The path the Danube takes between Romania and Serbia is stunning. The Iron Gates are an impressive series of gorges where the Danube flows between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. The path is tranquil today, but there are signs of past conflicts in this area. The words engraved under the rock sculpture of King Decebalus (Dacian king, 87-106AD) say he was “made by dragons,” as … Continue reading Serbia
We are getting a better understanding of the history of the countries of Eastern Europe. Today, the cities that had been under Communist rule are still depressed. Rural areas between cities, however, have beautiful, flourishing farms. Between Rousse and Arbanasi, we saw beautiful sights including fields of canola, steep cliffs, stone bridges and a few goats. In Arbanasi we walked through the Konstantsalieva House, a … Continue reading Bulgaria
We flew from Amsterdam to Bucharest, Romania to join a river cruise on the eastern portion of the Danube River. Bucharest is the farthest east we have ever traveled. Bucharest seems to have a split personality. Sometimes it is “Micul Paris” (Little Paris). Other times, “Bucureștiul este o fetiță veche, obosită, într-o haină cam zdrențuită,” (Bucharest is a faded old gal in a raggedy coat). … Continue reading Romania
Once again, we had the urge to travel. Fortunately, we were able to fly to Amsterdam in the springtime. We checked into the lovely Clayton Hotel in the city center. Unfortunately, the weather was cooler than our thin blood could handle. We had to wear long pants, jackets and real shoes (no flip flops!). Fortunately, Amsterdam is fun, no matter the weather. We explored the … Continue reading Fortunately, Unfortunately! (Amsterdam)
It was a sunny day as we pulled into Bar Harbor, Maine. Agamont park was a beautiful spot by the water. We had lunch and did some shopping. Then it was time for blueberry ice cream! Wicked good! The Bluenose Inn was our home for the week, and our room had beautiful views over the harbor. We have fond memories of visiting Acadia Park may … Continue reading Bar Harbor
So far, New England was proving to be a lot of fun. We continued north to York, Maine. We passed Long Sands Beach and some beautiful homes by the ocean. So here is Sohier Park (get it?). It was a lovely day to visit the Nubble Lighthouse and its spectacular views over Cape Neddick. We had hoped to find Fox’s Seafood for a lobster roll … Continue reading Maine
We had returned to the USA, but the weather was still too warm to head south to Key West, so instead we headed north to New England. We wandered up the East Coast toward Maine and made several stops along the way. Our first stop was Mystic, Connecticut. The Mystic River was busy with all kinds of boats. We walked the town, finding pretty views … Continue reading Heading North
We drove through the scenic Alps on our way to Zurich, Switzerland. Our path led us into small towns, along farmlands, through tunnels and past waterfalls. By the time we reached our hotel, the sun had come out. We checked into our room and then headed out to a nearby cafe for refreshments. Old Town Zurich was absolutely beautiful. We walked the bridges over the … Continue reading Zurich
On our way to Liechtenstein, we made a detour into Germany to visit the Neuschwanstein Castle. This Bavarian castle was one of several built by King Ludwig II. It has a long and interesting history, and in modern times, was the inspiration for the Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland. Our guide, Stephen, had an engaging way of telling us stories about the history of the … Continue reading Liechtenstein
Austria is amazingly beautiful. We were fortunate to stay a few days in both Salzburg and Innsbruck. In Salzburg, we explored the Mirabell Palace and its beautiful gardens. We even danced and sang around the fountain, as this is where “Do-Re-Mi” was filmed for the Sound of Music. Well, Kenton didn’t dance, but he hummed along. We admired the Doppler house on one side of … Continue reading Salzburg and Innsbruck
