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June 30 – Arrive in Budapest Hungary, once a city of power during the Austrian-Hungarian Empire.
Train trip was fine, had a table we could use and get some work done.
Arrived right on time, the train station was within walking distance to the hotel Hungaria and we were able to check in immediately.
My first initial impression was why were there McD’s, Burger King and KFC the first things we see when getting off the train and in some of the most beautiful buildings. Just did not seem to make any sense.
We explored only for a short period on arrival. Went to the grocery store and on the way back I ventured into a second hand store called “Cream Outlet.” It was fabulous. I bought five different, very cool skirts (one very hippy style) for Euro 2.00 each. I think the clothes are leftovers from actual stores, they buy them in bulk and resale them. http://www.creamhasznaltruha.hu
We ate dinner in the hotel, surrounded by large groups of elderly German women, the standard issue Asian groups and families and the music of a greying Jantschi Bahtschi gypsy violonist, who knew his way quite well through a repertoire of pleasing oldies. He played Somewhere over the Rainbow for me and Tulips from Amsterdam for Han, which earned him a tip. We discussed our plans for tomorrow over dessert and settled on a Hop On – Hop Off kind of a day.
Hotel: http://www.danubiushotels.com/our-hotels-budapest/hotel-hungaria-city-center
Today Niki took off from work so we could all go back into Vienna to spend time together.
We were supposed to stop (I thought) before reaching Vienna for some breakfast. I have an issue with low blood sugar, so by the time it hit 11:00am, we were pulling into the parking garage in Vienna and still had not stopped for food.
I was getting dizzy with a headache, so in general feeling icky and cranky.
This was after sitting in the backseat, feeling like I am on a roller coaster ride because Niki who drives a race car for one of his hobbies also treats public driving the same way.
The fast stopping/starting, flying around corners and aggressive driving with the almost constant yelling at other drivers had me on the verge of wanting to get out and catch the public transport. I asked him nicely to please calm down some but…. so I sat back and fiddled with my iPad and hoped not to get even more motion sickness.
There was much back and forth about where to eat, that I thought my head would explode, so I just walked towards McDonalds because I knew it would be fast. I was over “talking” about food, as I NEEDED food. I guess it is difficult for others to understand, if they don’t have the same problem.
While in McD’s a table full of punk ass teen-age girls were being so loud, obnoxious, walking on the seats, and any one of them could have easily starred in the “Mean Girls” movie. They were louder than all other teens in the place.
I already had a small headache, there was no where else to sit, as it was very crowded and I just wanted to eat my damn lunch, when a small moth flew by them, which incited them to scream, jump all over the place and acted like a damn snake was attacking them. At this point I had reached the end of my patience and I said, “it’s just a moth, geez.” They did not know exactly what I said but they could hear the displeasure in my voice, so they started calling us “tourist” and speaking Austrian, thinking we would not understand.
Well then Han and Niki began sternly speaking to them, with Niki being the most vocal since he speaks the best Austrian.
They then began calling us idiots in English quite a few times. I guess it was the only rude word in English that they knew how to say.
Niki was trying to explain to them and ask the to settle down but they were not having it. After calling us an idiot for about the 4th time, I freaking lost it.
I looked at her and said, “call me an idiot one more time and I am going to slap you, just do it.” Yeah, I really did and Niki told them what I said. I was so pissed and my face was beet red by that time.
Honestly had there been no witnesses, I would have slapped the words right out of her smart ass mouth.
They calmed down somewhat and shortly left after that.
Then another set of four girls, actually young ladies, sat down and you could instantly tell the difference in their upbringing. We complimented them on their manners. So that restored a smidgen of faith in todays teenagers.
I have learned that teen-agers are the same worldwide and for the most part, it is a sad situation that we have to hand over the world to such a bunch of self-entitled little know-it-alls. Obviously not all teens, but vastly too many and it sure worries me.
After eating, we began a fervent speed walk towards our next destination: Hofburg Luckily we saw a cute cafe and decided to have some coffee. Han accidentally spilled my water all over me, I yelped out of surprise and was then compared to the teenagers in McD’s restaurant by Niki. Thanks for that. Maybe tease the person who spilled the water instead?
We reached Hofburg Palace and it is huge, majestic and a tad overwhelming due to the size. We did not tour the palace due to short time schedule to get rental car back on time, but we did have fun seeing all the intricate clothing, treasures, jewels, some furnishings and religious articles at the Kaiserliche Schatzkammer Wien aka “Imperial Treasury Chamber Vienna.”
They have some truly stunning treasures and it is almost unbelievable that they could create such beauty with limited tools. The hand-sewn tapestry robes were nothing like I have ever seen before.
Flash photography is not allowed and if by mistake the camera does not listen to your command and it flashes anyway, you will be reprimanded over the intercom for all to hear. >insert embarrassed TJ face here<
http://www.kaiserliche-schatzkammer.at
We began our way back to the car, taking photos as we went. I wanted to go down this one little alley that looked cute, but I went off the “schedule” and got the look.
We got back in the roller coaster to do some fly by of sites, take some photos and keep going.
We arrived at my favorite place of the day on the Danube River. The Donau Insel is a park area with restaurants, bars, beach area, swimming, beautiful swans, activities for families and such a relaxing easy feel to it.
Loved the soft breeze as we sat along the river front in an open air Greek Restaurant. The food was very tasty and the atmosphere was simply perfect.
We finally had to head home, and by accident we drove by a architectural gem Han had wanted to see: “The Hundertwasser Haus”, a gem of innercity architecture. After that Niki dropped us off at the house, before dropping the rental car off, grabbed one of the funniest movies around on the way back home “Deadpool” and that is how we ended the night.
Footnote: I reread this and realized that not every day is meant to be seen through rose-colored glasses.
Even on the off days we learn something about ourselves and others.
These stories are from my point of view. Niki and I discussed this and all is fine.
One wacky day is not going to damage our long standing bond we have for each other.
Our taxi driver picked us up and I immediately complimented his driving skills and he told us he had only been driving for four days. He was educated at university and had just found a part-time job in his field, but he said he did not like staying home to be lazy, so he began a part-time with the cab company too.
He was so enjoyable to talk with (perfect English) and his driving did not make me nervous or sick in the least. That made me super happy to start the day. Thank you Michael, if you are reading this, I certainly appreciate the care you put into the comfort of your customers.
Today was one heck of a gorgeous fun-filled day of laughter and excitement.
Went to the zoo, which is the oldest in the world. Just that alone was a reason to visit, but when I found out they had Panda Bears, I was hung-ho to see them. I have never seen any before but have always thought them so cute. Who does not think a Panda Bear is cute?
We were dropped off at the Tirolergarten entrance. It is a fairly long, shady path to the ticket window.
Walking on the suspended bridges, high among the trees was quite enjoyable and also great opportunity for panoramic views of zoo and surrounding area.
Our first stop, that ended up actually being our favorite for the day, was the Polar Bear. He was just so darn happy, almost childlike in his antics even, playing with his ball, jumping, diving, plopping backwards with great splashes, showing off and more. I could not help but clap and laugh out loud. Here is this massive beast, who would not think twice about eating you alive, behaving like a cute five year old child; it just did not seem to match. He looked like the gentlest sweetest bear ever, but I knew better than to attempt his friendship. LOL
My next favorite animal, which I have never seen before, were the Tamarin monkeys. Oh please, can I have one? Their little precious faces will make your heart melt. I know wild animal, but a girl can dream.
They are silly little scamps and race to and fro.
Of course enjoyed the Panda bears but they kept their backs to us most of the time, so was difficult to fully appreciate their cuteness. It was also feeding time and they were tearing through the bamboo limbs like they were shredding paper.
The Koala bears house had “quiet please” signs all through it. I did not know this before, but Koala bears sleep like all day long and need quiet or it disturbs their delicate systems. One kindly woke up for approximately one minute and we were luckily inside at this time for some pictures.
The many great photos here will outline the rest of our time at the zoo. I am not normally a zoo person, due to it makes me somewhat sad to see animals enclosed, but the enclosures were so large and nice, that it made me feel a bit better.
Many of the animals you will see are laying around, but I can attest to the fact that was due to it being very hot outside.
I myself, felt like finding a shady spot and taking a siesta.
After leaving the zoo, we walked around the area a bit before catching a taxi back to the house. Again we enjoyed a most relaxing ride with a lovely man originally from Poland. Han and he had quite the interesting chat and was such a nice man.
The Vienna Zoo is the oldest in the world, which may not sound like a recommendation, but IT IS.
Han and I had the greatest night’s sleep. We blasted the airco and snuggled down under the blanket.
We had some coffee, packed up, met up with Niki and Mia and got on our way.
We decided to be simple and cheap today, which led us to McDonalds for breakfast. Now if anyone knows Han, they know he abhors fast food but besides the prices and name, the EU and American fast food places have NOTHING in common. The food taste so much better here and I can only figure it is better quality, it does not make my stomach queasy either. The interior is ultra fancy compared to state side joints.
After breakfast we began our short trip to the Salt Mines. I had no idea what to expect but surely could have never imagined what was to come.
Today was a little cooler and drizzly. Great day for an indoor activity.
When you arrive the first thing you get a set of warmer clothes, with a padded type material on the butt and legs area, and you put these on over your clothes. I was wearing a skirt, so was a little awkward. Brown pants, white jacket, ready to cook up a meal in the kitchen. Looked like chef’s clothing.
We walked out onto a deck, went down two flights of stairs and then were instructed to straddle long metal planks to sit on while the train engine takes you into the salt mine. Everyone gets cozy real quick on this 5 minute trip through darkness.
You do not want to reach out or lean over because you might lose a body part on the side of the tunnel. Once the train stops, you step off and begin walking even further into the mine. By that time, I was becoming slightly claustrophobic but shook it off fairly well. We watched a film that was informative and also humorous.
As you proceed through the tunnels, you gain more knowledge via the short movies and tour guide, and it kept young and old very entertained. We actually passed the border with Germany twice in those tunnels.
We came upon a wood slide, but not like any slide you have ever seen or would imagine. I was very unsure of it because I thought I might tumble to the side, but it works perfectly and safely. It was quite exciting and funny. The picture they took of me at the very beginning, I looked terrified, and I probably was, but by the time I got to the bottom I was laughing to tears and wanted to go again. The pants they gave us to wear has extra fabric on the back to make you slide easier and reduce the heat friction.And then of course Han’s weight gave us the extra push.
It’s shaped kinda like a bowling ball return. You lean slightly back and zip on down.
Then we stepped onto a boat in a huge cave that would take us across one of the natural salt ponds inside the cave, but also had soft music and lights, which added nice atmosphere.
We luckily were able to slide down once again and this time it was even longer and more exhilarating. I think some of the other guest thought I might be a loon. Hey, I am Peter Pan at heart.
The end of our tour came too quickly. We climbed back on the train to make our trip back to the surface.
We also received a teeny tiny container of salt. I love miniature items.
Thanked the guide, took off our unusual outfit and headed to the gift shop.
I have always wanted a salt lamp since seeing them at the Ritz Carlton Spa on Amelia Island, but the price was too psychologically burdensome. I purchased one here in the exact same size for just Euro 15.00. Now to get it home safely will be the next task.
I know our group ranged from five to at least 79 (a nice French couple Han was talking to) and everyone was able to participate, so it makes an outstanding activity for the entire family. And very informative of the importance of salt for the wealth that the city of Salzburg portrays.
Back on the highway we had a late lunch and crazy enough, we just decided, partly because of Mia’s desire, McDonalds would do fine again. Weird for us but it was good.
The car ride home seemed a little longer because we were all tired. Niki dropped us off at the house, Mia went back to her mommy, car got returned and we ended up in the downstairs home theater watching “The Martian”.
I thought it was pretty darn good, check it out some time.
Salzburg’s Funicular to the Castle. I overcame the fear.
We (Han, Niki, Mia and myself) took off for Salzburg today about 300km to the west and encountered some beautiful countryside with charming homes and farms along the way.
Stopped at a roadside eatery for lunch called Landzeit Market. If you ever see one, keep on going. It is a tourist trap with subpar food at best.
We arrived a little before check-in at “Star Inn Hotel”, which turned out no problem. The staff was so nice, informed and accommodating. The hotel had just become part of the Comfort Inn Worldwide chain and the girls spoke excellent English. We placed our belongings in our rooms and headed out the door, as a new adventure awaits us.
The hotel sits just on the other side of the tunnel through the huge rockformation, that leads directly into the city’s center and main historic sightseeing district.
Walking through the tunnel was cooler in temperature and was very appreciated because it sure was hot today.
I could have done without the smell of urine in some areas, but that is life in darker places.
I was quite enchanted upon coming out of the tunnel. Once again I almost felt like the first days in Prague.
Everywhere you looked there was something more to see, study and feel wonderment. The old buildings bring such comfort to me.
I was in for quite the surprise when we rounded a corner, and behold the eye-popping magnificent Fortress Hohensalzburg, high above everything else and the only way to scale it was by the “castle lift” which is a small train going steeply up the side of the mountain, enclosed by mostly windows so not only could I feel my fear, I could see it too. The way up made me feel a bit edgy but we made it safely and being inside the fortress was well worth it.
The huge court yard has a center tree with benches surrounding it. I was visualizing in my mind what a day would be like living there and I am sure I was romantizing it into something unrealistic, but it was just so quaint and charming. Even Han got caught up in the magical atmosphere, and mentioned how great it would be to have a Petanque court there.
We had a sweet treat and coffee at the restaurant inside, luckily nabbed a table next to the fort wall and took tons of pictures. Looking below was like a tiny doll village with moving parts.
We would have liked to stay a bit longer but the wind was picking up and we had already been alerted it may rain soon. We wanted to get on the train before the mad rush, so we began our descent via the train and it was much more enjoyable the second time. I love continually pushing myself to try new things.
After the castle, we walked the famous street of Getreidegasse and ended up in front of Mozart’s birthplace. Very inspiring and is quite lovely. The downstairs is now a small food market, but even in Mozart’s years of living there, there was a small purveyor downstairs, so not much has changed. We did not go into the museum since thunder was now sounding in the distance.
We continued slowly walking down the famous Getreidegasse, which is considered to be one of the loveliest shopping streets in all the world. Due to limited time, I only went into one store which was Swarovski and was founded in 1895 in Austria. What better place to purchase Swarovski than Austria? It is also about 15.00 (per item) less expensive than in America.
We made excellent time because soon after making our way inside the tunnel, back to the hotel, it began raining.
We all were tired and took a little siesta and met up in the lobby for dinner. Finally settled on a mexican restaurant called Lemonchilli, which I thought to be somewhat of an odd choice, but we were in for a pleasant, delicious surprise.
We all chose the ribs and I have never tasted more tender or flavorful ribs in my life. There was a huge stack on each of our plates and I could not finish mine but I gave it my all. The rest were enjoyed by Niki. Now I am dreaming of some of those ribs.
The restaurant is also located in a lovely area of town.
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