Solo Vacation...
I have just finished planning my next vacation. I am heading to the Bahamas Jan 2 -6, 2007. Just want to get away and enjoy a quiet, relaxing time on the beach. I will be heading to the Grand Bahama Island and staying at the all-inclusive Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach.
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Monday, October 09, 2006
Spa…..
Finally spa day is here. After a quick breakfast, Kathy and I walked up to the spa for our full day of treatments. I started with an anti-free radical facial then came a deep tissue massage followed by an apple sugar scrub. Talk about amazing. The Vichy shower was so relaxing.
We then headed back to the room for a quick lunch and then headed back to the spa for the remainder of our treatments. I had a pedicure, manicure, and cut and style. I was so relaxed that I could have just gone to sleep then, but Kathy and I got dressed and headed down to Tracey and Lisa’s room to hang out before dinner.
We drove to downtown Martinsburg, WV because some spa personnel had recommended a couple of place. We stopped at the Red Wolf Bar and Grill. We ended up only having drinks because the menu did not appeal to us. We then walked next door to Peking, a Chinese restaurant with a cool dragon on the outside. I had veggie soup and fried rice.
Dessert was a quick stop at a very busy Dairy Queen. Then it was back to Tracey and Lisa’s room for a short pajama party and drinks before turning in for the day.
Finally spa day is here. After a quick breakfast, Kathy and I walked up to the spa for our full day of treatments. I started with an anti-free radical facial then came a deep tissue massage followed by an apple sugar scrub. Talk about amazing. The Vichy shower was so relaxing.
We then headed back to the room for a quick lunch and then headed back to the spa for the remainder of our treatments. I had a pedicure, manicure, and cut and style. I was so relaxed that I could have just gone to sleep then, but Kathy and I got dressed and headed down to Tracey and Lisa’s room to hang out before dinner.
We drove to downtown Martinsburg, WV because some spa personnel had recommended a couple of place. We stopped at the Red Wolf Bar and Grill. We ended up only having drinks because the menu did not appeal to us. We then walked next door to Peking, a Chinese restaurant with a cool dragon on the outside. I had veggie soup and fried rice.
Dessert was a quick stop at a very busy Dairy Queen. Then it was back to Tracey and Lisa’s room for a short pajama party and drinks before turning in for the day.
Sunday, October 08, 2006
Apple Butter Festival…
After a quick breakfast in the hotel restaurant, Kathy and I headed out to explore. We walked the grounds and then headed to the exercise area and spa. We confirmed our appointment and then headed back to the room. We then ran into Theresa and Tracey. We talked for a bit and then arranged to meet for the Apple Butter Festival.
We drove to Berkeley Springs and walked the Apple Butter Festival. We got some honey, pumpkin and apple butter, plum jam, and Kathy and I shared some fried Oreos. Although bad sounding, are quite delicious.
It was then back to the hotel to pick up Tracey’s friend Lisa and then we headed off to the Hedgesville Heritage Days. We walked around and checked out all the cute shops. I bought the cutest wide mouth cat. We then headed back to the hotel for a quick nap prior to dinner.
We all meet up in the hotel lobby to head to dinner. We ended up at Venice again, although I brought in Chinese from next door. Then Tracey, Kathy, Lisa, and I headed off to a bar called The Other Side. We ran into a local named Pam who gave us a tour of the two bars, introduced us to everyone (most were related), and then kept checking on us all night. We watch a band called Isle 6. They are a classic rock band and were actually very fun. After a break two of the band members came out and performed an acoustic set as 40 Proof and then it was back to the loud classic rock. We had a great time and the locals are so friendly.
After a quick breakfast in the hotel restaurant, Kathy and I headed out to explore. We walked the grounds and then headed to the exercise area and spa. We confirmed our appointment and then headed back to the room. We then ran into Theresa and Tracey. We talked for a bit and then arranged to meet for the Apple Butter Festival.
We drove to Berkeley Springs and walked the Apple Butter Festival. We got some honey, pumpkin and apple butter, plum jam, and Kathy and I shared some fried Oreos. Although bad sounding, are quite delicious.
It was then back to the hotel to pick up Tracey’s friend Lisa and then we headed off to the Hedgesville Heritage Days. We walked around and checked out all the cute shops. I bought the cutest wide mouth cat. We then headed back to the hotel for a quick nap prior to dinner.
We all meet up in the hotel lobby to head to dinner. We ended up at Venice again, although I brought in Chinese from next door. Then Tracey, Kathy, Lisa, and I headed off to a bar called The Other Side. We ran into a local named Pam who gave us a tour of the two bars, introduced us to everyone (most were related), and then kept checking on us all night. We watch a band called Isle 6. They are a classic rock band and were actually very fun. After a break two of the band members came out and performed an acoustic set as 40 Proof and then it was back to the loud classic rock. We had a great time and the locals are so friendly.
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Off to West Virginia…
Picked up Kathy from her house and we headed off to West Virginia. It was raining, as it always does on our spa weekend. About lunch time we stopped off at the Hagerstown Outlets.
We shopped, had lunch, and shopped some more. (About 5 hours worth) We then headed off to The Woods, where we are staying. We checked in and then headed back to Hedgesville for dinner. We had Italian at a small little place called Venice. Not quite the same as the actual city, but the food was okay.
Picked up Kathy from her house and we headed off to West Virginia. It was raining, as it always does on our spa weekend. About lunch time we stopped off at the Hagerstown Outlets.
We shopped, had lunch, and shopped some more. (About 5 hours worth) We then headed off to The Woods, where we are staying. We checked in and then headed back to Hedgesville for dinner. We had Italian at a small little place called Venice. Not quite the same as the actual city, but the food was okay.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Monday, September 11, 2006
Home...
I was dropped off at 0400 at the Marco Polo airport in Venice and everyone else continued on to Munich via Innsbruck. All my flights left as planned except for the Continental flight out of Newark. I finally made it home safe and sound a little before 2300. Flying Continental through Newark is about as much fun as getting a hot poker in the eye.
But the trip was a blast, would do it again!
I was dropped off at 0400 at the Marco Polo airport in Venice and everyone else continued on to Munich via Innsbruck. All my flights left as planned except for the Continental flight out of Newark. I finally made it home safe and sound a little before 2300. Flying Continental through Newark is about as much fun as getting a hot poker in the eye.
But the trip was a blast, would do it again!
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Venice…
After getting an early start for many days in a row, we meet a little later. We then caught the city bus and headed to Venice. Once we arrived, we found a small bakery and bought some breakfast, which we ate overlooking the Grand Canal.
We then took the water bus (which is so cool), to Piazza San Marco. We rode the elevator up the Campanile and took some pictures of the square. We then proceeded to the Basilica di San Marco. Talk about amazing. The church is almost entirely inlaid with decorative tiles surrounded by gold. We also climbed to the roof of the basilica via the museum that was inside the church. The museum had the original four horses that used to be outside the church (now stand replicas), some old tapestries, some original inlaid artwork, and some beautifully detailed robes. We then grabbed a quick lunch to go.
We then headed to the Palazzo Ducale, the palace of the last prince of Venice. We toured the four floors – from the upper residence down to the Ponte dei Sospiri and the dungeon. We then meandered the street and alleyways of Venice to cross the island to catch a different water taxi to the island of Murano. Once we arrived, we visited a glass blowing factory and watched an artisan craft an original piece of work. Then it was time for some shopping!
We took the water taxi back to Venice and then headed to the Ponte di Rialto and grabbed a bite to eat. I had vegetarian pizza. Yummy. We then hopped in a gondola and went around the waterways. It was so much fun. From there we completed our journey back to the hotel via the shopping district and for the guys the Ponte de le Tette.
Then it was time to pack for the plane ride back home.
After getting an early start for many days in a row, we meet a little later. We then caught the city bus and headed to Venice. Once we arrived, we found a small bakery and bought some breakfast, which we ate overlooking the Grand Canal.
We then took the water bus (which is so cool), to Piazza San Marco. We rode the elevator up the Campanile and took some pictures of the square. We then proceeded to the Basilica di San Marco. Talk about amazing. The church is almost entirely inlaid with decorative tiles surrounded by gold. We also climbed to the roof of the basilica via the museum that was inside the church. The museum had the original four horses that used to be outside the church (now stand replicas), some old tapestries, some original inlaid artwork, and some beautifully detailed robes. We then grabbed a quick lunch to go.
We then headed to the Palazzo Ducale, the palace of the last prince of Venice. We toured the four floors – from the upper residence down to the Ponte dei Sospiri and the dungeon. We then meandered the street and alleyways of Venice to cross the island to catch a different water taxi to the island of Murano. Once we arrived, we visited a glass blowing factory and watched an artisan craft an original piece of work. Then it was time for some shopping!
We took the water taxi back to Venice and then headed to the Ponte di Rialto and grabbed a bite to eat. I had vegetarian pizza. Yummy. We then hopped in a gondola and went around the waterways. It was so much fun. From there we completed our journey back to the hotel via the shopping district and for the guys the Ponte de le Tette.
Then it was time to pack for the plane ride back home.
Friday, September 08, 2006
Florence, giorno due...
We woke up and checked out of the hotel and then ate breakfast and walked to the Uffizi Gallery where we meet Mike and Georg, who were holding a place in line. (Thanks guys!) We then strolled through the Uffizi for almost four hours, enjoying the art pieces. We viewed paintings by Botticcelli (The Birth of Venus), Michelangelo, and DaVinci (The Annunciation and The Adoration of the Magi). On the way back to the cars we stopped by Mr. Kebob for lunch. Love that place!
From Florence we took the back roads via the Tuscan countryside and drove to Venice where we checked into the Hotel Palladio. We then walked to a local restaurant where I had a porcini mushroom pasta to die for.
We woke up and checked out of the hotel and then ate breakfast and walked to the Uffizi Gallery where we meet Mike and Georg, who were holding a place in line. (Thanks guys!) We then strolled through the Uffizi for almost four hours, enjoying the art pieces. We viewed paintings by Botticcelli (The Birth of Venus), Michelangelo, and DaVinci (The Annunciation and The Adoration of the Magi). On the way back to the cars we stopped by Mr. Kebob for lunch. Love that place!
From Florence we took the back roads via the Tuscan countryside and drove to Venice where we checked into the Hotel Palladio. We then walked to a local restaurant where I had a porcini mushroom pasta to die for.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Florence...
Again we woke up early and had breakfast at the hotel. When then walked down to the Santa Maria Novella train station and caught the CitySightseeing Firenze bus tour. We then caught line A and rode the loop. Amoung other things we saw the Porta Romana and the Plaza Michelangelo. Which although outside the walls, looks over the entire city.
From there we continued on to Via de Tornabuoni, the high end shopping street, and got off the bus. We then walked to Ponte Vecchio and walked across the bridge and checked out all the gold vendors. From there we continued on to the Ufizi square, but could not get in due to the long lines.
We then strolled the shopping streets in the area and continued onto the Santa Croce church and got onto the CitySightseeing bus tour line B. We took it about eight stops through the non-tourist part of town and got off at the Theatro Verdi where we found a panini shop, grabbed lunch, and then popped a squat in the middle of the square to eat. Such great people watching (both the Italians and the tourists).
We then headed out and were able to enter the Duomo proper. From there we went back outside and re-entered the side entrance to climb up to the top of the Cupola of the Duomo (Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore). We then hoofed up 463 steps to the top. Although very winded, the view from the top was amazing. We then climbed back down. From there we had a quick water and gelato stop and then climbed up the 414 steps of the Campanile. Wow!
Once finally back on terra firma we strolled back to the Fiume Arno (Arno River). Along the way we stopped at a flea market for some shopping and then checked out the bootleg purses. Afterwards we stopped for dinner. I had gnocchi, zucchini, and a side salad.
We then headed to the Piazza della Santissima Annunziata to watch the Festival of Paper Lanterns. We watched the procession into the plaza of the different bands with each being followed by kids carrying paper lanterns. There were also lots of kids with blow guns shooting putty at the lanterns. It was a lot fun. The area had the feel of a carnival complete with white cotton candy, hot dogs, french fries, candies, roasted nuts, and cookies. Watching the machine make the cookies was very entertaining. We then hoofed it back to the hotel and called it a night.
Again we woke up early and had breakfast at the hotel. When then walked down to the Santa Maria Novella train station and caught the CitySightseeing Firenze bus tour. We then caught line A and rode the loop. Amoung other things we saw the Porta Romana and the Plaza Michelangelo. Which although outside the walls, looks over the entire city.
From there we continued on to Via de Tornabuoni, the high end shopping street, and got off the bus. We then walked to Ponte Vecchio and walked across the bridge and checked out all the gold vendors. From there we continued on to the Ufizi square, but could not get in due to the long lines.
We then strolled the shopping streets in the area and continued onto the Santa Croce church and got onto the CitySightseeing bus tour line B. We took it about eight stops through the non-tourist part of town and got off at the Theatro Verdi where we found a panini shop, grabbed lunch, and then popped a squat in the middle of the square to eat. Such great people watching (both the Italians and the tourists).
We then headed out and were able to enter the Duomo proper. From there we went back outside and re-entered the side entrance to climb up to the top of the Cupola of the Duomo (Opera di Santa Maria del Fiore). We then hoofed up 463 steps to the top. Although very winded, the view from the top was amazing. We then climbed back down. From there we had a quick water and gelato stop and then climbed up the 414 steps of the Campanile. Wow!
Once finally back on terra firma we strolled back to the Fiume Arno (Arno River). Along the way we stopped at a flea market for some shopping and then checked out the bootleg purses. Afterwards we stopped for dinner. I had gnocchi, zucchini, and a side salad.
We then headed to the Piazza della Santissima Annunziata to watch the Festival of Paper Lanterns. We watched the procession into the plaza of the different bands with each being followed by kids carrying paper lanterns. There were also lots of kids with blow guns shooting putty at the lanterns. It was a lot fun. The area had the feel of a carnival complete with white cotton candy, hot dogs, french fries, candies, roasted nuts, and cookies. Watching the machine make the cookies was very entertaining. We then hoofed it back to the hotel and called it a night.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
Milan…
Woke up early again today and all of us meet downstairs for the hotel breakfast buffet. After a quick bite, we headed out toward downtown where we parked the cars and walked to the Duomo. We walked around the church and took pictures. We then walked up the stairs to the top of the church and enjoyed the intricate carvings up close.
It was then time for a quite gelato break and then we rode the Milan Citysightseeing Tours bus for a wonderful overview of the city. We saw some of the old portos, or gates, that still exist. It was then time for some quick souvenir shopping and a quick lunch of panini sandwiches.
We then left Milan and headed toward Florence. Along the way we stopped and spent a few hours at the Fidenza Village Outlet Mall in Fidenza, Italy. It was fun browsing, along I found plenty to buy. Maybe my next adventure should be outlet mall shopping in Europe! But Georg said he is unwilling to be the coordinator. (Exact quote would be "Not just no, but hell no")
After arriving in Florence and checking into the Hotel Leonardo DaVinci, we headed down to a great Middle Eastern restaurant Mr. Kebab. Had a falafel, hummus, and babaganush for dinner. Afterwards we strolled the streets before heading back to the rooms.
Woke up early again today and all of us meet downstairs for the hotel breakfast buffet. After a quick bite, we headed out toward downtown where we parked the cars and walked to the Duomo. We walked around the church and took pictures. We then walked up the stairs to the top of the church and enjoyed the intricate carvings up close.
It was then time for a quite gelato break and then we rode the Milan Citysightseeing Tours bus for a wonderful overview of the city. We saw some of the old portos, or gates, that still exist. It was then time for some quick souvenir shopping and a quick lunch of panini sandwiches.
We then left Milan and headed toward Florence. Along the way we stopped and spent a few hours at the Fidenza Village Outlet Mall in Fidenza, Italy. It was fun browsing, along I found plenty to buy. Maybe my next adventure should be outlet mall shopping in Europe! But Georg said he is unwilling to be the coordinator. (Exact quote would be "Not just no, but hell no")
After arriving in Florence and checking into the Hotel Leonardo DaVinci, we headed down to a great Middle Eastern restaurant Mr. Kebab. Had a falafel, hummus, and babaganush for dinner. Afterwards we strolled the streets before heading back to the rooms.
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
St. Moritz and Milan...
After waking up and eating breakfast at the hotel, we piled into the two cars and drove to St. Moritz, Switzerland and parked at the train station. From the train station we took a city bus to the center of town, where we bought a ticket up to Piz Nair. To get to Piz Nair we took two mountain trains and a suspended gondola on the Engain railway system. Talk about amazing views. Piz Nair is at 3000m. Plenty of pictures were taken. We then grabbed a drink and did some souvenior shopping. After spending about 1 hour up with very little oxygen we took the train system back down the mountain. We then walked to the car via the grocery store and a stroll around the lake.
From St. Moritz we drove to Milan, Italy. On the way we drove down the Alps via some tight switchbacks and then through at least 14 mountain tunnels with the longest being 4kms.
Once we arrived in safely at the Monopole Hotel in Milan, after many close calls in the city traffic. We walked under the train station down to a shopping district. The females proceed to do some clothes and shoe shopping, while the guys just followed behind. Afterwards we headed back to the hotel and stopped off for some pizza at the Ristorante Pizzeria Da Luca. I had a caprese salad, an aspargus pizza, and an orange Fanta.
We then ended in Theresa and my room playing cards and chatting until we just needed to catch some shut eye. No gelato yet. Will make that a priority tomorrow (or today as the case may be).
After waking up and eating breakfast at the hotel, we piled into the two cars and drove to St. Moritz, Switzerland and parked at the train station. From the train station we took a city bus to the center of town, where we bought a ticket up to Piz Nair. To get to Piz Nair we took two mountain trains and a suspended gondola on the Engain railway system. Talk about amazing views. Piz Nair is at 3000m. Plenty of pictures were taken. We then grabbed a drink and did some souvenior shopping. After spending about 1 hour up with very little oxygen we took the train system back down the mountain. We then walked to the car via the grocery store and a stroll around the lake.
From St. Moritz we drove to Milan, Italy. On the way we drove down the Alps via some tight switchbacks and then through at least 14 mountain tunnels with the longest being 4kms.
Once we arrived in safely at the Monopole Hotel in Milan, after many close calls in the city traffic. We walked under the train station down to a shopping district. The females proceed to do some clothes and shoe shopping, while the guys just followed behind. Afterwards we headed back to the hotel and stopped off for some pizza at the Ristorante Pizzeria Da Luca. I had a caprese salad, an aspargus pizza, and an orange Fanta.
We then ended in Theresa and my room playing cards and chatting until we just needed to catch some shut eye. No gelato yet. Will make that a priority tomorrow (or today as the case may be).
Monday, September 04, 2006
Celerina..
Our adventures continued as we drove up the Alps. The views were amazing and some of the hairpin turns with cars bearing down were quite exciting. On the drive we encountered a herd of cows on one of the turns.
We ended up in the quaint little town of Celerina where we checked into the Chesa Rosatsch. Theresa and I are sharing a room on the first floor (2nd in US), with a balcony view of the mountains.
We then went to dinner at the Hotel Restaurant Saluver. I had a great homemade pasta with green beans, potatoes, Swiss cheese, and sage. I then topped it off with plum ice cream with whipped cream.
Now it is time to actually try to get some sleep, although I do not know how it would not be possible due to the fact I have only has 7 hours of sleep in the last two days.
Our adventures continued as we drove up the Alps. The views were amazing and some of the hairpin turns with cars bearing down were quite exciting. On the drive we encountered a herd of cows on one of the turns.
We ended up in the quaint little town of Celerina where we checked into the Chesa Rosatsch. Theresa and I are sharing a room on the first floor (2nd in US), with a balcony view of the mountains.
We then went to dinner at the Hotel Restaurant Saluver. I had a great homemade pasta with green beans, potatoes, Swiss cheese, and sage. I then topped it off with plum ice cream with whipped cream.
Now it is time to actually try to get some sleep, although I do not know how it would not be possible due to the fact I have only has 7 hours of sleep in the last two days.
Giger Bar in Chur...
Before I begin today's post I must wish a Happy Birthday to my very special nephew.
*****************************
* HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JONAH!*
*****************************
After lots of time on the road, I finally made it Munich. Meet my five other traveling companions and we hopped into the two rentals cars. We drove to the Giger Bar in Chur, Switzerland via Austria.
The decorations in the bar were very cool and the bar chairs were Harkonen chairs from the movie Dune. In the bar we had a couple of drinks and some snacks and are now headed to St. Moritz, Switerland.
Before I begin today's post I must wish a Happy Birthday to my very special nephew.
*****************************
* HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JONAH!*
*****************************
After lots of time on the road, I finally made it Munich. Meet my five other traveling companions and we hopped into the two rentals cars. We drove to the Giger Bar in Chur, Switzerland via Austria.
The decorations in the bar were very cool and the bar chairs were Harkonen chairs from the movie Dune. In the bar we had a couple of drinks and some snacks and are now headed to St. Moritz, Switerland.
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Newark, Newark, Newark...
24 hours into my vacation and all I have seen is the Newark Airport. After missing my flight last night I called all the hotels with airport shuttles, but found there were no rooms available. So I did the best I could and found a quiet corner in the airport and tried to catch some ZZZs on the ground. I have eaten dinner, breakfast, and lunch at the same food court and and very happy that my flight is now on the board and showing on time. Although a second night without a bed or a shower is not too exciting.....
24 hours into my vacation and all I have seen is the Newark Airport. After missing my flight last night I called all the hotels with airport shuttles, but found there were no rooms available. So I did the best I could and found a quiet corner in the airport and tried to catch some ZZZs on the ground. I have eaten dinner, breakfast, and lunch at the same food court and and very happy that my flight is now on the board and showing on time. Although a second night without a bed or a shower is not too exciting.....
Saturday, September 02, 2006
Munich... I wish
Well today was very interesting. I awoke and there was no electricity or water due to Ernesto. Took a shower the base gym and then got to Dulles. My flight to Newark was delayed by weather and we waited on the tarmac for over 3 hours. Therefore I missed my connections and could not be rebooked until the next day. Continental was unwilling to give me hotel or food voucher, but I am going to find a quiet location in the concourse.
Ojala that tomorrow will bring better travel adventures.
Well today was very interesting. I awoke and there was no electricity or water due to Ernesto. Took a shower the base gym and then got to Dulles. My flight to Newark was delayed by weather and we waited on the tarmac for over 3 hours. Therefore I missed my connections and could not be rebooked until the next day. Continental was unwilling to give me hotel or food voucher, but I am going to find a quiet location in the concourse.
Ojala that tomorrow will bring better travel adventures.
Friday, September 01, 2006
Packed and Ready To Go...
Well, I am packed, except for a few remaining items. And definitely ready to go. Hopefully the weather will cooperate and not delay any of my flights tomorrow.
Due to the fact that I am using frequent flier miles my flight is kind of like a "milk run". I fly from Washington D.C. to Newark, Newark to Amsterdam, and then 8 hours later Amsterdam to Munich.
Well, I am packed, except for a few remaining items. And definitely ready to go. Hopefully the weather will cooperate and not delay any of my flights tomorrow.
Due to the fact that I am using frequent flier miles my flight is kind of like a "milk run". I fly from Washington D.C. to Newark, Newark to Amsterdam, and then 8 hours later Amsterdam to Munich.
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Off to Europe, again....
After a month of planning, it now looks like a new adventure is finally set!
In September, five friends and myself are going to meet in Munich, Germany and then drive through Europe. We will be visiting the cities of St. Moritz, Milan, Florence, and Venice. I will then depart while the rest of them continue on to Stuttgart and back to Munich, where three more will depart. The remaining two will then continue on to Vienna before returning to Munich to fly home.
All the details and of course, pictures, to follow.
After a month of planning, it now looks like a new adventure is finally set!
In September, five friends and myself are going to meet in Munich, Germany and then drive through Europe. We will be visiting the cities of St. Moritz, Milan, Florence, and Venice. I will then depart while the rest of them continue on to Stuttgart and back to Munich, where three more will depart. The remaining two will then continue on to Vienna before returning to Munich to fly home.
All the details and of course, pictures, to follow.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Monday
Slept in late to catch up on sleep after the very late night, and then took the U-Bahn down to Potsdamer Platz, where I took the Top Tour Berlin bus around for a loop. Was able to see some areas I had seen on my last trip, but also drove by many of the embassies, the last remaining block with the wall still standing, the zoo with its two huge elephants at the entrance, and the concert hall.
I then got off at Checkpoint Charlie and revisited some areas, along with taking pictures with the wall and checking out the outdoor exhibits next to it.
After a quick lunch of bread, cheese, and some olives, I then walked to the the Stasi Museum. Although all the documents in the museum are in German some of the displays have been translated into English. So using the English guidebook I walked around. It was truly overwhelming what documentation was captured on citizens and the listenening devices and cameras were hid in such ingenious places.
I then took the U-Bahn to the shopping center of town, where I did some last minute shopping before heading back to the hotel room to pack.
Slept in late to catch up on sleep after the very late night, and then took the U-Bahn down to Potsdamer Platz, where I took the Top Tour Berlin bus around for a loop. Was able to see some areas I had seen on my last trip, but also drove by many of the embassies, the last remaining block with the wall still standing, the zoo with its two huge elephants at the entrance, and the concert hall.
I then got off at Checkpoint Charlie and revisited some areas, along with taking pictures with the wall and checking out the outdoor exhibits next to it.
After a quick lunch of bread, cheese, and some olives, I then walked to the the Stasi Museum. Although all the documents in the museum are in German some of the displays have been translated into English. So using the English guidebook I walked around. It was truly overwhelming what documentation was captured on citizens and the listenening devices and cameras were hid in such ingenious places.
I then took the U-Bahn to the shopping center of town, where I did some last minute shopping before heading back to the hotel room to pack.
Monday, July 10, 2006
Sunday
After spending a restless night in the hotel, it was off to the Brandenberg Gate. The German people celebrated their third place win with honking in the streets all night. Also found out the the 4-star hotel did not have air-conditioning and had to ask for a fan.
Arrived at Fan Fest Mile (Berlin) a little before noon and joined 300,000 other people awaiting the German soccer team's arrival. The frenzy was amazing as each player was announced and interviewed. It is a tradition of the German team to thank the fans after each World Cup.
After the teams departure, walked the entire mile from the Brandenberg Gate to the Großer Stern. The entire area was blocked off and a pedestrian only zone. Had some french fries, Thai noodles, and bought a couple of World Cup shirts. Then hung out in the "Tierpark" for a few hours waiting for the World Cup Final between France and Italy.
Watched the 120 minute game on the giant screen right next to the Brandenberg Gate. The crowd was loud, crazy, and a lot of fun. To the dismay of many of the French fans in the crowd, Italy won in penalty kicks. Then it was time for the Italians to celebrate. Although not as loud as the night before, there was still lots of cars honking.
After spending a restless night in the hotel, it was off to the Brandenberg Gate. The German people celebrated their third place win with honking in the streets all night. Also found out the the 4-star hotel did not have air-conditioning and had to ask for a fan.
Arrived at Fan Fest Mile (Berlin) a little before noon and joined 300,000 other people awaiting the German soccer team's arrival. The frenzy was amazing as each player was announced and interviewed. It is a tradition of the German team to thank the fans after each World Cup.
After the teams departure, walked the entire mile from the Brandenberg Gate to the Großer Stern. The entire area was blocked off and a pedestrian only zone. Had some french fries, Thai noodles, and bought a couple of World Cup shirts. Then hung out in the "Tierpark" for a few hours waiting for the World Cup Final between France and Italy.
Watched the 120 minute game on the giant screen right next to the Brandenberg Gate. The crowd was loud, crazy, and a lot of fun. To the dismay of many of the French fans in the crowd, Italy won in penalty kicks. Then it was time for the Italians to celebrate. Although not as loud as the night before, there was still lots of cars honking.
Saturday
Left Granada and drove south to Málaga. Had a quick lunch of bocadillos (sandwiches) at a rest stop along the way. Once in the city center, took the 1.5 hour double decker bus tour. Drove by the Mediterrean Sea, various churches, the Capital, the bull fighting rink, the old Muslim castle also know as the Gibralfaro, and Pablo Picasso's birthplace.
Then quickly drove to the airport, where I caught a flight to Berlin. Arrived in Berlin shortly before midnight.
Left Granada and drove south to Málaga. Had a quick lunch of bocadillos (sandwiches) at a rest stop along the way. Once in the city center, took the 1.5 hour double decker bus tour. Drove by the Mediterrean Sea, various churches, the Capital, the bull fighting rink, the old Muslim castle also know as the Gibralfaro, and Pablo Picasso's birthplace.
Then quickly drove to the airport, where I caught a flight to Berlin. Arrived in Berlin shortly before midnight.
Saturday, July 08, 2006
The Science Park and the Alhambra.
Friday, after a quick breakfast, headed out to the Parque de las Ciencias or the Science Park. Was able to view and play with many indoor and outdoor interactive exhibits. Also took the elevator up the observation tower to the viewing deck at 35 meters (115 feet) high. The view of the city and surrounding areas was incredible. Then I walked back down the tower via the outside stairs. Not something to attempt if afraid of heights.
Lunch was a triple decker sandwich of asparagus, egg, and tomato. I then checked out the Neptune shopping center, but found nothing of interest. After a quick rest in the hotel, I headed out to meet up for a private night tour of the Alhambra. Even at 7p.m. it was still 97 degrees F.
The bus drove us up the hill, where we got off and hiked the rest of the way to the Alhambra. Our guide then walked us by the Catholic Church and Charles V´s ornate castle. We then went inside the three Moorish castles that remain. At one time there were seven. Although not much to look at on the outside, inside they are amazing. The ceilings are constructed of Lebanese cedar with many different designs. The wood is original and has remained intact for over 800 years. The walls are mostly stucco and paint with ornate designs. The writing on the walls are either in cursive or block Arabic. The bottom portion of the walls are ceramic designs. Most of the walls have had to be reconstructed. Very little of the original handiwork remains. The courtyards inside had different shaped pools and fountains to reflect the duality of life.
Then it was dinnertime. At 10:30pm it had cooled down to 88 degrees F. Dinner was a leisurely affair of salad, pasta, and flan on the Plaza Nueva at the bottom of the hill that leads to the Alhambra.
Friday, after a quick breakfast, headed out to the Parque de las Ciencias or the Science Park. Was able to view and play with many indoor and outdoor interactive exhibits. Also took the elevator up the observation tower to the viewing deck at 35 meters (115 feet) high. The view of the city and surrounding areas was incredible. Then I walked back down the tower via the outside stairs. Not something to attempt if afraid of heights.
Lunch was a triple decker sandwich of asparagus, egg, and tomato. I then checked out the Neptune shopping center, but found nothing of interest. After a quick rest in the hotel, I headed out to meet up for a private night tour of the Alhambra. Even at 7p.m. it was still 97 degrees F.
The bus drove us up the hill, where we got off and hiked the rest of the way to the Alhambra. Our guide then walked us by the Catholic Church and Charles V´s ornate castle. We then went inside the three Moorish castles that remain. At one time there were seven. Although not much to look at on the outside, inside they are amazing. The ceilings are constructed of Lebanese cedar with many different designs. The wood is original and has remained intact for over 800 years. The walls are mostly stucco and paint with ornate designs. The writing on the walls are either in cursive or block Arabic. The bottom portion of the walls are ceramic designs. Most of the walls have had to be reconstructed. Very little of the original handiwork remains. The courtyards inside had different shaped pools and fountains to reflect the duality of life.
Then it was dinnertime. At 10:30pm it had cooled down to 88 degrees F. Dinner was a leisurely affair of salad, pasta, and flan on the Plaza Nueva at the bottom of the hill that leads to the Alhambra.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Touring the city.
Today I was the consumate tourist. I got up early, headed out to one of the many bakeries that line the streets and had a pastry for breakfast. I then took the official Citysightseeing Granada tour. I sat on the top level of a double decker bus and took in all the sights. They explained the sights, but drove so fast it was hard to take pictures. Still had a great time. I did the tour in English and in Spanish. It was my one occasion to be bad, break the rules, and use English. I have only been using Spanish since I landed in Madrid.
For lunch I stopped off at a small bar and had diet Coke and tapas. The tapas consisted of toasted bread with olive oil, green olives, and a potato "tortilla". In Spain, tortillas are equivalent to a fritatta.
I then finished up my souvenir shopping. After a quick rest, it was off to dinner at the Hotel Alhambra Palace. Dinner consisted of tomato gaspacho, white asparagus, cheese ravioli with a cream sauce, and for dessert; pistachio ice cream and espuma de crema Catalana. The espuma was very close to a creme bruleé, but much lighter and fluffier.
Today I was the consumate tourist. I got up early, headed out to one of the many bakeries that line the streets and had a pastry for breakfast. I then took the official Citysightseeing Granada tour. I sat on the top level of a double decker bus and took in all the sights. They explained the sights, but drove so fast it was hard to take pictures. Still had a great time. I did the tour in English and in Spanish. It was my one occasion to be bad, break the rules, and use English. I have only been using Spanish since I landed in Madrid.
For lunch I stopped off at a small bar and had diet Coke and tapas. The tapas consisted of toasted bread with olive oil, green olives, and a potato "tortilla". In Spain, tortillas are equivalent to a fritatta.
I then finished up my souvenir shopping. After a quick rest, it was off to dinner at the Hotel Alhambra Palace. Dinner consisted of tomato gaspacho, white asparagus, cheese ravioli with a cream sauce, and for dessert; pistachio ice cream and espuma de crema Catalana. The espuma was very close to a creme bruleé, but much lighter and fluffier.
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Shopping, Shopping, Shopping...
My first full day in Granada consisted of walking, shopping, more walking, and more shopping. Headed out first via the covered shopping street to the 4 story department store "El Corte Inglés". Did some browsing through the floors. Afterwards walked back to the outdoor bazaar. There was handiworks from India, Brazil, Mexico, Morrocco, and Africa.
I also found the outdoor flowers, vegetable, fruit, and fish market. Had a lot of fun strolling the aisles with the local ladies shopping for food. I then visited a couple of churches. In my wanderings I ran some small side alleyways that had leather goods and textiles.
After a quick pineapple gelato. I was walked to the Alhambra and around the top of the city. After huffing and puffing my way up, I slowly walked down, periodically stepping into doorways to allow trucks to pass. I walked past some gorgeous churches, a couple of convents, and the Elvira door.
The city and its people are a blast to watch. They are so animated in their conversations, that sometimes I just had to sit down and people watch.
Tonight it is falafel for dinner.
My first full day in Granada consisted of walking, shopping, more walking, and more shopping. Headed out first via the covered shopping street to the 4 story department store "El Corte Inglés". Did some browsing through the floors. Afterwards walked back to the outdoor bazaar. There was handiworks from India, Brazil, Mexico, Morrocco, and Africa.
I also found the outdoor flowers, vegetable, fruit, and fish market. Had a lot of fun strolling the aisles with the local ladies shopping for food. I then visited a couple of churches. In my wanderings I ran some small side alleyways that had leather goods and textiles.
After a quick pineapple gelato. I was walked to the Alhambra and around the top of the city. After huffing and puffing my way up, I slowly walked down, periodically stepping into doorways to allow trucks to pass. I walked past some gorgeous churches, a couple of convents, and the Elvira door.
The city and its people are a blast to watch. They are so animated in their conversations, that sometimes I just had to sit down and people watch.
Tonight it is falafel for dinner.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
"Llegé a España"
Left Washington D.C. at 4:25 pm on Monday July, 3rd. Flew on Lufthansa Airlines. Although they had free alcohol, the seats are uncomfortable even for a short person such as I. Arrived in Frankfurt at 6am on Tuesday July 4th. Went throught customs, and caught my connection flight to Madrid and arrived there 20 minutes late. Once the luggage came off the belt, picked up the rental car from Avis. It is a BMW 7 series!
On the drive down to Granada, stopped and had lunch at a fast food paella restaurant. I had the vegetarian paella. Quite tasty. Once in Granada, had to navigate around some closed streets to find the hotel and check in. Staying on the top floor and have a spectacular view! After unpacking, I walked the streets to get my bearings, take a few pictures, and find supper. Decided on Chinese. Time to watch the Germany vs. Italy soccer game.
Left Washington D.C. at 4:25 pm on Monday July, 3rd. Flew on Lufthansa Airlines. Although they had free alcohol, the seats are uncomfortable even for a short person such as I. Arrived in Frankfurt at 6am on Tuesday July 4th. Went throught customs, and caught my connection flight to Madrid and arrived there 20 minutes late. Once the luggage came off the belt, picked up the rental car from Avis. It is a BMW 7 series!
On the drive down to Granada, stopped and had lunch at a fast food paella restaurant. I had the vegetarian paella. Quite tasty. Once in Granada, had to navigate around some closed streets to find the hotel and check in. Staying on the top floor and have a spectacular view! After unpacking, I walked the streets to get my bearings, take a few pictures, and find supper. Decided on Chinese. Time to watch the Germany vs. Italy soccer game.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Travel Itinerary
July 3 - Fly to Madrid, Spain and drive down to Granada, Spain. Check into the AC Palacio de Santa Paula.
July 4 - 7 - Explore Granada and the surrounding areas.
July 8 - Drive to Malaga, Spain and catch a flight to Berlin, Germany.
July 9 - World Cup Finals in Berlin!
July 10 - Explore Berlin (again).
July 11 - Fly home.
July 3 - Fly to Madrid, Spain and drive down to Granada, Spain. Check into the AC Palacio de Santa Paula.
July 4 - 7 - Explore Granada and the surrounding areas.
July 8 - Drive to Malaga, Spain and catch a flight to Berlin, Germany.
July 9 - World Cup Finals in Berlin!
July 10 - Explore Berlin (again).
July 11 - Fly home.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)