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.

Jun 01

A Week In The Countryside Of Valkenburg, Netherlands and Beyond

De Heek B&BOur hotel/B&B is lovely, owners are very informative and friendly, enough room in our suite to spread out, IKEA furnishings, it is on the outskirts of town so is very quiet unless the farmers decide to work at night, morning birds are very happy, chipper and loud, breakfast is European fare of boiled eggs, expensive deli style meats, variety of breads, coffee, juice, cereal, fruit and yogurt.
I found it amusing that the local zoo has a raccoon exhibit. Europe does not have those little masked devils in the wild.
Valkenburg is very charming, but becomes touristy in the summer months. There are many activities to enjoy and it is a wonderful area for families. The center of town host multiple outdoor cafes, variety of fantastic restaurants and interesting shops. There is also a small amusement park.
We went all touristy and checked out all the sights and sites. <dang the english language, lol
Items I am listing below are in no particular order of our activities this week.
  1. We had lunch at IKEA in Heerlen for the fun of it. I love IKEA.
  2. Saw Schaloen Castle, which was very majestic but also homey with the cows roaming in front. You can have lunch in the restaurant there and you can also spend the night. However you have to supply your own linens. Really?
  3. We ate
  4. We enjoyed a day of riding a small train through the City Caves, however it would have been much more interesting, had I known what they were saying, as the dialogue was only in Dutch. My favorite part was at the end, when we were able to walk down further into the caves and enjoy a musical light show. Most the songs were in English, so I was able to sing along. Yea, I thought I was hot stuff at that moment. LOL
  5. We drove through Aachen, Germany to get an impression of it and my impression was it is extremely large and busy. It is a college town, with too much traffic for me to feel comfortable in. Han says we will go back and visit the inner city which is nice. It is definitely noticeable the change in homes and architecture when crossing over into Germany. You would not think so, but it was notable to me.
  6. We did quite a bit of walking through Valkenburg, eating amazing food and sitting outside in cafes watching the world go by.
  7. I purchased a dark brown leather fringe purse. It is quite hippyish and I love it. I want to purchase at least one article of vintage clothing in each country (or town) we visit.
  8. We had a lovely dinner on Friday the 27th with Eef and Marlies. Han was extremely happy since he was able to have his fill of white asparagus. This was the first time meeting any of Han’s family in Europe. It was different because of their limited english and my non-existent dutch, but it was a very nice time and I enjoyed their company. Their home has remained in the family and was where Han was raised and lived until he grew up and moved away. It took me quite by surprise that this petite home had housed five boys and parents. I fell in love with it since I have a thing for smaller homes, however the winding staircase is a bit intimidating.
  9. Saturday the 28th we went to the countryside of Jabeek, Netherlands to have dinner with Jos and Ria (another brother and wife). He is an artist and his gallery is next to their home with the most beautiful large garden in between. It is so serene and peaceful. I seldom drink wine anymore, but we all had a pleasant tipsy time together and Jos’s meal was delicious and quite gourmet. Their home, an old square farmhouse, is a work of art itself and just pulls you in with it’s cozy feeling. I felt instantly part of the group and conversations were easy and fun. Lots of joking, Han playing guitar, with Jos singing and Ria and I gazing at our men who used to be in a band together. Ria pulled out old newspaper clippings and they all reminisced about their younger years. We hated to part, but tiredness set in quite suddenly.
  10. Sunday the 29th, found us back over at Eef and Marlies to have a barbecue and to meet their oldest daughter and two grandchildren. To say that there was enough meat on the grill and table to feed a small army is not an exaggeration. Lots of laughter, talking, silliness and excellent food was the agenda today.
  11. Visited the midwife hospital where Han was born, which has now been turned into stores and retirement apartments. It is a beautiful grand old building with lovely gardens.
  12. We visited the cemetery where Han’s parents were laid to rest. I have never seen so many ornate and artistic headstones in one area. I happened to see a little old lady in a wheelchair sitting by her husband’s site and it really touched my heart how she would reach out every so often to touch his resting place.
  13. We rented a car in Brussels and Han is finally getting his share of driving. It is actually quite nice to sit back and be the observer. Besides these people drive even faster and possibly worse than in the states and that is really saying something.
  14. There are machine dispensers along country roads and in towns, where you can purchase fruit, warm snacks and even wine. Try one out, they are very unique.
  15. There is an abundance of countryside and horses are everywhere. I have never seen such a variety of horses and cows before. I am still waiting to hug a baby cow. They are so darn cute.
  16. On Memorial Day Monday we set out to visit the American World War II cemetery i
    On Memorial Day we visited the Netherlands American Cemetery and Memorial in the hills of Margraten near Maastricht. It was a dreary rainy day and basically fit our days outing. I did not figure that seeing the vast amount of white crosses across the 65.50 acres of land would bring tears to my eyes, but it did. There are 8301 soldiers of WW2 laid to rest here and another 1722 engraved names upon the wall of missing in action soldiers. It caused me to have a lump in my throat from appreciation but also sadness for the families who’s soldiers were not able to be returned home.
    Each and every grave is decorated with flowers and flags and lovingly taken care of by Dutch families. There is a waiting list of 100+ Dutch families wanting to adopt a fallen soldiers grave. It is considered an honor here and I find it beyond touching, revealing and humbling.
    To the Dutch, the Americans were liberators and to this day they pay tribute in this loving tender way.
Hints and Tips:
• Contact your bank before traveling to ensure proper use of your debit or credit cards. Leave an exact list of countries you’re planing to visit.
• Exchange some handy money at the airport before leaving. Banks no longer exchange currency.
• Drink lots of water to help with jet lag. It won’t eliminate it but it encourage your body to work more efficiently.
• Don’t refrain from trying local foods, as you will be missing out on the complete experience of travel.
• Go to the store and purchase a pillow when you arrive. Most hotels have horrible pillows. So far, it has been the best 26.00 dollars I have spent.
• Bring along a small shopping bag, as you have to supply your own shopping bags when purchasing items in supermarkets, especially groceries. Otherwise you will be paying extra. I think the US should also make this mandatory. Saves so much waste.

May 24

May 24th – My Virgin Flight to Europe

Sanford Overnight

Sanford Overnight

My European blogs will be somewhat different then the ones I wrote about in the states, since this is my first time visiting Europe, so most will be my impressions and suggestions for first time foreign travelers like myself. If you want frequent traveler observations check on Han’s site.

Jet lag is real. For aging boomers it will take you approximately three days to get back to feeling like your normal self. Don’t even try to fight it since it makes it worse. Sleeping on the plane is virtually impossible for most people and I definitely was not able to, even though I was prepared with an eye mask, neck pillow, comfortable clothes and ear plugs. I envy those who can fall asleep before the plane has even taken off. The best thing you can do for yourself is check in to the hotel as soon as possible, eat something small to coat your stomach, drink a bottle of water and pass out in the bed and don’t wake up until you are ready. Your body will naturally reset itself.
At the suggestion of our extensive world traveler friends at WallacePierson.com, I took along Listerine breath strips (helps with killing germs in mouth) and eucalyptus oil to inhale every hour (helps to eliminate germs in the nose).
Neither one of us became sick and I also found that the eucalyptus oil soothed some of my flying anxiety, so I was sniffing it quite a bit. LOL
Note: the vegetarian meal was better than the regular meal and you get served first.
I have no suggestion for crying children. It is what it is, be patient, get irritated, or invest in a really good set of sound-canceling headphones. Remember that their little ears are hurting and they don’t know why. If truth be known, after being on the plane for over nine hours, I felt like crying too.
Here are some tips on traveling with children.
Another elaborate resource with 77 Tips for Traveling with Children is this post by Janet Rogers on Your RV Lifestyle. https://www.your-rv-lifestyle.com/travel-children.html
I am not sure if I am an advocate for giving children a dose of benadryl to help them sleep, but I can understand both points of views on this subject. Quite honestly, I see more pros than cons about this, but of course you have to take in consideration each child’s health and age.
Also: If you can take a bag that fits under your seat, after take off, it is great to prop your feet up with.

May 07

Yee-hah, destination Florida!

FloridaMay 7 – Yee-hah, destination Florida! No, I don’t want to move back, but yes I am looking forward to staying in one spot for a few weeks.

On the way back we stopped over in Savannah to see my son Drew, had lunch with him, he gave me a lovely photo album for Mothers Day to store our travel adventures, then we got back on the road and arrived in Fernandina Beach safe and sound.

I am very thankful for each and every adventure, fun time, mishap, family visits and more. It has been such a growing experience for me personally and I have regained my fun-loving self and will be ready for Europe this month, but for now……….time to hug our friends and rest.

 

5:7 Richburg>Savannah

May 06

Long Trips Spawn Ambitious Plans

Truck Ramps in West VirginiaMay 6 – Woke up to a sunnier day but was definitely not ready to deal with the insane drivers in the West Virginia Mountains on I-64.

They literally drive crazier in the mountains. Myself? I just let them go on by and avoid them at all cost.

There are also a couple of long scary tunnels on the way south, which made it even worse thanks to semi drivers who must have dream of being race car drivers.

Along the way we stretched our legs and enjoyed the stop over at Tamarack in WV.  We had the yummiest cherry cobbler and it really perked us up. There is quite a bit to see there so give yourself about an hour to enjoy what they have to offer.

Not really having planned a specific stop for the evening, we ended up in Richburg SC where it is flatland, flatland and more flatland and I could not have been happier!!!

Ate a great down home country meal at “The Porch” and then went back to the hotel to collapse. I am about ready for a break from this trip across the states. Han says the word Travel originates from the French Travail, which means WORK. Figures…

Side note: while on this stretch of the trip, thousands of miles in the making, I finally decided to write the book about my life. It has been a long time coming. Stay Tuned.

Charleston to South Carolina

May 05

West Virginia, Mountain Mama

West Virginia borderMay 5 – Han and I exchanged sleeping arrangements and I slept in the single bed and Han took the larger blow up mattress. We both slept so much better and are prepared to get back on the road. Mind you I did not say “ready”, as I could have stuck around with my bestie a little longer.

But Han’s knee was calling for another medical opinion and Europe was only a couple more weeks out, So we had more fantastic coffee, Amy and I hugged a bunch and we packed up the car to begin our next journey: Destination Charleston West Virginia.

Lots of construction in the Metro Cleveland Area, but I think Ohio has the most reasonable, considerate, law abiding, non-aggressive drivers compared to any other state we have driven through. It could very well be the result of enforced behavior as we also witnessed a large police presence in Ohio; traffic police who take their jobs seriously.

We arrived in Charleston, it was raining, we were so tired we just stayed in our room and ate the beet hummus and chips that Amy had packed for us for dinner, because she knows how much we love the beet hummus, sadly very hard to get these days.

5:5-Willoughby to Charleston WV

Travel Hint: Begin your day with a slower rate of speed and increase to your normal speed after about 30 minutes. Gives you time to wake up fully and acclimate yourself to new surroundings.

Then about 30 minutes away from your daily destination, slow down to about 60 mph, to relieve the stress built up from driving on the interstates. It will help you sleep better.

May 04

May 4 – The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

Allan Freed EulogyMay 4 – We took our sweet time get up and around this morning. Relished our leisurely cup of slow drip coffee by Amy, and she fixed a delicious vegan breakfast.

We headed to Cleveland to visit the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Amy drove and I was able to sit back and watch the scenery go by.

We rolled up, went inside and set Han up with a wheelchair, then proceeded to begin our walk through the history of music. It was better than I had figured on. I love music but Han is the HUGE music lover. So I was happy that we both equally enjoyed ourselves. The stories, the music playing, the outfits, the instruments and amazing amount of memorabilia kept us interested and even the design of the building was quite unique along with the surrounding areas to gaze at through all the windows. It is right on the water which made it all the better for us.

Of course the one person who stood out from the rest was “Prince”, since he was the most recently passed artist and I have always been fond of his music.

I could hear doves cry in the distance.

Afterwards we headed back towards Willoughby and had lunch at the Willoughby Brewing Company. Amy and I had the Erie Street Tacos and they were small but filling and OH SO good. We ate every little morsel. Han ordered the Secret Recipe Fried Chicken and he thought it better than his other favorite fried chicken. Believe it or not, that would be Publix Supermarket.

We dropped Han off at the house so he could do some work and us girls took off for some sightseeing. I had wanted for Amy to show me her beach where she collects sea glass, but the weather did not cooperate and was too cold and drizzly.

We drove around, took in some breathtaking scenery, looked at some HUGE homes aka possible hotels, went to the first Mormon Temple in Kirkland, Amy shared some of her childhood memories and then we went shopping at this very cool store in town called “Enchanted Grove”. I purchased four gemstones that now travel with me wherever I go. They each have different qualities and every time I see them I think of my dear friend Amy.

After we had played hooky long enough, we went back to wind down with beer and pizza. Amy’s mom, dad, son and daughter-in-law stopped over. I had previously met everyone else besides her dad, and he is just as great as I had imagined. Really enjoyed sitting around and just cutting up being silly.

Sooner or later the party has to end (especially if you are above a certain age) and hit the bed to get ready for another 3 day of driving to Forida. Boo-Hiss….

May 03

May 3 – Cleveland Ohio is Big, Beautiful, Loud and Proud

Entering Ohio from the NorthThe trip from Whitehall south turned morbidly sad through Ohio. We have now traveled thousands of miles, on many different roads across the US and never have we seen so many dead deer and other evidence of roadkill, than we saw in Ohio. It seemed like at least every other mile there was a dead deer and every half a mile a dead possum or skunk or squirrel. So many deer in fact that I purchased deer horn alerts off Amazon for our friends Amy and Jeff to place on their vehicles. We have them on our car and had not even close calls through many wild life areas.  But sometimes in the high plains areas of Wyoming we actually saw animals in the distance lift their heads to look around. Are they hearing the horns? I don’t know but it certainly cannot hurt to install these simple, inexpensive and possibly life saving devices. You can get them at http://www.amazon.com/Custom-Accessories-17381-Chrome-Alert/dp/B000BO71UC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1462897814&sr=8-1&keywords=deer+horn+alerts

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