with an Irish accent. I've learned that I confuse that with Scottish and have learned that I need to be very careful about that. I was pretty sure he was Irish so I asked him and I was right. I told him that I would be in Dublin in a couple of weeks as a one day stop on the cruise. He is from Cork so I did ask if he knew the naturalist who was on the Antarctic cruise, you just never know! He didn't. He was very excited thinking about what I should see. I told him I wanted to see the Book of Kells and he said that was very nice and I should and then I told him I was planning on seeing the Powerscourt Estate and he told me that was a good choice too. He said he knows an excellent restaurant that serves delicious Irish 'fare' near Trinity College where the Book of Kells is. He wrote down the name of that and another for me. He was telling me about the chef there and was so excited talking about it he made me look him up on google. I did and the man has his own show or internet site or something and this man made me write his name down so I could email him and tell him when I will be there so he can have an excellent Irish meal prepared for me. I shared with this unnamed Irish man, no I didn't get his name, that I am working on my business of travel photos turned into greeting cards and I wanted to do a whole line of pics of foods from around the world so a traditional Irish meal would be great for the pics. He told me I needed to email this chef for sure and tell him when I would be there and he is sure he will even let me back in the kitchen to take pictures of the food being prepared! Funny! Who knows, it might be my new career, oh it has already been done by others on the Food Network so I think I'll just stick with pictures for now.
So here I am, less than 24 hours into my trip and I've met interesting people and learned a lot! Christina, my principal, said I collect people, what an interesting concept and I believe she is right!
Well, a thunderstorm just started up here. I hope it passes quickly and my flight can depart on time. I've now got about 4 hours at the airport so I will check my bags and then go to the Smithsonian Air and Space museum at the airport I guess. Or maybe I'll just relax in the United lounge and sleep a bit more. Whatever I do, I will be ready to arrive in Roma and sit at the Trevi fountain eating gelato!
More from there! Ciao mi amigos!
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Leaving on a Jet Plane
Well, Actually I already left on the jet plane! Wonderful Edwin and Frances picked me up after both dogs were delivered to their new, temporary homes, and they took me to the airport. It was so nice to have a ride and not have to deal with the parking and waiting and the ride. And Frances sent me on my way with a sample of her macaroni salad she was taking to the picnic I couldn't attend tonight. She had it all packed for travel with a spoon and a sweet note from her family and from Bram and Meli! What a fun new friend she is!
So I get on the plane and of course I at least had to say hello to the lady next to me. We chatted for a bit and I was fascinated with her life. She works for the National Olympic Committee and flies around the world, over 100,000 miles worth a year and this year 200,000 she told me, to do something with the sports performance department. I'm not sure exactly what that means, but it does sound very important. I found out she speaks Russian and Spanish too, so yes, you guessed it, I asked her to visit my school and maybe do a presentation for the older kids about an interesting career in International Business and she was interested in the new school we are opening that will be offering Russian. At the end of our trip I gave her my business card and was happy when she also offered me hers. She was on her way to Frankfurt and then would be in Athens by Monday morning to work for a week.
DC airport has changed from my not so happy memories of it on Christmas Eve. The people movers are only in a couple of terminals now and there is a very, very long walk to get to the trains that take you around. Nice trains, lots of work and the airport looks great. I got to my hotel with no problems and after putting my suitcases away I left to come have dinner and write my blog. I walked out my door and there was a lady putting masking tape all over the door across the hall from me. Strange sight, a first for me! I asked if she was a teacher because she was calling into the room, "Lights out girls!" Yes she was, and she is here with 150 5th graders from Tennessee on an AAA DC trip. I never saw anything like it. She was a delightful teacher and I had to laugh as I walked down the hall and all the doors had various arrangements of tape so they would know if anyone left their rooms. very funny! And now I am headed to dinner and a good night's sleep.
Tomorrow I may head to the Smithsonian for an hour or so since I've never been there. I'm nervous about taking the city bus for a 45 minute ride but if I can ride a tram in Belgium to Osgaard, or somewhere like that, where no one spoke English, I can probably find my way from my airport hotel to town.
Tomorrow evening I leave for Roma!! Pasta, pizza and gelato are calling my name!
So I get on the plane and of course I at least had to say hello to the lady next to me. We chatted for a bit and I was fascinated with her life. She works for the National Olympic Committee and flies around the world, over 100,000 miles worth a year and this year 200,000 she told me, to do something with the sports performance department. I'm not sure exactly what that means, but it does sound very important. I found out she speaks Russian and Spanish too, so yes, you guessed it, I asked her to visit my school and maybe do a presentation for the older kids about an interesting career in International Business and she was interested in the new school we are opening that will be offering Russian. At the end of our trip I gave her my business card and was happy when she also offered me hers. She was on her way to Frankfurt and then would be in Athens by Monday morning to work for a week.
DC airport has changed from my not so happy memories of it on Christmas Eve. The people movers are only in a couple of terminals now and there is a very, very long walk to get to the trains that take you around. Nice trains, lots of work and the airport looks great. I got to my hotel with no problems and after putting my suitcases away I left to come have dinner and write my blog. I walked out my door and there was a lady putting masking tape all over the door across the hall from me. Strange sight, a first for me! I asked if she was a teacher because she was calling into the room, "Lights out girls!" Yes she was, and she is here with 150 5th graders from Tennessee on an AAA DC trip. I never saw anything like it. She was a delightful teacher and I had to laugh as I walked down the hall and all the doors had various arrangements of tape so they would know if anyone left their rooms. very funny! And now I am headed to dinner and a good night's sleep.
Tomorrow I may head to the Smithsonian for an hour or so since I've never been there. I'm nervous about taking the city bus for a 45 minute ride but if I can ride a tram in Belgium to Osgaard, or somewhere like that, where no one spoke English, I can probably find my way from my airport hotel to town.
Tomorrow evening I leave for Roma!! Pasta, pizza and gelato are calling my name!
Thursday, June 3, 2010
The Countdown is On!
I wonder how many other people actually get nervous before a big trip? The worry is mixed with excitement, but the preparations are overwhelming, as is the daunting trip ahead. How can I get everything done and handle all my luggage through airports and shuttles and end up intact in Rome? It always works out but it always overwhelms me.
The lists are long and clear: stop the mail, get extra food for the dogs, get a new key made for the housesitter (where did the others go?), pay all the bills that will come due while I'm gone, get extra meds (such a big deal now the way insurances only let you have a month at a time - you have to give your departure and return dates, are they going to call and check?), purchase the foreign currency for the countries I'm visiting, have someone show me how to do the fancy things on the camera, be sure I have enough memory cards and batteries, charge all the electrical devices, get the global sim card for the international phone, have my everyday cell changed over to an international plan, notify the charge company of an international trip, pack books to read, journals to write in, get snacks for the trip, get gifts for the friends I will see, finish up work things, pick up all the clothes at the cleaners, be sure what you are taking still fits, etc!!! OH yes, and don't forget the passport!!! And all the confirmation papers of each stop along the way printed and put in the important paper folder, lots of that to keep track of this trip with the extra stops. Princess no longer sends you any documentation so you have to print that all out too and have it ready to give the shuttle driver in Rome, and this time the first cutback I've noticed is that they no longer send you luggage tags, you have to print them out, fold them and staple them onto the luggage! We should get a discount for all of that that we do ourselves now!
All done! But wait...Meli, my little girl is sneezing and coughing and I can't leave town without being sure she is okay. Bram is gnawing at his feet more than ever, how much of his meds to I take to the kennel for him? So of course a vet visit has to happen at the last minute but all is well and they will be well cared for. Where did I put his blanket and his favorite toys that he has to take with him? Can I really squeeze in a pedicure? (Yes, thanks to my friend Carol who knows someone good and close).
Packing to get it all in is a task that is easier than it used to be. I pack a flexible suitcase Jenny told me about years ago that is so cool. It unzips to become quite large but is flexible to fold up to almost nothing so my routine is to pack that in the big suitcase on the way to my trip, and when I come home it can be unzipped to different sizes to match the new things I have acquired. I leave with one big suitcase and a roll on and very large purse and return with 2 checked bags, perfect plan. The roll on has to have clothes for a few days in it because luggage has been known to get lost and I'm not a size where I can just go out and buy new things. It's become easier over the years, everything is black and white that goes with me on the journey, easy to coordinate this way. This time the trip will have new perks for me. I've made it ELITE status and with that comes free laundry, cleaning and pressing! That will be a nice help! And supposedly appetizers will be delivered to my room free of charge on request and on the formal nights. Maybe I will meet new friends to entertain?
And so, tonight will be the last minute packing since tomorrow is filled with appointments and then Saturday I fly away to Washington DC! I will just miss a lot of my friends on this trip, Teneshia from work is moving to DC this weekend but won't be there before I leave for Rome. Dan, our first grade teacher, and Christina our principal will both be in Spain but not the day I am there. So close, but so far away! I'm hoping that I will get to see Diana somehow in England, but I'm not sure how that will work out, and now that Terry and Peter are on their cruise of the Norwegian fjords I won't see them either. Hopefully César will have the day I am in Lisbon off if he does get a job so at least we can spend the afternoon together in the countryside of Portugal. There are still many places I haven't seen and the visit will be short but we always have a good time and it is always hard to leave him after a short visit.
My itinerary for this trip is amazing! I'm really looking forward to all that I will see and do, although it is going to be quite exhausting! I start with a day and night in Rome and am looking forward to so many things there. Then we go to Livorno, the port for Florence. I've been there before so I'm on the tour to Cinque Terre which is supposed to be more beautiful than the Amalfi Coast, that is hard to believe! Then on to Genoa where I will be for the first time and will visit Portofino and Christopher Colombus' home and where the king and queen greeted him when he returned from America. Then on to Nice and I will visit the small picturesque town of St. Paul de Vence. Next on the itinerary is Barcelona, and I have not visited the Gothic Quarter so that is on the agenda for me there. Then to Gibraltar where I will either be brave and take a bus to the southernmost point of continental Europe which is in Spain, or take a trip north to Spain and visit a cork and cattle farm. This would be the most interesting for my job so either thing will be great! Then a long afternoon in Lisbon and then 2 sea days to Ireland and Scotland. Hopefully this trip I will see the Book of Kells in Dublin, that is in every travel guide as a 'must see' and will go to the beautiful Powerscourt Estate gardens. In Scotland I will either spend a day on my own in Edinburgh or go to the famous(?)Falkirk Wheel and the village of Stirling. I've been to Stirling Castle which is in the Braveheart territory but didn't spend time in the village. Then it is back to W. Europe and to my two favorite places! In Le Havre I will visit Claude Monet's Garden once again, yes it is my 3rd time there but it is a place you could never get tired of! And I've only been in spring so in the summer the water lilies and roses should be blooming so I'm excited about that! That tour also goes to Rouen, which is a lovely French town and the place where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. My first trip to Europe I took this same tour but the Rouen stop was far from charming so I'm looking forward to it this time. That was the day that the new French president was inaugrated and we were told to beware of riots!! My first time in France and I was panicked! I was crossing a main square in the old town (alone of course)to find a public bathroom and suddenly from all corners riot police with full protection and big guns started marching in! I was TERRIFIED! But the need for the bathroom won out so I probably moved quicker than I have before or since as I quickly went in and then back to the bus. That is a sight I will never forget! And a feeling I won't forget either! This time will hopefully be much calmer! That is the city where the cathedral Monet painted many times is located and to see it in person after seeing his paintings of it for years was a thrill...it was before the riot police marched in! After Le Havre I will be back in my favorite place of all, Brugges, Belgium. And I can promise that my first stop will be the little streetside cafe, Lily's, where I will eat my first caramel belgian waffle. The name belgian waffle is misleading because they are actually Liege sugar waffles only served at the street side cafes and windows and Sharon will agree, they are worth traveling halfway across the world to eat! As usual I will probably eat one when I arrive and then spend the day wandering the beautiful, quaint, charming town and then have one before departing. If I drank it is a great place to try the beer and the mussels are famous too, but for me, the waffles, chocolate and frites will do! Then we head to London and I will take the shuttle from Southampton to Heathrow and then get a taxi to the hotel and leave most of my luggage and head back to the airport with my roll on and rather than flying to Lisbon as I usually do at the end of a trip, I am going somewhere new, I will flying off to Prague that afternoon for 2 days of a new experience. Hopefully British Airways will be off strike and all the planes will be on time! Two days in Prague and then I fly back to London for one night and home the next day! WHEW!! A very busy trip and I will certainly make the most of every opportunity as I always do.
Well, that is the trip we are about to embark on! And now, where did I leave off on my list of things to do????
The lists are long and clear: stop the mail, get extra food for the dogs, get a new key made for the housesitter (where did the others go?), pay all the bills that will come due while I'm gone, get extra meds (such a big deal now the way insurances only let you have a month at a time - you have to give your departure and return dates, are they going to call and check?), purchase the foreign currency for the countries I'm visiting, have someone show me how to do the fancy things on the camera, be sure I have enough memory cards and batteries, charge all the electrical devices, get the global sim card for the international phone, have my everyday cell changed over to an international plan, notify the charge company of an international trip, pack books to read, journals to write in, get snacks for the trip, get gifts for the friends I will see, finish up work things, pick up all the clothes at the cleaners, be sure what you are taking still fits, etc!!! OH yes, and don't forget the passport!!! And all the confirmation papers of each stop along the way printed and put in the important paper folder, lots of that to keep track of this trip with the extra stops. Princess no longer sends you any documentation so you have to print that all out too and have it ready to give the shuttle driver in Rome, and this time the first cutback I've noticed is that they no longer send you luggage tags, you have to print them out, fold them and staple them onto the luggage! We should get a discount for all of that that we do ourselves now!
All done! But wait...Meli, my little girl is sneezing and coughing and I can't leave town without being sure she is okay. Bram is gnawing at his feet more than ever, how much of his meds to I take to the kennel for him? So of course a vet visit has to happen at the last minute but all is well and they will be well cared for. Where did I put his blanket and his favorite toys that he has to take with him? Can I really squeeze in a pedicure? (Yes, thanks to my friend Carol who knows someone good and close).
Packing to get it all in is a task that is easier than it used to be. I pack a flexible suitcase Jenny told me about years ago that is so cool. It unzips to become quite large but is flexible to fold up to almost nothing so my routine is to pack that in the big suitcase on the way to my trip, and when I come home it can be unzipped to different sizes to match the new things I have acquired. I leave with one big suitcase and a roll on and very large purse and return with 2 checked bags, perfect plan. The roll on has to have clothes for a few days in it because luggage has been known to get lost and I'm not a size where I can just go out and buy new things. It's become easier over the years, everything is black and white that goes with me on the journey, easy to coordinate this way. This time the trip will have new perks for me. I've made it ELITE status and with that comes free laundry, cleaning and pressing! That will be a nice help! And supposedly appetizers will be delivered to my room free of charge on request and on the formal nights. Maybe I will meet new friends to entertain?
And so, tonight will be the last minute packing since tomorrow is filled with appointments and then Saturday I fly away to Washington DC! I will just miss a lot of my friends on this trip, Teneshia from work is moving to DC this weekend but won't be there before I leave for Rome. Dan, our first grade teacher, and Christina our principal will both be in Spain but not the day I am there. So close, but so far away! I'm hoping that I will get to see Diana somehow in England, but I'm not sure how that will work out, and now that Terry and Peter are on their cruise of the Norwegian fjords I won't see them either. Hopefully César will have the day I am in Lisbon off if he does get a job so at least we can spend the afternoon together in the countryside of Portugal. There are still many places I haven't seen and the visit will be short but we always have a good time and it is always hard to leave him after a short visit.
My itinerary for this trip is amazing! I'm really looking forward to all that I will see and do, although it is going to be quite exhausting! I start with a day and night in Rome and am looking forward to so many things there. Then we go to Livorno, the port for Florence. I've been there before so I'm on the tour to Cinque Terre which is supposed to be more beautiful than the Amalfi Coast, that is hard to believe! Then on to Genoa where I will be for the first time and will visit Portofino and Christopher Colombus' home and where the king and queen greeted him when he returned from America. Then on to Nice and I will visit the small picturesque town of St. Paul de Vence. Next on the itinerary is Barcelona, and I have not visited the Gothic Quarter so that is on the agenda for me there. Then to Gibraltar where I will either be brave and take a bus to the southernmost point of continental Europe which is in Spain, or take a trip north to Spain and visit a cork and cattle farm. This would be the most interesting for my job so either thing will be great! Then a long afternoon in Lisbon and then 2 sea days to Ireland and Scotland. Hopefully this trip I will see the Book of Kells in Dublin, that is in every travel guide as a 'must see' and will go to the beautiful Powerscourt Estate gardens. In Scotland I will either spend a day on my own in Edinburgh or go to the famous(?)Falkirk Wheel and the village of Stirling. I've been to Stirling Castle which is in the Braveheart territory but didn't spend time in the village. Then it is back to W. Europe and to my two favorite places! In Le Havre I will visit Claude Monet's Garden once again, yes it is my 3rd time there but it is a place you could never get tired of! And I've only been in spring so in the summer the water lilies and roses should be blooming so I'm excited about that! That tour also goes to Rouen, which is a lovely French town and the place where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. My first trip to Europe I took this same tour but the Rouen stop was far from charming so I'm looking forward to it this time. That was the day that the new French president was inaugrated and we were told to beware of riots!! My first time in France and I was panicked! I was crossing a main square in the old town (alone of course)to find a public bathroom and suddenly from all corners riot police with full protection and big guns started marching in! I was TERRIFIED! But the need for the bathroom won out so I probably moved quicker than I have before or since as I quickly went in and then back to the bus. That is a sight I will never forget! And a feeling I won't forget either! This time will hopefully be much calmer! That is the city where the cathedral Monet painted many times is located and to see it in person after seeing his paintings of it for years was a thrill...it was before the riot police marched in! After Le Havre I will be back in my favorite place of all, Brugges, Belgium. And I can promise that my first stop will be the little streetside cafe, Lily's, where I will eat my first caramel belgian waffle. The name belgian waffle is misleading because they are actually Liege sugar waffles only served at the street side cafes and windows and Sharon will agree, they are worth traveling halfway across the world to eat! As usual I will probably eat one when I arrive and then spend the day wandering the beautiful, quaint, charming town and then have one before departing. If I drank it is a great place to try the beer and the mussels are famous too, but for me, the waffles, chocolate and frites will do! Then we head to London and I will take the shuttle from Southampton to Heathrow and then get a taxi to the hotel and leave most of my luggage and head back to the airport with my roll on and rather than flying to Lisbon as I usually do at the end of a trip, I am going somewhere new, I will flying off to Prague that afternoon for 2 days of a new experience. Hopefully British Airways will be off strike and all the planes will be on time! Two days in Prague and then I fly back to London for one night and home the next day! WHEW!! A very busy trip and I will certainly make the most of every opportunity as I always do.
Well, that is the trip we are about to embark on! And now, where did I leave off on my list of things to do????
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Five Months Later...
I'm back to my blog, just over five months from my last entry. Just reading that brought back the final day of the trip and I'm wondering if I really am ready to head across the ocean again! Although my travel woes didn't happen across the ocean, but right here in the US. What a positive entry that was, and after finishing it and settling into my nice hotel room for a relaxing evening, I called home to check voice messages. That is when the wonderful 'luck' ended!!
I had 2 important new messages, one told me that my flight from DC to Denver had been cancelled for the next day. The next message told me that I'd been booked on a much later flight but without any guarantee I would be on it! The panic began immediately. How could that happen? The weather was fine, the flight arrived on time from Germany, all was well. But how wrong I was, everything was far from well. I had timed my return so I would get home in time to pick up dear Bram from the kennel so I wouldn't be alone over the Christmas weekend. Now that was impossible, if I even did get home! The flight was full and I had no seat assignment so no guarantee of getting home. The night was long, getting through to the airlines was a challenge I hope I don't have to repeat. I was calling friends, neighbors and the kennel to alert all that I might not be arriving back as planned and my Christmas eve visit to a former student's home had to be cancelled too. So much to work out, not the least of which was wondering where in the world my luggage was. The attendant at the airport had encouraged me to leave my luggage and they would just put it on a cart on the runway to be loaded on my next flight the next morning. I've never done that but the thought of not having to haul them to the hotel for the night sounded like a good plan to me. Where was it now since the flight had been cancelled? NO ONE could tell me that either! Finally I slept a little, but headed back to the airport very early to start the hunt for my luggage! I had finally talked to a supervisor at United and he felt pity for me and gave me a seat assignment, so if the plane left DC, I would too, but my luggage, filled with souvenirs of Egypt was not something he could help me with. A note - Never stop at the customer service person on the phone if you really need something done. ALWAYS ask to talk to a supervisor and if necessary go to the person above that supervisor too! Usually the person that answers first is quite limited to what they can do to help. It doesn't always work, but in this case I think I talked to a person 2 levels above where I started before I found the man who COULD do something about getting me a seat.
The next day I was in the hotel lobby about 4 hours before my plane left because from past experience I knew it could be a long hunt to find my luggage and I wanted to do it before I left DC. The hotel shuttle finally arrived and I rolled my carry on out and the man told me he wasn't going back to the airport for just me so I would have to wait while he took a break! I'd waited 30 minutes for him already, and no one at the desk had told me he would be taking a break. A break??? I was about to break! I explained that I had to get there to locate lost luggage that as far as I knew had been put on a cart on a runway for a nonexistent flight and if he didn't take me then the hotel could get me a taxi. At that, he decided he would take me. The search for the luggage was quite intense but I stayed focused and went in the circles where I was directed, talking to many people who had no idea why I'd been sent to them. AT least this time it was in English so I knew what was going on! The last time I dealt with this it happened in Portugal and I was helpless and dependent on Cesar to help me. We never actually set eyes on my luggage and it never was sent like we were told so this time I knew to insist to retrieve my luggage in person. I did spend well over an hour but in the end the suitcases were in my sight and checked onto my new flight.
I boarded the plane totally exhausted and collapsed into my seat, which I had been told by the supervisor on the phone, was the last seat available. There were many people who were on standby the way I should have been, over 50 I believe it was! I was tempted to give someone my seat so they could be with family for Christmas Eve, but I was too exhausted to even think of another night far from home and the hunt for the luggage once again, so as I collapsed in my seat I told the young man next to me how lucky he was. He was such a kind young man and he asked why? Because he was next to me? All my stress was relieved as I laughed at his comment. I told him that the plane was full and he was lucky enough to have a seat. That was stupid, he had been in the gate area and seen the people waiting so he was aware of that! He asked why I was so tired and I began the story of being in Egypt... I told him that I had to take the trip so I could make it to my last continent. Then Robin,the young man, said that must mean I'd been to Antarctica and he would love to hear how that was. Then he said the cutest thing, he said, "Wait, let me put on my Indiana Jones hat to listen because I am sure it was quite the adventure!" What a perfect seat mate he was for the trip! He has traveled a lot too and his stories were quite interesting! I loved listening to his adventures!
And so in a very short time it seemed, I arrived at DIA and my luggage was right there on the carousel waiting for me! The drama had ended, and I was headed home late on Christmas eve. I walked in my home, totally exhausted and so sad that I would be alone for days and was greeted by the best sight I could have imagined, (well short of a clean house that is!), and my great big Bram ran up to greet me! The neighbors had gotten him from the kennel before they closed that afternoon and my baby was here! What an awesome Christmas gift that was!! At that point finally the tears just flowed and I felt it would be a long time before I was ready to face the challenges of travel again...AND that is the way my Egyptian trip ended!!!
And now here it is summer, and I am headed across the big pond again! What adventures might await this time? They will all be good ones, I'm sure!
I had 2 important new messages, one told me that my flight from DC to Denver had been cancelled for the next day. The next message told me that I'd been booked on a much later flight but without any guarantee I would be on it! The panic began immediately. How could that happen? The weather was fine, the flight arrived on time from Germany, all was well. But how wrong I was, everything was far from well. I had timed my return so I would get home in time to pick up dear Bram from the kennel so I wouldn't be alone over the Christmas weekend. Now that was impossible, if I even did get home! The flight was full and I had no seat assignment so no guarantee of getting home. The night was long, getting through to the airlines was a challenge I hope I don't have to repeat. I was calling friends, neighbors and the kennel to alert all that I might not be arriving back as planned and my Christmas eve visit to a former student's home had to be cancelled too. So much to work out, not the least of which was wondering where in the world my luggage was. The attendant at the airport had encouraged me to leave my luggage and they would just put it on a cart on the runway to be loaded on my next flight the next morning. I've never done that but the thought of not having to haul them to the hotel for the night sounded like a good plan to me. Where was it now since the flight had been cancelled? NO ONE could tell me that either! Finally I slept a little, but headed back to the airport very early to start the hunt for my luggage! I had finally talked to a supervisor at United and he felt pity for me and gave me a seat assignment, so if the plane left DC, I would too, but my luggage, filled with souvenirs of Egypt was not something he could help me with. A note - Never stop at the customer service person on the phone if you really need something done. ALWAYS ask to talk to a supervisor and if necessary go to the person above that supervisor too! Usually the person that answers first is quite limited to what they can do to help. It doesn't always work, but in this case I think I talked to a person 2 levels above where I started before I found the man who COULD do something about getting me a seat.
The next day I was in the hotel lobby about 4 hours before my plane left because from past experience I knew it could be a long hunt to find my luggage and I wanted to do it before I left DC. The hotel shuttle finally arrived and I rolled my carry on out and the man told me he wasn't going back to the airport for just me so I would have to wait while he took a break! I'd waited 30 minutes for him already, and no one at the desk had told me he would be taking a break. A break??? I was about to break! I explained that I had to get there to locate lost luggage that as far as I knew had been put on a cart on a runway for a nonexistent flight and if he didn't take me then the hotel could get me a taxi. At that, he decided he would take me. The search for the luggage was quite intense but I stayed focused and went in the circles where I was directed, talking to many people who had no idea why I'd been sent to them. AT least this time it was in English so I knew what was going on! The last time I dealt with this it happened in Portugal and I was helpless and dependent on Cesar to help me. We never actually set eyes on my luggage and it never was sent like we were told so this time I knew to insist to retrieve my luggage in person. I did spend well over an hour but in the end the suitcases were in my sight and checked onto my new flight.
I boarded the plane totally exhausted and collapsed into my seat, which I had been told by the supervisor on the phone, was the last seat available. There were many people who were on standby the way I should have been, over 50 I believe it was! I was tempted to give someone my seat so they could be with family for Christmas Eve, but I was too exhausted to even think of another night far from home and the hunt for the luggage once again, so as I collapsed in my seat I told the young man next to me how lucky he was. He was such a kind young man and he asked why? Because he was next to me? All my stress was relieved as I laughed at his comment. I told him that the plane was full and he was lucky enough to have a seat. That was stupid, he had been in the gate area and seen the people waiting so he was aware of that! He asked why I was so tired and I began the story of being in Egypt... I told him that I had to take the trip so I could make it to my last continent. Then Robin,the young man, said that must mean I'd been to Antarctica and he would love to hear how that was. Then he said the cutest thing, he said, "Wait, let me put on my Indiana Jones hat to listen because I am sure it was quite the adventure!" What a perfect seat mate he was for the trip! He has traveled a lot too and his stories were quite interesting! I loved listening to his adventures!
And so in a very short time it seemed, I arrived at DIA and my luggage was right there on the carousel waiting for me! The drama had ended, and I was headed home late on Christmas eve. I walked in my home, totally exhausted and so sad that I would be alone for days and was greeted by the best sight I could have imagined, (well short of a clean house that is!), and my great big Bram ran up to greet me! The neighbors had gotten him from the kennel before they closed that afternoon and my baby was here! What an awesome Christmas gift that was!! At that point finally the tears just flowed and I felt it would be a long time before I was ready to face the challenges of travel again...AND that is the way my Egyptian trip ended!!!
And now here it is summer, and I am headed across the big pond again! What adventures might await this time? They will all be good ones, I'm sure!
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