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.

Jun 05

June 1-June 5 – Exploring Heerlen, Han’s Home Town

ValkenburgWe checked-out of the B&B and checked-in with brother Eef and his wife Marlies.
We slept in Han’s childhood bedroom. How cool is that?
I slept on a single bed, while Han insisted he take the single floor mattress. It was kinda of like camping out.
Every morning we were woken up by their roosters but the rooster also crowed throughout the day. They were confused birds.
We continued down memory lane through Heerlen with Han sharing his schools, parks, friends homes, doctors, soccer areas and more. I don’t know how he remembered it all. Heck, even Han’s first wife still lives two homes away from the family home. The family has not seen her since the divorce of 36 years ago.
I thoroughly loved riding around and Han finally able to share his homeland with me. Has made me appreciate him all the more.
We went to Snow World which is quite interesting and would be a wonderful vacation area for families who enjoy skiing and snowboarding. They have many more activities to offer.
We drove to the highest point in The Netherlands called Vaalserberg. It is also the location called “Three-Country Point” because you can stand almost simultaneously in The Netherlands, Germany and Belgium. Unfortunately it was a foggy day, so seeing far into the distance was not possible. Note: there are feral cats everywhere, we counted at least 8 to 10.
Han said the area is much busier once summer time hits. There is a great park to explore, eateries, viewing towers and playgrounds.
We took a day to explore Maastricht, which I adored. Han not so much because it has changed so drastically and is quite difficult to find parking and get to the center of town, since all the roads leading in are now for bikes and pedestrians. I did not know the difference, so it mattered none to me.
As we were walking into town we passed Han’s niece and two children. It was delightfully random and surprising. She and I only knew each other from Facebook. We visited some over lunch and I got to know her a bit better. It really was a lovely meal and her two boys are adorable. She definitely helped with navigating the outer area of Maastricht.
We parted ways after lunch and we began our enjoyable stroll through the inner city.
I was happiest that I found a vintage clothing store and bought a few items. I have found that I like vintage clothing and have now decided to purchase at least one item in the cities we visit. Yes, I will be having to do a small shipment back to the states before flying back.
This time close by, we visited Han’s parents grave again and took flowers for his mom’s birthday on June 4th. She would have been 95. They were a large pot of daisies which are my favorite flower and come to find out was also one of hers. We wanted something that would last a bit longer.
Staying with Eef and Marlies has been fun and interesting to hear them speak of childhood years. They are both lovely caring people. I enjoy teasing Eef and he is good spirited about it. His looks most remind me of Thom, the youngest of the five boys and the only one I had met before this trip. We were very close and I loved him dearly. He passed a bit ago, however I find myself getting misty-eyed and sometimes actually crying when we begin reminiscing about him.
Wim and his wife Marlies (yes, the two brothers married women called Marlies) arrived from Norway and the six of us went just across the German border to eat at the Landhaus Wurmtal Cafe & Restaurant boasting the largest schnitzel in Germany in the town of Herzogenrath. It is the first village across the border from Holland.
I don’t know if the “largest” is true, but the schnitzels were hanging over the sides of the very large plates. I can tell you though, that it was very good and well worth the drive. I will say it was interesting to be the only American in the whole place. It really gives you perspective and makes the world a larger place in your mind.
I witnessed Han eating a herring covered in onions, Dutch style. One word from me. YUCK! He was in delicacy heaven though. This was while we took a rainy walk through Heerlen during a carnival. No rides for us, just sight seeing.
Purchased some Kinder Eggs which are egg shaped hollow chocolate with a smaller plastic capsule inside and a toy to assemble. They are the cutest little things, but are not allowed to be imported into the states and if you are found to be in possession of them, it is a $1200.00 fine for each egg. I am a kid at heart, so will just enjoy them while I am here.

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