Jun 15

June 14 -15: Sad to leave Prague, but Happy to see Nikki

wenceslaus squareThis morning we woke up SO sore. My calves felt like they had run a marathon. It was a rainy day, so we lazed around, I ate most of my noodles for breakfast, Han had the rest which he mixed with eggs.
We planned on a chill kinda of day, no rushing, limited sightseeing aka walking and packing.
After we both had enough coffee to float us out the door, we grabbed the subway to the train station to purchase our tickets to Vienna, had lunch at an open air cafe (food was great, service was uppity, so not tagging them in blog) then went to Wenceslas Square, took some pics, bought a few souvenirs, had afternoon coffee at an elegant outdoor cafe, walked back to the subway, shopped some groceries, went back to our comfortable room, ate, contemplated our train trip tomorrow, took some Advil and lickety-split it was time for bed which neither of us was bothered about calling it a night. Our muscles needed some rejuvenation time.
I did note to myself that times sure have changed for me as we did not even bother with bagging the groceries, but simply walked out carrying bread, eggs and baked chicken in our hands. It felt so bohemian, but right too.


June 15th


Woke up to another rainy day. Matched my mood, as I was not ready to leave Prague. We are already talking about spending a few months there. I would love that. However super excited about seeing Nikki who lives about 30 minutes outside Vienna in a small country village called “Breitenfurt.”
A little background information about Nikki who I call my “heart adopted” son. Many years ago I became interested in housing exchange students to help my children become more worldly and put a different spin on life. I think Nikki was our second, maybe third, student to visit us. He was traveling from Vienna and was only 15 years old. I still have his original paperwork. It is funny to read back on it, realizing at the time that he was a stranger. It was almost immediate that he belonged, fit in and even enhanced our family quite a bit.
He visited again on his own, not through the program, and we all continued to adore our new kid. LOL
My oldest daughter stayed with his family for a month in the winter and had a marvelous time and even learned how to ski.
His mom and I spoke on the phone, exchanged gifts and we enjoyed our extended family.
I would cry when he had to go back home.
He visited twice more when we moved to Wisconsin. After that new life chapters took over, kids grow up, they move, get jobs and we lost contact. Letters were getting farther and farther in between on both our parts. Sad but true.
Many years later in 2013 I was perusing Facebook and found “our” Nikki. To say I was very excited is to put it mildly. It is like your child coming home after many years being away.
We began messaging back and forth, so did he and my daughter Maranda. He actually still had some of her letters sitting on his nightstand table. None of us missed a beat and seemed like we had never been apart.
The only changes were, I was married to Han, who was also from the EU and spoke German, so all the better and Nikki has a beautiful 5 year old daughter Mia.
We figured out a time when he could come visit in 2014, made signs, Han, Drew, Cody and I met him at the airport and time fell away in seconds. We grabbed some dinner and by the time dinner was over, he and Han acted like they had known each other forever. We had two weeks of fun, laughter, love, long talks and family time.
Niki visited again within a year and this time brought along Mia, his five year old adorably cute daughter who spoke no English, but that did not stop me from getting hugs and kisses. She was beach crazy and every day she had to go there. Good thing we lived right across the street from the beach.


The Train from Prague to Vienna


We safely and enjoyable to my delight arrived at the train station via taxi. I had some time to do a little shopping for gifts. We gifted our extra umbrellas to a couple also going to Vienna who are from Brazil. They could not quite understand why we would just give them umbrellas but we finally got them to accept as a gift, no ties involved.
This time we did not reserve our seats. It was cheaper $40 p/p and we were able to choose even better seats that had a table so we could work on our computers, as the internet worked perfectly. Train ride was four hours. We brought our lunch with us. Relaxed and watched the countryside change once more.
Note: If you are in close quarters with other people, please……..wear some deodorant. Yikes!!!


Niki met us at the train station, big hugs, got a taxi (his vehicle is a two-seater) and started off through the city. Rest assured, I have no desire to drive in this city or any others I have visited so far. Use the public system. Much safer and less confusing, this I can promise.
He kept saying his home was small but Han and I think it is perfect, maybe even too big, since Han and I are into the tiny house living idea. Niki’s home has three floors, tons of space and even a home theatre room that is simply the bomb. Han who watches little TV, has decided he likes the set-up very much and I am all for it. It is just like going to the movies only better because of no interference from other people. After movies, I leave to read and they watch music videos and concerts. They are both major music buffs.
Niki treated us to dinner at a local Chinese restaurant and then we came back to catch up more before figuring out the sleeping arrangements. It has all worked out just great. Niki took the day off tomorrow, so we will get a small tour of downtown Vienna.
Niki and I cannot get over the surreal feeling that I am finally able to see his homeland.

Jun 13

June 13: Good Morning Prague

Prague Castle GuardsGood morning Prague! Few bites to eat, out the door to meet with the Tour van driver. Loaded up, picked up five more passengers along the way and drove up to the Prague castle.
Met George (Jiri), our tour guide, everyone introduced themselves and where they were from and we began our tour.
We had assumed (what a dangerous word!) that this tour was a jump on/off tour of Prague, but we were terribly mistaken. A walking tour that began at 11:00am and we did not arrive back at hotel until 7:00pm. We were also informed that the tour ended in Old Town and we were to find our own way back to our lodging. Okey-dokey then!
We had only two rest periods lasting approximately just under an hour for each one. (boat ride and lunch time)
I am not complaining in the least, but was worried about Han’s knee and as you see from the pics, there were a lot of stairs and uneven surfaces.
George was a fantastic tour guide who worked part-time, as his other job was a history teacher. We lucked out.
He was charming, informed, nice and very considerate.
I won’t go into details about every site because it would end up being a book, however you can see all the sites on the attached websites and the many photos talk well for me.
I can assure you that you will come away well informed, with lovely memories, beautiful photos to share and possibly new friends.
Here are some of the impressions that I came away with, in no particular order.
All churches and cathedrals are breathtaking. The stained glass windows are some of the most beautiful art I have ever seen. Amazes me the detail of the workmanship they accomplished with limited tools at hand.
The stairs going down to the Vlata River into the old city was a joy to walk. Every step you take, is new and ever-changing eye candy. I suggest take you time and relish the beauty.
Crossing the Charles Bridge was fun but we were warned to be alert to pickpockets. There are many statues along the way on the bridge, but two are now part of my heart. One is where you touch (locals do this often) to bring yourself luck when needed and the other one was St. Christopher, the patron saint of travel. Han bought me a St. Christopher medal in New Orleans for Valentine’s Day (first gift ever on this so-called holiday)in anticipation of our travels and it has traveled with us ever since.
John Lennon Wall changed my whole mood into something I cannot quite explain. Not that I was not calm before, but it felt a little dreamy and floaty while gazing and reading the wall. Almost like it reached out to pull you in for a warm knowing hug. If it was just me, I am good with that, and it felt beyond peaceful and serene. The advice here is, if you want to leave something lasting on the Give Peace a Chance Wall, paint as high up as you can, because the lower parts last only limited time before someone else paints over it.
The boat tour on the Grand Bohemia gave you a complete different perspective while slowly motoring down the river, also incredibly relaxing and you get a glass of wine. I don’t drink much, but my feet really needed that wine, so I listened to the bellowing of the tootsies.
The restaurant was called The Spider Room located in a medieval tavern. A little creepy, a whole lot freaking cool.
The vegetarian dishes I thought were the tastiest. You get about six choices to choose from. Not too bad and yes it’s part of the tour admission.
The highlight of the trip for me was meeting an adorable young woman from India. Han was mostly bringing up the rear (except for the Lennon wall part where I was by far the latest) and she took it upon herself to keep an eye on him, chat along the way and made sure he did not lose the tour. It was very much appreciated and endearing. Her parents should be extremely proud of their lovely daughter. She was 32 and traveling by herself. She said her parents were not supportive of it, but she is obviously of age where she decides her own way in life. I told her I was envious of her age and ability to do travel freely while she has her youth and no responsibility besides a job as an event planner I think. We sat together over lunch with another single female traveler from Montreal, Canada. (closer to our age and also sweet and interesting).
After a quick return to the Jewish Synagogue and Cemetery and a stroll across Old Town Square and the world-famous Clock, we finished up the tour, visited a little more with the participants, wished each other safe travels, hugged a few times and went on our ways.
I gave her my business card, so if “you” see this, please look me up on Facebook or email me. We are already discussing a visit to India as you suggested. Maybe for your wedding? Just kidding, but wouldn’t that be fun?
We sadly missed quite a few sites due to the weather and it being a Jewish holiday. Many of them were closed.
Make sure to inquire about holiday closings and if the full tour is available on the day you want, so you won’t miss out too.
We finally, tiredly made our way back to our hotel. For dinner we walked to the corner where there was a busy restaurant “Modry Zub Noodle Bar” and had a quick Thai dinner because we were both wore out. I thought I would fall asleep at the table.
Had enough food left over for breakfast, so sure was happy we had a kitchen to save my yummy pork and glass noodle dish.
Note: Take business cards with you to hand out to strangers who may quickly become friends.
Again umbrellas are worth remembering and carrying.

Jun 12

June 11 – 12: Heavenly First Two Days In Prague – An Architects Delight

Bryson Travel StoryJune 11 – Leaving Berlin, we had one of the most non-stressful taxi rides to the train station. Simple solution, ask the driver to take it easy. If they don’t comply, no tip. Easy-Peasy!
We left Berlin this morning to catch my first real train ride. Subways don’t count. We continually saw ever-changing scenes to keep us entertained from rivers, to mountains, castles, farms, tiny vacation homes and a few workers waving at us from train depots as we flew by. I myself had a difficult time sitting in our reserved firstclass seats, as they were traveling backwards. Fortunately the train was fairly empty so I was able to change seats. It became much easier after exchanging seats.
I loved the signage that explained what way the toilet paper should roll. You know, the only way, the correct way. See photo. : )
As soon as we crossed the border, it began raining and I was hoping it was not an omen for what may coming. Just kidding, I don’t believe in such silliness.
We went into the elegant dining car and had a scrumptious lunch of pork roast, roasted zucchini and new potatoes. Yes, it felt lovely and romantic like in years gone by. Where was the film crew? Nothing like eating and watching the world leisurely float by.
TJ in the Club Car Berlin-PragueWe were on the train five hours, so we were a bit tired by the time we arrived in Prague Central and then had to pull WAY too much luggage for a million miles until we reached the taxi stand. Okay maybe not a million miles, but damn I think I pulled my arm out of joint. The taxi driver was much better than the one on our arrival in Berlin, but the streets are even more narrow with more cars. Fares are all metered, ours was about $10 to the hotel.
We arrived at our hotel, checked in with reception (which was detached from the actual lodging area, which when quickly looking around made me go “hmmm.”), handed our keys, walked next door with keyed entry and door man (started getting the warm fuzzies), took elevator to 5th floor, unlocked our “room” and it knocked our socks off by the size and decor. Huge apartment, especially by european standards and was equipped with everything from utensils to a washer/dryer combo. We were both like “hip-hip-hooray”. Even had a balcony.
The massive entrance door was fitted with approx. eight deadbolt slides, like in a bank vault. No one was getting in there and by the feel of the place, it seemed a little over the top.
If you are ever in Prague I highly suggest a stay at “Aparthotel Angel”, very affordable, beautiful, safe, lovely customer service, clean, great area, very close to subway station, tons of restaurants and excellent ratings.
Only negative were the many muffled sirens day and night, but that is anywhere if you stay in a large city.
We quickly made ourselves at home, Han walked to the nearest grocery store, at about 150 meters and we ate dinner in. It was just perfect.

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June 12 – The next day after sleeping in and enjoying our coffee, we set about exploring our neighborhood and search for a restaurant. You do not have to go far because of so many to choose from. We chose Andel and fed our famished bodies with delicacies beyond our tastebuds imagining. I enjoyed a crock of fine pate with fruit, accompanied by a salad, marinated pears and toasted bread and I also ordered a side (which was large) of roasted vegetables. It was more than I could eat. Not even Han could help me finish it all after his appetizer and salad. I felt almost like a criminal leaving even a speck of the pate behind.
After lunch we walked around, getting the layout of our area, snapping photos and enjoying the beauty and serene surroundings. After we touched the banks of the Vlata River, we went back to our room for a little siesta before continuing our way into Old Town Square via the subway later in the afternoon.
Learn the subways and train systems. It is actually quite easy and very inexpensive. A three-day all inclusive public transportation system ticket that runs throughout the city was only $13 dollars.That is trams, busses and subway. It makes traveling so much more interesting, satisfying and fun. Where else are you going to see or possibly meet people from every walk of life? See an interesting building? Get off the tram or bus, take pictures, walk the surrounding and get back on the next tram or bus, 5 minutes later.
Gates to HellBe forewarned about escalators into the subway below, they are the longest I have ever seen and if you don’t lean backwards on the way down, it feels like you will topple over. I stepped on, not expecting the oddity of it and just about had a panic attack. It became easier with time but I would never get used to them enough to walk down them, as many locals do. So stand to the right and leave the left area open for passersby.
It is by far the oddest sensation and difficult to describe accurately. I told Han it felt like I was descending into the depths of hell in more ways than one. LOL
The second time I sat down until the ride was over, then by the third time I was able to breath somewhat normally. Han tried to get a photo of me in my own personal hell, but it is too blurry to use thank goodness.
We had to purchase umbrellas the moment we arrived at our destination. It was pouring cats and dogs. We had two very nice ones back at the hotel purchased earlier in Berlin. Yeah, no good if they are not with you.
Note: carry at least one umbrella at all times. Showers are sudden but do not last very long most times.
There is a street in Old Town called the “husbands nightmare” but the actual and is accurately named “Paris Street.”
A long elegant street of designer brand EVERYTHING! Since a small Louis Vuitton purse is on my bucket list, I walked in to take a peek. For some reason it always makes me feel like an imposter walking into such expensive stores. I mean I “could” buy it, but I just cannot justify it enough in my mind to actually go through with it. It was lovely to take a look and pretend though and the service was impeccable.
One of the first stops in Old Town was to choose which “chimney cone” (Trdelník) I wanted to dive my face into. They are even more delicious than they look and very unique in how they are made. I had fudge, strawberries and ice-cream in mine.
How to describe “Old Town Square?” There is not a description in the world that could even begin to. If you don’t stand in the center and slowly turn around without your mouth gaping open, then you have seen too much and are jaded, just kidding, but for real it is truly magnificent. Just know that every corner and curve in the road is something even more majestic, breathtaking and inspiring.
Prague is an architect lovers paradise.
Harp Player in PragueThere are many performers in the square but only one spoke to my soul and it was a harmonica player because in my heart it added to the beauty of my surroundings. I gave him some coins (not sure how much), told him thank you and walked off, but something made me go back and ask for his photo. He sweetly obliged and it appeared to make him happy, I know it did me. Right then I became part of the city and at home in the world.
On the way back to the hotel, we did some more grocery shopping, decided to eat in again and get rested up for our purchased guided 6 hour tour tomorrow. The bread in the supermarket called Albert, is freshly made all day and placed in huge bins for you to choose what you want. When picking the bread up, you are supposed to put the plastic bag on your hand, pick them up then turn the bag inside to hold them. I suppose I appeared as a heathen because I was not aware of the ‘protocol’ and I picked them up with my hands to place in the bag. Now I know. Face palm to myself. LOL
Cannot wait to experience more of the city tomorrow. Very excited.

Jun 10

June 8 – 11: The Promise of Berlin Builds Excitement

Hotel Room Door in Berlin

Hotel Room Door in Berlin

Got up this morning so very excited to fly to Berlin.
I was so ready that even my little fear of flying did not get in the way of escaping back to just Han and I keeping each other company.
We turned the car in, checked in, had a little lunch then headed towards our gate. On the way there was a stand with bottled water featuring an honor system of payment. I saw an elderly woman digging in her purse for a euro but could not find one so started walking away. I felt inclined to offer her the coin which created some confusion until Han explained in French. She was quite delightfully surprised that we did that. Just that simple little gesture really made my day.
The Ryan Air flight was quite turbulent but I was handling it fairly okay, but all of a sudden a calm came over me that I have never felt before and I began to pretend I was riding a roller coaster. I was getting kinda sick up until then and I hope this is a turning point for me so I can be more relaxed.
Nothing can prepare you for the taxi drivers in Berlin. Buckle up people. Just do it. Han and I both are dang positive that our cab driver was high on something. I would have rather been back in the plane. No joke.
Crazy enough but the taxi fee was the same amount as one of our plane tickets.

 

We finally arrived at our hotel which was built in 1903. My first impression was not favorable, but after going in I became more enchanted. The elevator is original and wow what a step back in time. The previous owner had wanted to renovate it into a fairy tale type theme, but only had just began when she ended up selling it. It is quite the mixture of eclectic rooms and decor. The rooms range from hostel size to elegant. We stayed in a very small yet comfortable room with two single beds. I actually liked the cozy feeling of it. I was being a hotel snob but no more.This hotel was located in a quiet neighborhood, less than 100 meters from a Subway station and the breakfast offered a large variety of European fare and everything was good, filling and fresh. We usually only had to grab a small snack for lunch. I am learning constantly to stop assuming and continue to grow as we travel. This part of my life is becoming life altering.

 

Also do yourself a favor. Check out the restaurants in your neighborhood where you are lodging. We found two and both were excellent. We also had a grocery store very close. Occasionally I really like just staying in for dinner from something grabbed at the local store. The extra rest is essential.

 

Berlin Central Train Station is like a small city. It has six floors with everything imaginable to do, see and buy.
It is stunning modern architecture. The subways and public transportation is fairly straight forward if you can read a map. If possible or needed, purchase tickets in a pass form. It will save you money than purchasing it every day.A three day inner city pass is only $13!

 

Don’t be surprised to see elementary age children (even five year olds) riding subways by themselves. They learn early to be self-reliant and all public transportation is free for minors as part of the school system.
I felt very safe riding all types of transport, with no problems.
Do not bother taking sandals or high heels if you plan on walking. The cobblestone roads and sidewalks make it uncomfortable and virtually impossible to navigate without proper shoes.
Walk as much as you can. You become more immersed in the atmosphere, people and sights when going by foot.
It also encourages unnecessary weight gain from all the delicious food you will be eating.
Try a currywurst. I am not a huge fan of curry, but I was literally humming through my meal and it is one of the main food items that Berlin is known for.
We visited the majority of must-see sights of Berlin by foot, but also took a tour on the City Circle line buses which give you the ability to jump on/off pass for the day at $15 p/p. It also gives you the history of each area or sight in multiple languages.
We decided to do the East Berlin purple tour by bus.
We went all the way around, then jumped off at second stop of Hackescher Market because I was in search of Humana Vintage Clothing Store I had seen on Oranienburger Street. We first ate a large and satisfying lunch at a small cafe directly across the street.

 

A few of the sights stand out most in my mind and they are:
Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe – http://www.stiftung-denkmal.de/startseite.html
Spree River and the government buildings along its meandering course – https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spree

 

Also any of the magnificent churches and cathedrals are a must. The interiors are awe inspiring.
We were fortunate enough to be there during the African Festival Market. I bought some hanging baskets that will one day work perfectly for organizing in a tiny home. That is our goal. Tiny home, tiny cleaning.
Also I have been purchasing postcards because I have plans to wallpaper a wall with them to portray our memories with a brightly papered wall.
Of course I had to check out one of the largest department stores in the city called Galeria Kaufhof. To say it was overwhelming is to make light of it. It is over the top extravagant and pricey. Han had a drink downstairs while I went off to take a look, but I did not even go past the next floor until I figured that this was not really what I was looking for and went in search of Han. He bought me the most delicious pistachio macaroon and I was very happy.
On the way back to the hotel via the subway, I happened to be sitting next to this couple who had just gotten back from a vacation in the Canary Islands and were watching some drag shows that they had recorded on their phone. I simply could not ignore their laughter and joined in. I laughed until I had tears rolling down my face which had some old people looking at me like I was crazy, but then the couple had to go ruin the fun by asking me about the upcoming elections. I actually told them just that and some of the other passengers erupted with giggles. It seems all of Europe is interested in the upcoming US election, but also very misinformed as to the true nature of the running candidates.
I try to keep it simple and avoid discussing it if at all possible. I will also keep my opinion to myself here too.
Tomorrow, our adventure continues into Prague, Czech Republic. Time to get some shut eye. We are taking the train and it is five hours travel time. This will be my first time being on a long distance train ride.

 

Hints:
There is normally no AC in rooms. Purchase a small fan in Europe and travel with it. It helps drown out noises you’re not accustomed to and keeps you cooler as needed.
Bring a few washcloths with you. It appears that hotels only offer bath towels and hand towels.
Do not be shy of asking advice or help because everyone is very kind and friendly.
I have said this before but it repeats saying, “purchase a pillow.” I have been so relieved to at least know I will have a comfortable pillow at each stop.

 

Jun 07

June 5 – 7 Another Brother, Another Stay, Another Day

preparing asparagusSpent the past three nights with Han’s eldest brother Wim and his wife Marlies in Montfort. Their little country village is quite attractive and peaceful. The neighborhood is very quiet, which made it perfect for getting a great night’s sleep.
Marlies and I took a walk to the grocery store to purchase the daily sweet treat to go along with coffee and it turned out to be a much longer walk than expected because Marlies wanted to show me the castle that was being renovated, then we walked through the countryside. I was a bit tired and sweaty by the time we arrived back to their home, but it was well worth the walk.
We drove into town for Han to see a doctor and received some medicine to decrease the inflammation in his knee and it  seems to be working well. Very thankful but he still needs an MRI.
The three of us went to the Roermond outlet mall, which I found not to be an outlet, but quite pricey. I did not purchase anything.
Plane loads of Japanese and Chinese fly in nearby Düsseldorf, Germany, fly in on round trip shopping flights. It is apparently much less expensive for them to do this when buying a Louis Vuitton. I find it incredible, as I would never fly somewhere just to shop.
We had a delicious family dinner, daughter Kirsten and her sweet family came over and we visited while a massive rain storm raged outside.
Since arriving and until now, I have become more thankful for Han and the person he is. Yep, I have the best of the best, the cream of the crop. Not bragging, as I did not raise him, but surely in debt to his parents for my amazing husband.

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