Who knows, we may find some wireless access at the airport, but I have my doubts. Anyway, London was great, though we didn't see half the things we wanted to. I guess I'll have to come back!
I wish I could post some photos today, but the computers we're using have everything disabled, so there's no way to do it. Oh, well. I'll upload the rest of the pictures later.
I need to get some sleep...tomorrow will be a very long day--it'll feel like a 30-hour day due to the time change. For those of you back at home, I'll see you soon!
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Friday, July 27, 2007
Bad Wiessee, Germany
Today was a great day. We were able to see Bad Wiessee, the little town in Bavaria where our dad was born. It was a little more of an adventure than usual, with almost zero English speakers (no other American tourists). It was an hour train ride from Munich to Tegernsee, and then we road a boat across the lake to Bad Wiessee. We walked around quite a bit, sent a couple of postcards, took some pictures, and then unfortuately had to hop on a bus to Gmund to make our train back to Munich.
Bad Wiessee seems like the kind of place where one could really relax and have a peaceful, quiet vacation. More knowledge of German would be very helpful. The surrounding area is full of opportunities for hiking, biking, water sports, and just general relaxation. Lots of health spas. I imagine it would be a very different place in the winter; today, most of the people we saw were elderly, but I'm sure the ski crowd would be substantially younger.
Now we are sitting at the Munich airport, awaiting our flight to London. Not much time left! This week has gone so fast.
Bad Wiessee seems like the kind of place where one could really relax and have a peaceful, quiet vacation. More knowledge of German would be very helpful. The surrounding area is full of opportunities for hiking, biking, water sports, and just general relaxation. Lots of health spas. I imagine it would be a very different place in the winter; today, most of the people we saw were elderly, but I'm sure the ski crowd would be substantially younger.
Now we are sitting at the Munich airport, awaiting our flight to London. Not much time left! This week has gone so fast.
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Munich
Somehow, we have ended up climbing hundreds of stairs everywhere we go. Cinque Terre was nothing but stairs to get anywhere (180 just to get to our room at night); in Rome there were lots of things to climb; and in Munich we climbed to the top of a church tower to get a panoramic view. And the view was great! It was worth it. I'm not sure my feet agree, but we at least enjoyed it after we'd made it up the 12+ flights. Tomorrow, we're hoping to get to Tegernsee.
There are so many things to see here, and even more things to see in the area that require a day trip (castles, other towns, etc.). I could probably fill 2 weeks or more with interesting stuff. The museums in Munich alone could take a week to even start to fully see.
There are so many things to see here, and even more things to see in the area that require a day trip (castles, other towns, etc.). I could probably fill 2 weeks or more with interesting stuff. The museums in Munich alone could take a week to even start to fully see.
Deutschland
Blogger knew I was in Germany...when I logged on, everything was in German and I couldn't figure out what to click!
The train ride last night was...interesting. It turned out that we didn't have beds reserved after all, just seats in a 6-person compartment. There was a lady who was loud, trying to smoke in a non-smoking compartment, opening the windows, and trying to talk to people while others were sleeping. Sean slept like a rock, but because of the lingering smoke smell and cold air, I didn't sleep much at all. It's ok, though, because I saw the sunrise over the Austrian countryside. Honestly, it was breathtaking. I felt like I'd been dropped into the filming of The Sound of Music. I haven't ever seen grass that green, or towns that picturesque. Later in the morning, I tried to take some pictures out the window, but this doesn't do it justice. The tops of the mountains were bare rock; I was trying to imagine the Alps in the winter---I'd love to see it sometime. Unlike Rome and Cinque Terre, I think I'd need a couple of weeks to see everything I want to see in Germany. Lots of castles and other attractions require a day-trip (or a half day), and unfortunately we don't have a whole lot of time here.
We are staying in quite possibly the world's greatest hostel...free wireless, private rooms, very clean, great location, quiet, free breakfast, and dirt cheap!! But now we're off to explore the old center of Munich and get some good food for lunch.
The train ride last night was...interesting. It turned out that we didn't have beds reserved after all, just seats in a 6-person compartment. There was a lady who was loud, trying to smoke in a non-smoking compartment, opening the windows, and trying to talk to people while others were sleeping. Sean slept like a rock, but because of the lingering smoke smell and cold air, I didn't sleep much at all. It's ok, though, because I saw the sunrise over the Austrian countryside. Honestly, it was breathtaking. I felt like I'd been dropped into the filming of The Sound of Music. I haven't ever seen grass that green, or towns that picturesque. Later in the morning, I tried to take some pictures out the window, but this doesn't do it justice. The tops of the mountains were bare rock; I was trying to imagine the Alps in the winter---I'd love to see it sometime. Unlike Rome and Cinque Terre, I think I'd need a couple of weeks to see everything I want to see in Germany. Lots of castles and other attractions require a day-trip (or a half day), and unfortunately we don't have a whole lot of time here.
We are staying in quite possibly the world's greatest hostel...free wireless, private rooms, very clean, great location, quiet, free breakfast, and dirt cheap!! But now we're off to explore the old center of Munich and get some good food for lunch.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Ahh, Gelato
I'm so sad...I just had my final serving of gelato (we're leaving Italy tonight). Lots of good food here, among other things, of course! Sean went kayaking, I went wandering, and we have a long night of train travel ahead of us. We have to take 4 different trains to get to Munich. However, the last train ride is 8 hours and we will be able to sleep.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
Cinque Terre
This is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. Cinque Terre, or 'Five Lands', has somehow maintained its historic atmosphere while catering to floods of tourists. We are staying in Vernazza, which so far I think is the nicest and most picturesque. This is the region in Italy where pesto was invented (along with some really good wine). We had an amazing dinner at the base of a castle/fortress at the highest point in the town. The day was spent hiking between towns. The longest stretch was 90 minutes of extremely steep hills. Most of it was right along the coast. For the intrepid hikers (not me), there are lots of longer, more difficult hikes that go higher and inland. We have seen all but one of the towns--that one is tomorrow. My feet and legs are begging me to stop the madness, so I think I will explore a little less tomorrow.
The waves crashing against the rocks provided a peaceful soundtrack for our day, and the occasional breeze gave relief from the heat. In the springtime, the hike would not have seemed strenuous, but in this heat, it was rather difficult.
It's really fun to have internet cafes everywhere to stay connected to the real world. We're staying in a rented room, not a hotel (there aren't any real hotels in Vernazza--just a collection of individuals who rent rooms and apartments), so there isn't wireless internet here. I think the hostels in Munich and London have free internet access, but who knows. Our Rome hotel advertised internet in the rooms but didn't have it. Anyway, it's fun to read your comments and emails!!!
The waves crashing against the rocks provided a peaceful soundtrack for our day, and the occasional breeze gave relief from the heat. In the springtime, the hike would not have seemed strenuous, but in this heat, it was rather difficult.
It's really fun to have internet cafes everywhere to stay connected to the real world. We're staying in a rented room, not a hotel (there aren't any real hotels in Vernazza--just a collection of individuals who rent rooms and apartments), so there isn't wireless internet here. I think the hostels in Munich and London have free internet access, but who knows. Our Rome hotel advertised internet in the rooms but didn't have it. Anyway, it's fun to read your comments and emails!!!
Monday, July 23, 2007
Vatican City
We are currently awaiting our tour into the Vatican. Oh, and it's official...Sean and I can share pants. They actually look good on him. More later.
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Rome, day 1
Our day started a little late, but it seems like we saw EVERYTHING today! I am the good kind of tired right now. We found a fancy hotel with a nice guy who is letting us use the internet.
Today we saw the Colosseum, Circus Maximus, several beautiful churches, a panoramic view of the city from the top of a building, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, saw a really great street performer, had a very good meal at an outdoor restaurant on Piazza Navona, marveled at the sheer number of fountains, sculptures and other cool things everywhere you look, and walked our feet off. Tomorrow we head to the Vatican. There, you have to be dressed modestly (no bare shoulders or shorts) or they won't let you in. Here's the hilarious thing: Sean didn't bring pants, and after a fruitless search for affordable pants on Sunday when stores are closed, he decided that he's going to try to wear my pants (jeans). THAT will be a sight to behold. I have no idea how they will fit. I'll definitely take a picture, assuming they fit at all.
This is very fun so far...I'm looking forward to more good Italian food in the days to come. If I keep walking this much, there's no way all the food will affect the waistline.
Time for bed (almost). More soon, I hope. (Our hotel advertised internet access, but doesn't actually have it. Bummer.) Have a great day, everybody!
Today we saw the Colosseum, Circus Maximus, several beautiful churches, a panoramic view of the city from the top of a building, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, saw a really great street performer, had a very good meal at an outdoor restaurant on Piazza Navona, marveled at the sheer number of fountains, sculptures and other cool things everywhere you look, and walked our feet off. Tomorrow we head to the Vatican. There, you have to be dressed modestly (no bare shoulders or shorts) or they won't let you in. Here's the hilarious thing: Sean didn't bring pants, and after a fruitless search for affordable pants on Sunday when stores are closed, he decided that he's going to try to wear my pants (jeans). THAT will be a sight to behold. I have no idea how they will fit. I'll definitely take a picture, assuming they fit at all.
This is very fun so far...I'm looking forward to more good Italian food in the days to come. If I keep walking this much, there's no way all the food will affect the waistline.
Time for bed (almost). More soon, I hope. (Our hotel advertised internet access, but doesn't actually have it. Bummer.) Have a great day, everybody!
In Italy
Getting here was a bit of an adventure (flights delayed out of london, took 2 hours to get baggage), but we are here!!! We slept way too late this morning, but I really needed it. On our way to the Colosseum right now. More later!
Saturday, July 21, 2007
I'm here!
I am wandering around in London a bit today, not much time to see things, but it's good to not be in the airport! I walked farther in Heathrow today than I ever have in any airport...including O'Hare. It's so crowded in the airport; everyone seems to be leaving for vacation right now.
The flight was good; I am officially a fan of Virgin Atlantic. Very comfy, cool seat-back screens with on-demand movies (I watched Night at the Museum), games (Tetris! Need I say more?), a little bag with toothbrush/paste, socks, eye shades...and the food was pretty good, too. One nice discovery was that the drink carts actually have a full-service bar--even for those in the economy seats. So I had a cute little glass of white wine with dinner.
Will: I think Ralph Wiggum (or someone that sounds just like him) was sitting behind me. !!
Brett: I agree, it's really great to fall asleep on an overnight flight and wake up in another country. Definitely the way to go. Though I'm rather tired right now.
I took a few photos when we were approaching the airport; I'll try to upload shortly.
The flight was good; I am officially a fan of Virgin Atlantic. Very comfy, cool seat-back screens with on-demand movies (I watched Night at the Museum), games (Tetris! Need I say more?), a little bag with toothbrush/paste, socks, eye shades...and the food was pretty good, too. One nice discovery was that the drink carts actually have a full-service bar--even for those in the economy seats. So I had a cute little glass of white wine with dinner.
Will: I think Ralph Wiggum (or someone that sounds just like him) was sitting behind me. !!
Brett: I agree, it's really great to fall asleep on an overnight flight and wake up in another country. Definitely the way to go. Though I'm rather tired right now.
I took a few photos when we were approaching the airport; I'll try to upload shortly.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Credit Card Fraud
Well, just like in the funny Citibank commercials, someone has been using my credit card number to purchase thousands of dollars' worth of stuff at Harley Davidson stores around the country. Lovely. I've bought and reserved quite a few things for my Europe trip with that credit card; so now I have to go through and figure out who needs the new number. Arrrgh. At least I'll get a new card by tomorrow. (Kudos to Citibank for noticing this and calling us!) 24 hours without a credit card...what on earth will I do?? :)
I wonder how that happened? I've made so many online purchases in the last week, it's hard to say. I'm hyper-vigilant about checking for the "secure" symbol on webpages. Now I just have to hope and pray that they don't have any other information. And I'm changing every password I can think of, and putting fraud alerts on my accounts and credit files.
I just want to get on that plane and fly away!!! This is nuts.
I wonder how that happened? I've made so many online purchases in the last week, it's hard to say. I'm hyper-vigilant about checking for the "secure" symbol on webpages. Now I just have to hope and pray that they don't have any other information. And I'm changing every password I can think of, and putting fraud alerts on my accounts and credit files.
I just want to get on that plane and fly away!!! This is nuts.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Friday, July 13, 2007
Hooray for elected officials!?!
This post may turn out to be premature, but we'll see. I leave for Europe in 7 days, and still do not have my passport (I sent in for a renewal almost 4 months ago, not thinking I needed "expedited" service.) The passport agency won't even talk to you if you're not going somewhere in the next 14 days. Well, I called a week ago, and after several hours (not exaggerating) finally got through. They upgraded it to "expedited" which did absolutely nothing. At 9 days from travel day, I started to panic and called to schedule an appointment at the Chicago passport agency. The automated appointment system, groaning under the weight of the excessive call volume, took 35 minutes to tell me that there aren't any appointments until July 25, and I leave on the 20th. Out of desperation I called our Senator's office. Which must have worked, because today I talked to someone at the passport agency, and she mentioned a note in my file that there had been a congressional call requesting a 24-hour passport issuance. It should be sent via Fedex later today.
So, hooray for democracy. Or something like that. (Never thought I'd be so grateful for a politician.) I'll have to remember to send his office staff a postcard from Europe.
So, hooray for democracy. Or something like that. (Never thought I'd be so grateful for a politician.) I'll have to remember to send his office staff a postcard from Europe.