This will be the final post of this blog.
As everyone (hopefully) knows, I have returned to the states successfully, alive and well and happy.
Well, mostly happy. I want to be back in Europe, still traveling. I can say without a doubt that this trip was the most life changing experience I have ever had, and I have become a new man because of it. My whole outlook on life has been widened, improved. Things here in the states have a new look to them, and I feel some weird feelings as I have started returning to my regular haunts. It's like being in a familiar place for the first time again.
I know that I will return to Europe someday. And probably someday soon. I have caught the travel bug, and I don't EVER want to get rid of it.
I would like to thank everyone who read my blog, both the folk who subscribed to my postings, and to the casual observers. You guys were a nice link to home, and knowing that I had people who followed what I was doing and were interested in my thoughts and feelings throughout was just about the best cure for homesickness I could think of. Thank you all for your patience and comments, and even you advice on neat things to see.
This trip would have been much less fun without this blog.
My final words are going to be a piece of advice. I would encourage every single person to do something like this, a trip alone to a foreign land, at least once in their lifetime. I know that I have changed in innumerable ways, and I believe these changes are only for the better.
Thanks again, everyone, and happy November!
-Dyl
P.S. - Now what are you all going to do without my witty and amazing post-scripts?
Monday, November 1, 2010
Thursday, October 14, 2010
That's Haarlem, not Harlem
So this is my second evening at my friend Deb's house, in Haarlem. It is evident that this town is NOT a tourist attraction, and that is fine with me. Today I got to sleep in on a couch (comfort than many of the mattress' I had at hostels), and weake up to a fantastic breakfast - and a vegetarian one, too. Health bread, super delicious cheese, sprouts, cucumber, tomatoe, and egg. . .and with coffee, tea, and apple-banana juice, too.
In the house there are mainly three of us: Deborah, her friend Ben who is attending a conservatory in Haarlem, and me. Deb's dad lives upstairs, too( and he makes regular visits; he is a totally cool guy. Kinda lazy, but has great musical taste, and likes to chat. We talked about government, nuclear war, David Bowie, traveling, and crazy American words for 'peeling an eggshell off of a hard boiled egg with cold eater.' The Dutch are awesome.
After a slow morning, Deb took me to the town center, and showed me around. We went by Napolion's former winter house, a free petting zoo, and gorgeous streets and canals. We also stopped by two museums, one with art, the other with architecture. Learned about culture and how Haarlem was built. Three major fires in the city, and three major rebuildings. Cool stories, too. . .Haarlem is the Capitol of the northern Dutch province, the same province where Amsterdam is, yet A-town is the country's Capitol. Strange.
After choirs, it was time for a visit to a bar and a coffee shop, then back to the house with some fast-food, Dutch style. Super good fried meat stick things and a cheese soufle. We hung out at home, and watched a little Dutch television, then went and got stuff for an Indonesian dinner. Deb is a good cook. We then watched Orphan, and now here we sit. We are headed to 'the dunes' tomorrow, and I am really excited. Wild horses, sand, and booze with a picnic. . .well, the booze and picnic will be awesome at any rate. And this place looks really cool from the pictures. It'll be fun. And if it isn't, I shall blog about it!
Been noticing how much I have walked here in Europe; four or five hours is about normal, and I have no problem with that anymore. Moleskin was a good purchase for this trip, though. I like this exercise thing, though. . .and with biking being huge here in the Netherlands, cars seem a little unnecessary. Kinda cool.
As it nears midnight here, I am trying to decide where to go next, in my final stretch of the trip. It could be in Belgium, seeing nifty things there, or it could be back in Germany, or perhaps some other country nearby. We shall see. . .we'll see.
-Dyl
P.S. - Must mention this: dinner last night was made to accordian music and singing from me, Deb, and Ben. Totally awesome!!!
In the house there are mainly three of us: Deborah, her friend Ben who is attending a conservatory in Haarlem, and me. Deb's dad lives upstairs, too( and he makes regular visits; he is a totally cool guy. Kinda lazy, but has great musical taste, and likes to chat. We talked about government, nuclear war, David Bowie, traveling, and crazy American words for 'peeling an eggshell off of a hard boiled egg with cold eater.' The Dutch are awesome.
After a slow morning, Deb took me to the town center, and showed me around. We went by Napolion's former winter house, a free petting zoo, and gorgeous streets and canals. We also stopped by two museums, one with art, the other with architecture. Learned about culture and how Haarlem was built. Three major fires in the city, and three major rebuildings. Cool stories, too. . .Haarlem is the Capitol of the northern Dutch province, the same province where Amsterdam is, yet A-town is the country's Capitol. Strange.
After choirs, it was time for a visit to a bar and a coffee shop, then back to the house with some fast-food, Dutch style. Super good fried meat stick things and a cheese soufle. We hung out at home, and watched a little Dutch television, then went and got stuff for an Indonesian dinner. Deb is a good cook. We then watched Orphan, and now here we sit. We are headed to 'the dunes' tomorrow, and I am really excited. Wild horses, sand, and booze with a picnic. . .well, the booze and picnic will be awesome at any rate. And this place looks really cool from the pictures. It'll be fun. And if it isn't, I shall blog about it!
Been noticing how much I have walked here in Europe; four or five hours is about normal, and I have no problem with that anymore. Moleskin was a good purchase for this trip, though. I like this exercise thing, though. . .and with biking being huge here in the Netherlands, cars seem a little unnecessary. Kinda cool.
As it nears midnight here, I am trying to decide where to go next, in my final stretch of the trip. It could be in Belgium, seeing nifty things there, or it could be back in Germany, or perhaps some other country nearby. We shall see. . .we'll see.
-Dyl
P.S. - Must mention this: dinner last night was made to accordian music and singing from me, Deb, and Ben. Totally awesome!!!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
And In The End. . .
It is dawning upon me that my trip is nearing it's close. I'm trying not to think about it. . .better things to do. Like explore Europe more!
So Amsterdam. . .this town isn't as cool as I thought it would be. The sights are very beautiful, yes, and there are plenty of museums that I have seen. And who could forget a stroll through the red light district and the numerous coffeeshops. . .but this city is a little less friendly than I have seen in the rest of Europe. All of the visitors are high or horny, and most of the shop owners don't like chatting - maybe they think I will just be blitzed and incoherent.
In any case, innate found the sights the most beautiful/entertaining thing of the city, rather than the people; first time this trip. I spent most of the day today I Vogel Park, Amsterdams largest and oldest park. . .amazing that such a peaceful place (and so big) right in a major urban center. I have a mixed opinion of this city. . .this might be one of he places it would be better to live in than visit.
I didn't have one decent conversation with anyone today, except by email. I really miss having my friends around to just chat with.
However, this will be remedied tomorrow: I'm off to Haarlem to stay on someones couch. A girl I met in Prague is letting me stay with her (don't worry, Kristi, she doesn't like boys), and offered to show me around Haarlem. The town is the oldest in the Netherlands, and supposed to be beautiful. I hope so!
Almost went to a football match today, but it was €100 or more. Netherlands vs. Sweden. It was very one-sided; the Netherlands is very good. But I did buy a bright orange hoody, as I needed another long sleeved shirt, and it looks cool.
Perhaps it's me taking to heart the Dutch attitude toasted things. . .they love accomdationg people here, it's the cornerstone of their cultural identity, and I have enjoyed it here, all in all. On the train in, there were number of gorgeous towns I would love to tour - by bike, of course - and the country is definitely on my mind for places to live, although I think Germany is tops at the moment.
Well, it's bedtime. It's deserted here in the hostel bar, so I guess I will turn in, too. I should sleep. . .
-Dyl
P.S. - The food here is almost exactly the same as back in the states. Restaurants of every kind, not so many auhrntif Dutch restaurants that I have seen. Really, though, when one of their delicacies is pickled herrings. . .pass.
So Amsterdam. . .this town isn't as cool as I thought it would be. The sights are very beautiful, yes, and there are plenty of museums that I have seen. And who could forget a stroll through the red light district and the numerous coffeeshops. . .but this city is a little less friendly than I have seen in the rest of Europe. All of the visitors are high or horny, and most of the shop owners don't like chatting - maybe they think I will just be blitzed and incoherent.
In any case, innate found the sights the most beautiful/entertaining thing of the city, rather than the people; first time this trip. I spent most of the day today I Vogel Park, Amsterdams largest and oldest park. . .amazing that such a peaceful place (and so big) right in a major urban center. I have a mixed opinion of this city. . .this might be one of he places it would be better to live in than visit.
I didn't have one decent conversation with anyone today, except by email. I really miss having my friends around to just chat with.
However, this will be remedied tomorrow: I'm off to Haarlem to stay on someones couch. A girl I met in Prague is letting me stay with her (don't worry, Kristi, she doesn't like boys), and offered to show me around Haarlem. The town is the oldest in the Netherlands, and supposed to be beautiful. I hope so!
Almost went to a football match today, but it was €100 or more. Netherlands vs. Sweden. It was very one-sided; the Netherlands is very good. But I did buy a bright orange hoody, as I needed another long sleeved shirt, and it looks cool.
Perhaps it's me taking to heart the Dutch attitude toasted things. . .they love accomdationg people here, it's the cornerstone of their cultural identity, and I have enjoyed it here, all in all. On the train in, there were number of gorgeous towns I would love to tour - by bike, of course - and the country is definitely on my mind for places to live, although I think Germany is tops at the moment.
Well, it's bedtime. It's deserted here in the hostel bar, so I guess I will turn in, too. I should sleep. . .
-Dyl
P.S. - The food here is almost exactly the same as back in the states. Restaurants of every kind, not so many auhrntif Dutch restaurants that I have seen. Really, though, when one of their delicacies is pickled herrings. . .pass.
Sunday, October 10, 2010
Amsterdam, Sin City of Europe
Today I arrived in Amsterdam, and while it is a very pretty city, my first impresions are not that great. First off, this place is very expensive. Most meals are €10 or more (unless you search), it's QUITE crowded, and (most importan to me) my hostel sucks. No one ants to hat , everyone is either in a huge group already or on their computer playing games or really high. The worst is the computers: I see 7/10 people on computers. Boo!
Other than the negative first impression of Amsterdam, I should mention Hamburg. I was there for he last two nights, and THAT city was expensive, too, but not as bad as here. Many things to do in the city, though, and plenty to see for free. I took a free walking tour one day and, while it was interesting, I really know why I hate those touristy things (which is what this was). Totally met some cool people here, though. Hung out with one of 'em for the rest of the afternoon; we just wandered around the wharf area, checked out the famous Fishmarkt site, and took a ride on a boat. Cool to see stuff, the tie. Reminded me a lot of Minneapolis (environment and vibe-wise), but throw in a huge harbor area. Saw the famous Reeperbahn street, which is a red-light district and club scene. The bar where the Beatles played is there; woo, Beatles! But, ultimately, as I don't want a hooker, and I was still recovering from Prague, I didn't stay out too late. I Hamburg would be better experienced with a good friend, or girlfriend. Probably the same here in Amsterdam, I expect.
On a better note, I have really enjoyed my stops in Germany. Every city had a cool thing to see, or interesting history to it, and above all nice people. I have met so many friendly and cool people in Germany. . .makes me want to live there.
The Netherlands looked amazing, too. From the train ride, all of the towns and farmlands looked great; I would SERIOUSLY look into living here. . .if I knew Dutch. I really like how everyone rides their bike everywhere. Some roads are mainly for bikes, and any car on the street is treated a little oddly. And the bike parking lots. . .totally cool.
After three nights here in Amsterdam, I am headed to a fiends couch, in Haarlem. Free lodgings, a night out on the town, and good company, what could be better!
Getting a sinking feeling that my trip is getting closer and closer to it's end. I don't really want that. . .I really like it here in Europe, and want to stay. But, I already have the ticket back, and I miss home somewhat. It's just. . .every fellow traveller or hitchhiker I talk to motivates and invigorates me, makes me want to stay on the road and experience life to it's fullest. I have a funny feeling that I will be back here, and not so far in the future, too.
-Dyl
P.S. - I miss Prague. Cheap beer, food, and awesome friends, that city was the place to be. I think my next trip may be in Eastern Europe. Elise from B and N, you win.
Other than the negative first impression of Amsterdam, I should mention Hamburg. I was there for he last two nights, and THAT city was expensive, too, but not as bad as here. Many things to do in the city, though, and plenty to see for free. I took a free walking tour one day and, while it was interesting, I really know why I hate those touristy things (which is what this was). Totally met some cool people here, though. Hung out with one of 'em for the rest of the afternoon; we just wandered around the wharf area, checked out the famous Fishmarkt site, and took a ride on a boat. Cool to see stuff, the tie. Reminded me a lot of Minneapolis (environment and vibe-wise), but throw in a huge harbor area. Saw the famous Reeperbahn street, which is a red-light district and club scene. The bar where the Beatles played is there; woo, Beatles! But, ultimately, as I don't want a hooker, and I was still recovering from Prague, I didn't stay out too late. I Hamburg would be better experienced with a good friend, or girlfriend. Probably the same here in Amsterdam, I expect.
On a better note, I have really enjoyed my stops in Germany. Every city had a cool thing to see, or interesting history to it, and above all nice people. I have met so many friendly and cool people in Germany. . .makes me want to live there.
The Netherlands looked amazing, too. From the train ride, all of the towns and farmlands looked great; I would SERIOUSLY look into living here. . .if I knew Dutch. I really like how everyone rides their bike everywhere. Some roads are mainly for bikes, and any car on the street is treated a little oddly. And the bike parking lots. . .totally cool.
After three nights here in Amsterdam, I am headed to a fiends couch, in Haarlem. Free lodgings, a night out on the town, and good company, what could be better!
Getting a sinking feeling that my trip is getting closer and closer to it's end. I don't really want that. . .I really like it here in Europe, and want to stay. But, I already have the ticket back, and I miss home somewhat. It's just. . .every fellow traveller or hitchhiker I talk to motivates and invigorates me, makes me want to stay on the road and experience life to it's fullest. I have a funny feeling that I will be back here, and not so far in the future, too.
-Dyl
P.S. - I miss Prague. Cheap beer, food, and awesome friends, that city was the place to be. I think my next trip may be in Eastern Europe. Elise from B and N, you win.
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Expensive Souvineer
Still in Prague, but this is my last full day here. My brain is getting a little frazzled from all of this fun I am having! The last two nights, I was out until 6am or later, and I have slept just under 4 hours. Surprisingly, not tired, as my afternoons have been full of laziness.
I have seen most of the sights I want to see in Prague so far, so I feel good on that account. Went to a famous bridge, made with eggshells which supposedly saved the bridge from washing away during some watery disaster. In my tired brain, I can't think of much else historical. Most of my memories of Prague will be from the people I have gone out with. My hostel is the best I have stayed at so far; kids are nice, always want to go out, and it's really safe here. Went to a club full of young people, too young in my opinion; didn't really like it except for the club itself. The Cross Club is filled with steel creations and slowing running engines moving other steel, purely aesthetic contraptions. We stayed at a table where you have to crouch going up a stair, squeeze around a concrete wall, and cram into a few seats. Good vibe.
Yesterday was a different story. I got fined by the Prague transit people for not having a ticket on the tram. His wa rig away as I tagged along to the bus station with a group of fellow travelers. 700 kroner, which hurt at the time, but as I think in it, that's $20? Little more? Not he worst thing in the world. An expensive piece of paper to save for later. Really a neat bonding experience, though; the four of us hung out th rest of the day and night, drinking away the night. That will probably be my main memory of Prague, and it really is a good one.
Booked a place in Hamburg, Germany. I have two nights books there so far, starting the 8th. Headed to the club where the Beatles played their first big gig, and just check out the north of Germany. I'm looking forward to German breakfast, again; they are the breakfast kings.
-Dyl
P.S. - Prague has not been sunny once whilst in have been here. Not a bad thing, really; something about this city seems to come out in the gloom. The people seem. . .the word defeated comes to mind first, but that's not quite it. More of an air of accepting the things hat really matter (health, family, sex) and ignoring the other parts which aren't as important, and which aren't as widespread as in western Europe (wealth, affluence). These are good people here in Czech, and they have won my heart. This is be my favorite city I have been so far.
I have seen most of the sights I want to see in Prague so far, so I feel good on that account. Went to a famous bridge, made with eggshells which supposedly saved the bridge from washing away during some watery disaster. In my tired brain, I can't think of much else historical. Most of my memories of Prague will be from the people I have gone out with. My hostel is the best I have stayed at so far; kids are nice, always want to go out, and it's really safe here. Went to a club full of young people, too young in my opinion; didn't really like it except for the club itself. The Cross Club is filled with steel creations and slowing running engines moving other steel, purely aesthetic contraptions. We stayed at a table where you have to crouch going up a stair, squeeze around a concrete wall, and cram into a few seats. Good vibe.
Yesterday was a different story. I got fined by the Prague transit people for not having a ticket on the tram. His wa rig away as I tagged along to the bus station with a group of fellow travelers. 700 kroner, which hurt at the time, but as I think in it, that's $20? Little more? Not he worst thing in the world. An expensive piece of paper to save for later. Really a neat bonding experience, though; the four of us hung out th rest of the day and night, drinking away the night. That will probably be my main memory of Prague, and it really is a good one.
Booked a place in Hamburg, Germany. I have two nights books there so far, starting the 8th. Headed to the club where the Beatles played their first big gig, and just check out the north of Germany. I'm looking forward to German breakfast, again; they are the breakfast kings.
-Dyl
P.S. - Prague has not been sunny once whilst in have been here. Not a bad thing, really; something about this city seems to come out in the gloom. The people seem. . .the word defeated comes to mind first, but that's not quite it. More of an air of accepting the things hat really matter (health, family, sex) and ignoring the other parts which aren't as important, and which aren't as widespread as in western Europe (wealth, affluence). These are good people here in Czech, and they have won my heart. This is be my favorite city I have been so far.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Danger by the Ferris Wheel
This is being written in the downstairs bar of my hostel, the Clown and Bard. Can't say enough positive things about this place, it is fantastic. Just a few minutes from the train station, and a few more from a slew of clubs, bars, and coffeeshops. It's been two nights here so far, and I am thoroughly enjoying Prague.
The prices here are dirt cheap. A pint of beer is under a Euro, and it is fantastic. A nice nice lunch is around five Euro, and entrance to swanky museums is like 7, 8 Euro. Their currency comes in 1000, 2000, and 5000 notes.
Two days ago, on the train from Berlin to Prague, I met an awesome Austrian guy, named Chris, on his was back to Vienna where he is studying Physics. We talked for 5 hours or more, and he offered me his couch in Vienna (potentially). Gotta see if this will work or not. . .it may! After my long day of travel, got to the hostel and checked in; I'm on the top floor (6th) with no lift. Lotta stairs. Ended up staying downstairs for the night drinking a number of delicious beers, and met two awesome people: Deborah and Pete. Deborah is a lesbian musician/artist/illustrator visiting Prague who lives in the Netherlands. She offered to show me around Amsterdam and perhaps the Hague. Totally a sweet person; we ended up playing Dutch hearts the next morning. Pete: Brit from Liverpool who studied architecture, and is traveling for two weeks. He will be in Amsterdam when I am, we will probably hang out again. We also wandered around the city yesterday, just us two, attempting to see a museum (closed on Mondays, just like all of Europe). Ended up wandering into an abandoned amusement park; this was the most amazing place I have been to so far. Creepy, rusty rides, a huge ferris wheel, and gypsy homes were all around. Had the best time of my life, wandering around and getting some photos, as this was some place I had never expected to be in my life. Such a soviet feel to it; dark sky, a few lazy guards around, and abandoned things just lying around. Just like a movie set, and almost indescribable in words. Awesome day. Anyways, after that, Pete and I walked into the city and bummed around for a bit, just taking in the sweet sights. Took a nap afterwards, and ended up resting til this morning. Pete just got up, and I got advice on a few exhibits to go and see, and a club or two to visit. I'll post more soon.
-Dyl
P.S. - Coffee is good.
The prices here are dirt cheap. A pint of beer is under a Euro, and it is fantastic. A nice nice lunch is around five Euro, and entrance to swanky museums is like 7, 8 Euro. Their currency comes in 1000, 2000, and 5000 notes.
Two days ago, on the train from Berlin to Prague, I met an awesome Austrian guy, named Chris, on his was back to Vienna where he is studying Physics. We talked for 5 hours or more, and he offered me his couch in Vienna (potentially). Gotta see if this will work or not. . .it may! After my long day of travel, got to the hostel and checked in; I'm on the top floor (6th) with no lift. Lotta stairs. Ended up staying downstairs for the night drinking a number of delicious beers, and met two awesome people: Deborah and Pete. Deborah is a lesbian musician/artist/illustrator visiting Prague who lives in the Netherlands. She offered to show me around Amsterdam and perhaps the Hague. Totally a sweet person; we ended up playing Dutch hearts the next morning. Pete: Brit from Liverpool who studied architecture, and is traveling for two weeks. He will be in Amsterdam when I am, we will probably hang out again. We also wandered around the city yesterday, just us two, attempting to see a museum (closed on Mondays, just like all of Europe). Ended up wandering into an abandoned amusement park; this was the most amazing place I have been to so far. Creepy, rusty rides, a huge ferris wheel, and gypsy homes were all around. Had the best time of my life, wandering around and getting some photos, as this was some place I had never expected to be in my life. Such a soviet feel to it; dark sky, a few lazy guards around, and abandoned things just lying around. Just like a movie set, and almost indescribable in words. Awesome day. Anyways, after that, Pete and I walked into the city and bummed around for a bit, just taking in the sweet sights. Took a nap afterwards, and ended up resting til this morning. Pete just got up, and I got advice on a few exhibits to go and see, and a club or two to visit. I'll post more soon.
-Dyl
P.S. - Coffee is good.
Saturday, October 2, 2010
Salvador Dali Is My Favorite
Today was a good day. Went out around Berlin today, and just took in some German capitol city culture. Neat city, but it seems like every third building is a bar/restaurant, at least where my hostel is. I'm guessing this is part if the ghetto side of town, or the nightlife section. I quite like the bar situation here in Europe; almost every store will sell drinks, be it coffee or booze, or water of some sort, and most sell all three. And the beer is cheap! 'Bout a euro and a half for a bottle of beer. Nice!
Back to the city wandering: went to the Reichstag first, where there was a large stage being set up in front of the building. Heard the sound test, and wandered on. Turns out that this wasn't the only stage set up, because three blocks away, just into the Teirgarten, there was a whole festival in full swing! I happen to be here in Berlin on the 20th anniversary of the reunification of Berlin, and east/western Germany. Pretty lame festival, actually, with no real activities, just some vendors peddling their crap, and food; nice upside: there were three functional stages beyond the one outside the Reichstag, all with decent to terrible music playing. . .but free music! A highlight for me was the accordion band, with such hits as "Don't Fear the Reaper" and "Rock Around the Clock." Pretty epic. Eventually, I found a flier for the Salvador Dali exhibit that is now a permanent fixture in Berlin, and i knew I had to go. I love Dali; he's my favorite. Ended up staying in the museum for four hours (it was a small museum, too), watching videos that Dali contributed to, and just wandering through a bunch of surreal art. Totally an awesome afternoon. Got a few picture of some monuments, and saw Checkpoint Charlie, then headed back to my hostel for a shower and some dinner. Then typing!
I've been noticing how sweet the grafitti is here in Europe, even that there IS visible grafitti here. I know here is some in the states, but it seems Ginger covered up really quickly and just isn't on the dam caliber as Euro-grafitti. It's part of the walls here in Berlin, and I noticed it in Italy, too. I quite like it; I think grafitti can be an amazing art form, and is generally underappreciated. Plus, it's something to look at while my train is going by.
I've ALSO noticed how easy it is to hop on board a train w/o paying for a ticket (usually just the metros; they have a pretty careful system in place for actual trains). Kristi and I hopped a few busses in Italy, and I have definitely done it a few times here. Indont know if the Europeans are more trustworthy and do the honorable thing, but the lax security is NOT the case in the USA. Tickets for everything. Oh well. I usually buy one overpriced ticket, and then have it in my pocket in case I need to coach my ticket at a guard or something. I'm sure if it ever came to that, a metroperson stopping passengers to check their tickets, I would be in trouble. . .but hat doesn't seem to happen ever. This sure does save money, though!
Tomorrow I head to Prague, the city inmost ranted to sermon this whole continent. Not destroyed by WWII, and really cheap to stay in, I have planned five days there. Maybe more, we'll see how I feel after my first couple days. Guess I'll update next from Eastern Europe!
-Dyl
P.S. - I found some awesome souvineers today; you cats are gaunna like what I'm gaunna give when I get back *wink*.
Back to the city wandering: went to the Reichstag first, where there was a large stage being set up in front of the building. Heard the sound test, and wandered on. Turns out that this wasn't the only stage set up, because three blocks away, just into the Teirgarten, there was a whole festival in full swing! I happen to be here in Berlin on the 20th anniversary of the reunification of Berlin, and east/western Germany. Pretty lame festival, actually, with no real activities, just some vendors peddling their crap, and food; nice upside: there were three functional stages beyond the one outside the Reichstag, all with decent to terrible music playing. . .but free music! A highlight for me was the accordion band, with such hits as "Don't Fear the Reaper" and "Rock Around the Clock." Pretty epic. Eventually, I found a flier for the Salvador Dali exhibit that is now a permanent fixture in Berlin, and i knew I had to go. I love Dali; he's my favorite. Ended up staying in the museum for four hours (it was a small museum, too), watching videos that Dali contributed to, and just wandering through a bunch of surreal art. Totally an awesome afternoon. Got a few picture of some monuments, and saw Checkpoint Charlie, then headed back to my hostel for a shower and some dinner. Then typing!
I've been noticing how sweet the grafitti is here in Europe, even that there IS visible grafitti here. I know here is some in the states, but it seems Ginger covered up really quickly and just isn't on the dam caliber as Euro-grafitti. It's part of the walls here in Berlin, and I noticed it in Italy, too. I quite like it; I think grafitti can be an amazing art form, and is generally underappreciated. Plus, it's something to look at while my train is going by.
I've ALSO noticed how easy it is to hop on board a train w/o paying for a ticket (usually just the metros; they have a pretty careful system in place for actual trains). Kristi and I hopped a few busses in Italy, and I have definitely done it a few times here. Indont know if the Europeans are more trustworthy and do the honorable thing, but the lax security is NOT the case in the USA. Tickets for everything. Oh well. I usually buy one overpriced ticket, and then have it in my pocket in case I need to coach my ticket at a guard or something. I'm sure if it ever came to that, a metroperson stopping passengers to check their tickets, I would be in trouble. . .but hat doesn't seem to happen ever. This sure does save money, though!
Tomorrow I head to Prague, the city inmost ranted to sermon this whole continent. Not destroyed by WWII, and really cheap to stay in, I have planned five days there. Maybe more, we'll see how I feel after my first couple days. Guess I'll update next from Eastern Europe!
-Dyl
P.S. - I found some awesome souvineers today; you cats are gaunna like what I'm gaunna give when I get back *wink*.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Berlin: Land of Freezing Cold
Made it to my next hostel, which is in Berlin, Germany. It was a LONG train ride today from the Munich/Augsburg area, about 7 hours, but I made it. More on this later, I must describe Oktoberfestivities!
Went on Wednesday afternoon to that drink zone. Was alone at first, and wandered around the huge area for a good while. . .and it was PACKED full of drunks. Think the MN State Fair, but instead of barns full of animals it's barns full of people drunk and acting like animals. . .I guess, really, it's the same thing! A liter of bier was between 8 and 9 euro, and usually came in an epic stein. Didn't keep one, as innate no room in my pack, nor really at my house for one either. Anyhoo, the Fest was contained in a park about 9 blocks square, and there were 30 (?) beertents. I ended up
having about 3 and a half liters of delicious beer during the course of the evening, and it was a stumbly time getting home. No worries, parents and girlfriends and generally worried people; I was definitely safe and knew my limits. This drinking spree started alone, which felt pretty sad, actually. I had one beer, and enjoyed it while writing in my journal, but felt pretty lonely at the Fest with no one else to hang out with, and was planning on get some food and
wander around until I got bored. . .but as I stopped to pick up my 1/2 meter hotdog (yum!), an Aussie next to me told me to try some Sudden Death hot sauce on my 'dog. I did (it was hot!) and started chatting with the guy and his group of friends. I ended up hanging out with them for the rest of the night, about 7 hours. I think they enjoyed having a new face to chat with in strange Oktoberfest. It was a fantastic time, and I know I wouldn't have had as much fun on my own. I'm half surprised at how easy it is to meet people here, and half not surprised at all. . .I'm a people person, and fairly friendly (I think), and just chatting up random strangers isn't too hard for me. Good skill to have here traveling along, I must say.
After my adventure in Oktoberfest, I decided to take a rest day, and sleep in and relax a bit. I was in Augsburg and not Munich, so I could avoid the crowds, and that turned out to be a very good thing. I had an excellent time wandering the beautiful streets of Augusburg, and seeing some German culture instead of smelly Italian culture. . .yeah, I said it, smelly.
To make things short, after I spent the day wandering, and eventually relaxing on a couch with a free ebook (Dracula), I went to bed and prepared for my trip to Munich. Was lucky at the train-station, as I caught the early train from Augusburg instead of heading to Munich and waiting for a later one. Again, about 7 hours. . .and those seats get uncomfortable after a while. The Munich area was covered in mist and rain again, and while annoyingly wet, it was very beautiful. Green farmland, forests, and villages being swallowed into the morning mist. . .it's the stuff written about in books and put into movies. All in all, after I made it through the frigid Berlin air to my warm hostel (and I do have a cup of coffee as I write; ahhhh!) it's been a good day. Didn't spend much, either; my room is €9 per night, and I bought a little food and drink. . .pretty cheap day, which is good for the 'ol bank account. Money is a little tight, as many Italian hostels didn't take payment for about two weeks, and out Comcast bill was for two months instead of one (damn your one month lag-period on automatic payments!); Kristi and I will be fine, though. Parents and grandparents of both Kristi and I: thank you. Financially, this woulda been tough w/o you guys.
So I have two nights in Berlin, and just one full day tomorrow. I'm thinking Reichtag and the other historical things in Germany's capitol city. Then its off to Prague for 5 days. . .at €7 a night which includes breakfast, I think I can afford it! I've also heard that beer is cheap in the Czech Republic. . .should be nice.
-Dyl
P.S. - There are billions of Aussies around Europe. Just about every other person I meet in the hostels is from the land down under, which is cool; however, I do keep hearing about their school loan repayment system, which is very nice. Once they reach a certain pay threshold ($40k or so per year), the government takes about 4% of their income until the loans are payed off. . .no interest, just a skid amount that dwindles. Dammit! That's awesome! Just thinking about loans makes me cringe. . .$25,000 starting to go back in December. . .maybe I should hide here in Europe. . .
Went on Wednesday afternoon to that drink zone. Was alone at first, and wandered around the huge area for a good while. . .and it was PACKED full of drunks. Think the MN State Fair, but instead of barns full of animals it's barns full of people drunk and acting like animals. . .I guess, really, it's the same thing! A liter of bier was between 8 and 9 euro, and usually came in an epic stein. Didn't keep one, as innate no room in my pack, nor really at my house for one either. Anyhoo, the Fest was contained in a park about 9 blocks square, and there were 30 (?) beertents. I ended up
having about 3 and a half liters of delicious beer during the course of the evening, and it was a stumbly time getting home. No worries, parents and girlfriends and generally worried people; I was definitely safe and knew my limits. This drinking spree started alone, which felt pretty sad, actually. I had one beer, and enjoyed it while writing in my journal, but felt pretty lonely at the Fest with no one else to hang out with, and was planning on get some food and
wander around until I got bored. . .but as I stopped to pick up my 1/2 meter hotdog (yum!), an Aussie next to me told me to try some Sudden Death hot sauce on my 'dog. I did (it was hot!) and started chatting with the guy and his group of friends. I ended up hanging out with them for the rest of the night, about 7 hours. I think they enjoyed having a new face to chat with in strange Oktoberfest. It was a fantastic time, and I know I wouldn't have had as much fun on my own. I'm half surprised at how easy it is to meet people here, and half not surprised at all. . .I'm a people person, and fairly friendly (I think), and just chatting up random strangers isn't too hard for me. Good skill to have here traveling along, I must say.
After my adventure in Oktoberfest, I decided to take a rest day, and sleep in and relax a bit. I was in Augsburg and not Munich, so I could avoid the crowds, and that turned out to be a very good thing. I had an excellent time wandering the beautiful streets of Augusburg, and seeing some German culture instead of smelly Italian culture. . .yeah, I said it, smelly.
To make things short, after I spent the day wandering, and eventually relaxing on a couch with a free ebook (Dracula), I went to bed and prepared for my trip to Munich. Was lucky at the train-station, as I caught the early train from Augusburg instead of heading to Munich and waiting for a later one. Again, about 7 hours. . .and those seats get uncomfortable after a while. The Munich area was covered in mist and rain again, and while annoyingly wet, it was very beautiful. Green farmland, forests, and villages being swallowed into the morning mist. . .it's the stuff written about in books and put into movies. All in all, after I made it through the frigid Berlin air to my warm hostel (and I do have a cup of coffee as I write; ahhhh!) it's been a good day. Didn't spend much, either; my room is €9 per night, and I bought a little food and drink. . .pretty cheap day, which is good for the 'ol bank account. Money is a little tight, as many Italian hostels didn't take payment for about two weeks, and out Comcast bill was for two months instead of one (damn your one month lag-period on automatic payments!); Kristi and I will be fine, though. Parents and grandparents of both Kristi and I: thank you. Financially, this woulda been tough w/o you guys.
So I have two nights in Berlin, and just one full day tomorrow. I'm thinking Reichtag and the other historical things in Germany's capitol city. Then its off to Prague for 5 days. . .at €7 a night which includes breakfast, I think I can afford it! I've also heard that beer is cheap in the Czech Republic. . .should be nice.
-Dyl
P.S. - There are billions of Aussies around Europe. Just about every other person I meet in the hostels is from the land down under, which is cool; however, I do keep hearing about their school loan repayment system, which is very nice. Once they reach a certain pay threshold ($40k or so per year), the government takes about 4% of their income until the loans are payed off. . .no interest, just a skid amount that dwindles. Dammit! That's awesome! Just thinking about loans makes me cringe. . .$25,000 starting to go back in December. . .maybe I should hide here in Europe. . .
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Germany is Full of Rain
Germany! That's where I am, and yes, it is very rainy here. Right now, I am sitting in my hostel's kitchen area waiting for my room to be ready; I have three separate rooms booked at this place, so I have to move each afternoon.
Boo.
Oh well, at least I have a bed. It seems like every place here in Germany (or at least around Munich) is booked full, for Oktoberfest. Have yet to go there, but I'm totally excited.
So I am on my own, as I have failed to mention earlier in this post. I have another few weeks here in Europe, and I already know that I won't want to leave when the time comes. In Germany, for example, EVERYONE has been super-nice and accommodating, and just plain helpful. Went out to a bar last night with some hostel-mates, and we had no idea where to go; we just asked some German passersby, and ended up drinking with them in some nice bar. Totally a sweet night, too; and the beer here. . .phew, I looooove German beer.
So it looks like I will be going to Prague this weekend, or perhaps another part of Germany. Oktoberfestfever has taken over the entire southern part of the country, and I don't think I will be able to find a cheap place to stay. I'm excited for Prague, gaunna be a pretty city. . .and cheap, I've heard. I'll let you guys know more when I know, but it's off to see if my room is ready.
-Dyl
P.S. - The hostel here is Augsberg is by FAR the best place I've stayed here in Europe (except for our actual hotel in Switzerland). Amazing staff, sweet beds (nice and hard where they need to be, and soft everywhere else), and clean. This is a nice place, and i would recommend it to anyone hosteling in Germany: it's called Ubernacht. Check it out!
Boo.
Oh well, at least I have a bed. It seems like every place here in Germany (or at least around Munich) is booked full, for Oktoberfest. Have yet to go there, but I'm totally excited.
So I am on my own, as I have failed to mention earlier in this post. I have another few weeks here in Europe, and I already know that I won't want to leave when the time comes. In Germany, for example, EVERYONE has been super-nice and accommodating, and just plain helpful. Went out to a bar last night with some hostel-mates, and we had no idea where to go; we just asked some German passersby, and ended up drinking with them in some nice bar. Totally a sweet night, too; and the beer here. . .phew, I looooove German beer.
So it looks like I will be going to Prague this weekend, or perhaps another part of Germany. Oktoberfestfever has taken over the entire southern part of the country, and I don't think I will be able to find a cheap place to stay. I'm excited for Prague, gaunna be a pretty city. . .and cheap, I've heard. I'll let you guys know more when I know, but it's off to see if my room is ready.
-Dyl
P.S. - The hostel here is Augsberg is by FAR the best place I've stayed here in Europe (except for our actual hotel in Switzerland). Amazing staff, sweet beds (nice and hard where they need to be, and soft everywhere else), and clean. This is a nice place, and i would recommend it to anyone hosteling in Germany: it's called Ubernacht. Check it out!
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Generally Genoa
Just got back from Genoa about two hours ago. This was the place we had booked that was close to cinque terre. . .even if we didn't go there. Too rainy yesterday, too stressful for us. We got to the city in the afternoon, already a bit frazzled and completely hungry, and super confused about the transportation system in Genoa. We ended ip taking a lift (accendare) up the cliffsides upon which the city is built. This lift. . .it was like a mix of tram car and elevator, taking us up a few hundred meters to get to our busstop. Totally awesome, totally a new experience. Very unique to a cliff community.
Out hostel in Genoa was awesome, at one time one of the best hostels in the world (or so they claim). But the place had really nice, clean beds, a good sized bar area with bunches of purchasable foods, and a stellar lounge area which included a library. Probably the best traditional hostel we've stayed at so far. Breakfast, too, which is always nice. We put our bags in our rooms, and then headed into town for some dinner, which we struggled to find. It was a bit too early, five or so, and very few places were open yet; they don't open for dinner til 7 or 8 usually, and definitely not so early on a weekend night. But we found a place, and we ordered w/o actually knowing what we ordered, as the staff didn't speak much/any English. It had worked out well in the past, ordering blindly, but this time it was rough: I ordered polvo con patate, which turned out to be octopus and potatoes! I knew patate, but was very surprised to find polvo with tentacles and stuff on my plate. Not terrible, might I add. . .but I wouldn't order it again.
Our night ended with a wander throughout the main shopping district of Genoa, right on the coastline. Gorgeous. We only had one night there, but K and I agreed that it would have nice to explore the city a but more. It was then a packed train ride back to Milan, and here we be.
My next order of business: I have a ticket back from Europe! I'm not sure if I'm excited ir nervous or anxious to get back, but I have a flight. By the evening of October 25, I shall be back in Minneapolis. I flag from Brussels, which was about $100 dollars cheaper than Amsterdam and Paris; unexpected, as I hadn't ever pictured Brussels as a major airhub. But, in any case, my flight leaves at 10ish in the morning, stops at O'Hare, then touches down in Minneapolis at 5-something. But that is too far ahead to really think about. . .I'm just getting my schedule sorted our for next week.
K returns on Tuesday the 28th, and I think I have my schedule planned out from then on, if loosely. I'm headed strait to Munich (actually probably Augsberg) where I shall stay to experience Oktoberfest, then off to Prague for a goo while, and finally back over to the west into Belgium and the Netherlands. Gotta see Amsterdam, every person ever has told me so. Other than this rough schedule, I have no idea where specifically I'll be, but that's just what I want. . .the freedom to leave early or stay an extra day if I want. I like travel like that.
-Dyl
P.S. - Gotta say, I would never ever EVER be a bus driver in Genoa. The agrees there are curving winding, beautiful small streets, but getting a bulky bus around on those streets seems like pure he'll. . .and the speeding! I'm quite glad we decided against a car. . .
Out hostel in Genoa was awesome, at one time one of the best hostels in the world (or so they claim). But the place had really nice, clean beds, a good sized bar area with bunches of purchasable foods, and a stellar lounge area which included a library. Probably the best traditional hostel we've stayed at so far. Breakfast, too, which is always nice. We put our bags in our rooms, and then headed into town for some dinner, which we struggled to find. It was a bit too early, five or so, and very few places were open yet; they don't open for dinner til 7 or 8 usually, and definitely not so early on a weekend night. But we found a place, and we ordered w/o actually knowing what we ordered, as the staff didn't speak much/any English. It had worked out well in the past, ordering blindly, but this time it was rough: I ordered polvo con patate, which turned out to be octopus and potatoes! I knew patate, but was very surprised to find polvo with tentacles and stuff on my plate. Not terrible, might I add. . .but I wouldn't order it again.
Our night ended with a wander throughout the main shopping district of Genoa, right on the coastline. Gorgeous. We only had one night there, but K and I agreed that it would have nice to explore the city a but more. It was then a packed train ride back to Milan, and here we be.
My next order of business: I have a ticket back from Europe! I'm not sure if I'm excited ir nervous or anxious to get back, but I have a flight. By the evening of October 25, I shall be back in Minneapolis. I flag from Brussels, which was about $100 dollars cheaper than Amsterdam and Paris; unexpected, as I hadn't ever pictured Brussels as a major airhub. But, in any case, my flight leaves at 10ish in the morning, stops at O'Hare, then touches down in Minneapolis at 5-something. But that is too far ahead to really think about. . .I'm just getting my schedule sorted our for next week.
K returns on Tuesday the 28th, and I think I have my schedule planned out from then on, if loosely. I'm headed strait to Munich (actually probably Augsberg) where I shall stay to experience Oktoberfest, then off to Prague for a goo while, and finally back over to the west into Belgium and the Netherlands. Gotta see Amsterdam, every person ever has told me so. Other than this rough schedule, I have no idea where specifically I'll be, but that's just what I want. . .the freedom to leave early or stay an extra day if I want. I like travel like that.
-Dyl
P.S. - Gotta say, I would never ever EVER be a bus driver in Genoa. The agrees there are curving winding, beautiful small streets, but getting a bulky bus around on those streets seems like pure he'll. . .and the speeding! I'm quite glad we decided against a car. . .
Friday, September 24, 2010
A fashionable shower in Milan
We have ended up Milan for the last stretch of our trip here in Italy together. Today was our first full day here in the trendy city where EVERYTHING is overpriced on the main boulevards. They say that Milan is one of the central hubs of commerce here in Europe, and I believe it. We have seen about a thousand businessmen and women, all in fancy Italian suits (jealous), many of them shopping at some of the trendiest and most expensive stores I have seen since New York. Walking those avenues. . .didn't feel quite like Europe. Just felt too swanky, but only in the worst possible way. . .I don't like Milan so much.
But there is some amazing art and fashion here. This week is Fashion Week, or perhaps every week is here (who knows), but in any case there were a bunch of fashion events going on all day. Hair salons were set up in the middle of the street, prices were high for lunch, and (best of all), there is a performance art piece in the center plaza tonight. K and I were fortunate enough to wander through the Piazza del Duomo at the right time to see a final rehersal for their performance tonight; may I just say wow. . .Italians can dance. The show is for a fashion costume exhibition, and the dance was, to the best of my perceptions, technology themed, the mix of classic style to new elegance. . .and the costumes for the dancers will be robot suits. At least I hope so. . .their dance seemed to evoke robot suit pictures in my brain.
As I said in the title, it's raining here. Been pouring for a good hour, and I don't know if it'll let up by the performance at 8. . .only 2 hours away from now. K and I may have to rethink our plans for tonight.
-Dyl
P.S. - We actually didn't go to cinque terre yet. My last post was a lie, as it turns out, and I apologize to all of you adoring fans. We had been planning to head to C.T., but we couldn't find any open reservations at hostels at all in any nearby city. Had we still opted to go here at that time, it would have cost us at least two travel days on our Eurail Pass, and a ton of money, not to mention a rushed trip and a chaotic fly-by-seat-of-pants type day. We went to Austria instead! More on that later. . .
P.P.S. - I missed my P.S. from last post , as it was made just as we figured out that there were no reservations left in cinque terre. This is my makeup P.S..
But there is some amazing art and fashion here. This week is Fashion Week, or perhaps every week is here (who knows), but in any case there were a bunch of fashion events going on all day. Hair salons were set up in the middle of the street, prices were high for lunch, and (best of all), there is a performance art piece in the center plaza tonight. K and I were fortunate enough to wander through the Piazza del Duomo at the right time to see a final rehersal for their performance tonight; may I just say wow. . .Italians can dance. The show is for a fashion costume exhibition, and the dance was, to the best of my perceptions, technology themed, the mix of classic style to new elegance. . .and the costumes for the dancers will be robot suits. At least I hope so. . .their dance seemed to evoke robot suit pictures in my brain.
As I said in the title, it's raining here. Been pouring for a good hour, and I don't know if it'll let up by the performance at 8. . .only 2 hours away from now. K and I may have to rethink our plans for tonight.
-Dyl
P.S. - We actually didn't go to cinque terre yet. My last post was a lie, as it turns out, and I apologize to all of you adoring fans. We had been planning to head to C.T., but we couldn't find any open reservations at hostels at all in any nearby city. Had we still opted to go here at that time, it would have cost us at least two travel days on our Eurail Pass, and a ton of money, not to mention a rushed trip and a chaotic fly-by-seat-of-pants type day. We went to Austria instead! More on that later. . .
P.P.S. - I missed my P.S. from last post , as it was made just as we figured out that there were no reservations left in cinque terre. This is my makeup P.S..
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Terre Time
Last night here in Firenze. We are headed to Cinque Terre, or "five lands," which is an series of cliffside towns on the coast of Italy. We have to hike from a town called La Spezia, which should be a cool experience.l
We bought some food for a nice lunch at a supermarket, so it should be a nice day.
Went to the Uffizi gallery today, a really famous museum here, fameous for the Birth of Venus by Botticelli. Some fantastic art here in Firenze, but as this was the center of the Renaissance, I'm not surprised in the least. We went to the Gallery of the Academy yesterday, as well, and that museum is highlighted (indeed, overshadowed) by Michaelangelo's David. That is by far the most impressive piece of sculpture I have ever seen. The entire museum seems to be made for that one piece, and the 10 Euro entrance is COMPLETELY worth it. There ar no words adequate enough to describe that piece. . .if anyone ever gets a chance to see it, do it.
Probably the most breathtaking thing we did here in Firenze was climb the dome of the Duomo, a monstrous and highly impressive cathederal in the center of town. 463 steps up, 8 Euro later, and you have THE most impressive view of the city. Breathtaking literally, too. . .those are steep steps.
Lines have been somewhat of an issue here, with most big museums ir attractions. . .an hour wait is pretty common for seeing something good. This is a pretty touristy place. . .at least within a 4 block radius of the town center. Most of the attractions are within that space, so the tourists are clumped around there. However, getting outside of that central area, the city becomes authentic and genuine. . .one can absorb some of the real Florentian culture.
We bought some food for a nice lunch at a supermarket, so it should be a nice day.
Went to the Uffizi gallery today, a really famous museum here, fameous for the Birth of Venus by Botticelli. Some fantastic art here in Firenze, but as this was the center of the Renaissance, I'm not surprised in the least. We went to the Gallery of the Academy yesterday, as well, and that museum is highlighted (indeed, overshadowed) by Michaelangelo's David. That is by far the most impressive piece of sculpture I have ever seen. The entire museum seems to be made for that one piece, and the 10 Euro entrance is COMPLETELY worth it. There ar no words adequate enough to describe that piece. . .if anyone ever gets a chance to see it, do it.
Probably the most breathtaking thing we did here in Firenze was climb the dome of the Duomo, a monstrous and highly impressive cathederal in the center of town. 463 steps up, 8 Euro later, and you have THE most impressive view of the city. Breathtaking literally, too. . .those are steep steps.
Lines have been somewhat of an issue here, with most big museums ir attractions. . .an hour wait is pretty common for seeing something good. This is a pretty touristy place. . .at least within a 4 block radius of the town center. Most of the attractions are within that space, so the tourists are clumped around there. However, getting outside of that central area, the city becomes authentic and genuine. . .one can absorb some of the real Florentian culture.
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Fire. Fire! Firenze!!!
We saw a mime today, in the piazza del Duomo. I wish we could have stayed. . .he was a good mike, a fun mime, but Kristi would have got annoyed.
Dunno why that sticks out in my mind, but that's the first thing I remember about today. We are in Florence, Firenze, now and this is without a doubt the best city we have been to so far. The atmosphere, the wonderful food, and the gorgeous landscape, it all adds up to amazing. We arrived at noonish, and walked to our hostel, which is more pike a house that rents the bedrooms. . .better, I think. We have a key, and a private room, and wonderful central accomodations. Ate lunch at "The William," a wonderful little place near the university, where all of the students eat. Had a steak and a beer. . .one of the best meals I've had.
We went shopping in the amazing shopping that exists here in Firenze. Leather goods today, mostly; I a journal, K a bag. Oh, and she got an amazing leather coat. . .from Lorenzo Leathers, a little ma-and-pa leather shop thar opperates in the main bazaar of this city. She looks. . .stunning in the coat; we're headed back tomorrow to see if I can fins one that suits me.
Met two wonderful people at dinner tonight, in a restaurant called "Zio Gigi," or Uncle Gigi. The restaurant had gotten full, and K and I were seated at a four person table, so we offered the two extra seats to the next customers in line, Tom and Sara(h?). Wonderful people, very fun; we bonded instantly. K and I ended up staying for a few extra hours to chat with these two, and to plan dinner for tomorrow night. Dammit, I love meeting people, and I love this trip!
We're headed to sleep now, off to adventure and wonder exploring Firenze tomorrow. Duomo, perhaps; museum, perhaps - we won't know til morning.
-Dyl
P.S. - This town is absolutely the best we've been to so far. If there were any place in Italy that I would consider living, it would be here in Firenze.
Dunno why that sticks out in my mind, but that's the first thing I remember about today. We are in Florence, Firenze, now and this is without a doubt the best city we have been to so far. The atmosphere, the wonderful food, and the gorgeous landscape, it all adds up to amazing. We arrived at noonish, and walked to our hostel, which is more pike a house that rents the bedrooms. . .better, I think. We have a key, and a private room, and wonderful central accomodations. Ate lunch at "The William," a wonderful little place near the university, where all of the students eat. Had a steak and a beer. . .one of the best meals I've had.
We went shopping in the amazing shopping that exists here in Firenze. Leather goods today, mostly; I a journal, K a bag. Oh, and she got an amazing leather coat. . .from Lorenzo Leathers, a little ma-and-pa leather shop thar opperates in the main bazaar of this city. She looks. . .stunning in the coat; we're headed back tomorrow to see if I can fins one that suits me.
Met two wonderful people at dinner tonight, in a restaurant called "Zio Gigi," or Uncle Gigi. The restaurant had gotten full, and K and I were seated at a four person table, so we offered the two extra seats to the next customers in line, Tom and Sara(h?). Wonderful people, very fun; we bonded instantly. K and I ended up staying for a few extra hours to chat with these two, and to plan dinner for tomorrow night. Dammit, I love meeting people, and I love this trip!
We're headed to sleep now, off to adventure and wonder exploring Firenze tomorrow. Duomo, perhaps; museum, perhaps - we won't know til morning.
-Dyl
P.S. - This town is absolutely the best we've been to so far. If there were any place in Italy that I would consider living, it would be here in Firenze.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Pizza in Napoli
Wow, so Napoli (naples) is a super awesome city. Much better than Rome.
Kristi and I got here a few nights ago, and we found our Hostel just outside our train stop, just up a hill. My oh my, what a view from. . .well, really anywhere in the city. Towering mountains in the distance, surrounded by gorgeous waters and ships, all surrounded by the fantastic buildings climbing the cliffs. Incredible, and breathtaking. The atmosphere here is wonderful, too; everyone is quite relaxed, and not worried about too much. Oh, and its HOT here. Maybe high 80's, low 90's, and little to no wind. I'm a bit sad that I only brought one pair of shorts.
K and I went to Pompeii yesterday. Very hot, very muggy, but fascinating. Took about 45 minutes from the main train station to get there, and by that time it was 11ish. We got in, and started poking around, finding the city of Pompeii to be, well, a city. The place was huge! It took quite a while to walk from one side to the other, maybe 30 minutes, and there were thousands of things to see along the way. Very amazing. Pictures galore.
K and I have a day to wander the streets of Napoli, perhaps to see a castle, before we will take the night train to Milan. Then, we train to Florence, and spend a good while there, basking in the sun and culture. Our next place has free wifi, so perhaps I will be able to update more frequently. . .
-Dyl
P.S. - If you want to leave me a comment, that might be the easiest way to get ahold of me, or leave me a message. . .do it, if you so desire!
Kristi and I got here a few nights ago, and we found our Hostel just outside our train stop, just up a hill. My oh my, what a view from. . .well, really anywhere in the city. Towering mountains in the distance, surrounded by gorgeous waters and ships, all surrounded by the fantastic buildings climbing the cliffs. Incredible, and breathtaking. The atmosphere here is wonderful, too; everyone is quite relaxed, and not worried about too much. Oh, and its HOT here. Maybe high 80's, low 90's, and little to no wind. I'm a bit sad that I only brought one pair of shorts.
K and I went to Pompeii yesterday. Very hot, very muggy, but fascinating. Took about 45 minutes from the main train station to get there, and by that time it was 11ish. We got in, and started poking around, finding the city of Pompeii to be, well, a city. The place was huge! It took quite a while to walk from one side to the other, maybe 30 minutes, and there were thousands of things to see along the way. Very amazing. Pictures galore.
K and I have a day to wander the streets of Napoli, perhaps to see a castle, before we will take the night train to Milan. Then, we train to Florence, and spend a good while there, basking in the sun and culture. Our next place has free wifi, so perhaps I will be able to update more frequently. . .
-Dyl
P.S. - If you want to leave me a comment, that might be the easiest way to get ahold of me, or leave me a message. . .do it, if you so desire!
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Its been a long time. . .in Rome, that is!
Sorry, first off, for the absence of posts. Its been a bit hectic here in Rome. K and I are in a hostel at the northern outskirts of the city, and we've been seeing a bunch of the cityscape. The last few days have been about six or seven long hours of walking. . .in the heat and the crowds. But at least we can stop for gelato at almost every street-corner.
Today in particular was rough. This was the day we went to the ancient roman sites of interest: colosseum, the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Baths of Caracalla. . .of which, the baths were totally the most interesting and least crowded. We actually decided to skip entering the colosseum, for the lines were a billion years long, and we could see somewhat inside the gates anyways.
Sidenote: Kristi says happy birthday Jenna Kramer!
Rome itself has been. . .well, lame. It seems to me just another large city, with some very very touristy sites within. The crowds are terrible, always, and the tourists stupid and (almost) cruel to the Italians in their helplessness. This is not to say that there aren't amazing things in this city; when I first set foot in St. Peters Plaza, for example, or witnessing the glory of the fallen Roman empire through their monuments passed through the ages. These things are wonderful to see, but I am witness to many more crappy tourist shops and junk salesmen and scam artists than actual monument and art. Perhaps I am just not finding the right places and meeting the right people, but I must say I am disappointed with Rome. Venice was much better.
We DID find an amazing Irish pub (well, I think so; Kristi is a bit tired of me talking about this place). The owners were very happy to talk to me and Kristi, which many of the other shopkeepers seemed hesitant to do. Perhaps its because we ourselves are tourists - it IS obvious - but some part of me felt that the Irish bartender and English waitresses were happy to hear the English language as much as we liked speaking it, thus opening an avenue of conversation. Plus, this place had an awesome beef stew, and I had it at a time when I really needed a good, hearty, delicious meal. Perhaps I can convince Kristi to go back there tonight . .they had a wide selection of beer and alcohol, and I do enjoy alcohol. . .
All in all, I feel like we have seen enough of this city, and enough of the urban degradation which has punched its way into the Roman ruins and city of religion. Its off to Naples tomorrow morning, and then to Pompeii tomorrow afternoon. I expect a hot, muggy, wonderful day filled with history. . .and dust, as Kristi just said.
Happy birthday again, dad, and I hope everything is going well in the states over there. . .that last bit was for everyone, not just my dad *grin*.
-Dyl
P.S. - Zach and Rina, if you read this, give our kitties an extra big cuddle and hug for us. . .we miss them. . .terribly!
Today in particular was rough. This was the day we went to the ancient roman sites of interest: colosseum, the Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Baths of Caracalla. . .of which, the baths were totally the most interesting and least crowded. We actually decided to skip entering the colosseum, for the lines were a billion years long, and we could see somewhat inside the gates anyways.
Sidenote: Kristi says happy birthday Jenna Kramer!
Rome itself has been. . .well, lame. It seems to me just another large city, with some very very touristy sites within. The crowds are terrible, always, and the tourists stupid and (almost) cruel to the Italians in their helplessness. This is not to say that there aren't amazing things in this city; when I first set foot in St. Peters Plaza, for example, or witnessing the glory of the fallen Roman empire through their monuments passed through the ages. These things are wonderful to see, but I am witness to many more crappy tourist shops and junk salesmen and scam artists than actual monument and art. Perhaps I am just not finding the right places and meeting the right people, but I must say I am disappointed with Rome. Venice was much better.
We DID find an amazing Irish pub (well, I think so; Kristi is a bit tired of me talking about this place). The owners were very happy to talk to me and Kristi, which many of the other shopkeepers seemed hesitant to do. Perhaps its because we ourselves are tourists - it IS obvious - but some part of me felt that the Irish bartender and English waitresses were happy to hear the English language as much as we liked speaking it, thus opening an avenue of conversation. Plus, this place had an awesome beef stew, and I had it at a time when I really needed a good, hearty, delicious meal. Perhaps I can convince Kristi to go back there tonight . .they had a wide selection of beer and alcohol, and I do enjoy alcohol. . .
All in all, I feel like we have seen enough of this city, and enough of the urban degradation which has punched its way into the Roman ruins and city of religion. Its off to Naples tomorrow morning, and then to Pompeii tomorrow afternoon. I expect a hot, muggy, wonderful day filled with history. . .and dust, as Kristi just said.
Happy birthday again, dad, and I hope everything is going well in the states over there. . .that last bit was for everyone, not just my dad *grin*.
-Dyl
P.S. - Zach and Rina, if you read this, give our kitties an extra big cuddle and hug for us. . .we miss them. . .terribly!
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Here I sit, along an island town
Venice is amazing. Lets just start with that, and get it out of the way. Beyond the incredible history and culture congregated here in this (relatively) small set of islands, I am amazed at how modern this town is within its ancient structure. The buildings have lasted for centuries, yet the shops are new and modern and impressive. From eateries to clothing shops to the hundreds of tourist traps scattered all around the districts, Venice is alive and vibrant in its own, unique way. . .this city is unlike any other in the world. . .at least I think it is.
K and I took a trip off the main islands to visit Murano and Burano today. . .Burano was gorgeous, but ultimately boring, nothing to do no where to go. Murano, however, was fascinating. The island is known for its spectacular glassblowing, and spectacular it is. . .artisans from all over have attempted to copy their work, and most fail miserably. Quality work, and very nice people. I bought a pair of stunning wineglasses for myself (as I have no wineglasses), and I am going to be very pleased with them. I couldn't get the set I wanted, because it was €280, plus shipping. Waaaaaaay too much.
The hostel I am currently typing in now is pretty darn spiffy. . .breakfast included, which was a wonderful thing to wake up to, and our rooms are spacious enough and quiet enough. Most of all, the place seems very secure. Lockers and separate keys for all its patrons. . .a very nice hostel.
K has proposed Rome as our next big stop on our Italian tour. We have at least one more day here in Venice, perhaps two, and then to the southern part of the country. I suggested taking a night train some time, just to try it out, and (tentatively) we have a night trip planned from Naples to Milan, when we return to the northern half of the trip, near the end of our journey. A sleeping car, and relaxation to the chugga-chugga. . .romatic? Perhaps. . .
-Dyl
P.S. - Wireless access is IMPOSSIBLE to find here in Europe. I was under the impression that wireless coverage would be expansive, but it is instead difficult to find and incredibly expensive. Bummer.
K and I took a trip off the main islands to visit Murano and Burano today. . .Burano was gorgeous, but ultimately boring, nothing to do no where to go. Murano, however, was fascinating. The island is known for its spectacular glassblowing, and spectacular it is. . .artisans from all over have attempted to copy their work, and most fail miserably. Quality work, and very nice people. I bought a pair of stunning wineglasses for myself (as I have no wineglasses), and I am going to be very pleased with them. I couldn't get the set I wanted, because it was €280, plus shipping. Waaaaaaay too much.
The hostel I am currently typing in now is pretty darn spiffy. . .breakfast included, which was a wonderful thing to wake up to, and our rooms are spacious enough and quiet enough. Most of all, the place seems very secure. Lockers and separate keys for all its patrons. . .a very nice hostel.
K has proposed Rome as our next big stop on our Italian tour. We have at least one more day here in Venice, perhaps two, and then to the southern part of the country. I suggested taking a night train some time, just to try it out, and (tentatively) we have a night trip planned from Naples to Milan, when we return to the northern half of the trip, near the end of our journey. A sleeping car, and relaxation to the chugga-chugga. . .romatic? Perhaps. . .
-Dyl
P.S. - Wireless access is IMPOSSIBLE to find here in Europe. I was under the impression that wireless coverage would be expansive, but it is instead difficult to find and incredibly expensive. Bummer.
Monday, September 6, 2010
In Venezia!
Well, its been a struggle to find reliable internet over here in Europe. . .but we did it!
Kristi and I are at a campagnia, or campsite, here just outside of Venice. We're just finishing breakfast, after sleeping through a crazy storm last night. Our first day in Italy yesterday was. . .stressful. It was a bit of a struggle to find our first place to stay, and this was after a tiring train ride from Zurich.
Ahhhh. . .Zurich. As I only have 5 minutes left, I can't describe the awesomeness of Zurich. A later time.
But Venice. Today we are headed into the city, for some awesome exploring, and perhaps to buy Kristi a nifty purse. I am also searching for a wallet. . .and perhaps a few trinkeys for the folk back home.
Tonight we stay in a hostel on an island off of Venice. . .I hope they have internet.
-Dyl
P.S. - The thunder last night rolled off of the plains, just crashing through the countryside. . .gorgeous, beautiful, powerful, haunting.
Kristi and I are at a campagnia, or campsite, here just outside of Venice. We're just finishing breakfast, after sleeping through a crazy storm last night. Our first day in Italy yesterday was. . .stressful. It was a bit of a struggle to find our first place to stay, and this was after a tiring train ride from Zurich.
Ahhhh. . .Zurich. As I only have 5 minutes left, I can't describe the awesomeness of Zurich. A later time.
But Venice. Today we are headed into the city, for some awesome exploring, and perhaps to buy Kristi a nifty purse. I am also searching for a wallet. . .and perhaps a few trinkeys for the folk back home.
Tonight we stay in a hostel on an island off of Venice. . .I hope they have internet.
-Dyl
P.S. - The thunder last night rolled off of the plains, just crashing through the countryside. . .gorgeous, beautiful, powerful, haunting.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
I want to fly away. . .yeah yeah yeah.
So this is it. I'm about to break the barrier of the United States for the first time in my life. This is gaunna be big, and I am completely ready for this. Waiting sucks.
There are so many international flights leaving from JFK, so awesome to hear the languages and excitement to return home/go overseas. Actully being on wither country will be better. . .gates are opening, here we go!
-Dyl
P.S. - Gaunna be incommunicado for a while. Long flight, then finding my way around Zurich for the first time. I'll post when I can.
There are so many international flights leaving from JFK, so awesome to hear the languages and excitement to return home/go overseas. Actully being on wither country will be better. . .gates are opening, here we go!
-Dyl
P.S. - Gaunna be incommunicado for a while. Long flight, then finding my way around Zurich for the first time. I'll post when I can.
Boom boom, on go the lights?
Lightning, rain, thunder, excitement. This was how I left my city of Minneapolis. Waiting at the busstop, way before sunrise. . .I was sneaking out of the country. A thundering exit.
Now in the airport, waiting on Dunn Brothers to fix their espresso machine. Worth the wait, especially considering we don't board for another half hour.
4 hours in O'Hare is next. . .should be fun?
-Dyl
P.S. - Airports are cool at first, but they creep you out the more you stay. . .living "The Terminal" would suck.
Now in the airport, waiting on Dunn Brothers to fix their espresso machine. Worth the wait, especially considering we don't board for another half hour.
4 hours in O'Hare is next. . .should be fun?
-Dyl
P.S. - Airports are cool at first, but they creep you out the more you stay. . .living "The Terminal" would suck.
3. . .2. . .1. . .and. . .
One half of one hour until our bus leaves. This is crazy, we're actually leaving for another country today. This is so surreal, starting with the silence. Our fans are off for one of the first times since we moved in and IT IS EERIE in my house. Ticking of the clock is prominent. . .dammit, thats poetic/ironic/infuriating.
Jitters again. Kristi and I are. . .we're ready. Nervous, excited, hungry, scared.
Just gotta get my shoelaces tied, then out the door. Lock myself out of my own home for awhile.
I will miss my cats so dearly. . .they know somethings up, but just don't know what. I hope they are alright. . .Zach, Rina, Rob, Joe. . .make 'em feel better.
Airport coffee and a croissant will be. . .a start. . .
-Dyl
P.S. - Love to my family and friends. . .this would never have happened without your support and caring throughout my entire life. I shall return changed. . .but for the better. Gratitude. . .
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Countdown. . .
16 hours left. Getting hairy now. . .and I mean that literally, as I just found a big bunch of cat hair clinging to the couch/my leg. I'm really going to miss Jazz and Momo. A lot. . .
Last batch of errands: cat food, deposit one more check, check in with the last bank about our trip, finish packing. . .then wait.
Rob, Zach, Rina, and Joe all said they wanted to send us off. . .should be fun, I hope. Last time I'll see 'em for 2 months.
Kristi and I might not sleep tonight. Check that, won't sleep tonight. Too hyped up, jitters and such. Gaunna be wired in Zurich, too buzzed to sleep, too amazed to care. Europe, here we come!
-Dyl
P. S. - Dad. . .thank you.
Last batch of errands: cat food, deposit one more check, check in with the last bank about our trip, finish packing. . .then wait.
Rob, Zach, Rina, and Joe all said they wanted to send us off. . .should be fun, I hope. Last time I'll see 'em for 2 months.
Kristi and I might not sleep tonight. Check that, won't sleep tonight. Too hyped up, jitters and such. Gaunna be wired in Zurich, too buzzed to sleep, too amazed to care. Europe, here we come!
-Dyl
P. S. - Dad. . .thank you.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
A sporting good time
My friends showed me the seats they bought to go see the USA vs. Poland football match while I'm gone, and I'm jealous. . .road trip, fun times. However, they did bring up a great counterpoint: I should see a European football match. Tempting. . .
-Dyl
P.S. - I'm gaunna really miss baseball every night.
-Dyl
P.S. - I'm gaunna really miss baseball every night.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Getting closer by the minute
I'm at work right now, 6 days away from being in flight. My whole body is getting jittery, anxious; I am stuck between disbelief and amazement, with a sprinkle of nerves, that I am actually headed to Europe. This post is being typed on my iPhone, which will be similar to the iTouch that I will be posting from during the majority of my trip. . .and the small screen and keyboard isn't as terrible as I thought it would be.
I keep thinking about what work will be like while I'm gone, but amtrying not to. During my last three shifts, though, I keep realizing how shittily understaffed the cafe is going to be while I'm gone. . .and even when I come back.
-Dyl
P.S. - State fair traffic sucks.
I keep thinking about what work will be like while I'm gone, but amtrying not to. During my last three shifts, though, I keep realizing how shittily understaffed the cafe is going to be while I'm gone. . .and even when I come back.
-Dyl
P.S. - State fair traffic sucks.
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
You were the first one. . .
Buongiorno to all who have stumbled across this blog, and welcome to the annals of my trip across the strange and foreign lands of Europe.
The Plan:
On September 2nd, I will begin my journey to Europe with Kristi B. to Italy for a month of leisure and culture. Near the end of the month, she will return home, and I will start leg two of my trip: off alone in a new continent.
This is the record I plan to keep of my thoughts, travels, and experiences, something everyday. I hope you come back and follow me as I travel the continent!
-Dyl
The Plan:
On September 2nd, I will begin my journey to Europe with Kristi B. to Italy for a month of leisure and culture. Near the end of the month, she will return home, and I will start leg two of my trip: off alone in a new continent.
This is the record I plan to keep of my thoughts, travels, and experiences, something everyday. I hope you come back and follow me as I travel the continent!
-Dyl
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